Dexters, the acquisitive London business, is said to be buying the Jackson-Stops businesses based in and around the capital, including in Weybridge, Surrey, and the associated central London three-branch business of Frank Harris.

It is understood that the sale is due to go through within days.

Information about the deal comes from well-placed sources but this morning, a spokesperson for Dexters would neither deny nor confirm it, simply saying no comment.

A spokesperson for Jackson-Stops was also tightlipped, saying: “Jackson-Stops doesn’t comment on speculation and will issue an announcement should there be any acquisition within the business.”

Jackson-Stops London is headed up by chief executive Nick Butterworth, and has recently been appointed by the Howard de Walden Estate as being one of its four retained agents.

Jackson-Stops has 46 offices nationwide, each run under the brand name by licensees as their own businesses.

According to the Jackson-Stops website, the substantial London residential business consists of offices in Chelsea, Holland Park, Mayfair, Pimlico, Richmond, Teddington, Weybridge and Wimbledon.

Dexters has 35 offices in central London and over 70 across London.