The owners of a branch of Martin & Co have taken their managed portfolio to approaching 400 properties after securing a third independent acquisition in seven years.

Chris and Juli Poulton, who have owned the Sunderland branch since its launch in 2014, have acquired the lettings portfolio of local independent Paul Airey Estate Agents.

The acquisition is the pair’s fourth in total – two of which have seen them expand their operation into South Tyneside and the surrounding areas.

Chris Poulton says: “Paul has been operating in Sunderland for a long time and myself and Juli have had a strong relationship with him since we started in 2014.

“Paul approached us to see if we were interested in taking his portfolio, as he’s now focusing fully on the sales side of his business.

“We have experienced a record start to the year. This acquisition boosts our lettings portfolio at a time when we are also experiencing record growth in our residential sales business, so it’s great timing for both Paul and ourselves.

“Given the great working relationship between us, it was a very easy deal to get over the line.”

Head of Franchising at The Property Franchise Group, Penny Sanders, adds: “I’m delighted that Juli and Chris have completed on another portfolio.

“It’s testament to their hard work and dedication to the business and we’ll continue to support them with any future purchases.”