Durden & Hunt has expanded its estate agency network by acquiring South Essex firm Diggins & Co.
The deal brings the Rochford and Rayleigh agency into Durden & Hunt. As a result, the business now has coverage across every Essex postcode.
The acquisition follows Durden & Hunt’s opening of its Broadway West branch in Leigh-on-Sea in July. The agency will now manage all its South Essex operations from the office.
Meanwhile, Durden & Hunt has already started integrating Diggins & Co. The agency has moved its properties across and is now marketing them through its website and the major property portals.
Diggins & Co founder Darren Diggins will also continue to support the business as a consultant.
The acquisition marks the latest stage of Durden & Hunt’s expansion across London and Essex. So far, the agency has opened seven offices in seven years and plans further growth.
James Hunt, founder of Durden & Hunt, said: “Acquiring Diggins & Co is an exciting step forward for Durden & Hunt and one that we believe will deliver real benefits for both new and existing clients, whether they are buying, selling, letting, renting or investing.
“Darren has built an exceptional reputation in the local community over the past 40 years and we’re incredibly pleased to bring that experience and local knowledge to the Durden & Hunt team.”
Diggins said: “We believe Durden & Hunt is the right fit for the next chapter.
“Their approach to property, investment in marketing and plans for continued growth give our clients access to even greater opportunities, while the local knowledge and relationships that have always been at the heart of Diggins & Co remain incredibly important.”
Durden & Hunt is also targeting further expansion outside Essex.
In addition, the firm plans to open a new branch in Stoke Newington, north London. It also intends to increase its presence in Ibiza.
Hunt added: “We have ambitious plans for Durden & Hunt. We’re continuing to look at opportunities where we believe we can bring something different to the market, invest in great people and provide clients with a genuinely better property experience.”
