Property group expands portfolio with lettings deal

A North East estate agent is strengthening its Teesside presence after completing its 17th acquisition in seven years.

My Property Box has bought the residential lettings portfolio of Horizon Sales & Lettings in an undisclosed deal, adding around 200 managed properties to its portfolio.

It says the deal will allow Middlesbrough-based Horizon to focus on growing its property sourcing, refurbishment and social housing activities.

Its Horizon Community Living initiative works with local authorities, landlords and housing providers to create more stable housing options and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation.

Ben Quaintrell, founder and chief executive of My Property Box, which has offices in Darlington, Newcastle and Northallerton, North Yorkshire, said: “As our portfolio continues to grow, we’re able to combine the personal service of an independent agency with the benefits of operating at scale.

“That means landlords benefit from greater investment in technology, compliance, marketing and specialist expertise, while tenants receive a responsive, professional service backed by dedicated local property managers.

“This acquisition further strengthens our presence across the Tees Valley and reflects our confidence in the region’s lettings market. 

“We’re continuing to speak with agency owners who are considering succession planning or looking to realise the value they’ve built while ensuring their landlords, tenants and colleagues are well looked after.”

Martin McManus, Horizon director, added: “We're incredibly proud of what we’ve built over the past six years and of the relationships we’ve developed with our landlords and tenants.

“Transferring the managed lettings portfolio to My Property Box allows us to focus on growing Horizon Community Living and expanding our work in property sourcing, refurbishment and social housing.

“Our aim is to work closely with local authorities, landlords and housing providers to create more stable housing solutions, improve the quality of housing stock and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation wherever possible.”

The deal continues a period of expansion for My Property Box, following its recent acquisition of the lettings portfolio of Ashington-based Clarke Holland.

Previous deals have included Ready to Rent in County Durham and Seaham-based Newton Assets.

My Property Box’s growth strategy is supported by a multi-million-pound investment secured from BGF in 2024, aimed at accelerating expansion across the North East and North Yorkshire.

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