How 2019 has been for this township property entrepreneur

At the end of each year, it’s natural to reflect on the outcome of the past 12 months. Mathe Moshoeshoe, a founder of Moshoeshoe Properties, did the same when she unpacked how she saw the gap in the township property market. Also, how 2019 has been for her business.

“I used to work for a real estate company that focused on expensive properties. So, I wanted to bring the same service and excellence to the townships,” says Mathe.

While the township property market has long been misunderstood by many in the property business, the value and potential within this previously ignored market segment has finally been uncovered by entrepreneurs like Mathe who enjoys working with first-time home buyers for two reasons: to educate them and make sure that they are buying the right property. She adds: “And I empower them so that they can educate other first-time buyers they will meet in the future.”

Infrastructure is also improving rapidly, and the new developments cater to different income groups. In the townships, houses previously worth R300 000 have grown in value to reach R600 000 because they are located next to a mall. Mathe says her target market is people earning between R3,000 and R25, 000.

She offers internships to the youth to introduce them to the real estate business. In addition to that, her company hires locally every time there is a need to refurbish a house.

Asked how 2019 has been for her business, she said: “2019 was a bit challenging because the year had tested my leadership skills. At some point, I had to learn how to delegate and understand the role of a leader. However, in terms of sales, we did exceptionally well. We also partnered we another company from the UAE called Driven Properties. Our mandate is to buy and sell property across the African continent. We feel this is another way of growing our brand.”

BetterBond statistics show the number of bond approvals for township properties has increased markedly since November 2018. This trend is expected to continue in the new year. Indeed, hard work with plenty of rewards and a touch of good luck will all come together to make 2020 a prominent period for Mathe to grow her business.