From law to property valuations: Monique Vernooy shares her story

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 Monique Vernooy, of Rode and Associates, who had previously studied towards being a lawyer. We ask about the decision to change careers, and what skills she brings from her previous studies.

What career were you pursuing prior to being a property valuer?

I was a deceased estate administrator at a bank group, but was a stay-at-home mom when my children were born.

At what age did you decide to change careers and become a property valuer, and why?

I have always loved property and wanted to become an architect when I was young. I was 36 when I got divorced and realized this was my chance to study towards a career in property. I then completed my B.Tech in Quantity Surveying, but when I was appointed at Rode and Associates, I started studying again to qualify as a Professional Valuer.

Any regrets?

I have never regretted my decision to switch to property valuations. It has allowed me to be involved with different types of properties, each posing new challenges. It has allowed me to see our country extensively as we do valuations country-wide, and even as far as Namibia. It has also afforded me the chance at CPUT to teach Property Valuation on a second-year level, another blessing.

In what way has your prior career or studies benefitted you as a valuer today?

No field of study is ever in vain. Both law and quantity surveying have supported my valuation studies and cover what is needed in my work. My law studies has helped me to understand the legal aspect of property, such as servitudes and contracts. Quantity surveying enabled me to do DRC valuations with insight and write up an impressive property description.

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?

Well done – you got there eventually!

Any advice for young people looking to pursue a career in property valuations?

Only pursue property valuation if you have a passion for property  – this applies to any profession as passion just makes life so much easier and more enjoyable. Every day will be different as every property is unique and requires its particular application of the different variables where you are comfortable with the value. Property valuations are seen as a scarce skill and our country needs young and dedicated valuers.