Maximising property value, through data-driven Asset management

At Atterbury, their Property Asset Managers oversee an impressive portfolio, with a combined R18.3 billion in assets under management. They are responsible for more than 700 000m² of gross lettable area across 50 properties and engage with over 980 tenants. The group’s asset managers are at the forefront of this data-driven approach, using advanced tools and technologies to maximise the value of our commercial, retail, and industrial assets. Their work not only enhances operational efficiency but also improves tenant satisfaction, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of our properties.

Here’s how Atterbury’s asset managers leverage data to achieve these goals.

Leveraging Technology for Performance Measurement and Reporting
Asset Manager Adelene van der Westhuizen emphasises that in today’s tech-driven environment, the role of technology in property management cannot be overstated. She highlights the use of advanced tools like MDA/MRI Software and VENA for daily operations, performance reporting, and client management. These technologies automate many tasks, reducing human error and ensuring that data is always up to date.

By integrating property management software with accounting systems, our asset managers can provide accurate financial reports, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and make informed decisions quickly. Business Intelligence (BI) tools like Power BI further enhance these capabilities, offering deep insights through data visualisation, enabling asset managers to identify trends and address issues before they escalate.

The Impact of Technology on Asset Performance
For Asset Manager Danie De Beer, technology has revolutionised property management. Danie shares how technologies like generators, UPS systems, and solar power installations have enhanced tenant satisfaction and asset performance, especially during load shedding. These technologies ensure operational efficiency and tenant comfort, contributing to the overall success of the asset.

Asset Manager JP Duncan also highlights the transformative impact of technology on operational efficiency and tenant experience. Smart building management systems, contactless payment solutions, and data analytics tools have become integral to our operations. These technologies not only improve the shopping experience for our retail assets but also reduce operational costs and enhance overall property performance.

For Danie and JP, the most rewarding aspect of their roles is seeing the tangible impact of their efforts on property performance and tenant satisfaction. Whether improving operational efficiency, responding to market dynamics, or making informed decisions, their work has a lasting positive impact on the properties they manage and the tenants they serve.

The Role of Technology in Energy Efficiency and Predictive Maintenance
Nikki van Niekerk, Asset Manager of our diverse Western Cape portfolio, underscores the value of energy efficiency and predictive maintenance. She uses Trumali Forum, a 2,300m² building in Stellenbosch built on green building principles, as an example.

Trumali Forum incorporates various energy-efficient and predictive maintenance technologies to create a smart workplace. Nikki’s favourite feature is the solar system, which not only reduces energy costs but also minimises reliance on the Eskom grid. Combined with energy metering, this promotes sustainable energy usage.

From a predictive maintenance perspective, water meter loggers installed on the main water supply alert us to any abnormal flow, allowing us to detect leaks early. This prevents unexpected water bills and limits property damage.

Strategic Capital Expenditure Management
When managing capital expenditure, Asset Manager Johan Venter stresses the importance of property life-cycle modelling and monitoring. “Each asset is unique, and a specific modelling approach is needed for each property,” he explains. By implementing predictive and preventive maintenance schedules, Johan and his operational team extend equipment performance, reduce downtime, and improve tenant satisfaction. This approach optimises asset value and ensures resources are allocated efficiently.

Building Relationships Through Data
While data is the backbone of property management, relationships are the lifeblood. This is particularly true for Asset Manager Zandri Wells, who sees statistics as a starting point for deeper engagement with tenants and stakeholders. “Statistics and data-driven insights enhance our strategies,” she explains. “But numbers alone don’t tell the full story. That’s why we emphasise building and maintaining relationships with our tenants. By understanding their businesses, challenges, and goals, we can tailor strategies to meet their unique needs.”

Zandri’s focus on relationships highlights a key aspect of asset management—the ability to translate data into actionable insights that resonate with people. This means optimising occupancy rates and rental income while creating an environment where tenants feel supported and valued. It’s about fostering a sense of community within the properties, where tenants know Atterbury is invested in their success.

The Human Element in Data-Driven Property Management: Insights from Atterbury’s Asset Managers
In property management, numbers tell a story, but it’s the people behind those numbers who bring that story to life. At Atterbury, our asset managers blend data-driven insights with human judgment, shaping communities, fostering relationships, and driving value for all stakeholders involved.

While interpreting data is essential, the human element—experience, intuition, and relationships—truly brings it to life. Atterbury’s asset managers—Adelene, JP, Danie, Johan, Nikki, and Zandri—exemplify this dynamic interplay between numbers and people.

The Future of Asset Management at Atterbury
Looking to the future, the role of asset managers will only become more critical. With evolving technology and the growing importance of sustainability, interpreting and acting on data will be more important than ever. But at Atterbury, we believe the future of asset management is not just about numbers—it’s about people.

Atterbury’s asset managers will continue to shape tomorrow’s communities, using data-driven insights to create spaces that are not only profitable but also vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive. By balancing data precision with human judgment, we will create value for our tenants, stakeholders, and the communities we serve.

Conclusion: The Power of People and Data
The role of an asset manager at Atterbury goes beyond managing properties—it’s about managing relationships, anticipating needs, and creating value beyond the bottom line. By blending data precision with human understanding, our asset managers make decisions that benefit our properties and the people who live, work, and shop in them.

As Atterbury navigates the complexities of the property market, it remains committed to the principles that have guided us for 30 years: a focus on quality, sustainability, and the belief in the power of people. Atterbury’s asset managers embody these principles, using expertise and empathy to make their work impactful and meaningful.