Two of the biggest property websites in Northern Ireland are to merge.
PropertyPal has announced a strategic merger with Propertynews, with a new leadership team set to oversee both listing websites.
The move comes just a few months after Used Cars NI founder Cecil Hetherington bought into PropertyPal.
Hetherington was announced as the property listing company’s new chairman in May.
The latest move will see GCD Technologies become a shareholder of the parent company, PropertyPal Ltd, with managing director Andrew Gough joining the board of directors.
Lurgan-based GCD Technologies originally acquired Propertynews from Belfast Telegraph-owner Mediahuis in 2021.
The new board of directors will also include Conor MacCarrick, former board member of Propertynews, and Jordan Buchanan, chief executive of PropertyPal, who also becomes a shareholder of PropertyPal.
Emma McNally, commercial director at Propertynews, will step into the role of chief operating officer at PropertyPal.
They join company founder Errol Maxwell on the board along with Cecil Hetherington, who remains as chair.
Both the PropertyPal and Propertynews brands will continue to operate as distinct websites.
The new merged entity said it plans to invest significantly in marketing, upgrading the underlying technology infrastructure, and enhancing their software suite for agents.
Jordan Buchanan, CEO of PropertyPal, said: “This merger is very positive for our people, our customers, and our website users. We are bringing together the best of our technology, people, and cultures to create something even better. Our aim is to enhance the value we offer to consumers and agent partners alike.”
He continued: “By combining our resources and expertise, we will deliver more efficient, cost-effective, and user-friendly platforms. Our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction remains at the core of everything we do, and I am confident that this merger will drive forward our vision of providing exceptional service and support to the Northern Ireland property market. We look forward to working closely with our agents and stakeholders during this exciting transition and beyond.”
Emma McNally, the newly appointed COO of PropertyPal, added: ““This is a significant milestone for both websites. Through a united approach, we will strengthen our offerings to drive growth and innovation. By combining our technical, commercial, and sector expertise, we will deliver a best-in-class user experience and create additional value for our customers. I am eager to engage with our expanded team and valued business partners to achieve our shared vision for success.”
A boycott of PropertyPal.com by estate agents over increases in its fees was recently concluded after the dispute with the property portal was settled.
A prominent group of estate agents collectively made the decision to stop posting listings on the website PropertyPal in a row over fees earlier this year.
The decision to pull listings on 29 February came after PropertyPal announced it had a new system for charging for listings.
Estate agents resolve dispute with major property portal over fees
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