Estate agency franchise Parkers has opened a new office in Basingstoke following the acquisition of two local agencies, Property Explorer and Barons, earlier this year.
The move extends the group’s presence in Hampshire and establishes a base in one of the region’s largest property markets. The new office joins Parkers’ existing locations in Tadley, Newbury, Reading and surrounding villages.
Acquisition strategy
Franchise owners Simon Gregory, Simon West and Ben Mitchell have acquired both businesses to gain immediate market access. According to Gregory, the acquisitions provided a property management portfolio and existing client base in the town.
“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,” Gregory said. “Barons were one of the most successful agents in Basingstoke and were independently owned.”
The decision to acquire Property Explorer was driven by existing connections to Basingstoke through the Tadley operation and the town’s rental market. Similar to other developments within The Property Franchise Group, the business maintains independent operational control despite being part of the larger network.
Market positioning
The agency has retained existing staff from both acquisitions and appointed an experienced local manager. Parkers has stated its intention to increase market share over the next 12 months, with the aim of becoming a leading agent for local landlords.
The Basingstoke office will provide sales, lettings, block management and financial services. The group is considering expansion into additional major towns as part of its growth strategy, reflecting broader market activity in the UK property sector.
Gregory noted the geographical alignment: “Basingstoke fits perfectly geographically for us and our neighbouring offices, and it is great to see Parkers back in Basingstoke too.”
The expansion comes as estate agencies continue to consolidate in regional markets, with acquisitions providing established portfolios and local market knowledge.
