Behind every well-run commercial property is a management team that understands more than just square metres and lease terms — they understand people, portfolios, and long-term value. At Maxprop, the Commercial & Industrial Property Management Division has been quietly but powerfully managing some of KwaZulu-Natal’s most well-known properties for over 40 years.
This isn’t just property management — it’s stewardship, strategy, and stability. Here’s how it all began, and why this division remains a cornerstone of Maxprop’s operations today.
More Than Four Decades of Trusted Management
The Maxprop Commercial & Industrial Admin Division was established more than 40 years ago — long before commercial property was viewed as a mainstream investment class. At the time, it was a bold move: the company saw the value in providing dedicated, professional management services for commercial and industrial assets in an evolving market.
At the heart of the division’s early years was Patrice Masson, the first Property Manager. Working initially from Maxprop’s Head Office before relocating to the Pinetown branch, Patrice set the foundation for what would become a significant part of Maxprop’s value offering. As the portfolio grew, Chris Tattari joined the team as a fellow Property Manager to replace Bruce Kelleher who was emigrating. Together, Patrice and Chris managed a growing and increasingly complex portfolio with an emphasis on consistency, compliance, and client service.
When Patrice retired in 2022, Ed Thornton joined the team as Property Manager to continue the legacy — bringing fresh insight and operational drive, while preserving the same client-focused values.
Building the Team that Keeps Things Moving
No property portfolio can be successfully managed without a strong team behind the scenes. Over the years, the Maxprop Commercial & Industrial Property Management Division has carefully grown a team that blends deep industry knowledge with operational execution.
- In the early days Gerald Maree joined as an Admin Assistant and was instrumental in establishing key systems — some of which are still in use today. His attention to operational processes laid the groundwork for the division’s smooth functioning.
- To address growing maintenance demands, Chris Bowen came onboard as Maintenance Manager — bringing hands-on oversight and technical problem-solving skills to the team.
- Recognising the importance of lease precision, Michelle Walford joined as Lease Administrator, followed by Carol Westermeyer as Maintenance Assistant. Both Michelle and Carol transitioned from secretarial roles in other divisions, proving the depth of in-house talent at Maxprop.
- As the portfolio continued to expand, the decision was made to split the portfolio between the two Property Managers. This led to Nola Smorenburg joining the team as a second Lease Administrator, also from within the company ranks — reinforcing Maxprop’s commitment to nurturing internal growth and talent mobility.
Today, the division has grown into a team of 13 dedicated staff, but its strength lies not just in individual expertise, but in the seamless coordination between its property managers, lease administrators, maintenance team, and support staff.
How the Portfolio Evolved
Like many great stories in property, our growth started organically — through word-of-mouth, referrals, and satisfied clients expanding their own portfolios. In the early days, we managed properties for long-standing investors, landlords, and developers across KwaZulu-Natal.
The next big leap came when the division took on the management of a listed property fund. This introduced new scale, systems, and compliance requirements — which the team handled with professionalism and care. Even after that relationship concluded, it left the division with the confidence and capacity to manage large, complex portfolios.
Rather than continue as an outsourced service provider, the strategic decision was made to focus inward, directing energy toward Maxprop’s own syndicated property investments. This gave the division more control over asset management strategies, tenant relationships, and performance outcomes — without the conflicting priorities of external fund management.
Today, the division manages over 100 properties, including a mix of:
- Retail centres
- Industrial parks
- Commercial office spaces
Properties of Note
Among the 100+ properties under management, several stand out not only for their size but also for their strategic importance in Durban’s commercial and industrial landscape.
- Glenwood Village – A well-known community retail centre serving the upper Glenwood area, combining national tenants with convenience-driven offerings.
- Bluff Centre – A busy suburban retail node in a high-density area, providing steady foot traffic and strong local loyalty.
- Stroude Place – A mixed-use commercial and industrial space that reflects the division’s versatility in handling varied asset types.
These properties are more than just income-producing buildings. They’re community landmarks, business hubs, and part of the province’s economic infrastructure — and the Maxprop management team ensures they remain functional, tenanted, and financially sound.
Why It Matters
In a market where many investors think short-term, Maxprop’s Commercial & Industrial Property Management Division plays the long game. Their mandate isn’t just about chasing yield; it’s about enhancing asset value, improving operational efficiency, and maintaining strong relationships with tenants and landlords alike.
With decades of institutional memory and an evolving, capable team, the division stands out in a competitive landscape as:
- Stable: Built over four decades with minimal overheads and consistent leadership.
- Reliable: Proven ability to manage diverse asset types across various market cycles.
- Professional: Backed by systems, people, and values that keep clients informed and properties running smoothly.
Looking Forward
As Maxprop continues to grow its footprint in KwaZulu-Natal, the Commercial & Industrial Property Management Division remains a key part of that strategy. The focus ahead is clear: continued excellence in property management, deeper value for clients, and the kind of service that only experience can deliver.
For property owners, investors, and landlords looking for a management partner that truly understands commercial real estate — Maxprop’s Commercial & Industrial Property Management Division is not just a service provider. It’s a strategic ally.
