Farmers can expect to see a rise in corn plantings in 2012, says Informa Economics, a private analytical firm. According to Agriculture.com, Informa Economics had originally predicted this past October that 93.1 million acres would be planted. They're now revising that figure to 94 million acres.

Analysts suggest that this increased prediction is a result of the crop's improved net revenue prospects, giving farmers more of an incentive to increase production. The news provider also reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently estimated that farmers will have harvested 12.310 billion bushels of corn by this year's end.

In a sign that agriculture may be in the midst of an upswing, John Deere reported a fourth-quarter profit that topped estimates, thanks in no small part to farmers looking to purchase combines and tractors.

Automotive-mirror manufacturer Gentex announced recently that it would soon begin construction on a 140-acre factory in Zeeland Township, Mich. According to MLive.com, the project is the largest of its kind in township history and will create new job opportunities for the surrounding area.

Housing starts surged in the month of November, according to a report released by the Commerce Department, signaling that the construction market is stabilizing headed into 2012.

The National Association of Home Builders has revealed that builder confidence levels have reached their highest point since May 2010, after the Housing Market Index rose for the third consecutive month in December.

Metrics are an important component of agricultural business, assisting farmers in determining how well they're doing. Ultimately, one of the most important is crop return projections, which indicate how much of a return on investment farmers can expect from each type of crop they plant.

The primary harvesting period for corn in the Midwest is coming to an end, and by the time December rolls around, the season will be over. Winter is a crucial time for farmers and equipment operators, so it's important that you take a step back and evaluate your needs for the coming spring season.

IronPlanet makes it a breeze to liquidate your used farm equipment, giving you the funds and the opportunity to retool. Give some thought to trading up so you'll be ready to hit the ground running when spring rolls around. Newer equipment means faster and more efficient planting and harvesting, which can lead to better yields next year.

Finding a buyer for used construction equipment can be difficult through traditional means. Physical auctions may only be held a few times a year, and even then they might be limited to a particular region. This can shorten the list of potential buyers before the item even has a chance to go up on the block. Those looking for a faster turnaround may find what they're looking for at IronPlanet.

The Santa Clara Stadium Authority has voted to approve an $850 million loan, which would go toward the construction of a new stadium for the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers are hoping to move to Santa Clara in the near future, with plans for a new $1 billion complex already well underway.

Construction firms in Maine are likely to take a bit of a hit in 2012, as the state is planning to cut funding significantly for new road and bridge work in the new year, reports the Bangor Daily News.