Davis Tate has acquired Reading-based The Flatman Agency’s 164-strong lettings portfolio in a move that has strengthened its regional presence and marks the first acquisition of 2025 for parent company Southern Homemove.

The portfolio is comprised of residential properties ranging from studio apartments to family homes, and has a well-established base of long-term tenancies. Davis Tate believes the acquisition will reinforce its reputation as a trusted and proactive lettings agent in the local area.

We are thrilled to welcome this portfolio into our business. Reading is a vibrant and growing market, and this acquisition allows us to bring our award-winning service to a wider audience.”

Joe Lucas, Sales Director at Davis Tate Reading, says: “We are thrilled to welcome this portfolio into our business. Reading is a vibrant and growing market, and this acquisition allows us to bring our award-winning service to a wider audience.”

The group operates as an LSL Estate Agency Franchising partner and runs the Goodfellows and Hawes & Co brands across South West London and Surrey alongside Davis Tate’s six Berkshire and Oxfordshire branches.

broader growth strategy

The acquisition forms part of Southern Homemove’s broader growth strategy, as it explores further acquisition opportunities to build its lettings presence across key southern markets.

Kate Ashley-Ives, Franchise Director at LSL Estate Agency Franchising, says: “We are delighted that Davis Tate has successfully acquired The Flatman Agency, marking our franchise partner Southern Homemove’s first of the year.

“I look forward to working with the team at Southern Homemove to acquire further lettings agencies in the area as they look to continue their expansion.”