Services

Persons or organizations most likely to benefit from the services offered by Sizemore & Sizemore, Inc., have interests in rural land, forestland, or timber. They may be owners, prospective buyers and sellers, or governmental agencies. Most services performed by the firm are for TIMO's, forest industry, lenders, and private investors and landowners although occasional projects are assigned by governmental agencies. Assignments are highly variable.

Land and timber appraisal involves relating the subject property to its climate and physiography, agricultural productivity, and land use. Economic geography including population, transportation, national and regional economy, and timber and land market characteristics are evaluated. On ground inspections are made to assist in the comparison of the subject to surrounding properties. These are followed by in-depth analysis and appraisal using the cost, sales comparison, and income capitalization approaches to value.

Large forest inventories, where available time and financial support are limited, are an important part of the services offered by Sizemore & Sizemore, Inc. The demand for these services has resulted largely from the development of stratified inventory techniques using interpretation of aerial photographs, computerized area measurement, computer processing of data, and digitized maps as one of the final products.

Timber Sales involve identifying, marking and inventorying the sale area which is then used to estimate the timber volume. Then a timber sale prospectus is developed. It includes general information about the tract, tract location maps, a sale area map, estimated volumes, a bid form, and sample contract. The prospectus is mailed to prospective bidders in and around the sale area approximately one month before the sale date, during which time the tract is open to them for inspection. Timber sales are usually conducted on a sealed bid basis.

Damage appraisals are approached in a manner somewhat similar to timber inventory. In addition, types and extent of damage must be categorized. After data are compiled and analyzed, a report is developed for the client. It includes a narrative description of procedures, volumes damaged or destroyed, and loss estimates.

Among other types of projects are price studies, management studies, condemnation valuations, soil surveys, timber lease analysis and appraisal, and industrial site appraisals. Projects in preparation for arbitration or litigation are also common; most involve some aspect of valuation. The quality of management under long-term agreements is also a frequent issue. Real estate brokerage services are also provided.