The end is nigh, prepare to meet thy doom.

The last in a very special series of exclusive articles for The Property Chronicle, in which Australian property legend Norman Harker reflects on his extraordinary 50-year life in real estate. He will pull no punches partly because, as he freely admits, Norman has a limited life expectancy of five years from December 2018 due to a diagnosed terminal blood cancer, which he has cheerfully accepted in preference to (in his words) “kicking the bucket without notice”. We are honoured he has chosen us to publish these brilliant, funny and incisive reflections of a lifetime in property.

Despite all bets, I’ve made it to the end of the series. 

Albert Einstein said, “Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.” Of this, I am part of the obvious truth.

Stephen Hawking said, “One of the basic rules of the universe is that nothing is perfect. Perfection simply doesn’t exist… Without imperfection, neither you nor I would exist.” Again, I am living proof that this great, but medically unfortunate man was right.

Then there’s me. I’ve said too much or too little, too often throughout my long and sordid life as a valuer and property professional. I still struggle with problems.