Consultancy builds momentum with new hires

A North East-based property and business consultancy is starting the year on a positive footing as market conditions show signs of recovery.

GFW says optimism has returned across the residential, development, commercial and rural markets, following a period shaped by economic uncertainty and a delayed Government Budget. 

The firm reports growing levels of instruction and increased confidence among clients as projects move forward.

As part of its continued investment, GFW has strengthened its senior team with two appointments. 

Alanzon Chan has joined the planning, architecture and development team as senior planning consultant, bringing extensive public sector experience from Cumbria County Council. 

He said: “I’m delighted to have joined the GFW team. 

“Their ambition and how they integrate their services to provide the best solutions for their clients really attracted me to the role. 

“I bring extensive planning experience from public sector which I know aligns with continued growth plans and even more opportunities to support clients.”

Peter Jones has also joined as associate building surveyor, further enhancing the consultancy’s integrated property offering.

Sally Hart, managing partner at GFW, added: “It’s fantastic to start the new year welcoming new faces to the team, we have big plans for 2026 and both Alanzon and Peter bring a breath of experience to our team.”

Looking ahead, GFW expects strong demand for strategic advice, valuation work and succession planning, particularly within the rural sector, as landowners and businesses navigate ongoing change.

Lindsay French, partner and residential lead at GFW, added: “As we move into the early part of 2026, we’re seeing a noticeable uplift in activity.

“With the Budget behind us and no major shocks emerging, buyers and sellers are re-engaging and momentum is building, particularly after Christmas.

“Local knowledge and strong client service are more important than ever. 

“Our role is to guide people through their decisions with clarity and confidence to get the best

sale and find their dream homes. 

“The reduction to interest rates will certainly boost this too for those who held off waiting to see if any of the Budget rumours around SDLT were true.”

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