At SVN Commercial Advisors, we take pride in fostering economic growth and revitalization in communities across Oregon. Recently, we had the privilege of brokering the sale of the former White’s Electronics property in Sweet Home, Oregon—a transaction that not only honored the legacy of a once-thriving business but also paved the way for future economic expansion.
A Legacy of Innovation
White’s Electronics was a worldwide leader in the metal detection industry, revolutionizing the market with their handheld wands and advanced metal detectors. At its peak, White’s was one of Linn County’s largest employers, a testament to its impact on the local economy. However, as industries evolved, the company eventually ceased operations, leaving behind a substantial property—over six acres of land and 95,000 square feet of industrial space—awaiting new purpose.
Finding the Perfect Buyer
Selling such a large facility in a smaller economic community like Sweet Home presented unique challenges. The key was identifying a buyer with the resources and vision to make the most of the space. After a thorough search, we found the perfect match: Big Bark Chipper Services, a forest management and wildland firefighting company. This growing enterprise saw incredible potential in the facility, aligning with their expansion goals and commitment to the region’s natural resources.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any complex commercial transaction, hurdles needed to be cleared. The property carried a century-old mineral claim that had to be resolved to provide clear ownership. Additionally, lot line adjustments were necessary to ensure proper title transfers. Our team worked diligently to navigate these issues, bringing together experts and stakeholders to find solutions and secure a seamless closing.
A Win for Sweet Home and Linn County
The successful sale of the White’s Electronics property marks a significant milestone for Sweet Home’s economic landscape. With Big Bark Chipper Services expecting to grow their workforce to 160-165 employees—surpassing White’s peak employment.
Alan Holcombe of White’s Electronics shared his enthusiasm regarding this transaction, “Curt Arthur and Nick Williams handled a very sensitive and complex industrial sale for us in Linn County using their wisdom and experience to get it to the finish line. We were more than satisfied with their representation.”
Curt Arthur, SIOR, and Nick Williams, CCIM, are incredibly proud of this deal, which reflects the expertise in handling major office and industrial transactions throughout the Willamette Valley. If your business is looking for commercial real estate solutions, we’re here to help. Contact us at 503-588-0400 to discuss how SVN Commercial Advisors can support your next move.
