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.


BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES GEORGIA PROPERTIES HOSTS RIBBON CUTTING

TO CELEBRATE OPENING OF NEW HISTORIC COLLEGE PARK OFFICE

Atlanta, Georgia– On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties (BHHS) celebrated the opening of its GATEWAY Historic College Park Office with a ribbon cutting ceremony that included top BHHS GA executives, media, realtors, and local politicians.

“I am thrilled to celebrate the expansion of our footprint into Historic College Park,” said Dan Forsman, President and CEO Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties. “Under Wendy’s leadership, this office is sure to flourish and serve as a tremendous asset to the surrounding community.”

“We at Prosperity are passionate about increasing homeownership within this community and intend to provide products and programs to ensure successful homeownership,” said Tim Wilson, CEO of Prosperity Mortgage. “This has been a vision of ours for years and, with Wendy as S.V.P. and Managing Broker, we have an unbeatable team.”

Guests at the event included BHHS GA President & CEO, Dan Forsman; Prosperity Mortgage CEO, Tim Wilson; BHHS GA Regional Manager & S.V.P., DeAnn Golden; College Park City Manager, Renee Coakley; and City Councilmen, Tom Carpenter, Artie Jones, and Ken Allen.

Located at 1876 Princeton Ave, College Park, GA 30337, in the heart of College Park’s Historic District – the 1.5 story, 6,176-square-foot office offers a welcoming environment and industry-leading technology for agents, clients, and community members to connect. 

“With its central location, many attractions, and diverse and welcoming community – College Park boasts small-town charm and comfort with the convenience of metropolitan living,” says Senior Vice President and Managing Broker, Wendy Allen. “We’re excited to provide home buyers and sellers in this rapidly growing community with the expertise, service, and global marketing power that only HomeServices can offer.”

In the office, Senior Vice President and Managing Broker, Wendy Allen, will lead the sales strategy and enhance the BHHS brand experience for 23 agents and clients in the South Fulton area. As BHHS continues to be a top-rated real estate company in Georgia, its new College Park office’s opening marks its expansion into one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the state. 

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties has over 1,600 associates and 26 locations across the Greater Metro Atlanta and North Georgia area. The company generated over $4.4 billion in sales volume and 11,606 transaction sides in 2020. Trendgraphix reports that Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties is ranked #1 in home sales for the Greater Metro Atlanta area. Led by president and CEO Dan Forsman, the organization offers a full suite of real estate services including residential real estate, luxury real estate, new homes services, condo/ high-rise services, commercial real estate, corporate relocation, property management, mortgage lending, title and settlement services, home warranties and insurance. Equal Housing Opportunity. Visit www.BHHSGA.com.


HomeServices Executives Named to 2020 Swanepoel Power 200

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (January 12, 2021) — HomeServices today recognized its executives from across its family of brokerage and franchise companies for being named to the 2020 Swanepoel Power 200 roster. This list recognizes individuals whose hard work and individual contributions have notably influenced the real estate industry, their companies and the entire HomeServices’ organization.

The HomeServices’ executives recognized on the 2020 Swanepoel Power 200 list are:

Candace Adams—president and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties;

Mary Lee Blaylock—president and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Gino Blefari—CEO, HomeServices of America and chairman, HSF Affiliates

Christy Budnick—president and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

Jon Coile—vice president, MLS & Industry Relations

Allan Dalton—president, Real Living Real Estate

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—president and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties

Chris Kelly—president and CEO, Ebby Halliday Companies

Rosey Koberlein—chairman (? CEO, Long Companies

Greg Mason—president and CEO, Edina Realty Home Services

Rei Mesa—president and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty

Gary Scott—president of General Brokerage, Long & Foster Companies

Chris Stuart— CEO, HSF Affiliates

The complete list of rankings with bios and photos is available at https://www.t360.com/power200/2019.


Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Brokerage Franchise Network Expands to Mexico’s San Miguel de Allende

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO AND IRVINE, CA (August 4, 2020) — Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices announces their first network member in Mexico located in the American expatriate and retiree destination of San Miguel de Allende in central Mexico. The brokerage will operate as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colonial Homes San Miguel.

Already renowned as the “#1 City in the World” as designated twice each by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure magazines, San Miguel de Allende is an ideal expansion for the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand which has widespread name-recognition among Americans.

“We’ve been eyeing Mexico for some time as part of our global expansion,” said Gino Blefari, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “With its strong American and Canadian population, San Miguel de Allende seemed a natural fit for our brand and the name recognition we command.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colonial Homes San Miguel began operations locally in 1995 under the guidance of local resident Alma Cecilia Ramirez, a stalwart in the real estate industry widely admired for her reputation. Joining her as co-owner and broker is American expatriate Gregory Gunter, a certified Global Luxury specialist who reached Top Producer status with his prior agency and earned the #2 ranked sales agent by volume nationwide in Mexico among the nation’s largest franchise.

It was Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ business strategy, unique in all of Mexico, that drew them to join the brand.

“We really feel Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices will revolutionize the real estate industry in Mexico, especially in San Miguel de Allende,” says Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “We provide a formal training program unknown in Mexico, a U.S.-based marketing resource center equally unique to Mexico, and our team has direct and specific access to their fellow real estate agents in feeder markets. That advantage is huge for our international teams.”

The new Colonial Homes San Miguel office is positioned as a luxury-focused office, thanks in part to broker Gregory Gunter’s direction and background. As a certified Guild member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, earned by multiple recent sales above $1MM in value, and a previous certified Global Luxury specialist, Gunter will receive the distinction as a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Luxury Collection specialist, the brand’s division dedicated to the high-value homes owned by highly discerning homeowners. In the U.S., only seven percent of the real estate market fits that distinction, while Gunter notes it is 16% of the local market in San Miguel de Allende.

“Alma and I are thrilled to offer all our clients this vast array of new marketing and technology tools,” said Gunter. “Among other advantages more common in the U.S., but new to Mexico, is our ability to offer clients live, one-on-one virtual tours, as though walking the clients through the home side-by-side. Post-pandemic, this is a critical tool, but our buyers initially are all long-distance anyway, so this is a huge marketing advantage for our selling clients.”

“We’re excited to have a bi-national and bi-cultural ownership of our first franchise in Mexico,” added Blefari. “We expect their crossover outreach to both Mexican and American/Canadian clients to be unparalleled in the market.”

Critical to an international market, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices provides global listing syndication, as well as personalized professional training and the exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listings. Colonial Homes San Miguel also gains access to the brand’s ‘FOREVER Cloud’ technology suite powered by SalesForce, including lead generation, marketing support, social media content, video production/distribution support and more.

About Colonial Homes San Miguel

Founded in 1995 by widely-respected local broker Alma Cecilia Ramirez, Colonial Homes San Miguel now includes American expatriate Gregory Gunter, known locally as The Dream Pro: “San Miguel’s Dream Home Expert!” and an expert in the luxury market. Each has earned a reputation for leveraging cutting-edge technology with high-touch customer service and now teamed with one of the world’s most respected companies, expects to provide clients with an unparalleled level of resources and personalized services. Visit BHHSColonialHomesSanMiguel.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 $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.


Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago Names Diane Glass CEO

CHICAGO, IL – July 28, 2020 – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago announced that Diane Glass was promoted to Chief Executive Officer. As the head of the firm’s Strategic Leadership Team of President Mark Pasquesi and Senior VP and General Manager Joe Stacy, she will be responsible for the company’s 1,500 real estate professionals in 24 offices serving the Chicago metro area, southwest Michigan, northwest Indiana and southeast Wisconsin, as well as the company’s affiliated lending, title and insurance businesses.

In the last twelve months, Glass and the team have navigated the brokerage through a name change, expanded the new Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago brand to Downers Grove and River Forest, and celebrated the company’s naming as the #1 Top Workplace in Chicago in 2019 by the Chicago Tribune.

“Diane stands out as an insightful, compassionate and decisive leader. Her creative ideas have elevated the operational excellence of the company and her open communication style has fostered deep connections with agents, managers and employees,” said Gino Blefari, Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and CEO of HomeServices of America, the parent company of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago. “Her leadership during these extraordinary times has well-positioned the company for future growth and its ability to capitalize on the quick recovery of the Chicago metro real estate market.”

Even before Illinois and the surrounding states enacted Stay at Home Orders this spring, Glass acted swiftly, transforming the offices to remote work within days, in the midst of a very strong spring real estate market. The affiliated lending and title companies, Prosperity Home Mortgage and Fort Dearborn Title were the first to offer zero touch video closings. And Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago agents were the first to establish Virtual Open Houses on social media when traditional open houses weren’t allowed.

“Diane exemplifies the leadership attributes of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Forever Brand ideals,” said Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “We are excited about the company’s new energy and ideas, and how they are using the Forever Agent platform and the global reach of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand as a springboard for growth.”

“Last year, we implemented a new model for real estate leadership by bringing together three experts in areas that are key to agent success,” said Blefari. “This talented, agile team has exceeded our expectations with the commitment to all-inclusive real estate service and creating exceptional customer experiences.”

Glass has been the company’s Chief Operating Officer since 2016, after being the VP of Sales Development and managing branch offices.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago is a full-service real estate firm with nearly 1,400 real estate professionals and staff in 24 offices serving customers throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, the North Shore, West Suburban communities, Southern Wisconsin, Northwest Indiana and Harbor Country, Michigan. Recognized as the #No. 1 Top Workplace in Chicago by the Chicago Tribune in 2019, their local roots are complemented by the extensive global reach of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, one of the nation’s leading real estate brands. Affiliated and ancillary services in the form of Prosperity Home Mortgage, Fort Dearborn Title, and HomeServices Insurance complete the comprehensive services offered to clients. Visit BHHSChicago.com.

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Media Contact

Liz Dominello

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Chicago

312.268.2749

ldominello@bhhschicago.com


HomeServices of America Names Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (July 16, 2020) — Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, has appointed Teresa Palacios Smith as Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer for HomeServices and its subsidiaries, including its family of brokerage, mortgage, insurance, settlement-services, and relocation companies, and HSF Affiliates, which operates the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living franchise networks.

In her role, Palacios Smith will lead HomeServices’ employee- and agent-diversity programs, cultivate a culture of equity and inclusion, and champion the company’s goal of increasing minority homeownership.

“There’s no place like home.  Our home is a place that we associate with acceptance, family, love, safety, and belonging,” said Palacios Smith. “HomeServices exemplifies this and I’m honored to lead the diversity and inclusion efforts of a company that values its people, promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, and cherishes homeownership and fair housing for all.”   

Palacios Smith began her career as a successful real estate agent and served on Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ management team. In 2017, she joined HSF Affiliates as its Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion for the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living franchise networks.

During her more than 20 years in the real estate industry, Palacios Smith has been a national speaker and trainer who has focused on emerging markets, unconscious bias, and real estate trends in diverse market segments. She serves on the boards of many of the country’s top housing organizations that focus on supporting people from traditionally underserved communities and is recognized for her dedication to expanding and celebrating leadership opportunities in real estate for women. She is a past president of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), one of the largest associations of minority real estate professionals in the country, and a cofounder of the NAHREP’s Atlanta chapter. In 2019, she received the Diversity Leader Award from the National Association of Women in the Housing & Real Estate Ecosystem. In May 2018, she was honored by RISMedia with the Newsmaker award and was inducted, along with HomeServices’ executive chair Ron Peltier, into RISMedia’s Hall of Fame.

“HomeServices has been, and always will be, dedicated to reflecting the rich diversity of the many markets and communities we serve as we look to provide and expand the opportunity of home ownership to all communities,“ said Blefari. “Expanding our executive leadership team with a person of Teresa’s caliber, passion, and energy is an important first step.”

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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. 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.


Dwell Realty of Anchorage, AK Joins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Brokerage Franchise Network

IRVINE, CA (JUNE 16, 2020) – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices today announced the addition of Dwell Realty to the network. The brokerage, headquartered in Anchorage, Alaska, has served the area for more than eight years and will operate as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. The addition of Alaska Realty adds 38 agents to the brokerage network and the first Alaskan office.

Connie Yoshimura, owner of Alaska Realty, said, “There is one real estate brokerage franchise that participates in building those dreams better than all others and that is Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Warren Buffett is respected worldwide and represents trust, integrity, and stability which is what Dwell Realty has striven to follow since its creation eight years ago.”

Alaska Realty will possess the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ franchise rights for the entire state of Alaska. Said Yoshimura, “The world has grown smaller and our buyers and sellers need more from our industry. I am proud to bring Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices to all 663,300 square miles of Alaska.”

The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brokerage network has experienced incredible growth in its seven-year history and in the last few years has expanded to Canada, England, Dubai, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, and now the northernmost American state, Alaska.

“We are proud to welcome Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty to the network,” said Gino Blefari, Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “Connie has built her brokerage into a vital part of the Anchorage market and we’re thrilled she has chosen to bring her Forever Agents to our network.”

Connie added, “This was not an easy decision for me, it took many months of research and thought. But now with more technology, market resources and connectivity to the nation and global reach, we will also bring new geographical, commercial, luxury collection and relocation opportunities as we expand our reach to the entire state of Alaska. Our Realtors will now have more access to tools and ongoing education, all with a globally recognizable brand.”

Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices echoed this sentiment, “We’re happy Connie took her time to evaluate our network and we’re confident that Alaska Realty will find Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ suite of technology and network support will give her licensees the tools and education they need to grow their business in Alaska.”

The company gains access to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ ‘FOREVER Cloud’ technology suite powered by Salesforce including lead generation, marketing support, social media content, video production/distribution support and more. In addition, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices provides global listing syndication, professional training and the exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listing.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty

Connie Yoshimura, Owner/Broker of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty, has over 40 years of residential real estate sales and land development experience. She has developed such popular new home communities as Huffman Timbers, Turnagain View Estates, Potter Highlands and Heritage Estates in Eagle River as well as multi-family units and condominium developments. Yoshimura founded Dwell Realty in 2012 and grew its Anchorage presence to 38 agents before joining the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network.

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, 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.


HomeServices of America® Recognizes National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals Award Recipients

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. – HomeServices of America today congratulates agents from across their family of companies who were recognized by the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) Top 250 Latino Agents Award released last week.

Now in its ninth year, the award annually recognizes those top performing agents whose commitment and hard work has impacted the rate of Hispanic homeownership in communities across the country. In 2019, according to the NAHREP, these agents represent a combined total of 26,476 transactions in closed transaction sides and over $6.86 billion in total aggregate volume.

“On behalf of HomeServices, congratulations to each of the award recipients for their commitment to making the dream of homeownership a reality for so many,” said Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America. “We take great pride in the accomplishments of our tremendous agents and their contributions to the industry as well as their community. Each of these individuals have differentiated themselves within the real estate industry with their dedication to increasing the rate of Hispanic homeownership in communities across the country.” 

We are pleased to recognize the following agents and teams who earned this prestigious recognition:

Top 250 Individuals by Transactions

Sonia Arias—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Erika Carrasco—Intero Real Estate Services

Ramon Franco—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Aventura

Steven Pagan—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors®

Monique Pennen-Wills—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Brickell

Richard Rodriguez—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties

Juan Umanzor—Long & Foster Real Estate

Top 50 Teams by Transactions          

Monica Betancourt—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Coral Gables, South Miami- The Monica Betancourt Group

Joe Gutierrez—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Las Olas- Joe Gutierrez Team 

Esther Percal—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty

Top 100 Individuals by Volume         

Erika Carrasco—Intero Real Estate Services

Gustavo Cardenas—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Nelson Gonzalez—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Miami Beach

Carlos Padilla—Intero Real Estate Services

Steven Pagan—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors®

Juan Umanzor—Long & Foster Real Estate

Top 50 Teams by Volume                   

Monica Betancourt—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Coral Gables, South Miami- The Monica Betancourt Group

Connie Cabral—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Aventura

Susana Corrigan—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Corrigan-Cohen Group

Esther Percal—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty

Top 100 by Region                              

Midwest                                                 

Martha Lebron-Dykeman—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices First Realty

Northeast                                              

Steven Pagan—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors®

Juan Umanzor—Long & Foster Real Estate

South                                                     

Gisella Cacciamani—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Coral Gables, South Miami

Ramon Franco—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Aventura

Nelson Gonzalez—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Miami Beach

Debbie Lazoff—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Aventura

Lilia Naar—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Brickell

Monique Pennen-Wills—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Brickell

Oscar Rodriguez—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Las Olas Joe Gutierrez Team 

Richard Rodriguez—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties

Marcelo Steinmander—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty Miami Beach

West                                                       

Sonia Arias—Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Erika Carrasco—Intero Real Estate Services

Rookie List                                            

Jessica Sarasch—ReeceNichols Real Estate

The complete list of award recipients is available at https://nahrep.org/top250/2020-top250-agent-report.pdf.

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