Why is a career in property valuations better than others? We speak to valuers who have made significant career changes to become a property valuer. Among these is Sunet Giliomee, of Capval Property Valuations, who use to be a medical nurse. We ask about the decision to change careers, and what skills she brings from her previous profession.
What career were you pursuing prior to being a property valuer?
I was a professional nurse in Medi-Clinic paediatrics ICU. From 1999 I worked for the pharmaceutical company Pfizer as a sales representative till 2014.
At what age did you decide to change careers and become a property valuer, and why?
I made the career change after being a stay-at-home mother to raise my kids. I started with my National Diploma in Real Estate at CPUT in 2017 and completed my studies in 2019. I was accepted as a Professional Associate Valuer last year after writing the admission SACPVP exam in 2021.
Any regrets?
No, no regrets. I enjoy learning every day and the diversity of the properties and commercial valuation reports.
In what way has your prior career or learnings benefitted you as a valuer today?
Punctuality, to be assertive, thoroughness, good personal relationships, working in a team.
What do you think your 13-year-old self would say to you today if you could tell them that you had become a property valuer?
I did not even know at that age, that property valuations can be a career. Thinking back, I don’t think I would have studied any property-related courses at that time. My interest in real estate developed over the years.
Any advice for others looking to pursue a career in property valuations?
Yes, to find a mentor with solid values and ethics is important. I was very privileged to be able to study part time and get practical experience. It really helped me to gain more insight in the valuation process.
