Hunters Sunderland is under new family ownership, after Thom Swalwell, alongside sister-in-law Leila Chen, took over the business from previous owner Chris Kelly.

Swalwell’s background lies in residential and commercial property investment and management, while Chen is experienced in the retail sector.

Swalwell said: “I’m delighted to take on such a well known branch of Hunters and it’s a new challenge that both Leila and I are relishing.

“It’s a new environment for both of us but my experience in property and her background in retail and customer service, I think, are the perfect blend for us to take Hunters Sunderland forward.”

Predominately a sales business, Swalwell and Chen have already set their sights on growing Hunters Sunderland’s lettings portfolio.

Swalwell added: “I think more and more landlords are looking to go to a fully managed service now,” added Swalwell. “My own experience of being a residential landlord has been that the regulations are getting tighter and tighter but also more complicated.

So, I think landlords now are looking for agents that won’t just manage their properties effectively but will also give them the benefit of their knowledge and experience when it comes to legislation.

“That’s certainly something we’re able to offer landlords in Sunderland, on top of excellent customer service, so the lettings side of the business is something we’ll be looking to expand and grow.”

Hunters MD, Rob Smith, commented “I’m delighted to welcome both Thom and Leila to the Hunters family.

“They have an incredible knowledge of the local area, Thom in property and Leila in customer-facing businesses, so I’m sure the Sunderland office will go from strength to strength under their leadership.”