Jawitz not releasing rental deposit

I regret dealing with Jawitz Big Bay, in Blouberg Western Cape. I was renting a property in Parklands through them up to until I decided to buy my own property. I gave them a notice of more than 20 working days as was stated in the lease in the event that I decide to terminate, and I was expecting to be treated fairly. However, I was told that I was not going to get all my deposit which is about R23 000, which is something that I don't agree with considering I gave my notice, surprisingly this is the angle that the agent took, I was later told that the owner has decided to sell his house, and I would only get my deposit after the house was sold, again I didn't understand where that I don't understand, if its even lawful, its as if I am now being held hostage or being punished for leaving. I eventually left after and inspection was held, everything was perfect there is nothing we damaged or broke. As soon I left, when ever I asked about our deposit, Kelly the agent whom we dealt with told me that the owner is yet to decide what to do and they are waiting to hear from him, and time was moving. I then received an email from Kelly claiming that they want to use my deposit to cover monthly rentals for as long as the house is not bought, which I don't think is even legal. I tried to present my case to them they said they will consult with their lawyers and shortly afterwards the goal posts seem to have been changed, I was told I would get my deposit after 32 working days. Right now already, its almost 2 months since I left, and no signs of my deposit at all, I have lost patience, I have been receiving lies one after another. At this moment, I just want my deposit back!!