Valuation for Local Governments: Supporting Smart Planning, Zoning & Acquisition

When municipalities and public agencies make property-related decisions, they’re often balancing community needs, legal requirements, and financial realities  all under the watchful eye of taxpayers. That’s why having an independent, defensible appraisal isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

Why Civic Valuation is Different

Unlike private-sector transactions, public-sector valuations must meet higher standards for transparency, accountability, and compliance. They often influence policy decisions, council debates, and intergovernmental negotiations.

The stakes are high: a flawed valuation can lead to public backlash, lost development opportunities, or even legal challenges.

Key Areas Where We Support Local Governments

1. Parkland Dedication & Payment-in-Lieu

The Local Government Act allows developers to provide land for parks or pay cash instead. We value the land to ensure payments are equitable, transparent, and defensible.

2. Rezoning & Land Use Changes

Changes in zoning can dramatically alter land value. Our feasibility assessments help councils understand value implications before making planning decisions.

3. Surplus Property Valuation

Municipalities sometimes own land or buildings that no longer serve their needs. We provide market valuations to guide sale, lease, or repurposing decisions.

4. Laneway & Road Allowance Valuation

Whether for closure, exchange, or acquisition, these narrow strips can be surprisingly complex to value due to access rights, easements, and partial interest considerations.

5. Rental Reviews for Municipal Properties

From community centres to commercial spaces, we determine fair market rent for municipally owned facilities, supporting budget planning and equitable tenant arrangements.

The Benefits of Getting it Right

• Defensibility: In the public sector, every decision could be challenged — a defensible appraisal stands up to scrutiny.

• Public Confidence: Transparent, fair valuations build trust in local government decision-making.

• Better Outcomes: Data-driven insights lead to better land use, zoning, and acquisition strategies.

How We Work

Our civic valuation process integrates:

• Policy knowledge – familiarity with BC’s Local Government Act, Community Charter, and related statutes.

• Market insight – real-time data on BC’s property markets, including specialized asset classes.

• Stakeholder awareness – understanding how decisions affect residents, developers, and partner agencies.

We present findings clearly with both technical detail for planners and accessible explanations for council and the public.

Why it Matters:At the intersection of policy, market expertise, and public accountability, civic valuation isn’t just about numbers - it’s about helping local governments make transparent, defensible decisions that shape communities for decades.