Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders Real Estate is merging with Clark Properties of North Carolina -- coupling two of the biggest luxury home residential real estate agencies in the region.

"We think that it's a great strategy and that these two companies fit extremely well together," says Kay Beran, the CEO of Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders. "As we move forward, we feel that it's a very powerful combination."

The combined agency will have 49 sales agents. Pru-dential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders has three offices in Moore Country.

Clark Properties brings a listing volume of more than $50 million to the merger, a news release said.

Maureen Clark, owner of the boutique agency, said she welcomes the new association.

"We are delighted to be part of a company with a solid reputation for doing business with integrity," she says. "We welcome the opportunity to participate in Prudential's national network and worldwide connections through Fine Homes Inter-national. Ultimately, our clients will benefit from this blend of resources."

The companies complement each other. Gouger O'Neal & Saunders -- dating back decades -- has many ties and is particularly strong in the luxury home market in Moore County. Clark Properties, under the leadership of Clark, also has a big presence in high-end homes in Moore County, the news release said..

"The great thing about this merger of these two great companies in Moore County is that the cultures fit so well," Beran says. "We look forward to working together to represent our clients."

Clark has worked in the specialized fields of high-end properties -- residential, development and horse farms. With the additional tools and resources available from Prudential Real Estate, Clark says she feels she can give her clients an expanded reach in the marketing of their properties.

Lori Pry, a broker with Clark Properties who has established a strong reputation in working with buyers building on her former career in national television sales marketing, also says she welcomes the opportunity with Prudential.

They are joined by Clair Clark, a marketing specialist with graduate training at the Corcoran School of Design. Clark is LEED AP certified in building-interior design.

"This is a terrific way to grow and put the tremendous strength of a Prudential Real Estate affiliate along with what we bring to the table in terms of agent skills, marketing and client base," Clark says. "We look forward to our partnership with Prudential Gouger O'Neal & Saunders and the leadership of CEO Kay Beran."

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