Agents on the acquisition trail

Two major agents have been on the acquisition trail this week.

Chestertons, London’s oldest estate agency, has continued its expansion plans with its acquisition of Behr & Butchoff.

Located on St John’s Wood High Street since 1984, Behr & Butchoff is a multi-disciplinary agency, covering residential sales, lettings and property management across St John's Wood, Primrose Hill, Hampstead, Swiss Cottage, Maida Vale, Little Venice, Regent's Park and Marylebone.

The deal, which completed on 24 May for an undisclosed sum, sees Chestertons absorb Behr & Butchoff’s sales and lettings business into its London network. 

Richard Davies, Chestertons’ chief operating officer, said: “Chestertons has a strong presence across London but we are always looking to grow our network with strategic acquisitions of established, well-run businesses.

“Behr & Butchoff’s highly experienced and knowledgeable team has been providing its clients with top-level services for more than 30 years and we will look forward to continuing that relationship with them, while giving them access to some of the tools, technology and services that Chestertons offers.”

The deal follows a number of other acquisitions by Chestertons including Henry & James, Morgan Randall, London Residential and Snell & Snell. 

Meanwhile, Midlands-based land and property company, Sheldon Bosley Knight (SBK), has acquired its third business in five months.

Chipping Campden-based Andrew Greenwood Estate Agents has joined the fold adding a lettings portfolio to SBK’s lettings department, alongside a thriving residential sales operation.

The agency was established in 1994 and is well-respected in Chipping Campden and the wider area particularly for its personal service.

SBK’s Mike Cleary said: “Andrew Greenwood is a well-established, successful business and we are delighted to be chosen to take over the reins. 

“We are determined to add to Andrew’s wonderful legacy and do his business proud.” 

Sam Smith, manager, said: “Andrew set up the business in 1994, almost 30 years ago and I have been here 19 years. The business is known for its personal, service and people liked Andrew who had a great charm and always went the extra mile to make things easier for clients.

“Andrew’s family chose SBK to take the business forward and I believe they will be a great fit for the business Andrew created.”