Parkers has opened a new Basingstoke office following the acquisition of two established independent estate agencies in the town.
Franchise owners Simon Gregory, Simon West and Ben Mitchell have launched the branch after acquiring Property Explorer and Barons earlier this year, giving the business an existing lettings portfolio, staff and client base from which to expand.
The move extends their Parkers operation into one of Hampshire’s largest property markets, complementing existing offices covering Tadley, Newbury, Reading and surrounding villages.
Existing employees from the acquired agencies have been retained, while the management team has also been strengthened as Parkers targets further growth in both sales and lettings.
ACQUISITION GROWTH
Gregory says the two acquisitions provided an opportunity to establish the Parkers brand in a market the business had been considering for some time.
He says: “The acquisitions certainly gave us a running start in the town, with a very well-managed property portfolio that fits into the way we manage ours.
“Barons were one of the most successful agents in Basingstoke and were independently owned. While we are part of The Property Franchise Group, we still run our business independently, which is important to us.”
Property Explorer was also a natural fit because of the franchisees’ existing presence in nearby Tadley and Basingstoke’s sizeable private rented sector.
Gregory adds: “We had wanted to open in Basingstoke for a while. We operate closely in the area from our Tadley office and it is a huge area for rentals, so when we were offered Property Explorer, it just made perfect sense.”
MARKET SHARE TARGET
The business is aiming to increase its share of the Basingstoke market over the next 12 months, with ambitions to become a leading local sales agent and first choice for landlords.
Alongside estate agency and lettings, the new operation will offer block management and financial services.
West says the local market is already showing signs of activity, with multiple offers being received on a number of properties, particularly in the lower and mid-market segments.
He adds: “Our success comes from offering exceptional service and unrivalled marketing. That is what makes Parkers different and is what we will continue to deliver in Basingstoke.”
‘PUTTING CUSTOMERS FIRST’
Toby Phillips, Group Managing Director of Parkers, says: “We are delighted to see Simon and his team launch Parkers in Basingstoke and continue to build on the strong foundations created through the recent acquisitions.
“They have a clear ambition for growth and a strong understanding of what makes a successful local property business.
“Their approach is very much aligned with the Parkers ethos of putting customers first, combining excellent service with effective marketing and local expertise.
“Basingstoke is an exciting addition to the Parkers network, and we look forward to supporting them as they develop the business and continue to grow his presence in the area.”
Main picture: (From left to right) Jane and Trevor (Barons); Simon Gregory; Simon West and Ben Mitchell.
