Canadian ICMIF member, Co-operators, has announced the acquisition of Carson Dunlop & Associates Ltd, a North American home inspection service and consulting firm. This acquisition marks Co-operators first entry into the home services market, an area which the company has targeted as part of its growth strategy. This move is intended to support Co-operators’ corporate resilience, help catalyse more sustainable communities, and allow the cooperative financial services provider to help potential homeowners make a more informed decision on what will very likely be the largest investment of their lives.
More than 200,000 inspections are performed annually across the Carson Dunlop platform.
“Home services is a new business line at Co-operators, and one which is perfectly tied to our purpose. Our combined capabilities with Carson Dunlop will provide an unparalleled inspection experience,” explained Steve Phillips, Executive Vice President of Emerging & Adjacent Business Models at Co-operators. “We are committed to participating in the home services industry and Carson Dunlop is an excellent match for our purpose, vision, and values.”
Co-operators believes that navigating today’s housing market – finding a community that meets the needs, availability, and pricing for home buyers – is no small feat. A person’s home is likely to be the single largest investment they’ll make over the course of their lives and, increasingly, is seen as the lynch pin of their financial futures. That large of an investment decision deserves the very best information and advice, something Carson Dunlop has been providing clients for nearly half a century.
“I started the company 46 years ago with the idea of providing trusted, unbiased advice to existing and potential homeowners,” said Alan Carson, co-founder of Carson Dunlop. “We demystify homeownership by providing knowledge and peace of mind. I look forward to continuing the Carson Dunlop journey along with Co-operators.”
“In Co-operators, we have found an ideal partner that brings a wealth of experience, relationships, and resources to drive growth and long-term value for our stakeholders,” said Craig Rowsell, CEO of Carson Dunlop & Associates Ltd. “Our core values are in sync, and Co-operators’ long-term vision uniquely positions us to effectively scale our network and help us live our purpose: to better the lives of homeowners.”
