HomeServices of America® Announces Christy Budnick as CEO of HSF Affiliates

Minneapolis, MN (May 24, 2021)—HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, today announced that Christy Budnick, president and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, has been named chief executive officer of HSF Affiliates, which operates and manages the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate real estate brokerage franchise networks. Budnick was also named CEO of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network. Budnick replaces Chris Stuart who has departed the organization to pursue other opportunities. 

“I am pleased to welcome Christy as CEO of HSF Affiliates,” said Gino Blefari, chairman of HSF Affiliates and president and CEO of HomeServices of America. “She is a strong, charismatic and decisive leader who has done an excellent job gaining the trust of both her agents and their buyers and sellers.  She brings a tremendous amount of experience, integrity and innovation and I am confident that she will take Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living to new levels of success.”

As CEO of HSF Affiliates, Budnick will oversee both the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Real Living Real Estate franchise networks. 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 and nearly 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, and the Middle East. In 2020, the network associates facilitated more than $138 billion in real estate sales volume. Real Living Real Estate is a full-service real estate brokerage franchise company with a comprehensive suite of resources for franchisees and sales professionals, as well as for consumers who work with them. In 2016 and 2017, Real  Living Real Estate was named “Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year” in the ongoing Harris Poll EquiTrend® study; and was named “Most Loved” and “Most Trusted” real estate brand in the study in consecutive years.

Most recently, Budnick served as president and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, one of the most respected real estate firms throughout Northeast Florida. “I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to lead HSF Affiliates and its brands, said Budnick. “The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living owners and managers are extraordinary operators and their teams of agents are among the most experienced, productive and talented in the business. With the guidance and support of Gino Blefari, I am looking forward to growing our brands and continuing to help position our affiliates for even greater success.”

Budnick brings a unique perspective that combines knowledge and experience in brokerage management and operations to her new role. She began her career working for Bank of America as its vice president of sales and leadership training. She joined Florida Network Realty in 2002 as manager of the Beaches branch office and was promoted to executive vice president of residential real estate before transitioning to president and CEO in 2018. Budnick led the company to new levels of success by creating a one-stop shopping environment for residential real estate clients, offering the core services needed to buy, sell, or finance a home.  Under her leadership, the company has experienced year-over-year growth and with a team of more than 475 real estate professionals in nine offices throughout Northeast Florida, the company achieved more than $1.44 billion in closed sales in 2020 and ranks as one of the Top 25 companies in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network.

Budnick’s leadership extends to numerous industries, as well as civic and charitable organizations. She is a board member of Dreams Come True, a Jacksonville nonprofit organization dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of children battling life-threatening illnesses, serving as President of its 2019-2020 Board of Directors. Budnick is a member of the JAX Chamber and the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors and is a supporter of The Donna Foundation and the Wolfson Children’s Hospital of Jacksonville. In 2019, Budnick was recognized as a Women of Influence honoree by the Jacksonville Business Journal. Budnick is listed in the 2021 Swanepoel Power 200 ranking the 200 most powerful and influential executives and leaders in the residential real estate brokerage industry.

“The future of HSF Affiliates couldn’t be brighter,” concluded Blefari. “Christy’s unmatched experience and fresh perspective combined with her outstanding leadership skills make her the perfect person to grow our networks and help our affiliates take their businesses to new heights.”

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About HSF Affiliates LLC

Irvine, CA-based HSF Affiliates LLC operates the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate brokerage networks. The company is a subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., the nation’s largest, full-service residential brokerage firm and Berkshire Hathaway Inc. affiliate. Visit www.hsfaffiliates.com.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Irvine, CA-based Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is one of America’s fastest-growing real estate brokerage networks with nearly 50,000 agents and 1,400+ offices named to the brand since its launch in September 2013. The brand was recognized as “Real Estate Agency Brand of Year” and “Most Trusted Real Estate Brand” in the 2018 Harris Poll EquiTrend Study; and for “Highest Satisfaction Among Repeat Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms” in J.D. Power’s 2018 Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction StudySM. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs.com.

About Real Living Real Estate

Real Living Real Estate is a full-service real estate brokerage franchise company with a comprehensive and integrated suite of resources for franchisees and their sales professionals, as well as for consumers who work with them. Visit www.realliving.com.

About HomeServices of America

HomeServices of America, through its operating companies, is the nation’s largest residential real estate company based on closed transactions and is the country’s premier provider of homeownership services, including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, settlement, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices of America is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate residential real estate franchise networks. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. For more information visit www.homeservices.com. 

EBBY HALLIDAY COMPANIES HIRE FIRST OKLAHOMA AGENTAFTER EXPANSION ACROSS RED RIVER

(EVERYWHERE, OK – May 18, 2021) In historic news for the Ebby Halliday Companies, President & CEO Chris Kelly announced that the first agent has been hired for the first Ebby Halliday office outside of Texas. Stan Gardner, an established real estate professional in Owasso, OK, near Tulsa, will carry this unique distinction into his new role. 

“Stan is a highly respected agent and member of the community,” Kelly says, “with qualities that dovetail nicely with our mission of ‘People First. Lasting Relationships. Elevating Real Estate.’ He has proven a visionary and entrepreneur in his career decisions thus far, so becoming our first resident Oklahoma agent seems to be a natural progression of that.”

The Ebby Halliday Companies first expanded into Oklahoma in October 2020 with a virtual presence. Since that time, more than a dozen Ebby Halliday agents have become dual licensed in both states. 

Sherry Smith, who currently manages Ebby offices in Sherman and Whitesboro near the Texas/Oklahoma border, has been appointed as the Oklahoma office’s first sales leader. 

About Gardner’s hiring, Smith says, “As we cross the Red River and begin building rapport with our neighbors to the north, it was crucial to bring someone onboard who could help us lay a firm foundation there. From Stan’s military service to his successful business ventures to his work with local Eagle Scouts, he invests himself wholeheartedly in whatever he does. We are excited to watch him do that in this case as well.”

Originally from Boston, Gardner attended Norwich University, a Military Academy in Vermont. He started a stainless-steel pipe business from the ground up at the age of 30 and was also the No. 1 recommended service distributor to the pulp and paper industry in the Northeast for 20 years. Outside of work, Stan has served as a local Scoutmaster with Boy Scouts, helping over 30 young men become Eagle Scouts. He once started a Boy Scout troop in an urban Tulsa neighborhood and promoted three Eagle Scouts from it, which was a first in the history of a HUD Housing Development.

His diverse background has provided Gardner the opportunity to work with professional men and women, city council members and people from all walks of life – the perfect segue to his career in real estate.

Once licensed, it didn’t take long for Gardner and his team to become No. 1 in sales production in Owasso. 

“My specialty is selling custom homes and working with developments,” Gardner says. “I have been one of the Top 25 Realtors in Tulsa for the past 10 years and am the No. 1 luxury Realtor in Stone Canyon in Owasso. My clients say that I’m the hardest-working Realtor they know. ‘Like a dog with a bone, finds it and moves it!’ I’m excited to work hard at growing the Ebby Halliday brand in Oklahoma.” 

Stan is a USMC Vietnam Veteran and lives with his wife, Maria, whom he enjoys traveling with all over the country. 

Stan Gardner can be reached at 918-430-8247 or stangardner@ebby.com.

For more information about Ebby’s Oklahoma office, contact Sherry Smith at 903-893-5921 or sherrysmith@ebby.com.

About the Ebby Halliday Companies

Having celebrated 75 years of service to North Texans and those moving to the region in 2020, the Ebby Halliday Companies are No. 1 in Texas by sales volume. The Ebby Halliday Companies were acquired in 2018 by HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, which is the country’s largest residential real estate company based on transactions. The Ebby Halliday Companies’ core-services brands include Prosperity Home Mortgage, Home Team Insurance, Texas Premier Title and HSTX Title. For more information, visit ebby.com. 

INTERO CONTINUES EXPANDING SERVICE OFFERINGS WITH HOMESERVICES INSURANCE AGENCY PARTNERSHIP

CUPERTINO, Calif. (May 13, 2021) — Intero®, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., today announced the launch of HomeServices Insurance Agency within the company’s real estate services network. The HomeServices Insurance Agency announcement comes on the heels of the company’s other core real estate services that include partnerships with Prosperity Home Mortgage LLC and Orange Coast Title Company.

“Our mission at Intero is to provide customers with all their real estate services under one roof,” said Brian Crane, co-founder and CEO of Intero. “Insurance is key to completing that mission and we couldn’t be more excited to partner with HomeServices Insurance Agency to provide the best products and services available in the marketplace.”

In conjunction with the HomeServices Insurance Agency announcement, Intero is also proud to announce that Jyotirmoy “Jay” Bhattacharya will become the first insurance agent servicing Intero clients. Mr. Bhattacharya comes to HomeServices Insurance Agency with a wide array of experience from such insurance brands at AAA, Allstate, Geico and State Farm. In 2015, Mr. Bhattacharya made the switch from an engineering and technical background to the insurance industry. He has established himself as a top-tier insurance agent and has won several service awards for his sales excellence.

“We are excited to partner with Intero to offer their clients the best insurance products available with a level of service unsurpassed in the industry,” said Christopher Rosati, president and CEO of HomeServices Insurance, Inc. “We are thrilled to have Jay join the HomeServices Insurance Agency team. We are confident that with his experience and his dedication to the client, he will play a pivotal role in the success of HomeServices Insurance Agency within the Intero network.”

“Delivering insurance services is key to rounding out the core offering that Intero provides to their clients,” said Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America, the parent company to Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. “I can’t think of a better partnership than Intero and HomeServices Insurance Agency. Both companies are dedicated to providing top-of-the-line service to their clients and working tirelessly to make sure that every customer walks away with a smile on their face.”

About the Intero Brand:

Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America Inc., serves Northern California and Nevada with 23 offices throughout the greater Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Calaveras County, Western Nevada and the Greater Lake Tahoe Region. The Intero Franchise network is comprised of 38 affiliates located in Alabama, California, Nevada, Tennessee and Texas. The company is headquartered in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley.

Find more information about Intero at www.intero.com. Find more information about HomeServices of America at www.homeservices.com.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Welcomes Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal to Global Network

IRVINE, Calif. & Cascais, Portugal, April 22, 2021 – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, one of the world’s fastest-growing residential real estate brokerage franchise networks, is pleased to announce that Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal has joined its worldwide network. The startup company will add one additional office and eight agents to the global network. The brokerage will service Cascais, Lisbon, Porto, Comporta, Algarve and all over Portugal.

“In Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices we have found a network that truly recognizes that real estate is more than a transaction, but a relationship,” says Patrícia Salgueiro, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal. “The network aligns seamlessly with our values and I am looking forward to continuing the promise of trust, integrity, stability and longevity of work due to our tailor-made services within our brokerage. The Clients are my priority and I want to leave an unforgettable memory of the beginning of a great relationship!”

Patrícia Salgueiro brings years of valuable experience to her role. With a background immersed in the luxury market, she has acquired the necessary skills designed to persevere in a competitive market and create strong relationships all across the globe.

With their brand transition, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal gains access to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ active referral and relocation networks, and its “FOREVER Cloud” technology suite, a powerful source for lead generation, marketing support, social media, video production/distribution and more. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has aligned with best-in-class technology platforms to deliver world-class support to its network members far into the future.

The brand also provides global listing syndication, professional training and ongoing education and the exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listings. Its Prestige Magazine showcases network members’ premium listings with a strong lineup of feature stories covering topics that appeal to high-end real estate consumers.

“We’re proud to welcome Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal,” said Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “Patrícia is a skilled and seasoned leader who will effortlessly lead, guide and inspire her team of real estate professionals.”

The new brokerage will also leverage the strength and reliability of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Luxury Collection division, which utilizes an elite network of experienced, service-oriented professionals that combines local expertise with vast global connections, together with marketing resources to deliver the best-in-class results.

Gino Blefari, Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, also welcomed the company to the network, “We’re thrilled to have Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal join the network. Patrícia and her team share our vision to create long-lasting relationships with their clients and truly become Forever Agents.”

To learn more visit: bhhsatlanticportugal.com

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Atlantic Portugal is dedicated to helping its clients through the entire experience of the homebuying process and establishing connections all over the world. Its first-class service in supporting people to find their forever home in Portugal turns dreams into a reality. Serving the region in Cascais, Lisbon, Porto and Comporta, Portugal the company prides its reputation on providing excellence to its customers through professional advisory and support teams. Its elite clientele has entrusted Atlantic Portugal with Portugal’s most unique properties.

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, nearly 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, and the Middle East, and more than $138 billion in real estate sales volume. 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.

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HomeServices of America®Welcomes Steven James and Brad Loe to Leadership Team

Minneapolis, MN (April 20, 2021) — HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, today welcomed iconic leaders Steven James and Brad Loe to the company’s leadership team as Executive Directors of Brokerage Development.

James and Loe are among real estate’s most recognized and influential leaders, known for their industry expertise, high profile clientele and superior customer service. In their new roles, James and Loe will provide guidance and support to multiple strategic growth initiatives, all while advancing the expansion of state-of-the-art technology platforms as HomeServices strengthens its value proposition to its agents and consumers.

James and Loe will divide their time between HomeServices’ corporate headquarters in Minneapolis and offices in Westchester County.

Prior to joining HomeServices, James served as President and CEO of Douglas Elliman’s New York City brokerage and director of sales for its East Side office, the single most profitable residential real estate office in the U.S. for over 15 years. 

Loe served as Executive Manager of Sales at Douglas Elliman’s 1995 Broadway and 575 Madison Avenue offices and is highly respected as a mentor to his agents, bringing almost two decades of experience.

“Steven and Brad have each had exceptionally successful careers and understand the needs and preferences of agents, buyers and sellers,” said Gino Blefari, president and CEO of HomeServices of America. “This perspective will be invaluable as HomeServices works to reimagine the home buying and selling experience for consumers and the process by which our real estate agents serve them.”

“HomeServices is a strong, rapidly-evolving company with a sterling reputation,” added James. “In today’s fluid residential real estate brokerage landscape, the opportunity to work with a company of HomeServices’ caliber, one that offers such an exceptional value proposition to agents, is extremely compelling.  I look forward to furthering HomeServices’ offerings on both a domestic and global scale.”

“HomeServices is an outstanding organization with a talented and experienced leadership team all committed to delivering exceptional customer service,” noted Loe. “I couldn’t be more excited to join this extraordinary company and to play a role in their continued growth and success.”

HomeServices of America is the nation’s largest residential real estate company based on closed transactions and is the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, settlement, insurance, and relocation services. HomeServices is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate residential real estate franchise networks. The company is consistently lauded for its operational excellence with many of its leaders recognized year after year for their merits and industry accomplishments, most recently including a multitude of appointments to the 2020 Swanepoel Power 200 roster.

“Steven and Brad are well known for their energy, charisma and powerful industry presence,” concluded Blefari. “And we’re thrilled to welcome them to the HomeServices family.”

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Welcomes First Real Estate Company in India

Orenda, India, April 15, 2021 – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, one of the world’s fastest-growing residential real estate brokerage franchise networks, announced today its expansion into India. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Orenda India will mark the brokerage’s first global footprint in India, adding one office and 20 agents, and servicing Northern India including, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Ludhiana, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Goa.

“As things are changing quickly from a global perspective, the need to evolve and adapt is only increasing,” said Shrey Aeren, Managing Director, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Orenda India. “The values, recognition and consistency of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand are unmatched by any other and my team and I look forward to bringing that same real estate experience to India.”

“We are excited to welcome Shrey Aeren and his dynamic team to our global network,” said Chris Stuart, CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “Shrey’s leadership, combined with his team’s dedication brings the experience and first-class services that are in perfect alignment with the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices core values.”

With their brand transition, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Orenda India agents gain access to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ active referral and relocation networks, and its “FOREVER Cloud” technology suite, a powerful source for lead generation, marketing support, social media, video production/distribution and more. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has aligned with best-in-class technology platforms to deliver world-class support to its network members far into the future.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Orenda India will also have full access to the recently unveiled, Real Estate I.Q. System. The System combines the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand, marketing resources and technology with progressive education, training, coaching and consulting. The brand also provides global listing syndication, professional training and ongoing education and the exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listings. Its Prestige Magazine showcases network members’ premium listings with a strong lineup of feature stories covering topics that appeal to high-end real estate consumers.

Gino Blefari, Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, welcomed the brokerage, “We are thrilled to expand the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global footprint into India. We are looking forward to assisting them with their goal of expanding services to all of the major cities throughout India and building a team of over 1,000 real estate professionals.”

The addition of India furthers Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ global reach, who over the past three years has added franchisees in London (Kay & Co.); Dubai (Gulf Properties); Madrid and Barcelona (LARVIA) and Marbella; Lisbon (Portugal Property); Milan (MAGGI Properties); and Berlin and Frankfurt (Rubina Real Estate), Toronto and Quebec in Canada and San Miquel de Allende and Cancun in Mexico.


About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Orenda India
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Orenda India is a full-service brokerage servicing all of Northern India. Its unique model includes a supportive broker and staff to ensure agents have a great experience and can service their clients in the most professional way.

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, nearly 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East, and more than $138 billion in real estate sales volume. 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.

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INTERO CONTINUES NORTHERN CALIFORNIA EXPANSION WITH ACQUISITION OF BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CALIFORNIA REALTY OFFICE

CUPERTINO, Calif. (April 1, 2021) — Intero®, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., today announced the acquisition of San Bruno-based Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Realty. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The selling ownership group of Larry Franzella, Brian Boisson and John Gieseker will stay on with the new Intero office in various capacities. Mr. Franzella will continue as vice president and managing officer of the Intero San Bruno office, while Mr. Boisson and Mr. Gieseker will continue as top-producing REALTORS®.

“This acquisition furthers our momentum as we continue our expansion in Northern California,” said Brian Crane, co-founder and CEO of Intero. “We couldn’t have found a better group to partner with as we continue to grow. Larry, Brian and John share a similar vision and culture that will be seamless to assimilate into the rest of our company.”

Intero’s newest office is located at 180 El Camino Real in San Bruno, Calif., and is home to more than 70 real estate professionals and four staff members. In 2020, the office had 327 transactions, totaling more than $331 million in sales volume.

“I am very proud to welcome Larry, Brian and John to Intero and the HomeServices’ family of companies,” said Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America, the parent company to Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. “They have built an incredible team of talented, top-producing agents known for their commitment to providing their clients with the highest level of customer service, expertise and resources, which aligns perfectly with the dynamic and innovative culture that has made Intero the market leader. Congratulations to the entire team!”

“When we decided to sell our brokerage, Brian, John and I knew we had to associate with a company that shared our values and culture,” said Franzella. “Not only did we find that shared synergy with Intero, but we are honored and excited to be joining the HomeServices family of companies.”

About the Intero Brand:

Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America Inc., serves Northern California and Nevada with 23 offices throughout the greater Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Calaveras County, Western Nevada and the Greater Lake Tahoe Region. The Intero Franchise network is comprised of 38 affiliates located in Alabama, California, Nevada, Tennessee and Texas. The company is headquartered in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley.

Find more information about Intero at www.intero.com. Find more information about HomeServices of America at www.homeservices.com.

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HOMESERVICES OF AMERICA, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES AND REAL LIVING REAL ESTATE ARE THE LATEST REAL ESTATE POWERS TO PARTNER WITH THE LGBTQ+ REAL ESTATE ALLIANCE

Minneapolis, Minn. (February 23, 2021) –The LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance announced today that the joint operations of HomeServices of America, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate have signed a sponsorship agreement supporting The Alliance at the highest “Champions” level.

“This is an important step for us in continuing our support of the LGBTQ+ community,” said Teresa Palacios Smith, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at HomeServices of America who spearheaded the partnership. “We want to help remove the barriers the LGBTQ+ community faces in the journey to homeownership including discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We are working hard to help our employees, affiliated agents and franchise network members recognize how unconscious bias impacts behavior and how we can better serve the LGBTQ+ community. And, we have a unique opportunity to utilize our market presence to allow LGBTQ+ agents to flourish while also attracting more from the community into our industry.”

HomeServices of America, led by CEO Gino Blefari, is the nation’s largest residential real estate company based on closed transactions and is a premier provider of homeownership services including brokerage, mortgage, franchising, title, escrow, insurance and relocation services. HomeServices is the owner of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate franchise networks.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is led by Chairman Gino Blefari and CEO Chris Stuart. The company has more than 50,000 real estate professionals, nearly 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East, and closed more than $138 billion in sales volume in 2020.

Real Living Real Estate, led by Chairman Gino Blefari and CEO Allan Dalton, is a full-service real estate brokerage franchise system and network with nearly 3,000 member agents in 160 offices nationally.

As a Champion sponsor, Blefari will now participate in a variety of Alliance national events while Palacios Smith will sit on The Alliance’s sponsor advisory board.

“Teresa, Gino, Chris and Allan have been extremely supportive of The Alliance behind the scenes for months and we recognize how today’s announcement further propels us forward,” said Ryan Weyandt, CEO of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance. “They have been strong allies of our community and recognize how much more we can accomplish together to further expose the emotional and financial benefits of homeownership to the LGBTQ+ community. Along with our advocacy and member business development work, they are eager to help The Alliance showcase our industry to those within the LGBTQ+ community who may be looking for a career change and who have the entrepreneurial spirit that might allow them to thrive in real estate.”

The Alliance, which launched on October 1, 2020, is an inclusive member-based organization founded in June 2020 as a 501(c)6 non-profit corporation dedicated to enhancing the professional lives of its members while providing consumers with the proper resources to assist in buying, selling and enjoying their home.

ABOUT THE LGBTQ+ REAL ESTATE ALLIANCE

The LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance is a 501(c)6 non-profit dedicated to empowering the LGBTQ+ community on the path to homeownership as we also advocate on behalf of the community on housing issues. The Alliance, founded in June 2020, is an all-inclusive organization that works to improve the professional lives of its members through a public-facing Alliance Referral Community. The Alliance began accepting members in October 2020 and has more than 50 chapters in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. For more information visit realestatealliance.org.   

ABOUT HOMESERVICES of AMERICA
Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, is the nation’s largest residential real estate company (based on closed transactions) and through its operating companies, is 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 and Real Living Real Estate franchise networks. HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a consolidated subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Visit 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, nearly 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East, and more than $138 billion in real estate sales volume in 2020. 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.

About Real Living Real Estate
Real Living Real Estate is a full-service real estate brokerage franchise system and network with a comprehensive and integrated suite of resources for franchisees and their sales professionals, as well as for consumers who work with them. In 2016 and 2017, Real Living

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Welcomes Zambito Realtors to Global Brokerage Franchise Network

RVINE, Calif., February 3, 2021 – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, one of the world’s fastest-growing residential real estate brokerage franchise networks, is pleased to announce the addition of Zambito Realtors to its esteemed network. The company will add three offices and thirty-five agents to the global brokerage network, now operating as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zambito REALTORS® and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Western New York Properties.

“We decided to join the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network because of its unique technology and marketing tools that will give our agents access to more when assisting clients in looking for their next home, more data, more properties and more neighborhood information,” said Rita Zambito, Owner of Zambito Realtors. “Taking our local expertise and adding the global network and reach that only Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices can offer us, our agents and our clients will have an unbeatable advantage in the marketplace.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Zambito Realtors to our network,” said Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “Zambito Realtors has long been Western New York’s hometown real estate company and I know their service to the community will expand moving forward. Zambito agents represent the same Berkshire Hathaway principles of trust, integrity, stability and longevity. Their leadership’s mission to uphold the integrity of their professionals through building lasting relationships with their clients creates the long-term success we are looking for.”

With their brand transition, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zambito REALTORS® and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Western New York Properties agents gain access to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ active referral and relocation networks, and its “FOREVER Cloud” technology suite, a powerful source for lead generation, marketing support, social media, video production/distribution and more. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has aligned with best-in-class technology platforms to deliver world-class support to its network members far into the future.

The brand also provides global listing syndication, professional training and ongoing education and the exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listings. Its Prestige Magazine showcases network members’ premium listings with a strong lineup of feature stories covering topics that appeal to high-end real estate consumers.

Zambito Realtors has been and will continue to offer insight and guidance for all types of real estate transactions, from single-family homes, multi-family homes, vacant land, commercial listings, farms with specific expertise in equestrian properties.

Gino Blefari, Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, also welcomed the company to the network, “Zambito Realtors demonstrates a commitment to their community beyond their business, which is a wonderful example of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices mission to be dedicated to our clients and continuously improve their lives.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network represents real people with big dreams and different realities. It’s a legacy brand that understands the realities that come with the complex real estate journey. Not as agents and salesmen, but as partners and trusted advisors. From the first home to the last home and everything in between.

For more information, visit: bhhswny.com

About Zambito Realtors
Located in the heart of Orleans County, Zambito Realtors have a wealth of experience. With expertise in selling residential, waterfront, multi-family, commercial and foreclosure properties in the surrounding areas. The office covers Orleans County and surrounding Niagara, Erie, Monroe and Genesee counties.

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, nearly 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East, and more than $119 billion in real estate sales volume. 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

IOWA REALTY EXPANDS FOOTPRINT IN NEWTON & GRINNELL

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – (Feb. 1, 2021) – Kim Bakey, CEO of HomeServices of Iowa, parent of Iowa Realty Co. Inc., announced today the purchase of Heartland Iowa Realty which has offices in Newton and Grinnell.

Heartland Iowa Realty was independently owned and operated by Caren and Phil Clevenger and Mark Larson. This acquisition is part of a continued growth strategy by Iowa Realty, the largest real estate broker in the state with nearly 900 agents in 17 offices and 32 franchises.

Heartland Iowa Realty has been an Iowa Realty franchise in Newton since 2005. With the acquisition, local leadership will remain in place. Mark Larson has been named the managing broker and Caren Clevenger will continue in her sales leadership role.

According to CEO Kim Bakey, it’s a perfect match and she anticipates a smooth transition.

“As the market leader in Iowa, we routinely reach out to successful companies or brokers who share our integrity, high performance expectations and outstanding service to clients,” stated Bakey. “Heartland Iowa Realty met that criteria and more. We are extremely pleased about this new relationship in 2021.”

Caren Clevenger added, “This is an exciting new chapter for our sales associates and team members. Now more than ever, it’s vital to provide a depth of resources to meet the real estate demands of today. With the strength of Iowa Realty and HomeServices of Iowa behind us, we’re well-positioned for even greater success in the future.”

          Previously, Iowa Realty has purchased independent franchises in Knoxville and Perry. When franchises are acquired, their agents automatically have access to more than 40 quality programs or services provided by Iowa Realty to support their efforts. They also are part of a dynamic network of peer offices which provides collaborative opportunities, best practices, and local community involvement.

About HomeServices of Iowa

HomeServices of Iowa is comprised of Iowa Realty, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices First Realty, HomeServices Lending, Midland Title & Escrow, Iowa Title, and HomeServices Insurance – all working together to create a full range of real estate services and products. Based in West Des Moines, Iowa, HomeServices of Iowa, a wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc. is the leading real estate brokerage company operating in Iowa. It offers an unparalleled level of award-winning residential and commercial real estate services through a network of more than 900 licensed real estate associates in 17 offices and 32 affiliate realty companies which are independently owned and operated throughout Iowa. HomeServices of Iowa, a part of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, has been helping generations of Iowans achieve their dreams of homeownership since 1952. For more information, visit www.IowaRealty.com.