Nova Group, GBC Welcomes Smedmore Bernard to Valuation & Advisory Team

4 days ago
2 min read

National Appraisal Leader and Eminent Domain Expert Strengthens Firm's Valuation & Advisory Platform

Nova Group, GBC is pleased to announce that Smedmore Bernard, Jr., MAI, SRA, SR/WA, CIAO has joined the firm's Valuation & Advisory team as Managing Director, Valuation & Advisory, based in Chicago.

Known throughout the industry as "Smed," Bernard brings more than two decades of experience in real estate appraisal, valuation, and consulting. Since 2004, he has provided valuation and advisory services for a broad range of complex assignments involving fee simple, leased fee, and leasehold interests, as well as debt and equity interests, ad valorem tax appeals, fractional interests, easements, railroad rights-of-way, and partial and full takings associated with eminent domain actions.

"We are excited to welcome Smed to Nova Group," said Grant Griffin, MAI, President of Valuation & Advisory. "Smed is widely respected throughout the appraisal profession for both his technical expertise and industry leadership. His extensive experience in eminent domain, litigation support, and complex valuation assignments further strengthens our ability to serve clients nationwide while expanding our capabilities in key specialty practice areas."

Smed is recognized as an expert witness in Illinois and has represented property owners, state agencies, and local government entities, including the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. He has also completed valuation and consulting assignments internationally, including work in Haiti and other Caribbean countries.

In addition to his valuation experience, Smed has been an active leader within the appraisal profession. He currently serves as National Vice President of the Appraisal Institute after serving four years on its Board of Directors. Throughout his career, he has participated in numerous national and regional Appraisal Institute committees and has served in leadership positions with the International Right of Way Association, including as President of the Illinois Chapter. Bernard also served on The Appraisal Foundation's Board of Trustees as the Appraisal Institute's representative.

"I am honored to join Nova Group and become part of a firm that has earned a strong reputation for technical excellence, collaboration, and client service," said Smedmore Bernard. "The firm's continued growth, national platform, and commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for clients make this an exciting opportunity. I look forward to working alongside the talented professionals at Nova to continue expanding the Valuation & Advisory practice."

Smed's addition reflects Nova Group's continued investment in experienced industry leaders and specialized expertise as the firm continues to expand its national Valuation & Advisory platform. His experience in litigation support, eminent domain, and complex real estate valuation assignments further enhances Nova's ability to provide comprehensive advisory services to clients across the United States and internationally.