Countrywide has acquired Hamptons International, and the rights to expand the business across locations including the UK, Europe and Asia.

Hamptons International currently has a network of more than 80 branches in the UK and overseas.

The acquisition forms a key part of Countrywide’s strategic plan to further expand into the high-end property market, following the recent purchase of the Sotheby’s International Realty franchise in the UK.

Grenville Turner, Countrywide group chief executive, said: “This acquisition is a major breakthrough for both companies – they are a perfect fit. We identified that Hamptons International offers a key growth opportunity and we recognise the quality of its brand