MO
Mohamed O
Active since Oct 2024
18
Reviews
0
Industries
Reviews
18 reviews7 months ago
Residents of Blyde Resort Deserve Better: A Call for Accountability and Responsible Governance
It is with a sense of urgency and concern that I bring to public attention the ongoing issues at Blyde Resort, managed by Balwin Properties and Rise Properties. Despite being fully aware of the atrocities and breaches occurring within the estate, both Balwin and their appointed estate management have failed to act decisively to protect the rights and privacy of residents and owners. Lack of Accountability and Breach of Confidentiality Historically, Landsdowne was appointed by Balwin to oversee the administration of Blyde Resort. However, recent developments reveal that Balwin claims no direct appointment, asserting instead that the Home Owners Association (HOA) made the decision. This claim is misleading, as it is well documented that three trustee members are employees of Balwin and they hold the majority vote in the HOA. The remaining two trustees are unknown to many residents, raising further questions about transparency and governance. More troubling is the breach of residents' privacy. Landsdowne circulated a list containing residents’ names, unit numbers, Airbnb tenants, and outstanding amounts, this being an explicit violation of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). On June 12, 2025, I forwarded an email to Balwin’s CEO and their legal officer, Mr. R, highlighting this breach. The legal officer responded that he would speak to Landsdowne to understand what transpired. However, despite being fully aware of this gross breach of privacy, Balwin has not taken any corrective action. To date, I have received no further feedback, and Rise Properties, the new estate management, has also failed to address this serious concern. This neglect has compelled me to publicly disclose that residents’ confidential information was shared without consent, exposing them to potential harm. Legal Disputes and the Questionable Path of Litigation The HOA trustees appointed legal counsel to pursue debt collection against residents. Notably, these proceedings are underway in the Johannesburg High Court, despite the fact that alternative dispute resolution (ADR), such as mediation through the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS)—could have been pursued to resolve disputes amicably and cost-effectively. Contrary to the community’s interest, Balwin’s legal team, represented by Mr. R, dismissed the role of CSOS, asserting that litigation is a legal right and that the HOA is under no obligation to pursue mediation. As per Section 34 of the Constitution and the provisions of Rule 41A of the community schemes regulations, mediation should be prioritized before litigation, yet Balwin appears to dismiss this requirement outright. This stance exemplifies a disregard for collaborative dispute resolution and reflects a governance approach driven more by litigation than community well-being. Recent Developments and Ongoing Concerns Recent engagements with Rise Properties reveal troubling practices. For instance, residents with unpaid levies are restricted from access to the estate, forcing them to park outside and enter via pedestrian entrances. Legal action by residents has been taken to restore access, but evidence suggests that residents are being unfairly targeted. Disturbingly, statements from residents’ levy accounts include not only levies but also legal fees, fines, and interest, sometimes in inflated amounts. There are indications that Balwin and Rise Properties may be acting as de facto debt collectors for their legal representatives, raising serious ethical questions. Conclusion: A Call for Transparent and Responsible Estate Management The residents and owners of Blyde Resort deserve transparent, accountable, and responsible estate management. The breaches of confidentiality, the prioritization of litigation over mediation, and the neglect of essential maintenance reflect governance that favours expedient legal procedures over community well-being. It is imperative that all stakeholders namely Balwin, Rise Properties, trustees, and resident, work collaboratively to uphold residents’ rights, safeguard their privacy, and restore trust. Residents and stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant, voice their concerns through proper channels, and demand accountability from estate management. We must insist on transparency, respect for privacy laws, and the prioritization of dispute resolution methods that serve the best interests of the community. Only through collective action can we ensure that Blyde Resort becomes a safe, respectful, and well-managed estate for all. Together, we can advocate for the rights of residents and foster a community built on integrity and responsible governance.
0 replies
11 months ago
BALWIN SECURED BULK ELECTRICITY BUT FAILS TO DISCLOSE HOW IT IS SPLIT WITH REGARDS TO TARIFFS PAID BY COMMERCIAL ENTITIES
I wish to bring to light some serious concerns regarding Balwin's practices and communication approach. I posted an honest review on Hollopeter on 7 May 2025 highlighting issues related to transparency around tariff rates paid by commercial tenants, which could significantly impact residential tenants. Despite Balwin's claim that my views are incorrect, they have not provided any response or clarification. Instead, they reported my review in an attempt to have it removed, yet it remains publicly accessible. Most notably, the recent communication from Balwin's CEO states: "This is getting absolutely ridiculous… any damage to BALWIN REPUTATION WILL BE SEVERELY DEALT WITH AND BALWIN WILL SEEK DAMAGES OF A FINANCIAL THAT WILL BE HUNDRES OF MILLIONS." While protecting one’s reputation is understandable, such language appears to be more of an ************ tactic rather than a constructive response to legitimate concerns. This approach raises questions about Balwin's transparency and willingness to engage openly with residents. To substantiate my claims, I approached the Tshwane Local Council, where I was informed there is no clear split between residential and commercial electricity usage. I also contacted PEC, the metering company, requesting tariff rates paid by residents as per bylaws. They confirmed the approved residential tariff for consumption under 100 KWH is R2.70, but they refused to disclose the tariffs paid by commercial entities, which include large businesses like hotels and restaurants. This lack of transparency is concerning and raises suspicions about what Balwin may be hiding. My attempts to discuss these issues with PEC and Estate Management have been met with resistance. I was advised that social media is the only avenue for feedback, which I find troubling as it suggests a lack of openness and accountability. I and other stakeholders feel that I are being set up, noting the response from Balwin's CEO. Additionally, I reference the case of Malakite Body Corporate v City of Johannesburg Municipality, where the estate lost because the bulk electricity tariff was not properly split between residential and commercial units. The court ruled that splitting the supply between residential and commercial entities is the appropriate solution. However, Mr R, the legal officer of Balwin, mentioned that this is currently considered impossible, raising questions about who benefits from the current arrangement — information Balwin has not disclosed. Given these circumstances, I believe residents could benefit more from having electricity supp**** directly from the City of Tshwane via prepaid meters, which could eliminate unnecessary costs and improve transparency. I might be wrong, but Balwin does not want to engage to address the issues. My hope is that this review helps others facing similar billing concerns. I urge Balwin to address these issues transparently and clarify the rationale behind their current charging structure. I look forward to their response and a fair resolution that ensures transparency and fairness for all residents. I will continue to monitor and document this matter and am prepared to provide all correspondence if needed.
0 replies
11 months ago
Urgent Concerns Regarding Electricity Billing and Transparency at The Blyde
It is with considerable frustration that I am compelled to share ongoing concerns regarding electricity billing and transparency at The Blyde. Despite Balwin's stated preference for internal resolution and a warning against public discourse. I sent an email on the 8 April 2025 addressed to the CEO, the head of legal Mr. R, responded on the 9 April 2025 stating that in essence the CEO is under no obligation to respond, and the EM will respond. Till present no response received leaving me no alternative but to raise these critical issues publicly. My initial email detailed concerns about the apartment's condition and subsequently, electricity issues. These concerns were amplified by a Balwin communication suggesting potential municipal service disruptions due to unpaid levies. This prompted a fundamental question: how is electricity consumption separated and billed between residential units and the commercial enterprises operating within The Blyde (including the Hotel, restaurant, kiosk, gym, spa, laundromat, and car wash)? Mr. R's response stated that The Blyde purchases electricity in bulk from the City of Tshwane at a single bulk tariff, with no separate meters or split supply for the lifestyle centre. He argued this is not needed or possible and cautioned against raising these "allegations" due to the potential negative impact on all owners if tariff structures were changed. While acknowledging the bulk tariff structure, I remain deeply concerned. Standard municipal billing practices typically involve different tariff rates for residential and commercial entities. This raises a critical question: are residential owners potentially subsidizing the electricity consumption of commercial operations within The Blyde by being billed at a higher rate? My own queries regarding my electricity consumption, which I felt was inaccurate, initially led me down this path of investigation. The lack of clear separation and billing for commercial entities within the bulk tariff structure is a significant concern that demands transparency and clarification. Despite Mr. R's warning not to post this, I believe it is ethically imperative to bring these issues to the attention of all residents at The Blyde. We must be vigilant and actively query discrepancies and concerns related to our utilities and billing. I urge Balwin to provide a clear and transparent explanation of how electricity costs are allocated and billed to ensure that residential owners are not unfairly burdened with the costs associated with commercial operations. Further, I reiterate the need for timely and substantive responses to resident concerns raised through official channels.
58 replies
12 months ago
Positive Review for Balwin at The Blyde Resort
I wanted to take a moment to share my recent experience with Balwin and express my appreciation for the positive changes happening at The Blyde Resort. After previously voicing some concerns, I am thrilled to report significant improvements under their management. Balwin’s CEO has actively addressed various issues, which shows a genuine commitment to the community. The recent enhancement of security measures is a notable effort to ensure the safety and peace of all residents. I was particularly impressed by the communication from the CEO regarding the steps being taken to recover outstanding levies from defaulting owners. This initiative demonstrates Balwin's dedication to maintaining the estate's operational integrity. This past weekend, I saw the results of these efforts firsthand. Increased security personnel were present, and access restrictions for defaulting owners were implemented, contributing to a safer environment. It’s clear to see that the CEO is not just paying lip service but is fully engaged in restoring peace and order within the community. Moreover, I must commend the Estate Manager, who went above and beyond, working late hours to ensure traffic flow and minimize congestion, especially on busy days. Their commitment to the community truly stands out. I would also like to mention Levant Security, who acted swiftly and professionally to restore order. They managed traffic control and maintained order. I experienced noice issues and Levant was called. Their prompt response and professionalism added in resolving the issue promptly. This instilled a sense of confidence among residents, reinforcing the positive atmosphere that Balwin is striving to create. Thank you, Balwin’s CEO, and the entire team, for your ongoing efforts. It’s wonderful to see a management team that listens to its residents and genuinely works to enhance our living experience at The Blyde Resort. Keep up the fantastic work.
58 replies
12 months ago
Positive Review for Balwin at The Blyde Resort
I wanted to take a moment to share my recent experience with Balwin and express my appreciation for the positive changes happening at The Blyde Resort. After previously voicing some concerns, I am thrilled to report significant improvements under their management. Balwin’s CEO has actively addressed various issues, which shows a genuine commitment to the community. The recent enhancement of security measures is a notable effort to ensure the safety and peace of all residents. I was particularly impressed by the communication from the CEO regarding the steps being taken to recover outstanding levies from defaulting owners. This initiative demonstrates Balwin's dedication to maintaining the estate's operational integrity. This past weekend, I saw the results of these efforts firsthand. Increased security personnel were present, and access restrictions for defaulting owners were implemented, contributing to a safer environment. It’s clear to see that the CEO is not just paying lip service but is fully engaged in restoring peace and order within the community. Moreover, I must commend the Estate Manager, who went above and beyond, working late hours to ensure traffic flow and minimize congestion, especially on busy days. Their commitment to the community truly stands out. I would also like to mention Levant Security, who acted swiftly and professionally to restore order. They managed traffic control and maintained order. I experienced noice issues and Levant was called. Their prompt response and professionalism added in resolving the issue promptly. This instilled a sense of confidence among residents, reinforcing the positive atmosphere that Balwin is striving to create. Thank you, Balwin’s CEO, and the entire team, for your ongoing efforts. It’s wonderful to see a management team that listens to its residents and genuinely works to enhance our living experience at The Blyde Resort. Keep up the fantastic work.
58 replies
12 months ago
SAFETY CONCERNS AT THE BLYDE ESTATE AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IN PUBLIC AREAS AND LOCATION OF PUBLIC TOILET
I feel compelled to share my ongoing experiences with Balwin regarding several pressing issues we've been facing at our estate, particularly around management, security, and the handling of public areas and facilities. Despite voicing these concerns previously, it often feels like our voices fall on deaf ears. Recently, I posted about these issues, only to have Balwin object to my post without offering constructive feedback. Now, they’ve sent out a newsletter urging us to remove our comments, claiming it will devalue our investments and encouraged us to communicate directly with them instead. In an effort to engage in meaningful dialogue, I sent a letter to Balwin and Lansdowne expressing my concerns regarding public safety, the nature of alcohol consumption in shared spaces, and the accessibility of public restrooms. It’s troubling that accessing restrooms requires navigating through the restaurant, which is an alcohol-centric environment—especially concerning for families with children. Lansdowne’s response was disheartening; they refused to relocate the restroom facilities, insisting it’s up to parents to decide when their minors can enter. Furthermore, I raised significant security and safety issues. Balwin’s justification for inaction was linked to unpaid levies from some owners, which seems unfairly punitive to those of us who abide by the rules. If outstanding levies amount to around 10 million rand, how can we expect to ensure the safety of our community without adequate funding? Placing the burden of debt collection on us as residents feels like a mismanagement of responsibility. In response to my outreach, Balwin's legal team Mr R stated that their CEO is under no obligation to respond to me, dismissing my timeline for a response as unfounded even though I clarified that I was seeking dialogue—not demands. This lack of accountability raises serious concerns about the management we are receiving as residents and investors. I want to stress, as responsible community members and investors, we deserve better management and transparency from Balwin. It’s imperative that we stand together and hold them accountable for our community's safety and well-being. I urge everyone here to be mindful of these issues and consider the implications for our investments. We need to advocate for our rights as residents to ensure our voices are heard and that the community we share remains a safe and enjoyable place to live. I have all the communication and can share if requested. I have reported the alcohol issues to the liquor board but they failed to advise on the progress. I wrote to the liquor board and addressed this stating that one might get the wrong impression and feel the the liquor board is protecting large business and prejudicing small business. This is a serious concern which needs addressing. Let’s keep the conversation going. Your thoughts on this matter would be appreciated.
0 replies
15 months ago
Addressing Concerns Regarding Policies at Blyde Resort
I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding the inconsistent application of rules and regulations at the Blyde Resort, a residential community managed by Balwin. In recent months, I have observed a troubling trend involving rule violations and policy adjustments that appear to prioritize business interests over the welfare and comfort of the residents. I would like to bring the following specific issues to your attention: 1. Misrepresentation of the Blyde Resort: Balwin's communications suggest that the Blyde Resort is exclusively a residential community; however, the consumption of alcohol and food in the lagoon, contrary to posted regulations, contradicts this claim. Moreover, the recent policy mandating that all food and beverages be purchased from the restaurant raises concerns that the intent is to generate additional revenue at the expense of the residents’ experience. 2. Lack of Enforcement and Accountability: Despite my submissions of photographic evidence highlighting litter and unsanitary conditions in the lagoon, there has been little action taken to rectify these issues. The introduction of a VIP section to enhance restaurant revenue has not aligned with the interests of the residents, leading to frustration. Furthermore, during a recent meeting with Mr. H from EM, I was informed that the CEO of Balwin had communicated a change to the booking fees for the VIP section, which was subsequently contradicted by Mr. C, the manager. This inconsistency has eroded trust in leadership and management. 3. Safety Concerns: The presence of minors in the lagoon area and reports of alcohol consumption in a public space raise significant safety concerns. The enforcement of rules prohibiting intoxication is a necessary measure for safeguarding all residents, and any deviation from these regulations for the sake of profit is alarming. The estate rules clearly state no intoxicated person will be permited access to the lagoon but this is contradicted by Balwin now allowing alcohol consumption in the lagoon. This will endager the live of the intoxicated person as well as others. 4. Disregard for Residents' Feedback: My attempts to engage with senior management, including Mr. C, have not yielded satisfactory responses.Promises to address my concerns, such as cleaning the lagoon, remain unfulfilled. The lack of communication has compelled residents to use social media platforms to voice their grievances, which is not conducive to resolving issues collaboratively. 5. Contradiction of Stated Values: Balwin positions itself as a reputable company dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. However, the management's current actions appear to prioritize commercial gain over resident well-being, which is inconsistent with the company's professed values. In light of these issues, I respectfully request that Balwin management take the following actions: 1. Conduct a thorough review and revision of policies to prioritize resident welfare and safety. 2. Establish clear and consistent communication regarding rules and everyday expectations for residents. 3. Ensure that commitments made to residents, including maintaining the cleanliness of the lagoon, are met promptly. 4. Reassess business strategies to align with the interests of the residents rather than mere revenue generation. 5. Reevaluate the public areas for alcohol consumption, currently the recreational area alcohol is served and this is frequented my minors. I trust that Balwin will take these concerns seriously and that appropriate measures will be implemented to address them. I look forward to their prompt response and a constructive resolution to these matters.
0 replies
15 months ago
Concerns with Balwin's lack of transparency providing protection to residents and owners
Subject: Concerns with Balwin's lack of transparency providing protection to residents and owners I am reaching out to express my ongoing concerns regarding my experiences with Balwin, which I have previously communicated through emails and messages. I believe it is essential to bring these issues to your attention, especially in light of the latest developments. Recently, I became aware of a communication issued by Balwin via the Estate Management (EM) indicating that the installation of lock boxes or smart locks would render insurance coverage void, leaving homeowners liable for any claims that the insurance company may refuse to honor. In seeking clarification, I contacted Mr. C, the broker for the Blyde Resort who informed me that these items should be mounted on the wall rather than the door. However, Balwin's position asserts that estate rules prohibit any installation on common property walls, a notification I can provide upon request. Additionally, I have previously submitted reviews regarding these matters, which prompted Balwin to engage B Attorneys in an effort to resolve the situation. I was informed that if I did not remove my reviews, legal action would be pursued. I have firmly maintained that I will not retract my statements, as they are based on factual evidence. Subsequent to this, a meeting occurred with CSOS, resulting in further engagement with B Attorneys regarding the request to remove complaints until a meeting was convened. However, this process proved unproductive, as my concerns remain unaddressed. The implications of the letter from Balwin regarding our insurance coverage raise serious questions about the protection provided to homeowners and residents. This lack of assurance suggests potential negligence on Balwin's part. Furthermore, in discussions with other owners, there is a shared sentiment that Balwin appears to prioritize the interests of business entities over those of individual homeowners, which has led some to justify withholding levy payments due to perceived mismanagement. I find myself in agreement with these sentiments to a certain extent. I also plan to address some concerns related to how Balwin and its restaurant obtained a liquor license. I have expressed my apprehensions to the liquor board regarding the allowance of alcohol consumption in the lagoon area, the entrance to the lifestyle center, and the games room. My primary concern is that this practice may expose minors to public consumption of alcohol, thereby compromising safety and security in our community. I feel that Balwin's approach to addressing these issues has involved ************ tactics to silence my voice. However, I believe it is vital for the public to be informed about these ongoing situations, as there may be others who have experienced similar challenges. Thank you for your attention to these matters. I hope to see proactive steps taken to resolve these issues for the benefit of all residents.
53 replies
16 months ago
REPLY TO RESPONSE FROM BALWIN PROPERTIES
I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding the response I received from Balwin after posting my review two months ago. Despite my efforts to address the issue amicably, I have only received an acknowledgment of my situation from Balwin, and no lsubstantial commentary or resolution has been offered. Out of frustration, I escalated my concerns to Balwin’s legal office Mr I. However, the reply I received was perplexing. It stated: *"This review is completely out of line. You viewed your apartment and selected to purchase it. We did numerous work in it as well. We even offered to refund your money because I told you that you will never be happy. You insisted that you will proceed and signed a clear letter stating you are happy. This post is a complete misrepresentation of the truth!"* *"There is no such thing as a second hand apartment. You got all of the same warranties and rights as any other person that buys from us. You are comparing an immovable property to a car."* This response raises several concerns. The assertion that I am misrepresenting the truth lacks specificity, as Balwin has not articulated how this misrepresentation has occurred. Furthermore, Mr. I's comments appear to overlook the fundamental principle that a used or demonstration property cannot be classified as "new" solely based on cleaning and the provision of warranties. Additionally, the comparison drawn between real estate and automobiles seems to conflate two distinct categories of assets, which are governed by different legal frameworks. The nature of the response from Balwin's legal office is troubling, as it suggests an unwillingness to recognize the complexities involved in real estate transactions, particularly concerning consumer rights and lprotections. Such assertions, made by a legal professional, appear to undermine established legal standards and consumer expectations. I appreciate your attention to this matter and would greatly welcome a more thoughtful and informative response from Balwin. If Balwin believes my review to be unjust, I encourage them to respond with clarification of their position. As it stands, their reluctance to engage meaningfully leads me to question the validity of their defense.
56 replies
16 months ago
POWER CSOS GRANTED MR MASILO TO JUST DISMISS COMPLAINTS AT HIS OWN WILL AND FANCY
I wish to share with everyone the response from the Provincial Ombud in Gauteng where one would think in my view he has a serious ego problem and feelsp he is granted with absolute power to try to trample over people. This is his email response today: The CSOS is not attending matters through Hellopeter and we will not be commenting about this matter, not now and not in future. Note further that the meeting is not because of Hellopeter but because that’s the only nearest available date and time for us. We look forward to the meeting next week Regards Abraham Masilo Provincial Ombud (Gauteng My complaint is below and i was ecstatic about the meeting but with this response i think Mr Masilo has lost his objectivity and is not acting in the best interests of the public. I have informed the office of the Public Protector regarding this and hope the Minister investigates the CSOS OFFICE IN GAUTENG
0 replies
Review Distribution
5 Star
3 (16.666666666666668%)
4 Star
1 (5.555555555555555%)
3 Star
1 (5.555555555555555%)
2 Star
0 (0%)
1 Star
13 (72.22222222222223%)