Arun Estates, which describes itself as the largest independent lettings and estate agency in the south of England, has snapped up a smaller rival in Maidstone.

Arun already comprises Cubitt & West, Douglas Allen, Pittis and Wards of Kent, and has now completed the purchase of Maidstone’s Philip Jarvis.

An Arun spokesperson says: “We are regularly offered acquisition opportunities and the possibility to acquire Phillip Jarvis really caught our attention. 

Our overriding priority is only to consider opportunities that match our values, and it immediately became clear that [this agency was] a business that closely aligns to Arun’s values of helping customers, and the mix of letting and sales was an attractive proposition.

“Our mantra has always been to keep things simple and, with a business as good as Philip Jarvis, our intention is to keep things very much business as usual — both staff and customers will see very little change. 

“It’s important to us that we maintain the name and reputation of Phil Jarvis, and we are looking forward to working with the excellent team and to continue helping customers in Maidstone, Lenham and surrounding areas.

“This acquisition, along with the opening of our Sittingbourne Lettings Office in the last few weeks, has provided a great start to 2025, and we remain interested in other opportunities that may come our way”.