With a hands-on, proactive approach, AJ Property Holdings prioritises >quality construction, sustainable design, commuity upliftment, and meaningful SMME participation. Our commitment to inclusive growth ensures that every development supports local economies while delivering maximum value to all shareholders and stakeholders.
Albert Lourens holds a BSc in Quantity Surveying from the University of Pretoria and brings over 40 years of specialised experience in Quantity Surveying, Project Management, and Property Development. As the founder of Africost (established in 1984), Albert has built a strong reputation for precision, leadership, and long-term project success within South Africa’s construction and development sector.
In his senior role, Albert leads Client Relations, Marketing, and Feasibility Studies, ensuring every project is strategically positioned, commercially viable, and aligned with best-practice development standards.
Over his career, he has contributed to a number of major landmark developments, including:
- Jozini Tiger Lodge
- The Pearls
- Receiver of Revenue – Durban
- Protea Hotel Gateway
Albert’s extensive expertise and proven track record continue to drive high-impact, sustainable developments across South Africa.
Bernadette holds a B.Com in Accounting, together with a Postgraduate Diploma in Futures Studies, the Property Development Programme, and the International Executive Development Programme, and is currently completing her MPhil in Development Finance.
She brings over 23 years of experience in the property sector, supported by a strong foundation as a former corporate banker.
Her professional background spans property finance, mergers and acquisitions, BBBEE transactions, and structured finance, with senior roles at Investec, Ithala, and Standard Bank Corporate and Investment Banking.
Bernadette has served on multiple boards across listed and unlisted property funds, private equity, and project finance, including positions as Deputy Chairperson and Committee Chairperson.
She also served as CEO of a property investment and light-industrial development company.
In recognition of her contribution to the industry, Bernadette was nominated for Women of the Year in Property (2018).
Owen holds an NQF Level 7 from Wits University, along with Professional Project Management and Agile Project Management certifications from PM Ideas, a Civil Engineering Technician qualification from SAFCEC & Natal Technikon, as well as a Bachelor in Theology.
He brings extensive experience from his work on strategic programmes with the Independent Development Trust and several other major development organisations.
His professional background spans portfolio management, project management, construction management, stakeholder relations, and community development, contributing to impactful public-sector and infrastructure initiatives.
Owen has demonstrated strong leadership through the management of key departments. Which include Health Essential Services, Infrastructure, and Medical Technology, overseeing a wide range of facilities such as offices, schools, and agricultural colleges, as well as specialised projects like the Foot-and-Mouth Disease barrier fence across South Africa, Mozambique, and Swaziland.
Miles brings over 30 years of experience in the property development sector, with specialised capabilities across Property Development, Project Management, Financial Feasibility and Viability, together with extensive involvement in Property Management, Leasing, Tenanting, and Sales. His background also includes key exposure to Property Finance, Banking, and Town and Regional Planning, giving him a broad foundation across multiple development disciplines.
He has applied his expertise across a wide range of commercial, industrial, and mixed-use projects, contributing to development planning, investment modelling, and long-term asset optimisation. His experience covers both private and public-sector environments, where he has supported project delivery and stakeholder engagement.
Miles has held significant management positions at Ithala Development Finance Corporation, Nedbank, Standard Bank, and JT Ross, overseeing major property portfolios and development pipelines. His leadership has supported the rollout of key initiatives across the region, reinforcing his track record as an experienced and reliable contributor to high-impact development programmes.
