DG Rentals expertise, at your service

With our ongoing spree of sales successes across the city, it would be natural for an observer to assume that DG Properties is exclusively a sales specialist. Although our team is renowned for record-breaking sales and continues to dominate market share in the Southern Suburbs, our rentals division is by no means less productive or less impressive.

Active in higher-end rentals for almost two decades now, DG Rentals' core focus has always been quality properties across the board. Since most of our long-term clientele own more than one property - in many cases multiple properties - this offering has always been a means for us to deliver holistic turnkey service. Our boutique developments also demand unique handling.

Be it sales, developments, or rentals, one thing our brand is unwavering about in terms of service is going the extra mile.

We invite you to take a deeper dive into the machinations of our rentals team - get to know Odette Maartens, Head of DG Rentals, and her refreshing take on how to be a leader, uncover the latest market scoop for this last quarter of 2023, and join us as we take a moment to appreciate a small team who delivers really big results.

Despite stringent challenges sourcing stock, our team of eight seasoned rentals agents currently managing 120 properties in areas like Constantia Upper, Claremont, Sea Point, and Tamboerskloof, are a tenacious, dedicated group, often underestimating their value to the company. To date, their greatest victories are a R450,000 per month long term let in Constantia Upper and the R1 million four-night holiday let of a Clifton bungalow.

Most valuable to DG Properties, however, is their loyalty, hard work, and perseverance.

Led by Head of Rentals and Full Status Agent, Odette Maartens, the interview that follows reveals a woman not only the glue of the rentals team, but an invaluable staff member mandated with mentoring our agents and evolving the department. Odette has been with our group since 2007, an active rentals agent in her own right, focusing on premier listings on the Atlantic Seaboard.

"What sets DG Properties apart is that we're a boutique agency with a 'yes can' attitude towards our clients. We're very hands on. In addition to offering bespoke service, we have exclusive off- market listings and mandates in Cape Town only rentable through us. Our communication and marketing are also world class." - Odette Maartens

With such an active rentals market, one forecast only to intensify, Odette shares her opinion on what landlords and tenants in the Mother City can expect:

"With rental demand so high - ever- increasing as families from upcountry flock to the Western Cape - prices are at a premium. If priced correctly, landlords can expect their properties to be let within two weeks. Your greatest challenge as a landlord is securing a tenant with solid credit records and excellent behaviour. Our stringent multi-check applications process addresses this - we often decline applicants, guaranteeing landlords peace of mind to the best of our ability."

"For tenants looking to rent in this market, my best advice is to first identify your area. With Cape Town's traffic congestion problem, it's advisable to live as close to work as possible, and if you have children, close to school. This city offers a phenomenal lifestyle if you're able to achieve work-life balance. Your greatest challenge is finding what you want, where you want, within your budget. After 20 years of finding families homes, DG Rentals are experts at this."

In terms of the agents she manages, she has some compelling, albeit quirky, advice:

"Start your day by eating the frog! Meaning, the thing you've been putting off and dreading to do - do it first. Then, the rest of the day will flow so much better. And never forget - a good reputation is everything in this business."

Over a steaming flat white at our flagship King's Office on Regent Road, Sea Point, Odette graciously expanded on the following targeted questions

Describe your leadership style

"I prefer to lead by example. My team can only respect me if I do the correct and proper thing. I also don't micromanage. I encourage my agents to bring their own flavour while honouring company guidelines."

How do you motivate the team in the face of life's current day challenges

"I always remind them of the cyclical nature of our business. How, together, we've endured recessions, drought, a pandemic, property brands that come and go, and a scattering of other tenuous challenges. Despite it all we have not only survived - but thrived."

How do you handle tricky volatile clients

"I'm blessed with a calm temperament. If I had a superpower, staying calm would be it. This together with logical thinking and an openness to meet clients halfway, has always served me."

Why should a prospective landlord or tenant choose DG?

"Doing the correct and ethical thing is at the heart of our service offering. We turn business away if there's an inkling either party will be disadvantaged."

How has Cape Town's rental market changed over the years?

"I've been with DG for almost 20 years! The rental market here is unique in that it stays buoyant regardless of national and global events. Through the highs and lows, property investors have only but gained."

What keeps you loyal to the brand?

"Its continued high morals, values, and ethics. I've always loved our leadership, agents, and support staff. Despite many changes over the years, I've always felt like I belong. To me, DG is my second family."

How do you balance work and family life?

"With some difficulty, to be honest. I live far from the office, but thankfully I have lots of support. My husband and Mom are hands on with the kids - and upper management gives me a lot of flexibility, so I get to manage my schedule accordingly. I make sure to carve time out for myself - exercise, connecting with friends, and, of course, retail therapy!"

Two golden nuggets for aspiring agents?

• "Align with right brand and give yourself at least a year to get properly established. With dedication you can find both purpose and financial reward in this industry."
• "Work hard - be professional and ethical always."

What one thing would you say to an agent long in the game?

"Remain grateful. You're part of an amazing industry in an amazing city! We get to work in one of the world's most desirable cities - it's a privilege."

Odette was generous enough to share the following personal sentiments

What are your top three things to do in Cape Town?

"It's the simple things I enjoy. Going for lunch, shopping, the great outdoors. This city offers so much! On weekends I prefer beach walks with my family, strolling along the promenade, or picnicking. Cape Town has an endless choice of parks, gardens, and waterfalls - gorgeous nature spots that never fail to refresh the soul."

Favourite restaurant?

"I have plenty! One of my top favourites is Blanko at The Alphen in Constantia. I'm a sucker for authentic Italian food - and punchy cocktails."

Wrapping up the interview, Odette had only positive things to forecast about Cape Town's 2024 rental market:

"Landlords especially can look forward to a bumper 2024. Priced correctly, your properties will be let quickly - and it will be our pleasure to source you quality, vetted tenants. In terms of DG, our leadership intends to grow our rentals team, onboarding new, experienced agents while expanding into new territories."

In closing, we hear from two of our longtime rental agents, veritable masters at their game

"The key to this fast-paced industry is understanding our clients' exact needs - then matching them to the best-suited property as quickly as possible without compromising on personalized care. Since demand is currently high and stock scarce, it takes charm, professionalism, and tenacity, to get our clients to the finish line."

Mic Brand - Atlantic Seaboard - 12 Years with DG Rentals

"What sets DG Rentals apart is going that extra mile while providing service excellence. I pride myself in the support I give my clients together with solid aftersales service in the face of any issues. It's an honour to be part the DG Properties family."

Patsy Fivelman - Southern Suburbs - 7 Years with DG Rentals

Looking for a new rental home? Or perhaps you're a landlord wanting to let your property? Odette Maartens and her team are at the ready to guide you in the right direction. Contact Odette on +27 73 190 5726, our Atlantic Seaboard office on +27 21 433 2580, or our Southern Suburbs office on +27 21 671 0258.