Leading multi-disciplined property company Humberts has announced today that it has been bought by the Natural Retreats group of companies and investors. The sale has been handled by business recovery and restructuring specialist Begbies Traynor and the entirety of the Humberts’ business has been included in the sale.

Ian Westerling, of Humberts, who will remain with the business, says: “Following a very competitive bidding process, we are absolutely delighted that the Natural Retreats group of companies and investors has decided to purchase Humberts. For us, the business is a perfect fit and there will be mutually beneficial crossovers. We have a shared vision of ensuring exemplary customer service, innovative use of prop tech, and already have complimentary business streams. We are extremely excited about the potential and we look forward to the company’s future as it embarks on its next stage of its journey.”

Natural Retreats was founded by CEO Matt Spence in 2006 after he developed his first holiday let location on his family’s farm. Since then the business has expanded both in the UK and in the USA where they have over 1,000 handpicked properties across the countries on their books. The management team for Natural Retreats includes Matt Spence, CEO, Ewan Kearney, COO and Anthony Wild as CFO.

Matt Spence, CEO of Natural Retreats, says: “We were immediately attracted to Humberts due to the strength of its brand and heritage. We’re at a stage in our evolution where Natural Retreats is keen to drive innovation and our aim is to create a leading rural estate agency and holiday lettings business. We have a vision to preserve the natural economy and this 176 year old brand that has a history and love for looking after beautiful rural lands and homes fits with our vision.”

Matt continued, “It’s business as usual for Humberts. The company remains at the heart of the community across the UK where we’re looking forward to building on our existing relationships and forging new ones. Trusted by our clients with a 4.7 out of 5 Feefo rating our professionally qualified staff are committed to providing the best in customer service and results.”

The sale of Humberts to Natural Retreats has safeguarded the jobs of all current members of staff employed across its network of offices throughout England and has ensured the continuance of the prestigious Humberts’ brand.

Paul Wood, Partner at Begbies Traynor, said: “Our team has worked round-the-clock to secure the future of this business and we are very pleased to announce the sale to Natural Retreats group of companies and investors. We believe this places the business, which has an incredible heritage, on a strong footing for continued trading. I would like to thank all parties involved for coming to the table and negotiating in good faith with the aim of getting the best possible outcome.”

The deal was negotiated as part of a pre-packaged sale of the business and assets of Humberts Ltd, and was concluded by Paul Wood and Simon Haskew immediately following their appointment as joint administrators, with law firm VWV advising throughout.