Whitegates has acquired independent estate agency Harvey & Ryall in Huddersfield, expanding the presence of franchise owners Chan and Kashmir Khangura across West Yorkshire.
The acquisition transfers Harvey & Ryall’s property portfolio to Whitegates Huddersfield, with the franchise stating that vendors, landlords, buyers and tenants will maintain access to services through the wider Whitegates network.
Harvey & Ryall was founded and operated by Keon and Emma Ryall. Commenting on the sale, Keon Ryall said: “After careful consideration, we wanted to ensure our clients and portfolio would be looked after by a business that shares our values and commitment to customer service. Chan and Kashmir have demonstrated an impressive track record of successfully integrating independent agencies while continuing to deliver a personal service.”
Regional expansion strategy
Chan Khangura, Managing Director of Whitegates Huddersfield, Brighouse, Mirfield and Pontefract, said: “Harvey & Ryall has built an excellent reputation within the local market, and Keon and Emma have developed strong, long-standing relationships with their clients. We are delighted they have chosen Whitegates to continue the next chapter for the business.”
The acquisition represents the latest in a series of investments by Chan and Kashmir Khangura, who have operated Whitegates franchises since 2012. Their expansion has combined organic growth with bolt-on acquisitions, mirroring broader consolidation trends in regional cities across the UK.
Rob Smith, Group Managing Director of The Property Franchise Group, which operates the Whitegates brand, described the acquisition as evidence of the Khanguras’ “clear, long-term acquisition strategy” and their ability to integrate local businesses while maintaining customer relationships.
The deal comes as independent estate agencies face pressure from both national chains and online competitors, with many owner-operators seeking exit strategies through acquisition by larger regional players. The West Yorkshire property market, including rental markets in cities across England, has seen increased activity from multi-branch operators consolidating market share.
The Khanguras now operate four Whitegates franchises across West Yorkshire, though neither party disclosed the financial terms of the transaction.
