One of Teesside’s most well-known estate agents has reinvented itself, with a new look and a new name.
Thirlwells, which employs more than 20 staff across its Middlesbrough and Billingham branches, opened in June 1977 – making it the longest serving independent estate agency in the area.
Having taken over from founders Margaret and Keith Thirlwell in 2004, partners Wendy Clarke and Nicola Munro have decided the time is right to put their names to the business, which will now be known as Clarke Munro.
Clarke Munro was officially relaunched by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen on September 10th, with a special ‘virtual’ celebration held via Facebook Live, attended by clients, suppliers, friends and staff.
Along with the name change, the pair have commissioned a new logo and branding for the business – but are keen to reassure clients that the service will remain the same.
Wendy, who joined Thirlwells in 1979 as an office junior, said: “We’re proud of the Thirlwells legacy, but we felt the brand had become a little tired; 20 years since the last revamp, it needed a bit of a facelift.
“And while our renowned personal service and local expertise remains, we’re also looking to the future. Gone are the days of an estate agency on every corner; we’re concentrating on our two super branches in Middlesbrough and Billingham, where we have staff with 200 years of combined service all sharing ideas and best practice.”
Nicola added: “We have been selling houses across Teesside for more than 40 years, and we know what works. We’re known for our honest and reliable service, and none of this is going to change.
“However, we’re definitely looking to the future too, and will continue to build on our innovative digital services such as virtual walkthroughs and online appointments which we’ve always offered, even before Covid-19.
“We’re so proud of the Clarke Munro team, many of whom have spent their whole careers here, and we’re excited to be taking them on this journey with us – we couldn’t do it without their support.”
Ben said: “Since they took over the business 16 years ago, Wendy and Nicola, have done some fantastic work with their team. They are incredibly dedicated to the Teesside area and the community they serve.
“Wendy did actually help me find my first house in 2009! They are a fantastic team and it’s great to seem them go from strength to strength and I was honoured to be asked to relaunch the company as Clarke Munro.”
Following the rebrand the experienced Clarke Munro team will continue to offer their expert sales, lettings and property management services, as well as free valuations.