MAIN IMAGE: Jean Joubert – product manager: Rental Asset Management at WeconnectU
WeconnectU
“We support the PPRA’s efforts to address practices that unfairly restrict access to property opportunities within security estates. Our position is straightforward: every compliant property practitioner, including rental agents, should have a fair opportunity to market properties where they have been appointed by the owner and comply with reasonable estate security requirements.
“Property owners should be able to choose the professional they trust to represent their interests. Fees or accreditation arrangements that unfairly exclude agents can limit that choice and create barriers for smaller agencies and new entrants.
“From a rental asset management perspective, this matters throughout the life of an investment. A rental agent’s contribution extends beyond finding a tenant. It includes assessing tenant suitability, managing rental performance, coordinating maintenance and helping protect the long-term value of the property. Owners should have the freedom to select that expertise on merit.
“We recognise the responsibility estates have to protect residents and maintain well-managed communities. Fair access and effective security can work together through clear identification requirements, scheduled viewings and transparent procedures applied consistently to all practitioners.
“We encourage estate management teams and property practitioners to work together on arrangements that protect residents, respect owner choice and support fair competition. Sales and rental agents should have the opportunity to earn business through their professionalism, the quality of their service and the value they deliver.”
A point to preserve when sharing: The Department of Human Settlements’ statement says the lawfulness of particular fee arrangements depends on the circumstances of each case. The draft therefore supports fair access without presenting the judgment as a blanket prohibition on every estate fee or access requirement.
