In profile: WBP Property Group commercial valuer, Justin Thomas

Justin Thomas says there have been significant changes in the retail property space with online shopping having a negative impact on strip shopping and a positive effect on warehousing.

Agent: Justin Thomas
Position: Commercial property valuer
Company: WBP Property Group
Office location: Melbourne

How long have you been in the industry?

I completed my Bachelor of Business in Property Degree (Valuations) in 1998-2002, commenced as an assistant valuer in 2001 and became a Certified Practicing Valuer in 2004.  I have been based in Melbourne with the exception of a period spent in the UK from 2007-2009.

What’s happening in the area you specialise in?

I am currently involved in the retail, office and industrial sector, generally for mortgage security and family law purposes. There are significant changes in the retail space with online shopping having a negative impact on strip shopping and a positive effect on warehousing. There is an increase in requests for rental valuations due to an increasing gap between landlords and tenants, particularly in retail.

Describe the most interesting property you have valued?

It would have to be my involvement in a stamp duty valuation of an Oil Refinery in the United Kingdom and also my involvement in asset valuations of National Parks in Victoria (previous employment).

What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?

Dedication, commitment, good time management, adhering to deadlines/commitments, communication and having good social skills.

What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?

Developing client relationships and assisting and developing staff and providing them with a platform to develop their skills and expertise as well as people management.

Where would you invest a spare $750,000?

Areas identified as principal activity centres in Melbourne’s 2030 vision whereby higher density mixed use development is encouraged through local council structure plans for future development.

Which football team do you support?

Essendon

What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?

Avid music fan so probably Shazam along with Urbanspoon and Melbourne Coffee Review.

How do you use social media?

Facebook socially, Linkedin professionally

 Twitter account: https://twitter.com/WBP_PropertyGrp