Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders Real Estate has merged with Lawson and Greenleaf.

With the completion of the transaction, Prudential Gouger O'Neal and Saunders, the No. 1 firm in sales volume in Moore County, strengthens its presence in the county.

"By joining Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders, we now have access to greater resources, a state-of-the-art technology platform, plus expanded reach through a national referral system, enabling us to serve buyers and sellers even better," James Lawson said.

Kay Beran, president of Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders said the merger was a natural. Beran said she was very familiar with the work of James and Deborah Lawson, having worked closely with them in the early 1990s before the couple married and joined Lawson and Greenleaf.

Now, Beran said, the timing was right for the merger because it would benefit everyone involved.

"It was just a great fit for all of us," Beran said. "Their sales associates have over $30 million in sold volume over the last two years alone and have worked in residential, commercial, land and horse farm sales. We share their philosophy of service to the community along with our ongoing commitment to ultimate customer service through high tech and innovation."

Lawson and Greenleaf Real Estate will now be Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders. The Lawsons will bring their sales associates to join the Prudential office in Southern Pines at the corner of Illinois Avenue and Broad Street.

The Lawsons and their sales associates have sold real estate in Moore County since 1994.

"They also have some folks with them with great connections," Beran said, "Everybody has something special and unique to offer to broaden the business."

The addition of staff gives Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders 45 sales associates and staff in three offices in Moore County.

Contact Tom Embrey at 693-2473 or by e-mail at tembrey@ thepilot.com