Our 40+ Year History
Entering into our 40th year in business, Walter Duke + Partners embraces our past but we are looking boldly to the future. We are excited about the next four decades and hope you will join us along the way.
Our History
As we enter into our 40th year in business we decided to share our story and vision for the future of our company. We hope that the way we do business, the way we treat people and the way we invest in our community will inspire you to partner with us to follow your passion and do business just a little bit differently.
Four Decades of Distinguished Service
1975 – Founder Bob Clobus returns home from Vietnam after graduating from the University of Miami and starts a small one-man commercial real estate valuation company in Fort Lauderdale.
1980- Future partner Scott McLemore joins the firm after graduating from Florida State University. The firm continues to grow.
1985 – After graduating from the University of Florida, Walter Duke joins the firm as a commercial appraiser.
1990 – Walter Duke is awarded the MAI designation by the Appraisal Institute.
1991 – Firm name is changed to Clobus, McLemore & Duke to reflect ownership of firm and expansion of company into larger commercial markets.
1995 – 20 years in business
2000 – Walter Duke, MAI, CCIM named as President of South Florida Chapter of Appraisal Institute
2002 – Bob Clobus, MAI sells interest in firm. Walter Duke named President of Clobus, McLemore & Duke. The firm has now grown into a nationally recognized commercial appraisal valuation company.
2009 – Walter Duke, MAI enters public service and wins a seat on the Dania Beach City Commission.
2010 – Scott McLemore, MAI retires. Walter Duke, MAI becomes sole shareholder.
2011 – Our rescue Kaze becomes Official Office Dog, and is immediately promoted to VP of Security
2012 – Walter Duke, MAI continues public service – Elected Mayor for the City of Dania Beach
2014 – Walter Duke, MAI named Volunteer of Distinction by the Appraisal Institute
2014 – Walter Duke honored by Marine Industries of South Florida with it highest honor, the Golden Anchor Award for a lifetime of contribution to the marine industry
2015 – 40 years in business – Clobus, McLemore & Duke rebranded to Walter Duke + Partners to reflect the ownership and vision of the firm.