February will mark the start of our tenth year in business – what a journey it has been. 2025 has undoubtedly been another challenging year in the market, however, one thing we have learned is that from challenge comes opportunity with the right approach and a bit of tenacity.
In 2025, Harston+Co concluded deals with Tesco, Screwfix, Superdrug, the NHS, Universal Music Group, BORA, Poundland, Co-Op, Iceland, and many established independent operators in our local area, such as haart Estate Agents. We completed transactions ranging from investment and development sales and acquisitions to commercial lettings. Outside of our agency work, we have continued to expand our comprehensive service offering, with a record number of rent reviews and lease renewals completed throughout the year, as well as more than doubling the size of our property management portfolio.
We have seen a significant shift in the dynamics of the market this year, as a direct result of government legislation and economic headwinds. The Renters’ Rights Act has made it less desirable for private investors to buy residential property, and significant tax changes announced within the recent budget have altered investment strategy across the board. These changes require a shift in thinking within the commercial market. We expect to see an increased demand for small commercial investments in the year ahead, as private investors look to diversify from residential. We also expect opportunities for larger commercial properties to be repurposed into alternative uses in order to create value. We are ready to advise our clients on how they can maximise the value of their properties with a strategic approach.
We have exciting plans in place to further grow the Harston+Co team and brand in 2026, with an aim to offer our clients the highest level of service and achieve the best possible results for them. We are grateful to have a community of supportive clients and colleagues and look forward to another successful year working together.