Helping businesses make the right commercial property move — since 1997
 

Building Capability in Commercial Real Estate

Join the Chess Properties Network

Chess Properties is an established commercial real estate firm operating in KwaZulu-Natal since 1997.

With nearly three decades of experience across Durban, the North Coast and now a focused presence along Durban’s southern corridor and the South Coast, we work exclusively in commercial and industrial property. Our work is grounded in local market knowledge, professional judgement and long-term relationships.

We are deliberate about how we grow.

We value capability, integrity and sound judgement over volume or speed, and we apply the same standards when considering people who wish to work with us.

We welcome expressions of interest from professionals who are serious about building a long-term career in commercial real estate and who align with how we operate.

Opportunities at Chess Properties:

We regularly consider expressions of interest for the following roles:

  1. Commercial Property Agent (Sales & Leasing) 
  2. Commercial Property Intern (Sales & Leasing)
  3. Office Administration and Operations Support

Each role has clear expectations and minimum non-negotiable requirements.
Please review these carefully before applying.


Commercial Property Agent (Sales & Leasing)


Role Overview

This role focuses on the sale and leasing of commercial and industrial property within Durban South and surrounding KZN nodes.
Agents work directly with landlords, tenants, and investors to understand requirements, source suitable opportunities, negotiate terms and manage transactions through to completion. The role requires independent working, disciplined client management and professional representation of Chess Properties at all times.

Minimum Non-Negotiable Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following:

  • Current PPRA registration with a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC)
  • Minimum 2 years’ experience in property (residential or commercial)
  • Working understanding of commercial property types, leases, mandates, and negotiations
  • Demonstrated client-facing experience relevant to property, sales, or advisory work
  • Strong communication, reporting, and follow-through capability
  • Ability to work independently with discipline and accountability
  • Own vehicle and mobile phone
  • IsiZulu and/or Afrikaans proficiency highly advantageous

Applicants whose experience is unrelated to property, sales or client advisory work will not be considered for this role.

What Successful Agents Look Like at Chess Properties

  • Commercially minded and disciplined
  • Comfortable with longer sales cycles and complex negotiations
  • Focused on fit and sustainability, not just closing speed
  • Trusted by clients due to clear communication and follow-through
  • Understand that reputation and referrals are built over time


Commercial Property Intern (Sales & Leasing)


Role Overview

This internship is designed for individuals intentionally pursuing a career in commercial property sales and leasing. Interns gain exposure to market research, listings, client interactions, viewings, deal fundamentals and the commercial leasing process under guidance. This role is strictly focused on sales and leasing, not operations or administration. It is intended as a developmental pathway into the CRE profession.

Minimum non-negotiable requirements:

  1. Currently enrolled in, or recently completed, a recognised real estate qualification or programme, (or already in possession of a real estate certificate)
  2. Clear interest in commercial and industrial property
  3. Strong written and verbal English communication  
  4. Professional attitude, reliability and willingness to learn
  5. Ability to conduct oneself appropriately with clients and stakeholders
  6. Based in or able to operate within Durban South
  7. IsiZulu and/or Afrikaans proficiency highly advantageous


What Successful Commercial Property Interns (Sales & Leasing) look like at Chess Properties:

  • Genuinely curious about commercial property and how businesses operate
  • Comfortable asking questions and learning from feedback
  • Reliable, professional and able to handle responsibility early
  • Observant and detail-oriented during viewings, research, and client interactions
  • Motivated by building capability and credibility, not quick wins
  • See the internship as a foundation for a long-term CRE career, not a short stop.


Office Administrator & Operations Support:

This role supports the operational backbone of the business. Responsibilities include managing listings, maintaining records, supporting compliance processes, coordinating documentation and ensuring smooth day-to-day administrative flow in a regulated, professional environment. The role is suited to someone who values accuracy, structure, confidentiality and behind-the-scenes excellence in a professional services.

Minimum non-negotiable requirements: 

  1. Relevant broad administrative experience in property or professional services
  2. Strong organisational and digital skills (Google Workspace, Excel, WhatsApp Business, listing platforms)
  3. Fluency in written and spoken English (IsiZulu and/or Afrikaans proficiency highly advantageous)
  4. Ability to handle confidential and legal documentation with care
  5. Based in or near Durban South

What Strong Operations Support Looks Like at Chess Properties:

  • Highly organised and attentive to detail
  • Comfortable managing documentation, listings, and compliance accurately
  • Proactive in anticipating what the team needs to operate smoothly
  • Discreet, trustworthy, and consistent under pressure
  • Proud of enabling quality work behind the scenes
  • Understand that strong operations protect clients, deals and reputation.


How to Apply

We welcome expressions of interest from professionals who are serious about building a career in commercial property and who can demonstrate relevant capability, discipline and professionalism. 

Step 1: Choose the correct role. 

Apply only for the role that aligns with your actual experience, qualifications and career intent. You must meet all the minimum non-negotiable requirements listed under the role.

Step 2: Submit Your Application (PDF only)

Email your application to:   info@chess-global.com 

Subject line: Expression of Interest – Chess Properties – [Role Title]

Documents required:

1. CV (maximum 2 pages) 
     - Focus only on experience relevant to the role you are applying for. 

     - Include measurable indicators where possible (e.g., sales targets met, deals supported, listings managed, clients handled, admin volume)


2. Certification and Highest relevant qualification 

  • Submit only your highest completed qualification (e.g., Matric, Diploma, BA, Honours, Master’s. If your highest qualification is not property or real estate related and you have separate real estate training or certification, include that documentation as well.
  • Copies of PPRA registration & valid Fidelity Fund Certificate (FCC) 

3. Short motivation note (max 1 page) addressing

  • Why you want to work in commercial property /real estate; 
  • Why you believe you are a fit for the role; 
  • Evidence of ability: discipline, client handling, communication, problem-solving and learning speed; 
  • Your location (Durban South / surrounding areas) and availability

Applications are reviewed periodically. Suitable profiles may be retained on record for up to 12 months. All information is handled confidentially in line with POPIA.


Chess Properties — Make the Right Move