Lettings book boost after acquisition of independent ...

The owners of Martin & Co’s Aldershot branch have grown their managed portfolio by more than a fifth after acquiring local independent agency Newlife Lettings.

Richard Oldaker and James Wiggins have traded in Aldershot for 13 years and the purchase of Newlife Lettings is their second acquisition in four years following the purchase of Chilli Residential in 2018.

As well as acquiring more than 100 properties from Newlife, Martin & Co Aldershot has also welcomed Katie Cooper, who joins the team from the agency.

Older says: “We’re delighted to complete this acquisition and take our managed portfolio beyond a real milestone figure for the business. Newlife Lettings has been a staple of the area since 1987 and we’ll be ensuring their landlords receive the high level of service we’ve become renowned for over the past 13 years.

“Katie is highly experienced and worked with Newlife for almost 10 years, so she’ll be continuing to work with their customers and has fitted in brilliantly with her new colleagues at Martin & Co.”

Newlife’s former owner Barbara Larner adds: “I have loved running Newlife for the past 20 years but the time has now come for me to retire and spend more time with family.

“It was important for me to find a company with the same high standards of service and professionalism, and I’ve certainly found that in James, Richard, and the Martin & Co Aldershot team.”

And Martin & Co managing director (South & Scotland) Eric Walker comments: “This is a fantastic acquisition to an already very successful business, illustrating the acquisitive mindset of our network.

“I am also delighted to welcome Katie to the team as she will be invaluable in growing the business further.”