Meet The Team: Scott Zaremba
Scott works as a Certified General Appraiser and specializes in conservation easement appraisals, hunting land, large tracts of forestland, and agricultural land. Scott has extensive knowledge of forest management and timber products as a forester with Steigerwaldt.
Please provide a professional history introduction (prior and during your time at Steigerwaldt):
- I have worked with Steigerwaldt for 17 years in various roles. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Forest Management and was hired as a Staff Forester. I worked on inventory projects, marking timber sales, and running property lines. I later became interested in real estate and started working towards my appraisal license. During that time, I assisted the other appraisers with comparable sales inspections, writing reports, and analysis. I received my appraisal license after a few years of splitting my time between Forestry and Appraisal. I now hold an appraisal license in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota and specialize in appraising forestland, conservation easements, and other types of vacant land.
Why are you passionate about this field?
- I’ve always loved the outdoors and natural resources. I’m lucky enough to have traveled throughout Wisconsin and much of the Great Lake region and have seen all types of property types, forest cover, and land formations. My favorite thing about working in the appraisal field is helping landowners, property managers, and others achieve their goals with my help.
How do you serve our clients?
- I serve our clients by rendering my appraisal experience. There is a myriad of reasons our clients ask for an appraisal. Sometimes they are interested in selling or acquiring property and would like to know the current market value. Other times, they have donated property and need an appraisal for tax deductions purposes. Whatever the need, we can tailor the appraisal to meet the needs of our clients for their specific purpose.
Why do you enjoy working at Steigerwaldt?
- I enjoy the diversity of work that Steigerwaldt provides. I have worked or traveled in nearly every county in Wisconsin, and worked on utility projects, projects for the DNR, projects for conservancy agencies, and private landowners. All provide differing perspectives on land use and land goals, and I enjoy helping them achieve their desired outcomes.
Since you’ve worked here, how has the industry changed?
- Timber markets and real estate markets are constantly in flux. I have seen real estate prices and assets dip in value, but have also seen great recoveries in the market. The more things change, the more things stay the same, and I think that applies to real estate, especially.
What industry changes are you most excited about?
- I’m excited about carbon markets and other, sometimes, “intangible” assets that may shape how we look at vacant forested properties.
What’s your superpower?
- Staying calm in the face of pressure.
What’s your favorite tree and why?
- Red oak. They are large majestic trees and are great for timber, as well as for wildlife.
What’s your favorite National Park?
- Don’t know about National Parks, but my favorite State Park is Rib Mountain in Wausau. It is great for hiking and seeing wildlife.
What would you do with 10 acres?
- Build a home among the forest, and hike and ski through the property.
Where do you like to go on vacation?
- I spent many vacations in Door County. It has lots of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and golfing. If not Door County, I prefer anywhere with a beach. I’ve spent time in North Carolina and Alabama, and enjoy walking along the shore.
What is your favorite outdoor activity?
- Pickleball in summer, skiing in winter. I also enjoy hiking during most months of the year.
