Nearly 60 years strong, Maxprop offers body corporate management alongside commercial, industrial and residential property services, including establishing industrial property investment syndicates.
As the market evolves, the company continues to adapt – staying relevant in a changing landscape. According to managing director Allan van der Veen, Maxprop’s longevity comes down to a clear focus on people and proactive service.
“This next-generation approach includes the expertise of our young professional management team, providing long-term stability for our clients,” he says. “We’re proud to live up to our promise of being ‘Your Property Solution’ and supporting clients in reaching their goals.”
Alongside Allan are financial director Rowan Louw, commercial and industrial director Simon Weare, head of the community schemes division Naasera Sewram, and head of residential sales and letting Devika Lazarus. Supported by 140 staff across Hillcrest, Umhlanga, Pinetown and Glenwood, the team manages nearly 500 bodies corporate, 80 commercial and industrial properties, and 1,500 residential rental units.
Commercial and industrial guidance
As work and shopping habits shift, many Durban businesses find themselves in spaces that no longer fit. Maxprop will try to help their tenants ‘right-size’ their premises with practical solutions that balance tenant needs and landlord interests.
“We always try to accommodate a good tenant with a creative solution, while still protecting the landlord,” says Simon. “This may include subdividing space, relocating tenants or allowing sub-letting – all aimed at avoiding a lose-lose situation.”
While infrastructure challenges are growing, Simon says one factor still outweighs all others: “Location remains the most important consideration. It determines accessibility for customers, suppliers and staff, and ultimately impacts profitability. While back-up power and water can be added and security improved, location cannot – so it’s critical to get it right.”
Community schemes and trustees
Managing a sectional title complex can be demanding, especially for trustees balancing full-time jobs. Maxprop simplifies the process, from levy collection to maintenance, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
“Levy arrears are often the ‘silent killer’ of complexes,” says Naasera.
“We restore cash flow without lengthy legal battles by acting early and keeping the process fair and manageable.”
- Owners in arrears are contacted personally
- Issues are flagged before they escalate
- Trustees have clear visibility of payment patterns
- ‘Soft collections’ are prioritised before legal action
Maintenance is another major pressure point. Naasera explains: “Trustees shouldn’t have to manage every crisis themselves. Maxprop streamlines problem-solving while ensuring quick, effective resolutions.”
- Trustees have easy access to pre-approved, experienced service providers
- Contractors familiar with the scheme’s infrastructure ensure faster response times
- Problems are resolved efficiently, reducing stress and keeping costs under control
Expert residential property investing and letting
For first-time buyers and stressed tenants, navigating the property market can be overwhelming. Maxprop provides clarity and guidance to avoid costly missteps.
“The key is giving buyers a full, realistic breakdown of costs upfront,” says Devika. “That way, there are no surprises – just a smooth transfer process.”
For landlords, communication is critical under evolving rental regulations: “The biggest mistake is delaying responses to tenant concerns, especially maintenance issues. Poor communication can quickly escalate into disputes. Prompt action and proper record-keeping are essential,” concludes Davika.
In a changing market, Maxprop’s longevity is no accident. Built on a foundation of strong values and a people-first approach, the company continues to evolve while staying true to what has sustained it for nearly six decades.
Maxprop under the magnifying glass
Durban has seen its share of fly-by-night agencies. What’s the one thing that ensures a client’s investment is safer with Maxprop than a smaller, newer agency?
“A lot can happen in a day, so consistency matters more than a Monday morning ritual,” says Rowan. “I start early to review key metrics before the day gets busy, focusing first on cash flow across business and trust accounts. Having a capable team and clear roles ensures strong checks and balances, giving clients confidence that their investments are safeguarded.”
Share a moment when ‘thank you’ mattered more than the fee:
“We sold a syndicated commercial property, and one investor emailed to thank us. The property’s income had financed his daughter’s university fees and the capital gain was just the cherry on top. It reinforced the value of long-term investments and the importance of a professional management company,” says Allan.
How does Maxprop protect clients when the city faces challenges?
“We back private and non-profit urban improvement initiatives, from cleaning, security or general upkeep. Recently, we started supporting Pinetown Tidy Towns and we encourage our Pinetown body corporate clients to do the same. We also engage with the municipality to hold them accountable for service delivery,” says Simon.
The 2026 property market looks very different from 1968. If you had to scrap one old-school real estate ‘rule’ to better serve modern Durbanites, what would it be?
“The principles haven’t changed, just the values and ways of doing business. Modern Durbanites need a more flexible, responsive approach than old-school rules allow,” adds Allan.
