Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.
Family-run Leicestershire agency expands with acquisition of rival firm
Carlton Estates, a Narborough-based independent estate agency, has acquired Fox Country Properties in Market Bosworth. The deal expands the family-run firm's presence across Leicestershire, with the existing Fox Country Properties team remaining with the business.
Fox Country Properties was previously owned by Anthony and Angela Fox. Carlton Estates managing directors Sam Carnall and Charlie Carnall completed the acquisition as part of their expansion plans.
A family business built on lettings growth
Carlton Estates was founded by Paul Carnall in 2004, initially focusing on residential sales from its Narborough office. The agency expanded into lettings following the 2007–08 financial crisis, and Sam Carnall joined his father in 2008, becoming managing director after Paul's retirement in 2021. Charlie Carnall later joined the family business.
By its 20th anniversary in 2024, Carlton Estates was managing several hundred rental properties.
What the new owners have said
Sam Carnall told Property Industry Eye that Fox is a well-established business with a strong presence in Market Bosworth and a team who know their market exceptionally well. He said he and Charlie want to bring fresh energy and ambition while preserving the personal service and local expertise associated with Fox Country Properties.
Charlie Carnall said the strength of an independent agency lies in its people and the relationships they build, noting that Fox Country Properties already has those foundations and that the team looks forward to developing the marketing and helping the business grow.
Sam added that his father put an enormous amount into establishing Carlton, and that the experience at Carlton has taught the business the importance of adapting, investing in good people and looking after clients — principles he said will be just as important in the next chapter at Fox Country Properties.
Source: Property Industry Eye