In the latest episode of The Corner Office, Galetti Corporate Real Estate CEO John Jack sat down with Dylan Koning, National Manager for Alternative Income at Redefine Properties, to discuss creative ways to generate income in real estate. Dylan shared how properties can make money beyond traditional rentals by tapping into underused spaces like rooftops, parking lots, and basements.

“Alternative income is everything outside of the usual office or retail space,” Dylan Koning explained.

By thinking creatively, property owners can turn empty spaces into money-makers. He gave examples like hosting food trucks in parking lots, using rooftops for media signage, or leasing basements for storage.

Rooftop Opportunities and Paddle Courts

“Rooftops are perfect for advertising,” Dylan Koning said.

These spaces can easily be turned into billboards, offering brands high visibility and adding revenue without using up rental space. Another example of his team’s innovative approach is their ability to tap into the growing popularity of paddle courts in South Africa. Redefine is building two new courts—one in Sandton and another in Centurion—on rooftops and other underused areas.

“It’s a great way to bring more people to the property and create community spaces,” Dylan Koning shared.

These courts not only generate income but also make the property more attractive for visitors and tenants alike.

Beyond paddle courts, Dylan Koning also highlighted how properties can repurpose other communal spaces for various recreational activities. These projects are increasingly drawing interest from local communities, creating vibrant spaces that enhance the appeal of Redefine’s properties. This kind of creative repurposing of space has been a game-changer, as businesses look for ways to bring more value to their existing assets while engaging with a broader audience.

Tech and New Revenue Streams

Redefine Properties is also leveraging technology to create new revenue streams. One example is leasing rooftops to mobile network operators for infrastructure.

“Telecom companies need spots for their equipment, and rooftops are ideal,” Dylan Koning noted.

He also mentioned that offering free Wi-Fi in retail centers helps improve the shopping experience while opening the door to potential partnerships and data-driven income opportunities.

Dylan emphasized the importance of adding value for both tenants and visitors. For instance, installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations has become another innovative way to increase revenue.

“We’re seeing more demand for EV charging infrastructure, and adding these stations not only provides a service but opens up partnership opportunities with EV companies,” he shared.

This focus on emerging technology is helping Redefine stay ahead of trends while maximizing the potential of their properties.

At Redefine Properties, the approach to alternative income is flexible.

“We don’t follow a set plan,” Dylan said, “but we know our properties well and are always looking for new ideas—whether it’s for film shoots, pop-up markets, or other unique opportunities.”

Dylan stressed that the key to success lies in understanding the unique characteristics of each property and tailoring the alternative income strategy accordingly. Whether it’s transforming parking lots into vibrant weekend markets or offering spaces for short-term pop-up events, Redefine’s approach is all about creativity and adaptability.

Looking ahead,Dylan Koning sees the demand for alternative income strategies continuing to grow as businesses look for new ways to monetize unused space.

“There’s no shortage of opportunities,” he said. “From hosting corporate events in common areas to converting rooftops into social hubs, the possibilities are endless.”

By exploring innovative revenue-generating ideas, Redefine Properties is paving the way for a new era in real estate management—one where spaces are used to their fullest potential, adding value not only for the owners but also for the surrounding communities.

Want to learn more? Watch the full episode of The Corner Office podcast with Dylan Koning.