Guild Medical Center

As a 108-year-old historic building in eastern Massachusetts, this property was originally built as (and remained) a junior high school until the 1980s when it was converted to an office building, followed by another renovation/conversion to a medical office building in 2022. The 92,398-square foot, full wythe masonry building is currently used for orthopedic surgery, pediatric neurology, ophthalmology, radiology, and orthopedic rehabilitation among other key healthcare specialties. It’s adjacent to the Steward Health Care’s Norwood Hospital, for which Guild Medical is the primary medical office and outpatient services complex and is undergoing a major renovation for 2024.

Marx|Okubo was engaged to perform a comprehensive property condition assessment in accordance with client guidelines including a 10-year capital reserve study for an acquisition of this property. As the primary consultant, we provided an architect, mechanical engineer, accessibility specialist, as well as detailed reviews by in-house fire/life safety systems and building enclosure specialists. Additionally, we retained subconsultants to conduct in-depth reviews of the vertical transportation equipment and roofing systems. Marx|Okubo also provided non-destructive investigation of underground stormwater piping via video inspection by a qualified specialty contractor.

Our review identified persistent water intrusion and the potential for six-figure repairs, incomplete remediation/mitigation efforts of water intrusion, and deficiencies with the mechanical ventilation systems. Based on our feedback and due to potential risks, our client decided not to pursue the acquisition.