Two independent estate agencies have merged to form a combined operation spanning the Scottish Borders, Northumberland, the Highlands and Northeast Scotland.
Paton & Co and Peter Graham and Associates will operate under the Paton & Co brand, bringing together a team of more than 20 professionals. The merger unites three family members – Patrick Paton, his wife Celia, and her father Peter Graham – as partners in the business.
Independent model retained
The merger comes as consolidation continues across the UK property sector, with larger platforms facing scrutiny over their fee structures. Both firms cited their shared approach to client relationships as a factor in the decision to combine operations rather than sell to corporate buyers.
Patrick Paton, Managing Partner at Paton & Co, said: “This is a natural progression for us. We have built a strong presence in the Borders and Northumberland, and this merger allows us to expand that reach while staying true to the way we work.”
Peter Graham, Owner of Peter Graham Associates, said he had rejected previous approaches from larger firms. “Over the years there have been approaches from larger firms, but they don’t want me or my team – they want my clients, and that was never something I was prepared to accept,” he said.
He added: “I wanted to find a way to transition the business that protected those relationships. My clients deserve better than being absorbed into a corporate model where the focus is on fees rather than the individual.”
Regional footprint
The combined agency will maintain offices across its operating regions, with no immediate changes to staffing announced. The merger reflects a trend among independent agencies to consolidate in response to market pressures, while larger property firms navigate broader economic uncertainty.
The Paton & Co brand will be used across all locations, with both partners stating the merger would expand service offerings to existing clients in the Scottish and Northumberland property markets.
