By Bennie van Dyk – Senior Operations Manager: Community Schemes Management
In October 2024, MidCity had the privilege of attending the bi-annual NAMA (National Association of Managing Agents) Conference, held in Umhlanga. Representing MidCity was CEO Koos Croukamp, MidCity Utilities Executive Dirk Groenewald, Executive Daleen van Dyk, and members of the Community Schemes Management Division: Chris Fourie, Charese Dercksen, and Bennie van Dyk. This year’s conference theme, Learn, Grow, Succeed, set the tone for an enriching and insightful event.
The conference opened with an impactful talk by Dr. Sharon Enoch on emotional intelligence (EQ), mental health, and stress management—a timely discussion given the modern challenges facing professionals. Following this, Dean Hunter, a developer, shared his perspective on developers’ obligations and responsibilities.
A delegation from the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) provided valuable updates on industry transformation and future developments. Gauta Rampedi of Ramapedi Properties, with whom MidCity has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), shared his experience on how MidCity’s efforts have contributed to the transformation of skills in the industry.
The day continued with Rudi Heerschop addressing the complexities of levies, prescriptions, and legal fees, particularly focusing on recovering these fees from owners’ levy statements. Representatives from Synevo then highlighted the importance of building compliance, stressing the need for regular inspections by qualified service providers and annual updates to 10-year maintenance plans.
The first day concluded with a session led by Jonathan de Wet on the steps to ensure legal compliance for property schemes.
Day two began with an inspiring motivational talk by Michael Charton titled Leave Some for the Honey Badger, which encouraged attendees to draw lessons from nature to find balance in life. Representatives from WeConnectU followed with a forward-looking discussion on using artificial intelligence (AI) to manage properties, offering a glimpse into the future of property management.
An FNB panel further expanded on this theme, providing insights into upcoming trends and the evolving property management landscape.
Jennefer Paddocks then explored the powers and rights of managing agents, while Lazelle Paola delved into the unique dynamics of sectional title schemes within homeowners’ associations (HOAs). Marina Constas from BBM Law outlined the top 10 changes impacting the property industry. The day wrapped up with a panel discussion on key compliance issues, illegal extensions, and insurance challenges.
The conference concluded with a spectacular Gala Dinner at the Mount Edgecombe Country Club, providing a perfect end to a dynamic and knowledge-filled event. We extend our gratitude to NAMA for hosting such a remarkable conference, which provided an invaluable platform for exchanging ideas, sharing expertise, and connecting with key industry stakeholders.
For any assistance with managing your property, feel free to reach out to your dedicated property portfolio manager at MidCity – your property partner for life.
