Case Study and SOE - Qs Flashcards
What did you consider during your conflict of interest check?
I have no personal or financial interest in the outcome of the valuation, I confirmed with the client I will undertake the valuation independently and objectively and it is not to be shared with any third parties.
I am not undertaking a duel role - I only have involvement with the valuation and not the development of the property.
What information was included within the deed of appointment?
- It outlined the date of appointment from the previous trustees to MCC.
- Reason - due to retirement of all trustees.
- Indemnifies previous trustees of liability, claims and costs and confirms MCC will be liable
- Signature of all trustees confirming to appointment
- Signature from MCC to authorise
How might no off-road parking impact the future use of the site?
Potentially could impact value as customers and staff may have preference to on site parking. Additionally, disability accessibility to the site and would need to be reviewed.
However, as the site is relevantly central there are multiple car parking sites within 5 minute walking distance. As well as bus routes and the Deansgate tram stop nearby.
How would you define what 2 star accommodation is?
2-star accommodation are usually lower tier buildings that offer a basic functional space.
They do not have additional amenities or high end finishes you would find in higher rated buildings. E.g. less desirable location, less modern finishing’s/HVAC systems, on site parking.
Did you consider zoning the property?
The property was not suitable for zoning as this would be considered as more of a restaurant/café/hospitality use, rather than the sale and display of goods.
What was the footfall like at the Castlefield Centre?
At time of inspection, it was relatively quiet as is was 10am on a weekday. Earlier in the morning (due to commuters) and later in the evening on weekends the area is busy with footfall and cars.
How did you determine 10% for the office yield?
This is based on comparable market data from recent office sales within the Manchester area. The data was obtained from co-star and knight franks yield guides at the time of the report.
How and why does this yield differ from Grade A office?
Within my research prime office yields displayed a yield of between 5.5%-7% - this is because 6% yield is usually displayed in more desirable locations, with stable tenants. While it’s a lower rate of return on investment, they are likely to have lower vacancy rates and are in a better condition so rent is more predictable.
Why is there such a difference between leisure and retail yields?
Retail and hospitality usually benefit from higher foot traffic/custom to leisure.
As leisure has a perceived higher risk due to being susceptible to fluctuation.
Did you consider the opinions of the local residents?
Not at this point as the plans for the property are yet to be decided, however, with this being a previous charitable trust for Castlefield, it is likely that community consultation process will take place prior to any changes or development.
What is included in Local government act 1972 (Section 123)?
- General Power to Dispose: Local authorities have the power to dispose of land in any manner they wish, including selling, leasing, or exchanging it.
- Best Consideration: Disposals must generally be for the best consideration reasonably obtainable, ensuring that the local authority gets a fair market value for the land.
- Exceptions: There are exceptions where land can be disposed of at less than best consideration, but this typically requires the consent of the Secretary of State.
- Public Open Space: If the land is public open space, the local authority must advertise the proposed disposal and consider any objections from the public before proceeding
Why is generating revenue preferred?
As this ensures income over a period of time / into the future and still allows MCC to retain an interest in the property.
What is the typical specification of Grade A office space and how does this differ to your property?
- Modern, high specification construction and finishings.
- Often designed with sustainability in mind
- On site amenities e.g. cafes, gyms, conference spaces
- Adaptable floor plans for various tenants
- High standard of professional management for maintenance and services
What is a conservation area?
A conservation area almost always applies to an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which is considered worthy of preservation or enhancement.
How did you apply two of these rules of conduct to your case study?
I believe I applied rules 2 and 3 to my case study - Upon receiving the instruction, I ensured I was competent to carry out the work - as this would be comparable method of valuation this falls within my expertise as this is work I carry out regularly in my role under the supervision of registered valuer.
Prior to undertaking the valuation, I met with the client to discuss the scope of work to clarify the work required and issued a briefing note outlining case to ensure I was providing good-quality service.
Describe to me what is included within the appendix of the RICS rules of conduct?
The appendix sets out the professional obligations that are mandatory for all RICS members and RICS regulated firms.
E.g. Members must comply with CPD requirements and cooperate with RICS. And you must promptly provide all information reasonably requested by the regulation board.
Firms: must publish a complaints handling procedure, must be covered by appropriate professional indemnity cover.
Describe to me the main professional obligations firms must adhere to?
MUST - publish a complaints handling procedure (including Alternative Dispute resolution provided approved by RICS and maintain a complaints log)
MUST - ensure all professional work is covered by appropriate professional indemnity insurance.
MUST - ensure that arrangements are made for the professional work to continue in the event of incapacity, absence, death or inability to work,
Describe to me how you would register a firm with the RICS?
- Contact the RICS for guidance and obtain a company start up pack
- Inform the RICS and register for regulation
- Appoint a contact officer for all RICS communication
- Prepare a complaints handling procedure
- Obtain Professional indemnity insurance
- Follow the rules of conduct for firms
- Include ‘regulated by RICS on all practice material
Describe to me the PII cover required by firms?
Minimum Cover based on Turnover of the firm:
£100k or less = £250k cover
£100k-£200k = £500k
£200k or more = £1m
To provide financial cover in the vent a client suffers a loss as a result of breach of professional duty (e.g. neglect, errors or omissions) - including past and present employees.
When might it be acceptable to take a gift?
Dependant on the companies policies, it is acceptable when the gift is proportionate to work undertaken - The gift must not of high value and it is apparent there is no alternative intent.
How much cash can you hold?
I don’t believe a set limit is outlined but firms must ensure that all client money is properly accounted for and safeguarded. Client money should be logged in a cash book.
How should you keep clients money safely?
All client money must be held in designated client account, separate from the firms money.
The account must be clearly identifiable with ‘client’ in the account name.
The accounting systems and data must be secure and client ledgers must be maintained.
Describe one of your KPIs to me?
For example with Landlord consent cases such as assignments, sublettings, alterations - once payment of professional fees has been made, or an undertaking received. The transaction must be reported to legal within 14 days.
Can you summarise the RICS Complaint Handling 1st Edition document?
It outlines:
1. The value of terms of engagement in reducing complaints
2. An effective CHP (Published, Complaint log, Training, Timely, ADR)
3. Requirements of Professional indemnity Insurance
4. Why clients may complain
5. Actions and responses
6. RICS help sheets and guidance