HomeServices of America Expands Executive Leadership Team with Appointment of Renee Gonzales as Vice President of Core Services Integrations

Gonzales will lead strategic integration efforts across HomeServices’ national network, furthering the organization’s drive to deliver buyers and sellers with a seamless real estate experience

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (June 16, 2025)HomeServices of America, the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services – including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services – today announced the appointment of Renee Gonzales as Vice President – Core Services Integrations, a newly created role designed to accelerate business growth and operational alignment across its national network of companies.

In her expanded role, Gonzales – who will remain as CEO of Long Realty – will work in close collaboration with brokerage leaders and core service partners across the HomeServices family of companies. Her focus will include identifying integration opportunities, aligning strategic initiatives, and coaching best practices that promote stronger adoption of mortgage, title, and insurance offerings at the agent level.

“Renee brings an exceptional track record of performance and partnership,” said Chris Kelly, President & CEO of HomeServices of America. “She has cultivated a deeply collaborative, full-service culture at Long Realty, consistently ranking among the top performers in our network. Her leadership reflects the type of thoughtful, field-informed strategy that will help us continue delivering a seamless, end-to-end experience for consumers.”

HomeServices was recently recognized by RealTrends as the #1 full-service brokerage in the country. The introduction of this role underscores the company’s continued commitment to operational excellence, consumer value, and network-wide integration.

Under Gonzales’ leadership, Long Realty has been a national model for brokerage-core services collaboration. Her practical, relationship-first approach will help support local company cultures while driving business results through deeper service alignment and agent-facing support.

“I am honored to help expand HomeServices’s leadership role as the nation’s premier full-service brokerage,” said Gonzales. “We have an opportunity to lead the industry in delivering integrated value by empowering agents, aligning strategy, and building relationships that help every company in our network thrive with the goal of ensuring that the consumer has a truly seamless experience.” 

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ABOUT HOMESERVICES of AMERICA

HomeServices of America is, through its operating companies, the country’s preeminent provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. HomeServices’ operating companies offer integrated real estate services, including brokerage services, mortgage originations, title and closing services, property and casualty insurance, home warranties, and other homeownership services. Information about HomeServices is available at www.homeservices.com.


HomeServices of America again tops the RealTrends Core Services Rankings

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (June 12, 2025)HomeServices of America, the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services – including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services – is once again ranked No. 1 in the 2025 RealTrends Verified rankings for core services transactions.

With 136,810 completed transactions in 2024, HomeServices led all participating brokerages in this category. The rankings, based on submissions from 49 brokerages nationwide, measured total transactions involving core services such as mortgage lending, title insurance, home warranties, homeowners’ insurance, and escrow services.

“We are incredibly proud to once again be recognized as the nation’s leader in core services transactions,” said Chris Kelly, president and CEO of HomeServices of America. “A real estate transaction is one of life’s most emotional and complex moments, and behind every successful closing is a coordinated team working relentlessly to deliver for the consumer. This ranking is a direct reflection of our commitment to simplifying the process by bringing all our services under one roof. It’s an honor to lead the industry in delivering a more seamless, stress-free experience for homebuyers and sellers across the country.”

What has long-set HomeServices apart is its intentional positioning as the preeminent full-service real estate brokerage, bringing all the components of home buying and selling process under one roof.

Whether brokerage, mortgage, title, insurance and franchise, all are companies involved are under the HomeServices umbrella, with the industry’s top professionals to support its customers.

“We have no doubts about our scope of services being the most efficient manner for a buyer or seller to garner support,” added Kelly. “So much so that we are shaping the future of real estate.”

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ABOUT HOMESERVICES of AMERICA

HomeServices of America is, through its operating companies, the country’s preeminent provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. HomeServices’ operating companies offer integrated real estate services, including brokerage services, mortgage originations, title and closing services, property and casualty insurance, home warranties, and other homeownership services. Information about HomeServices is available at www.homeservices.com.


Vince Leisey Named President of HSF Affiliates, the Franchisor of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Network

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is the residential real estate franchise network owned by HomeServices of America

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (May 20, 2025) — HomeServices of America, the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services, today named Vince Leisey President of HSF Affiliates, the franchiser of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) network.

BHHS is the residential real estate franchise network owned by HomeServices of America, and part of a market-leading family of real estate brokerages, mortgages companies, settlement providers, insurance and corporate relocation services.

Leisey has been a member of the brand network for almost 30 years and is renowned for his ability to drive vibrant cultures, innovate practices and realize consistent performance.

Most recently CEO of BHHS Ambassador Real Estate in Omaha and surrounding areas, Leisey has led an organization of over 1,000 agents with almost $3 billion in annual sales. He will continue in the CEO role of BHHS Ambassador along with stepping into his new role.

Instrumental in developing and embracing business practices that have become industry standards, he is founder of the Explosion Real Estate Conference and a long-standing contributor to the BHHS REthink Council, a platform designed to cultivate the next generation of real estate professionals and amplify forward-thinking ideas within the BHHS network.

“Vince’s (Leisey) passion for the network and our franchisees, coupled with his results-oriented approach makes him exceptionally well-suited to guide our affiliates through the next chapter our rapidly evolving industry,” said Chris Kelly, President & CEO of HomeServices of America. “He brings a rare combination of energy, insight and operational know-how, along with a deep respect for people. He is ideally suited for this role.”

“I am honored and energized to serve as President of HSF Affiliates,” said Leisey.  “I have so much respect for the leaders across this network, and I look forward to partnering even more closely to drive growth, deliver value, and challenge ourselves to think differently about what’s possible. Together, I believe we can continue to build the most trusted, innovative, and agent-empowered brand in real estate.”

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About HomeServices of America

HomeServices of America is, through its operating companies, the country’s preeminent provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. HomeServices’ operating companies offer integrated real estate services, including brokerage services, mortgage originations, title and closing services, property and casualty insurance, home warranties, and other homeownership services. Information about HomeServices is available at www.homeservices.com.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is one of the world’s fastest-growing residential real estate brokerage franchise networks, with more than 50,000 real estate professionals throughout the U.S., Europe and the Middle East. The network, among the few organizations entrusted to use the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway name, brings to the real estate market a definitive mark of trust, integrity, stability and longevity. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs.com


HomeServices of America Announces Key Executive Appointments

HomeServices of America Announces Key Executive Appointments to Support Continued Growth and Operational Alignment

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (May 1, 2025) — HomeServices of America, the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services—including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services— today announced two key executive appointments as the company continues to enhance its leadership structure to drive long-term growth, operational efficiency, and enterprise-wide collaboration.

Alex Seavall, currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, has been promoted to Chief Financial and Operations Officer of HomeServices. In this expanded role, Seavall will assume executive oversight of multiple core enterprise functions, including Finance, Shared Services, Information Technology, Human Resources, Franchise Services, Relocation, and the Business Partners Group

Candace Adams has been named Executive Vice President of HomeServices of America. Adams has served as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties.

In addition, Brenda Maher has been appointed President of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England and New York Properties, with Adams continuing in the role of Chair. As Executive Vice President, Adams will partner closely with brokerage leaders across the HomeServices network to enhance alignment, promote operational best practices, and support key strategic initiatives.

These leadership changes reflect HomeServices’ continued commitment to building a high-performing, integrated enterprise focused on delivering value to its customers, agents, employees, and stakeholders.

Said Chris Kelly, President & CEO of HomeServices of America:  “Alex has long played a critical role in aligning our strategic goals with operational execution. His ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive performance has helped move our organization forward—and this expanded title reflects the impact he already has across our enterprise.   Candace has earned the deep respect of her peers and consistently delivered results by investing in people and fostering collaboration. Her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening the connectivity and effectiveness of our companies nationwide. These new roles further position our enterprise’s value proposition to provide our agents the full scope of services they require to meet their client’s needs under one umbrella, one family.”

ABOUT HOMESERVICES of AMERICA

HomeServices of America is, through its operating companies, the country’s preeminent provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. HomeServices’ operating companies offer integrated real estate services, including brokerage services, mortgage originations, title and closing services, property and casualty insurance, home warranties, and other homeownership services. Information about HomeServices is available at www.homeservices.com.


HomeServices of America Announces Leadership Transition

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – [Date] — HomeServices of America, the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services—including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services—today announced a leadership transition. After serving as President and CEO for over 5 years, Gino Blefari will assume the role of Chairman Emeritus, effective immediately. Chris Kelly, who currently serves as Executive Vice President of HomeServices of America, will succeed Blefari as the company’s President and CEO. Kelly brings more than 25 years of experience to the role and is a respected leader in the real estate industry.

Blefari will continue as a strategic advisor to the organization, including to the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise organization as it begins the process of expanding its executive team—part of an ongoing commitment to strengthening and growing the franchise network. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as President and CEO of HomeServices of America,” said Blefari. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and the exceptional team we have built. I look forward to supporting our new leadership team as they lead HomeServices into its next chapter of growth, innovation, and continued industry leadership.”

Kelly is a seasoned executive within the industry and organization, beginning his career as a real estate and finance attorney. He joined HomeServices in 2007 as General Counsel for its Kansas City-based subsidiary ReeceNichols. Since then, he has held a variety of senior leadership positions across the organization, including serving as President and CEO of the Ebby Halliday Companies in North Texas.

“The true strength of HomeServices has always been our people and the incredible leadership team across our companies,” said Kelly. “I am incredibly humbled to step into this role following Gino Blefari, an industry icon, and to partner with our team to continue driving what makes HomeServices so unique—our position as the preeminent full-service real estate brokerage. Across brokerage, mortgage, title, insurance and franchise, our professionals are the very best in the business. Our mission is simple: to support them in every way possible as they serve their clients and communities. We have no doubts about having the most professional, focused team in the industry, and we look forward to working together to shape the future of real estate.”

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ABOUT HOMESERVICES of AMERICA

HomeServices of America is, through its operating companies, the country’s preeminent provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. HomeServices’ operating companies offer integrated real estate services, including brokerage services, mortgage originations, title and closing services, property and casualty insurance, home warranties, and other homeownership services. Information about HomeServices is available at www.homeservices.com.


Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Announces Expansion in Arkansas

New Company to be led by industry veteran Robin J. Miller


IRVINE, Calif. January 29, 2024 IRVINE, California—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, a global residential real estate brokerage franchise network is pleased to announce its expansion in the United States with the launch of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arkansas Realty. Spearheading the company is Robin J. Miller, who has more than 35 years of experience in the central Arkansas real estate market.

“We are delighted to welcome Robin J. Miller and her team to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices,” said Christy Budnick, CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “With her unparalleled experience in the local real estate market, exceptional leadership qualities, and an impeccable customer service approach, Robin will be a wonderful steward for our brand in Arkansas.”

Miller and her team have experience with a variety of buyers including first-time homeowners and veterans. They are also regarded for their work with luxury buyers and sellers, relocation services, new construction, and commercial real estate.

“Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a company that I respect and trust,” said Robin J. Miller, CEO/Broker/Owner, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arkansas Realty. “Affiliating with this network will allow me to leverage the power of a global brand that is known for its quality, innovation, and reliability. We will also benefit from the company’s extensive resources, tools, and technology that are designed to help agents succeed in any market condition.”

Miller says she admires Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ reputation, values, and culture, and is committed to growing a strong team. She is passionate about helping real estate agents achieve their dreams of entrepreneurship and empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.

Miller currently serves as a member of the Little Rock REALTORS® Association,
Arkansas REALTORS® Association, and National Association of REALTORS®. She is also a member of the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Board and Executive Committee, and is a long-term member and serves at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church.

Please visit bhhsarkansas.com for more information.

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ABOUT BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is the only global real estate brokerage franchise that is boldly focused on building a personally connected future through relationship-driven business, with best-in-class leadership, mentorships, business tools and a worldwide network that is committed to making a lasting impact through lifelong relationships. With approximately 50,000 real estate professionals and more than 1,500 offices across 4 continents and 13 countries and territories including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East, The Caribbean and India, the network completed more than USD$126.9 billion in real estate sales in 2023. Among the few organizations entrusted to use the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway name, the network brings to the real estate market a definitive mark of trust, integrity, stability and longevity.


Prosperity Home Mortgage Recognized for Overall Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power


Fairfax, Virginia (January 24, 2024) — Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC (“Prosperity”), one of the nation’s leading full-service mortgage bankers specializing in residential and refinance loans, today announced their first appearance in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Mortgage Origination Satisfaction StudySM.

Justin Messer, President, and CEO of Prosperity, expressed his excitement, stating, “Every Prosperity Home Mortgage team member is committed to ensuring we continue to be the best of the best in serving the financial needs of our customers. J.D. Power is the gold standard in measuring customer satisfaction, and recognition like this is only possible when the entire team understands and values the customer experience, from our amazing sales force to our exceptional operations team, all with the backing of our experienced support staff. It is incredibly gratifying to see our team recognized for their dedication to our customers in such a public and remarkable way.”

Prosperity helped over 19,000 customers buy a new home in 2023, with almost 9,000 of those being first time homebuyers. Each and every day, customers entrust Prosperity with the biggest financial transactions most will likely ever make. The entire company takes tremendous pride in providing exceptional customer service and views each transaction as an opportunity to impress. In an industry as mature as residential mortgage lending, with well over 4,000* active lenders, Prosperity is both proud and thankful to be ranked 4th in the nation among the lenders eligible for the J.D. Power study.

ABOUT PROSPERITY HOME MORTGAGE
Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC is a full-service mortgage banker specializing in residential and refinance loans and a subsidiary of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate. Prosperity operates in forty-nine jurisdictions and, in 2023, funded nearly $7 billion in production. Prosperity’s team of over five hundred Mortgage Consultants works closely with consumers throughout the financing process ensuring customers can make informed decisions on their journey to homeownership. For more information, visit www.phmloans.com/blog-and-news.

ABOUT HOMESERVICES OF AMERICA
HomeServices of America is the country’s largest residential real estate brokerage company, based on closed transactions, and is through its operating companies, one of the country’s premier providers of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global franchise network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. HomeServices’ operating companies offer integrated real estate services, including brokerage services, mortgage originations, title and closing services, property and casualty insurance, home warranties, and other homeownership services. Visit www.homeservices.com.


ABOUT J.D. POWER
J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world’s leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies.

J.D. Power has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The J.D. Power auto shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

*” Summary of 2022 Data on Mortgage Lending.” Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 29 June 2023, https://www.consumerfinance.gov/data-research/hmda/summary-of-2022-data-on-mortgage-lending/.

Victoria Gladstone
AVP, Strategic Marketing Manager
703-877-7523
media@PHMLoans.com


HomeServices of America Announces Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® Merger with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New Jersey Properties

PHILADELPHIA, PA – HomeServices of America, one of the nation’s largest providers of brokerage and related services in the United States, today announcedBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices New Jersey Properties merger intoBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®. The merger of these two affiliates of HomeServices combines over 650 agents across 15 offices from New Jersey Properties into Fox & Roach, establishing the brokerage as number one in the state within the markets it serves and extending its footprint into North Jersey with offices in Morris, Hunterdon, Essex, Union, Middlesex and Somerset Counties as well as expanding its footprint in Monmouth county. The organizations will operate as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®.

“New Jersey Properties’ footprint fits into ours like a puzzle piece, and we are thrilled to officially welcome them into the Fox & Roach family,” said Larry Flick V, chief executive officer, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® and The Trident Group. “Together, we will be stronger than ever, providing our sales associates with unparalleled resources, added tools and cutting-edge technology to best support their clients in achieving the dream of homeownership.”

The combined brokerage is one of the largest providers of homeownership services in the country, with more than 5,000 sales professionals across more than 80 locations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Through its affiliated services, the Trident Group and Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC, the company provides one-stop shopping and facilitated services to its clients including mortgage financing, and title, property and casualty insurance.

“The real estate market has been dramatically shifting over the past several years, and as long-time brokerage leaders, we understand we need to grow and expand to thrive long-term,” said Chris Brown, chief executive officer & president, New Jersey Properties. “The decision to align ourselves with the brokerage that is consistently ranked number one in the entire Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network will ensure we are well equipped to serve local homebuyers and sellers for many years to come.” 

“New Jersey Properties and Fox & Roach have maintained a longstanding friendship over the years, and we look forward to taking an exciting step to be bigger and better together,” said Bill Keleher, founder and chairman, New Jersey Properties. “With strong leadership guided by our shared values of excellence, integrity and dependability, I’m confident I’m leaving the organization in excellent hands.” 

“Backed by the strength and longevity of HomeServices, combined with Fox & Roach’s legacy of success, this decision will ensure our sales professionals have everything they need to succeed in an evolving marketplace, including new tools, robust services and advanced education and coaching to help them grow their businesses,” added Christy Casey, executive vice president, New Jersey Properties.

Larry Flick V will continue to serve as CEO of Fox & Roach, with the close support of Chris Brown, as Vice Chairman, to ensure a seamless transition. Fox & Roach’s organizational structure places an emphasis on localized, nimble leadership with the backing of a dominant, trusted brand by providing individual markets with tailored support and financial services. In alignment with Fox & Roach’s regional leadership structure, Executive Vice President Christine Casey will serve as the regional president for the new North and Central New Jersey markets.

“Combining these two great HomeServices’ companies brings together two great organizations that will be unmatched in their ability to serve the real estate needs of new and existing clients,” said Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America, the parent company to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors® and New Jersey Properties. “Larry, his leadership team along with Chris, Bill and Christine share an uncompromising commitment to their agents, employees and customers and we look forward to supporting them as they take the company to the next chapter of growth and success.”

The announcement comes on the heels of several years of strategic growth for Fox & Roach, including the successful merger with Gloria Nilson & Co. in 2020, which added more than 700 sales professionals and more than 20 offices in New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the brokerage. In 2020, Fox & Roach also added more than 40 sales professionals to its Rumson, New Jersey, office, establishing Fox & Roach as the market leader in Monmouth County, following a successful merger with New Jersey Properties’ local office.

New Jersey Properties was founded as an independently owned and operated brokerage in 2001 but traces its roots back to 1954. A proud supporter of the Sunshine kids, New Jersey Properties has raised well over $2.5 million for the charity placing it in the top 5 companies for contributions over the past 2 decades. New Jersey Properties joined the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network in 2014, and has been consistently ranked among the nation’s top 100 brokers.

For more about HomeServices of America, please visit https://www.homeservices.com

About HomeServices of America

HomeServices of America, Inc., through its operating companies, is one of the nation’s largest residential real estate company and is the country’s premier provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, settlement, property and casualty insurance, relocation services and more. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

For more about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®, please visit https://www.foxroach.com/.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® is part of HomeServices of America, the nation’s largest provider of total home services and largest residential brokerage company in the U.S. in sales, according to the 2022 REAL Trends 500 report. The company was named “Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year” and was recently awarded Top Workplaces in 2022. With over 5,000 sales professionals and more than 500 employees in more than 80 sales offices across the Tri-State area, the company was recently acknowledged as #1, for the eighth year in a row, in the entire national Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Network. Through its affiliated services, the Trident Group and Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC; the company provides one-stop shopping and facilitated services to its clients including mortgage financing, and title, property and casualty insurance. The company-sponsored charitable foundation, Fox & Roach/Trident Charities, is committed to addressing the needs of children and families in stressful life circumstances and has contributed over $8.6 million to more than 250 local organizations since its inception in 1995. Visit our Website at www.foxroach.com or for company information and news go to our Newsroom at www.foxroach.com/blog/newsroom.


Gino Blefari Tops List of Most Powerful and Influential Leaders in Real Estate Industry

MINNEAPOLIS (January 10, 2023) – HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, today announced Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices and chairman, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, has been named to the top spot on the 2023 Swanepoel Power 200 list. He joins several other executives from across HomeServices’ brokerage and franchise companies who were also named to the 2023 Swanepoel Power 200 list. The Swanepoel Power 200 is a comprehensive roster of leading CEOs and senior executives whose leadership and experience drive the industry and their organizations. Published annually by T3 Sixty, the Swanepoel Power 200 is widely considered the definitive ranking of residential real estate leaders.

“It’s an extreme honor to receive this recognition in an industry filled with so many talented and passionate professionals,” said Blefari. “On behalf of our entire organization, congratulations to all the HomeServices’ leaders who earned a spot on the 2023 list. This recognition reflects an ongoing commitment to the HomeServices’ philosophy of continual improvement, and I’m proud to work alongside such extraordinary leaders as we collectively drive the industry forward.”

The HomeServices’ executives recognized on the 2023 Swanepoel Power 200 list, in alphabetical order, are:

  • Candace Adams—President and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England/New York/Hudson Valley Properties
  • Mary Lee Blaylock—Senior Vice President, HomeServices of America
  • Gino Blefari—CEO, HomeServices of America and Chairman, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
  • Christy Budnick—CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
  • Jimmy Burgess—CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida
  • Brian Crane—President and CEO, Intero Real Estate Services
  • Allan Dalton— Senior Vice President, Research and Development, HomeServices of America
  • Jeff Detwiler—President and CEO, Long & Foster Companies
  • Joan Docktor—President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®
  • Larry Flick V—CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®
  • Dan Forsman—Chairman, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties
  • Larry “Boomer” Foster—President of Brokerage Division, Long & Foster Real Estate
  • Chris Kelly—Executive Vice President, HomeServices of America
  • Vince Leisey—CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate
  • Greg Mason—President and CEO, Edina Realty Home Services
  • Rei Mesa—President and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty
  • Mark Stark—Chairman, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona, California and Nevada Properties

The complete list of rankings is available at sp200.com.


New Study: Proposed Change to Commission Structure Threatens Equitable Access to Housing

Minneapolis (July 11, 2022) – A new study has found that requiring prospective homebuyers to pay real estate agents directly out of pocket would significantly suppress home buying opportunities for large segments of the population. “Be Careful What You Ask For: The Economic Impact of Changing the Structure of Real Estate Agent Fees,” illustrates how the changes would most significantly affect Black, Hispanic/Latino, first-time, and low- and middle-income buyers. The independent study was requisitioned by HomeServices of America as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to support equity in home buying.

In recognition of housing inequity and the homeownership gap, HomeServices of America began work in early 2019 to establish a foundation whose mission is to increase homeownership among Black homebuyers and other potential homebuyers of color. In 2021, the HomeServices Foundation for Housing Equity was officially established. While some favor changing the decades-old practice of listing brokers offering commissions to buying brokers in home sales, it appeared that this proposed change could severely impact the homebuying abilities of the people the Foundation was created to help. Given the possible negative impact to homebuyers, HomeServices of America requisitioned an independent study to evaluate its concerns about the proposed change.

Authored byFreddieMac alum Ann Schnare, National Association of Credit Management Chief Economist Amy Cutts andGeorge Washington University Business Professor Vanessa Perry, the study created an economic model that proves the detrimental outcomes for consumers and the broader U.S. economy that would likely result from changes to how agent fees are currently paid. 

“Changing the current compensation structure could affect potential buyers’ ability to qualify for a mortgage and purchase a home,” said lead author Schnare. “Requiring buyers to pay their agent’s fee directly would result in reduced homeownership opportunities for cash-constrained families and lower net proceeds for many sellers. These outcomes would create negative ripple effects across the entire housing market.”

Key study findings regarding decoupling commissions include:

  • The greatest harm would be to first-time, low-income, middle-income and racially underrepresented buyers. A significant segment of the housing market would likely be negatively affected by decoupling commissions. Overall U.S. homeownership rates, particularly among non-white buyers, would decline. Assets required to purchase a $250,000 home would increase from roughly $16,250 to $23,015.
  • Decoupling commissions would harm the entire economy. The demand reduction that would likely occur at the lower price points of the housing market could easily spill into other segments of the market. If a significant portion of potential buyers are already cash constrained, changing the current compensation structure by requiring buyers to pay more up-front would inevitably lead to a reduction in market demand.
  • Commissions would not be able to be included in mortgages. Lenders, mortgage underwriters and appraisers would face significant challenges in determining the appropriate amount of buyer broker commission allowed to be included within the financing of a home.Federal regulations limit how much of the total purchase price buyers can finance, meaning some buyers could no longer qualify for a loan while others would have to pay additional fees per month in mortgage insurance.

The study estimates that the median price that potential first-time homebuyers can afford to pay for a home is roughly $294,000. Altering how commissions are paid, however, would limit the purchasing power of these households. Even if buyers were able to negotiate a 1.5% fee, for example, they would be able to spend $33,450 – or 12% – less on a home if they had to pay these fees up front, out of pocket.

Such changes could prove disastrous in a housing market that is already creating significant barriers for potential homebuyers. Since 2019, home prices have risen nearly 30% ($80,000 for a typical home), while inventory is down 57% over the same period. Homeownership opportunities for American families also have diminished as mortgage rates rise and investors become more heavily involved in the private property market, leading to fewer available properties.

Any such changes to commissions, as the study notes, could have the most pronounced impact on Black homebuyers. Homeownership rates for white homebuyers have remained above 70% since 2017, while rates for Black homebuyers have struggled to exceed 40%. Approximately half of all homes currently listed for sale are affordable to households with at least $100,000 income, but just 35% of white households and 20% of Black households in America exceed this annual threshold.

The findings of the study refute unfounded allegations or suggestions that consumers are disadvantaged by how commissions are currently paid.

“Almost 9 out of every 10 homebuyers use a mortgage to finance the purchase of their primary residence, and many of these buyers face significant hurdles in acquiring the upfront cash to cover down payment and closing costs,” said Dana Strandmo, Chief Administrative Officer at HomeServices of America. “These cash constraints are more prevalent among first-time homebuyers and racial minority groups. That is a factor that must be considered in any conversation about changing how buyers’ agents are typically compensated.”

HomeServices of America funded this study. The authors conducted their research independently, and the opinions expressed, and findings are theirs. For the full study, go to: Be Careful What You Ask For: The Economic Impact of Changing the Structure of Real Estate Agent Fees

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