Harcourts Wakelin snaps up former competitors

Media Release

Harcourts Wakelin Real Estate snaps up former competitors in Manawatu

14 May 2008: Harcourts Wakelin Real Estate, a multi-office Harcourts franchise group, is forging ahead on its successful path - amalgamating with a competitor’s business in Fielding and also bringing two top performers from rival brands into the Central and Lower North Island group.

Harcourts Wakelin Real Estate Director Grant Wakelin says that the exciting new developments are indicative of his eight office group’s desire to increase its market share in the areas it operates in.

“While the real estate market is currently experiencing a downturn, rather than opting for ‘survival mode’ we have recognised that this is actually an ideal time for Harcourts to shine and grow, proving we are the best in the business,” he says. “Our brand, our systems and support are a huge asset to our people and in turn to our clients, and that has been recognised by the various people we have brought on board in recent weeks from other real estate companies.”

In its latest success, the group has successfully negotiated a merger in Fielding with Solutions Real Estate, owned by experienced real estate professional John De Vries. Amalgamation over the next few weeks will see Mr De Vries and fives Solutions sales consultants join the Harcourts Fielding team, pooling resources in one office and all operating under the Harcourts brand.

In addition, Harcourts Wakelin Real Estate has secured the services of two leading lower North Island real estate professionals –Bob Weaver, formerly Branch Manager of Property Brokers in Marton; and Andy Stewart, who has been sales manager with The Professionals in Palmerston North for 10 years. Mr Weaver is going to be the new branch manager of Harcourts Wanganui while Mr Stewart, who used to work for Harcourts, will manage the group’s three-office Manawatu operation.

Mr Wakelin says he is thrilled to have the Solutions team, Mr Weaver and Mr Stewart on board and confident they will all make a positive impact on the group.

“The Solutions team are an excellent group of real estate industry professionals with established networks in the local community. Amalgamating with them will double our sales force in Fielding and immediately strengthen our position in the town so that’s great for Harcourts.

“Meanwhile securing top industry performers and successful managers like Bob and Andy is a real vote of confidence from them in what Harcourts has to offer and I’m confident their experience and proven leadership will definitely benefit their teams and therefore Harcourts clients in the area too.

“It’s definitely challenging times, but with positive steps like the ones we have taken recently we’re excited and confident we’ll thrive.”

In addition to offices in Fielding and Wanganui, Harcourts Wakelin Real Estate also has offices in Rotorua, Taupo, Turangi, Dannevirke, Palmerston North and Foxton.

ENDS

© Scoop Media