Objectivity | Expertise | Trust

Haddow & Company has extensive experience with highest and best use studies of land. These studies typically involve four basic steps: 1) economic and demographic overview at the macro level; 2) property analysis, often performed in conjunction with a land planner, that evaluates zoning, utilities, physical attributes, ingress/egress, and other salient factors; 3) supply-demand analysis of relevant sectors of the real estate market; and 4) assessment of land use alternatives and formulation of a strategy tailored to the client’s objectives.

An objective assessment of competitive market conditions is essential to sound development planning. This work is usually focused on a particular property or proposed use, but we are occasionally asked to simply examine supply-demand conditions. While each engagement is specifically tailored to client needs, market and feasibility studies generally involve the following steps: 1) an assessment of the local economic climate; 2) a comprehensive supply analysis, consisting of a detailed survey of competitive developments, and identification of developments proposed and under construction; 3) a profile of key demand generators; and 4) conclusions and recommendations about the viability of a proposed development.

On several occasions, our firm has been retained by government entities and non-profit organizations to develop strategies to revitalize declining areas or to create a new city center. Our firm’s philosophy when undertaking these assignments is to rely on a market-based approach, not an abstract vision. In other words, we provide a candid assessment of the existing situation and a realistic, market-driven solution to achieve the desired result. After formulating a strategy, our firm works as an ongoing advisor to help the city implement the plan.

Decisions regarding whether to acquire or sell property demand objective counsel. Current and reliable market data are essential to inform the decision-making process. Our firm is frequently asked to formulate disposition or acquisition strategies. We are often retained to evaluate a portfolio of properties and identify those which have near-term development or disposition potential. As part of this process, physical and locational attributes, development timing, market conditions, and investor objectives are all considered. Our expertise is also useful to investor groups looking to purchase real estate. We can thoroughly canvass the market, identify potential investment opportunities, and formulate an acquisition strategy.

As a follow-up to a consulting assignment, our firm is frequently asked to assist with an implementation strategy, which frequently involves the disposition of land or a building. The thorough knowledge of the property and market obtained in the initial counseling phase offers an extremely strong platform for a successful disposition. Our approach is to market properties on a direct basis to prospective buyers, but we will work with brokers if they exclusively represent a qualified buyer. We begin by preparing a professional marketing presentation and developing a prospect list. Once we have generated buyer interest, we are careful to qualify the buyer’s ability to perform. Our firm will handle all contract negotiations and assist the buyer through the due diligence process in order to achieve a timely closing.

Our firm is well-equipped to assist clients who are considering acquiring real estate, whether it be raw land or a building. We most frequently work in this capacity with families, individual investors, and public entities. Oftentimes, this work is the by-product of an initial counseling phase in which an investment strategy is formulated.

Effectively managing a real estate portfolio requires market knowledge and a thorough understanding of the individual assets. Haddow & Company has assisted families, colleges and universities, non-profits, and other groups evaluate their property holdings before making critical investment decisions.

Banks and financial institutions often need objective advice regarding troubled real estate loans and properties that have been foreclosed upon. The central question is how to recover the most value from these assets. Informed decisions require a thorough understanding of market and economic conditions. Haddow & Company assists clients with strategy formulation, as well as with the disposition of distressed assets.