"Valuations and its related consultancy services have become essential to those involved in the increasing complexity and sophistication of accounting, tax, insurance and especially asset management." Says Marna van der Walt, CEO of JHI Property Services. "And given the fluctuating markets of today, we see an increasing need from our clients and property owners in general for more frequent valuations of their property assets in an effort to attain true value, and to keep their properties adequately insured in these tough economic times."  she said.

The company has not only geared up to handle direct valuation consulting on a national basis within our offices set up in both Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, but the JHI Valuation services now also extend beyond the borders of South Africa into Africa.  Recently the JHI valuations team has undertaken assignments in Mozambique, Kenya, Botswana and Zambia.

"JHI has strategically positioned itself to provide this independent but interlinked service to property owners and developers in the seven African countries we are actively involved in via subsidiary joint ventures ." says Van der Walt.

"In today's economic climate, our valuation service is no longer about a "number crunching" process but rather a highly specialised consulting service requiring in-depth market knowledge supported by an extensive research capability. This is what enables us to actively assist decision makers with the strategic management of their property assets and investments as well as related development and business strategies." says Brian van Vuuren, The Divisions Head.

"JHI's valuation consultancy includes a diverse service offering covering the: Commercial, Retail, Hotel and Industrial sectors, vacant land and building valuations for Corporates in the listed and private sectors.

The division is able to offer valuations services to its client base into global markets via its association with its International partnerships operating in over 40 countries, worldwide.

"The service requirement from clients range from rent reviews, insurance valuations, merger and acquisitions and market related asset tracking, he adds."  "Over the past few months, we have had an increase in enquiries from the legal sector in relation to properties under insolvent estates, liquidations and judicial management," says Van Vuuren.

The valuation service is underpinned by the divisions' adherence to international standards aligned to best business practices, globally.  JHI is both a member of the South African Institute of Valuers and each senior member of the team is a Chartered Surveyor, accredited by The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).  This organization is the most respected, high profiled and ethical institution, adhering to global standards and practices and membership to the organization is via a stringent and discerning selection process. 

The Chairman, Les Weil and Wayne Wright, the Business Development Director, have recently been appointed as FRICS and MRICS, respectively, to the Institute providing support to the valuation division as and when required.

Brian van Vuuren can be contacted at JHI on (011) 911 8139 or 082 570 0592.