Gaining experience across two property disciplines
Over the last two years, I have had the opportunity to gain experience across both the Valuation and Rating teams, giving me a broad insight into the property sector and the different disciplines within it.
Building technical knowledge in Rating
For the past 18 months, I have been part of the Rating team, where I have worked on a wide variety of property types, including schools, hotels, nightclubs and campsites. Each instruction has presented its own unique challenges and learning opportunities, helping me develop my technical knowledge and understanding of the rating system.
During my time in Rating, I have gained experience across a wide range of work, including report writing, Check, Challenge, Appeal (CCA) cases and mitigation work. I have particularly enjoyed learning more about the rating process and how different commercial properties are assessed for business rates purposes.
I have also had the opportunity to work on council tax challenges, gaining an insight into how residential properties are allocated to council tax bands and the factors that influence those decisions.
Taking on greater responsibility
As my confidence and experience have grown, I have been given greater responsibility and independence in my role. I now manage my own workload, liaise directly with clients, undertake property inspections independently and produce reports for a wide range of rating instructions.
These responsibilities have strengthened my communication, organisational and problem-solving skills while helping me develop as a surveyor.
Returning to the Valuation team
More recently, I have returned to the Valuation team to broaden my experience ahead of sitting my APC next year. Since returning, I have been involved in a range of valuation instructions, including pension fund, inheritance tax and loan security valuations.
Working across these different valuation types has broadened my knowledge of the work undertaken by the team and continued to build my confidence and technical understanding.
Variety in my day-to-day role
One of the aspects I enjoy most about my role is that no two days are the same. Some days are spent carrying out property inspections, while others are office-based, preparing valuation reports and analysing information.
My role also provides opportunities to meet clients and other property professionals through networking events and coffee catch-ups, allowing me to continue building relationships within the industry.
Developing skills beyond surveying
Alongside my surveying responsibilities, I also took on the role of Marketing Coordinator within my office. During this time, I organised and hosted one of our Young Professionals networking events.
Balancing the organisation of the event alongside my day-to-day workload strengthened my organisational and time-management skills and gave me valuable experience of taking on additional responsibilities outside my usual role.
Looking ahead to chartership
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue developing my skills across both Valuation and Rating as I work towards becoming a Chartered Surveyor. The variety of work, the responsibility I have been given and the support from colleagues have all played an important role in my professional development, and I look forward to continuing that journey.
