|
PMR's Editorial philosophy:
"It is only by standing on the shoulders of
giants that I have been able to see further."
Sir Isaac Newton,
1642–1727
|
Property Valuers – Profile – Sechaba Valuations
Experiencing the snowball effect
Hendrina Westoll
 Property valuations are one of those 'backroom boy' industries
which don’t enjoy a high public profile but are absolutely essential to the
economy. Without it, commerce, industry, agriculture, local Government and even
ordinary individuals would not be able to operate in the property market with
any solid foundation.
"In a nutshell, we provide a service to clients, determining the market value of
property," explained Johan van der Spuy, Managing Director (Acting) of Sechaba
Valuations, a venture established in 2003 by ABSA which privatised its valuation
departments through a BEE process.
"It sounds relatively simple, but property valuation is a comprehensive and very
scientifically-based process which is important not only in marketing property,
but in such undertakings as determining lawsuits in divorce cases, settling
deceased estates and insurance replacement costs and also compiling asset
registers." The service provides solid assurance to clients about the accurate
market value of property, based on carefully researched facts.
Despite its recent arrival on the scene, Sechaba Valuations has chalked up an
impressive list of clients and projects which cover the entire spectrum of the
property sector. "Most property valuers specialise in commercial, residential
and agriculture property. Sechaba offers the whole range, including some very
complex valuations, such as the Kragbron project, incorporating Eskom town
facilities, the Pyramid abattoir and even an abalone farm."
Of the approximately 1 200 qualified evaluators in South Africa, about 500 are
purely bank Valuers, restricted to that sector; about 250 operate only in
municipalities, leaving only some 300 in the private market. "We have been
fortunate in attracting highly experienced professionals in the industry, most
of whom have a recognised track record of 10 -15 years under their belts. The
quality, reliability and accuracy of our work has quickly been appreciated. As a
result, the number of contracts has snowballed - we haven’t needed to conduct
any kind of marketing or advertising campaign," says van der Spuy. The fact that
Sechaba has won the highest PMR awards since 2005, as a result of peer
accolades, attests to this.
"And we can tackle any project, anywhere, anytime," he added proudly. "We
operate nationally and have also developed a very effective network of
subcontractors and partners who assist with the growing order book." One of the
newer projects involves the ambitious Cosmo City concept, mixing low-middle
level income housing, where Sechaba is conducting valuations and building
control inspections.
"Our
future thrust is into determining asset registers and municipal valuation rolls.
Municipalities must compile these every year and, obviously for budget and
financial controls, it is vital that these be accurate and updated. We believe
that we have an important role to play here."
Prospective property valuers flock to Sechaba from universities and technical
colleges. The company’s in-house training is not only comprehensive, but highly
professional; including experienced mentoring and full financial support for the
entire duration of training. The company’s growing reputation in the industry
attracts the attention of the highest calibre of students and trainees. "We are
closely involved with the Services Seta in skills development and are adding
considerable value to the increasing importance of our profession."
Confident of Sechaba’s future potential and ability to remain a leader in the
industry, van der Spuy stressed the key strengths which have propelled it into
the forefront: "Sechaba is a Swift Energetic Company Helping
All Blossom And grow; adding value, equity and growth!" |
| |
|
