The decision by Rawson Properties’ Constantia franchise to open a rental division covering the whole of the southern suburbs has paid of handsomely, says the franchisee, Eugene Pienaar.

“Much of the success of the new division,” he said, “can be attributed to the manager, Linda Stringer. Coming from the hospitality industry and with experience in running her own business, she has real understanding of the type of client putting a house or a flat up for rent and the sort of person who is looking to occupy such premises.”

In three months, says Pienaar, Stringer has let more than 20 properties – and most of these have been at rentals of over R20 000 a month.

Particularly promising right now, says Pienaar, is the outlook for homes being made available for the World Cup period. A well sited home with three or four bedrooms, a garden and a pool is able to earn R2 000 a person per night over the six to eight week period. A one bedroom flat in the Tokai area can be let at R3 000 a night.

Pienaar says he will be employing another two rental agents to assist Stringer and will expand the service to provide a comprehensive management and letting service.