Forty Under 40: Joshua A. Smith, 34

Joshua Smith said one of the best things about his job as an appraiser is being able to interact with quality people and learn from their experiences.

Smith, a Van Buren native, graduated from Ouachita Baptist University in 2000 with a degree in business administration and finance. He worked four years as an appraiser with a local firm before becoming co-owner of Smith Partners Inc. in Springdale. In 2010, he began working for Grubb & Ellis, and is responsible for bringing Grubb & Ellis Landauer Valuation and Advisory branches to Northwest Arkansas, Little Rock and Tulsa. In 2011, he completed the Appraisal Institute’s MAI Designation.

Smith said he’s always been interested in the commercial real estate field and enjoyed looking at and analyzing property even in college.

“Since entering this field in 2000, every day offers something new and the best part is that I look forward to it,” he said.

Smith said his goal is to expand his business and become more in tune with clients’ needs. His drive comes from a desire to have more time in the future to spend with family and friends.

Smith is very active in his church, participating in numerous mission projects. His advice to others is to be honest and upfront with everyone.

“Even though it’s not always the easy thing, it pays dividends long term,” he said.