Estate Agency & Property Management Acquisition in Hampshire: Think Acquisition Supports Bernards with Eckersley White Deal
- Think Acquisition Team
- Apr 23
- 3 min read
Introduction
At Think Acquisition, we specialise in estate agency and property management acquisitions across the UK, while operating from Cardiff, South Wales. Our latest success story involves supporting Bernards Estate Agents, an ambitious independent group based in Portsmouth, in their acquisition of Eckersley White, a respected estate and block management business operating in Lee-on-the-Solent and surrounding areas.
This transaction marks a key milestone in our mission to deliver off-market acquisition opportunities that align with our clients’ long-term strategic goals, particularly those seeking to expand their presence in their local area.
Unlocking Off-Market Growth for Bernards Estate Agents
When we approached Daniel Byrne, Managing Director at Bernards, he had already completed a couple of acquisitions. However, he was ready to implement a structured buy-and-build acquisition strategy to accelerate Bernards’ growth across Hampshire.
Like many busy business owners in the property sector, Daniel had limited time to proactively seek out off-market estate agency and property management businesses. He was often reliant on introductions through his existing network, a method that can work, but is reactive and often slow.
We changed that.
Targeted Outreach Across Hampshire and the South East
Our team developed a curated list of over 100 qualified targets across Portsmouth, Southampton, Gosport, Fareham, and the surrounding areas. Once the list was approved, we activated our five-stage outreach process, introducing Daniel to multiple estate and letting agency business owners who were open to exploring a sale.
Daniel navigated those early-stage conversations brilliantly. As several opportunities advanced, we shifted focus from lead generation to supporting deal progression, ensuring sellers and buyers remained aligned and informed.
This acquisition of Eckersley White is the first to complete, with more South Coast deals expected to follow shortly.
Why Eckersley White Was the Perfect Fit
Eckersley White has a long-standing reputation for exceptional customer service and deep local knowledge. Based in Lee-on-the-Solent, the business serves both sales and block management clients across the wider Gosport and South Hampshire area.
Daniel Byrne, Managing Director at Bernards, said:
“Eckersley White is a business we’ve admired for some time. Their local reputation and customer service ethos align well with our own values. We’re excited to welcome their team and clients into the Bernards family, and we look forward to building on the fantastic foundations they’ve laid.”
As part of the acquisition, the Eckersley White brand will be retained, with significant investment being made in marketing, technology, and premises. Enhancements include onboarding to Zoopla, upgrading the business’s digital presence, expanding social media activity, and a complete office refurbishment. These improvements aim to attract new business while delivering even better results for existing clients.
All of this while preserving the firm’s independent values and deep ties to the Lee-on-the-Solent community.
Chris Drake, outgoing owner of Eckersley White, added:
“It’s been a privilege to work alongside Eckersley White’s fantastic team and to help shape and grow the business into the trusted name it is today. As we move into this next chapter with Bernards, I’m confident our clients and team are in excellent hands.”
Supporting Property Management Acquisitions Across the UK
At Think Acquisition, we don't just close deals, we create long-term value. This acquisition is a great example of the strategic alignment we work to foster between buyers and sellers in the estate agency, lettings, and block management sectors.
Whether you're planning a business sale, considering growth through acquisitions, or would just like a confidential conversation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Considering your next move, buy-side or sell-side?
Let’s talk. We’d love to support your journey.
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