The consolidation of the industry continues apace as both corporates and independents look for growth via acquisition.

Connells has made another lettings business acquisition – Selective Lets in Dunstable, Bedfordshire.

Connells also made it clear it is looking for other deals as all the major players look to beef up their lettings operations via acquisitions.

Meanwhile independent firm ‘O’Riordan Bond, with 12 branches across Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire, made it equally clear it is on the acquisitions trail after its purchase of Van Weenans Estate Agents, a single office agent in Olney, Buckinghamshire.

Van Weenans has been trading in the town for over ten years and Haydn van Weenan joins O’Riordan Bond as director along with his established team of four.

Tim O’Riordan  said: “We are constantly looking for acquisitions in both the sales and rental sector in our chosen areas and are keen to talk to independent firms who see the benefits of coming together with a larger independent firm who shares the same culture as opposed to that of the large corporate brands”’

The latest Connells purchase comes in quick succession of the recently acquired Cartwrights lettings business in Stafford, continuing Connells’ ambitious acquisition drive.

Selective Lets was set up in 1986 by Stuart Brown, who is now retiring.

Connells will transfer the business into its own Dunstable branch.  Connells will also retain one of Selective Let’s key members of staff – Tom Spencer Lewis.

Stuart Brown, owner of Selective Lets, said: “After much discussion and deliberation, I have decided that the best way forward is for our managed property portfolio to be taken over by Connells.

“I am confident that they are well placed to look after our landlords going forward.”

Connells Group acquisitions director Mike Rowley said:  “This is another key acquisition for our growing network of lettings businesses.”