Trust, Creativity, and Bold Moves: Insights from Jeffrey Kleu on The Corner Office

In the latest episode of?The Corner Office , Galetti Corporate Real Estate CEO John Jack sat down with Jeff Kleu , CEO of Capital Point Properties , to talk about property development, his journey from broking to development, and why relationships and creativity are at the heart of it all.

?Trust Over Transactions: Lending Is About Character

Jeff Kleu kicked off by sharing a truth that anyone in real estate knows but might not talk about enough—trust is everything.

“Lending is more about the person than the property,” he explained.

Sure, the banks care about the asset, but ultimately, they’re backing the person behind the deal. That struck a chord. In a business where money talks, it’s still the relationships and character that make or break a deal. For Jeff, building a reputation of reliability and trust has been just as important as putting together solid developments.

The Park Corner Story: When Risk Pays Off

One of the most fascinating parts of the chat was hearing Jeff’s story about redeveloping Park Corner in Rosebank. Originally a dilapidated building, the project seemed like a gamble. When he toured the site with a structural engineer, the engineer wasn’t exactly optimistic, saying, “Either you’re geniuses or completely stupid for taking on this building.”

But Jeff and his team saw potential where others saw risk. They turned the space into a lively spot, now home to top restaurants and retailers.

“The key was creating an environment where people wanted to be,” Jeff explained.

It wasn’t just about fixing up a building—it was about breathing life back into a space and turning it into a community hub.

The Power of Small Details: Building Communities, Not Just Properties

For Jeff, success in property development isn’t just about building structures—it’s about creating spaces where people actually want to spend time. “The little things—like a cappuccino station or even a putting green—can make all the difference,” he said. It’s this attention to detail that makes his developments stand out.?

Whether it’s adding communal spaces or integrating art and architecture that reflect the local culture, Jeff believes that properties should foster connection. It’s about turning properties into places that people enjoy, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

?Raising Capital: Relationships, Creativity, and Grit

Raising money for big projects can seem daunting, but Jeff’s take was refreshingly practical.

“Raising capital is just one of the many problems you’ll face, but if the yield is there, the money will come,” he said.

His advice? Partner with people who have strong balance sheets and experience.

For Jeff, it’s all about who you know and how you creatively position the project. He emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with investors who not only have the funds but share the vision and are willing to take calculated risks.

Spotting Opportunities: A Niche Office for Lawyers

Jeff didn’t stop at just large-scale developments. One of his more focused projects was a legal office development near the high court in Cape Town, designed specifically for lawyers. With features like fast printing services, legal secretaries, and even a lounge where lawyers can unwind between court sessions, this niche offering turned out to be a huge success. “It’s a niche offering, but it’s been incredibly popular,” Jeff said.

?This is a great example of how honing in on a specific market’s needs can lead to standout developments. In this case, it was about understanding the legal profession’s unique needs and creating a space that catered directly to them.

Advice for Aspiring Developers: Stick to Your Lane and Take Calculated Risks

?Towards the end of the chat, Jeff offered up some advice for anyone thinking about getting into property development.

“Stay in your lane, get five years of experience, and don’t be afraid to take risks,” he said.

Property, according to Jeff, is one of those rare industries where if you play your cards right, the opportunities are endless.

Key Takeaways

1.???????Character Counts:?It’s not just about the property—lenders and partners want to back people they trust.

2.???????Small Details Matter:?The little touches, like communal spaces or a cappuccino bar, turn properties into places people love.

3.???????Raising Capital is a Team Effort:?Partner with people who understand the project and are ready to invest in your vision.

4.???????Niche Markets Can Lead to Big Wins:?Understand your target market and create spaces that meet their specific needs.

5.???????Take Risks, But Stay Focused:?Be bold, but make sure you’ve got the experience to back up your decisions.

Jeff Kleu 's story shows that success in property development isn’t just about putting up buildings—it’s about trust, creativity, and having the courage to take calculated risks. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced developer, his insights are a reminder that relationships and community are what truly drive long-term success.