Associate Surveyor Review

I am an Associate surveyor and I manage properties on behalf of clients who occupy buildings for business purposes and properties occupied by my client's tenants. I am involved with resolving disputes between various parties e.g. my client's landlord, tenant, neighbor etc. I also advise my clients on whether landlords consent is required on their alterations; if required I submit requests to the landlord for and a arrange for a license to alter to be documented by solicitors. I mainly do this during project works across e.g. when arranging for my client RBS wanted their ATM's and signage replaced as part of a large property portfolio project. I also review and interpret leases to advise my clients on their obligations. I am involved in team meetings which allow us to contribute to improving out processes within out practice and raise any concerns that we may have. I create client reports for current real-estate issues. this is then reviewed during a monthly client meetings in which I provide updates to my client and discuss issues that affect their property portfolio.

I have passed my Surveying Technician Diploma (Real Estate Management)course with a Merit. I have achieved my Associate RICS status. I have learnt a lot more about the different aspects within the property industry especially in relation sustainability, law, heath and safety, economics, planning, valuation and construction.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the program especially since I have been successful in completing the Level 3 part of the program. However, since this was a trailblazer there were some teething problems which did cause me to have a few stressful moments however, in their defense this is to be expected with anything that is stating out for the first time. The problems incurred related to organization and structure but each bump in the road provides a lesson to be learnt from which will allow the program to be perfected in the future. As for the course content and support received by both GVA and the course providers I cannot fault it!

I feel very valued at GVA as I feel as when I have a suggestion or concern they not only listen to me but respond and act on what I have said. GVA have gone out of their way to ensure I have has the support I required to be successful in both my diploma and my Associate RICS. I can also see that in my role I have been given more responsibility as time has progressed which makes me feel as if I am trusted. Having more responsibility to me shows that I am a valued asset within my team.

As this was a trailblazer there were some teething problems and a few things had be rearranged by the learning providers. The communication between the learning providers wasn't as good as it could have been but nerveless there was never a detrimental outcome to the hurdles we had to overcome.

I received a lot of support from my learning provider. they provided me with 2 mentors, one for my diploma and the other for my Associate RICS submission. my tutors where contactable via the vle when I required help.

I received the most support from GVA. I was assigned a mentor who had recently qualified for their MRICS, and my manger provided support with the work I needed for my competencies. GVA also arranged for me to have sessions with a consultant who provides support to candidates who are submitting their Associate RICS and APC.

I think my salary meets my costs well as I currently earn more than the apprentichip salary however, I do know of other apprentices who earn more than me despite them being at the same level as me. However, since receiving my qualifications I do expect my salary to increase.

Yes there are a lot of opportunities outside work. Our company as a whole are very passionate about participating in charitable activities. This also provides an opportunity to build relationship with our colleagues. We have only recently started arranging more social events outside of work so if that continues I think this will create an opportunity to strengthen relationships between different business lines making us more joined up as a company.

Yes

I don't enjoy the initial waking up for work however, I must say that I do enjoy coming to work. GVA have a really friendly culture so you look forward to meeting the people you work with. My managers ensure that I am challenge and that I receive the experience I need to develop in my career.

Make sure you research what kind of role you want to be in at GVA as there are so many different roles that one role may suit your character more than another. Show that you are enthusiastic abut working and don't be shy about how you think you can be an asset to the business.