Page 7 - TYSON PROPERTIES: 20 YEARS AND COUNTING

(... continued)
He notes that, from the very
beginning, founder Chris Tyson
demonstrated a genuine care
not just for the agents, but
their families too. That kind of
empathy had a lasting impact
on all and has trickled down
throughout business.
Bester says that, in the Western
Cape, marketing is taken a step
further with a dedicated team that
focuses on attention-grabbing,
localised campaigns. This has
helped grow the company’s market
share and footprint in the region.
“From very early on, we
realised that the traditional
model of property advertising
was outdated. We led the way
in the shift from print into the
digital space, using professional
videography, drone footage, and
targeted social media campaigns
long before it became standard. Jacques Roussouw Rudi Botha
We didn’t just advertise homes, we
told their stories. We didn’t just
promote properties, we showcased A TRIBUTE FROM BETTERHOME GROUP
our agents, empowering them
to build personal brands and
connect authentically with their JACQUES ROSSOUW (CEO of Real Estate Investments at BetterHome Group) and
communities,” he says.
RUDI BOTHA (CEO of BetterHome Group)
Bester says continued bold
decisions in this space continues
to help recruit and train younger his year marks 20 years done just that – positioning marketers in the industry. “He’s warmth and camaraderie behind
agents, people with energy, fresh since the founding of Tyson Tyson Properties in a premium a firm believer that if you do the professional partnership.
perspectives, and a willingness TProperties, a brand that market segment that many something, you do it properly – As Tyson Properties reflects
to adapt: “Today, those young has grown from its KwaZulu- aspire to enter.” or not at all,” Botha shares. on two decades of success, those
agents have matured into leaders Natal roots into a national One of the most notable aspects Tyson’s strength lies not only who’ve shared the journey offer
in their own right, many of them real estate force. Spearheaded
are running highly successful by founder and CEO Chris of the Chris Tyson story is the in brand-building but in his heartfelt thanks. “Thank you for
businesses within the Tyson brand.” Tyson, the company has become enduring partnerships he has values. He brings integrity and always being calm, respectful,
synonymous with quality, formed. Rudi Botha, CEO of calmness to every challenge and committed – no matter the
However, as change continues BetterHome Group and founder and is described as a humble, challenge,” says Rossouw. Botha
at pace within the real estate service, and ambition in South of BetterBond, reflects on an soft-spoken leader with a strong adds, “To have been a part of
industry with the growing Africa’s property industry. 18-year relationship that began following. Rossouw notes, “Chris this from the beginning and to
potential of artificial intelligence, From humble beginnings, when BetterBond became has built a culture that resonates witness Tyson become
Bester remains confident that the Tyson Properties has built a Tyson’s origination partner. throughout his organisation. a household name – it means
all-important human connection reputation that stands tall in “Watching someone go after a It’s been a privilege to see the world.”
will remain constant. a competitive marketplace. goal and make it happen has him navigate personal and
With nearly 500 agents,
“No technology, however The company’s journey from been one of the most rewarding professional challenges with R500 million in sales per
sophisticated, can replace the value regional player to national parts of this journey,” he says. such grace.” month, and an unwavering
of a face-to-face conversation, the brand has been nothing short
insight of a local expert, or the of inspirational. According Those who’ve worked closely The journey has also been filled brand vision, Tyson Properties
trust that’s built over time. Our to Jacques Rossouw, CEO of with Chris Tyson agree: his with many light moments. Botha is poised for continued
agents understand this. They are Real Estate Investments at approach to leadership and recalls many conversations and growth. “It’s a wonderful
not just transaction managers, they BetterHome Group, “Very few branding is unique. Known shared glasses of wine at the success story,” says Botha.
are people who walk the journey real estate businesses manage for his attention to detail Property Professional awards “And one that shows what’s
with their clients, often becoming to evolve into truly national and passion for doing things evenings held at the Arabella possible when great leadership
part of their lives in the process,” brands. Chris and his team have properly, Tyson is widely Country Estate near Hermanus is matched with relentless
he concludes.  regarded as one of the best – memories that underscore the commitment.” 

A PROGRESSIVE PEOPLE-FIRST OPPORTUNITY

FRANCOIS DU TOIT

n a world where real estate seasoned property professional buying into this company, This turning point saw him Du Toit says a great deal sets
is rapidly evolving, Tyson based in Johannesburg, who made he quickly realised it was not exploring new options, including Tyson part: “We’re not the biggest
IProperties stands out as a the leap nearly three and a half progressive enough. Tyson Properties. “At that stage, agency, but we’re certainly the
franchise opportunity rooted in years ago. the company had been operating most progressive. If something
progress, purpose, and people. “I am all about people, for about 16 or 17 years. I did doesn’t work, we change it or fix

For those considering a new path He started his property career with relationships, progression and self- a deep dive into its history, it. It’s always about people and
our agents who run their own
in real estate, or even seasoned one of the so-called big four real mastery and I wanted to be part business model and leadership. businesses within our business
professionals tired of red tape estate companies. He describes his of a team with the same culture. A few months later, I spoke to a so if they’re not succeeding, we’re
and outdated systems, Tyson experience as frustrating within So, one morning I woke up and conveyancer who encouraged me not doing our job.”
offers a refreshing alternative. Just an outdated culture and too much realised it just wasn’t going to to give Chris Tyson, the founder
ask director Francois du Toit, a red tape. Despite contemplating happen,” he recalls. and CEO, a call.” (... continued page 8)

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