Review of Focus Properties and Nhlanhla Nxumalo

I rented an apartment at Jabulani Manor, Block 14, Unit 254, through Focus Properties, with Nhlanhla Nxumalo as the landlord in June 2025 until 31st July 2025.

The unit was in a dilapidated state when I moved in. Despite raising the issues, the landlord refused to carry out repairs. Meetings were held to try and resolve the matter, but nothing was done, and eventually I had no choice but to vacate the property.

When I moved out, I was not refunded my full deposit. I was only paid R3,500, and Mr. Nxumalo has since refused to pay the outstanding balance. I approached Rosabel Mututu, Maserati Tebesa, and Sibulele Mohapi from Focus Properties to intervene, since they had advertised the property and drafted the lease agreement, but they chose to stand with the landlord and distanced themselves from the issue instead of assisting.

In my experience, Focus Properties allows landlords to mistreat tenants and withhold deposits, and afterwards act as if they are not aware of the issues. This has been a very disappointing and unfair experience. I would caution anyone considering renting through Focus Properties or from Nhlanhla Nxumalo to be very careful and to ensure that proper protections are in place before signing a lease.Because of this, I have reported them to the PPRA and the Complaints Ombudsman so that no other tenants have to go through the same exploitation.