ABDUR RAHMAAN MALEK’S REAL ESTATE BREAKTHROUGH

Lesiba Dikhoba 

@lesiba.dikhoba 

Abdur Rahmaan Malek’s journey from being an accounting student to a prominent figure in the real estate industry showcases the significance of passion and adaptability. Graduating with a BCom degree in Financial Accounting at the North-West University (NWU) this year whilst growing up in an Indian business family, Abdur’s path led him to find his true passion in real estate. 

The NWU alumni completed his degree and enrolled at the University of South Africa (UNISA) while working for an audit firm, Moore Johannesburg. However, his academic pursuits were only the beginning as he aimed for personal and financial growth through real estate. Within six months, he left that occupation and ventured into real estate when he got an opportunity to work as an estate agent through Property Solutions. 

“Coming from an Indian family, business runs in our blood and I’ve always been interested in business, economics, and accounting,” Abdur reported. The challenge of growing a real estate career was no small feat. Abdur recalled his difficulties in the first few months in the industry: “Marketing myself and building a client base was tough, especially since the real estate industry is commission-based. It was challenging because there isn’t a fixed income.”

To establish himself, Abdur invested in marketing, digital tools, and effective networking by building relationships with developers, other agents, and investors. Despite fierce competition from estate agencies in Potchefstroom, Abdur’s persistence set him apart. 

Networking is at the core of Abdur’s focus, as meeting new people opens doors for significant opportunities. He had to use both charm and skill to convince property owners to list their properties with him. 

Abdur relies on planning and discipline to balance his academic commitments and real estate career. “I set clear monthly targets and organise my time to accommodate my studies and realtor ventures. To succeed, I’ve had to sacrifice social activities and streamline my schedule,” he said. 

Looking ahead, his goals are clear and ambitious as he aims to expand his property solutions into other cities. “I plan to complete my honours degree in Financial Accounting and continue pursuing real estate. I have property listings in Johannesburg and Pretoria. I’m also looking to expand and potentially franchise the business,” he added. 

Abdul Rahmaan Malek’s journey is one of vision and adaptability. From his early days as an undergraduate student to becoming a real estate visionary, he displays the potential of combining passion with hard work.

Edited by Carlo Simon Bekker-Forte