NAR CEO Bob Goldberg to Retire at the End of 2024
CHICAGO (June 21, 2023) – National Association of Realtors® Chief Executive Officer Bob Goldberg will retire when his current contract expires, effective December 31, 2024. Goldberg will close his career after serving 30 years at NAR and more than four decades in U.S. real estate. "My time at NAR has been extremely gratifying and, I hope, extremely successful, too," Goldberg said. "I've had the chance to lead a wonderful staff and we've taken great pride in making sure this organization is as valuable and responsive to our members as possible. I'm tremendously thankful for the opportunity NAR has given me and for all the people I've been fortunate to work with over these past three decades." Goldberg was initially hired at NAR in 1995 to lead the development of realtor.com®, which launched that year. He continues to serve as president and CEO of the Realtors® Information Network, which is responsible for oversight of the operating agreement between realtor.com® and Move, Inc. "Bob's selfless commitment to our association has been inspiring to me and to everyone who's served on NAR's leadership team these past six years," said 2023 NAR President Kenny Parcell. "He's done so much in a relatively short time that will help Realtors® and consumers thrive both today and decades into the future. I'm incredibly thankful for that, and I know each of our members has Bob to thank for the innovations and advancements he's championed in real estate markets across the world." Soon after becoming CEO, Bob spearheaded creation of the association's Strategic Business, Innovation, and Technology team. Today, more than 220 global firms have been scaled through NAR's growth accelerator, REACH, and its investment arm, Second Century Ventures. Just one domestic REACH program was operating in the U.S. when Goldberg's tenure began in 2017. Seven global entities now serve consumers, real estate agents and technology innovators, with REACH programs active in Canada, the United Kingdom and Latin America, among others. REACH participation has grown from 40 global enterprises to 211 in that time—a 400% expansion in less than six years—while SCV has simultaneously increased its investments from 12 to 73. Goldberg was also instrumental in creating NAR's Innovation, Opportunity & Investment Summit, an annual event which today attracts hundreds of industry professionals, PropTech leaders and global investors. "When I was named CEO, I noted how excited I was to begin this role at such a critical time for NAR," Goldberg said. "I committed to making sure this association was wholly focused on our members' long-term success, and I'm so proud of the work my team has done to make good on that intention." Under Goldberg's leadership, NAR's advocacy team helped guide the industry through the COVID-19 pandemic, protecting real estate's classification as an "essential" service and allowing residential markets to pace America's broader economic recovery. To assist members, Goldberg revived the association's "Right Tools, Right Now" program and drove an initiative to provide telemedicine services to Realtors®. REACH and SCV, too, played a critical role in supporting Realtors® and consumers during the pandemic. Goldberg has also led ongoing efforts to ensure NAR member dues are allocated more efficiently, resulting in cumulative savings of more than $45 million for the association since 2017. "Bob has made a lasting impact on our industry and all three levels of this association—local, state and national," Parcell continued. "I am tremendously grateful for him, and I know I speak on behalf of our entire membership when I say Bob Goldberg has been amazing. We cannot thank him enough for his service." Under Goldberg, NAR has worked to prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion for staff and members, recognizing its unique position as the nation's largest trade association and its substantial influence to advance fair housing and combat systemic discrimination. The organization has dedicated significant resources both in Washington, D.C. and alongside several national real estate entities in support of the industry's broader fair housing efforts. NAR advocates consistently for stronger fair housing and fair lending enforcement, as well as for federal policy that will help close homeownership gaps among demographic groups. Goldberg called the effort to close racial wealth and homeownership gaps "the most consequential civil rights issue of our day" in an opinion piece he authored in 2022. In addition to its federal advocacy, NAR has launched a number of innovative fair housing programs and partnerships under Goldberg's leadership, dating back to his hiring of the association's first Director of Fair Housing Policy in 2019. Goldberg has also overseen significant growth of the Realtors Property Resource®, which now attracts a record number of Realtors® capitalizing on its collection of professional tools and services. RPR has reduced annual costs by 22% since 2017, illustrating its ability to maximize member benefits while preserving NAR resources. Similarly, SentriLock has recorded 50% revenue growth with Goldberg serving as its board chairman, with operations expanding to serve nearly 500,000 members across five nations. NAR Realtor® Benefits has also negotiated over 40 strategic partnerships that have benefited hundreds of thousands of members dating back to 2017. Finally, within his first year as CEO, Goldberg launched NAR's "Day in the Life of a Realtor®" program, an ongoing annual requirement for NAR staff intended to provide a more accurate illustration of its members' profession. NAR also recently earned the distinction as one of the nation's top employment destinations for the third straight year. Organizations certified as "Great Places to Work" typically report higher levels of employee satisfaction and lower rates of voluntary turnover than the typical U.S. employer. "Although there is still much to accomplish in the next year and a half, I am glad this timeline will give our leadership ample opportunity to conduct a thorough, national search," Goldberg concluded. "I look forward to supporting that team however possible as their work to find NAR's next CEO begins in the coming days." NAR will announce additional information regarding its CEO search and application process in a separate advisory expected early next week. The National Association of Realtors® is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. The term Realtor® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

Auction.io Acquires Home-Buying Platform Doorsey
DALLAS, May 17, 2023 - Auction.io, a leading B2B SaaS provider of auction and e-commerce solutions that has processed more than 1 billion auction transactions for Fortune 500 and middle-market companies, announced today that it has acquired Doorsey, a modern high-tech online platform designed to facilitate and improve real estate transactions for buyers, sellers and their agents. The acquisition of Doorsey by Auction.io marks a significant milestone for both companies. By adding Doorsey's innovative technologies and expertise, Auction.io is significantly expanding its presence in the residential and commercial real estate market. The Doorsey platform has consistently outperformed the traditional method of selling properties, and with additional resources from Auction.io, it is well positioned to accelerate its growth trajectory in the foreseeable future. Doorsey's mission is advancing the new tech-enabled era for residential real estate with one of the most comprehensive for-sale listing platforms available on the market today featuring an open auction process for selling properties. Buyers have access to a third-party inspection report, seller disclosures, a 3D virtual tour, and a community forum for interacting with sellers and neighbors — everything that a buyer needs to bid with confidence, even sight unseen, and sellers have a transparent and robust digital tool to maximize their selling price and closure rate. The platform differentiates itself by providing buyers and real estate agents with full visibility into competing offers in real-time. The real estate agents favor the Doorsey platform because of the intuitiveness of its interface and ease of use, as well as the robust functionality of the software solution and additional control over the selling process that it provides. Doorsey's listings are posted on the local MLS (Multiple Listing Services) and distributed through national real estate websites, including Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, and Realtor.com. According to Rajesh Rajaram, CEO of Auction.io, "We are thrilled to welcome Doorsey to our business. Doorsey has developed a groundbreaking platform that has revolutionized the home buying process by providing buyers with a transparent, efficient and secure way to purchase properties and sellers with tools to maximize value and speed of the sale transactions. While Auction.io is strong in the automotive, collectibles, liquidation, live animals, electronics and other areas, the acquisition of Doorsey is a strategic move that enables us to further expand our reach in the real estate market and provide a best-in-class online auction marketplace solution for buyers and sellers in that space too." Doorsey's Founder and CEO, Jordan Allen, added, "We are excited that Doorsey will join forces with Auction.io and believe that this partnership will enable the business to continue to shake up the real estate industry. Our mission has always been to make the residential and commercial real estate buying process as seamless and transparent as possible, and we are confident that by joining forces with Auction.io, we will be able to achieve this goal." Doorsey's operations will be integrated with Auction.io offerings shortly after this transaction. The terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. About Auction.io Founded in Oct 2021, Auction.io is a Dallas, TX based B2B SaaS solution company that provides customizable single and multiple vendor e-commerce auction marketplaces in the US and globally. For more information, visit www.auction.io. About Doorsey Doorsey is SaaS platform designed to improve the home buying and selling offer process. Doorsey's mission is to advance the new tech-enabled era for residential real estate, providing buyers, sellers, and their agents full transparency throughout the offer process. To learn more, visit www.doorsey.com.

RE Technology's Top 10 Articles of 2022
Over the past 10 days, we've been counting down our top 10 articles of the year. These articles are an exclusive breed—at RE Technology, we publish over 1,000 articles each year. So which articles were among the 1 percent that made it into our top 10? Despite the uncertainty hitting the real estate market this year, only one (unlike last year) economics-focused article made the list in 2022. Granted, that article came in at #1, so it's safe to say the market was still top-of-mind. In 2022, the articles that got the most attention focused on client management (#3, #5, and #7) and troubleshooting tech (#4). What else made it into this year's hall of fame? Check out the full list of our most-read articles below: Is a Recession About to Rock the Housing Market? What Type of Car Should Realtors Drive? Termination of Real Estate Contract by Buyer: A Guide for Agents and Buyers Is Cold Calling Still Effective in Real Estate? Friday Freebie: 8 Homebuyer and Seller Checklists The 1 Thing You Must Do After Every Transaction 22 Ideas for Showing Clients Your Appreciation Tips for Growing the Listing Side of Your Real Estate Business Smartphone Running Slower? Here Are 4 Helpful Tips How Much Data Is Hidden in Your Listing Photos?

CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS issues formal apology for past discriminatory policies
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 14, 2022 -- The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) formally apologizes for its past discriminatory policies, including Proposition 14 — a successful 1960s ballot initiative that overturned the State of California's first fair housing law. Regrettably, the California Real Estate Association (CREA), now known as C.A.R., once played a leading role in segregation and exclusionary practices in housing. California communities still grapple with wealth and homeownership inequities. For decades, CREA promoted policies that encouraged discrimination and the idea that neighborhood integration would negatively impact property values. The Association endorsed racial zoning, "redlining" and racially restrictive covenants. "The Association was wrong. We not only apologize for those actions, we strongly condemn them, and we will continue working to address the legacy of these discriminatory policies and practices," said C.A.R. President Otto Catrina. CREA was behind Article 34, a law passed in the 1950s that remains in place that makes it very difficult to build affordable housing in California. The Association also excluded women and people of color from membership. In the 1960s, California's first fair housing law, the Rumford Fair Housing Act, was passed. CREA actively encouraged its members to support Proposition 14, a law that overturned the Rumford Act and modified California's constitution so that the state could not prohibit private property owners from engaging in discrimination. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned the proposition as unconstitutional. In the years since the passage of the federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act and other fair housing laws, C.A.R. has prioritized understanding and addressing the unique homeownership barriers impacting communities of color and other historically excluded communities. "We have continued to unpack our difficult and sometimes obscure history of opposing fair housing laws, promoting segregation and racial exclusion prior to the Fair Housing Act of 1968. As an organization that deeply values inclusion, we can't change the actions of the past, but we are taking bold action now to help build a more equitable and just future," said Catrina. For instance, C.A.R. recently sponsored a law requiring periodic implicit bias training for all real estate salespersons. Additionally, C.A.R. helped shape a new law that strengthens consumer protection in instances of appraisal bias. Currently, C.A.R. is working to address the legacy of discriminatory policies in a variety of ways. These include: Offering a closing cost grant for members of underserved communities. Donating to the Black Wealth Builders Fund, a down payment assistance program for Black home buyers in the Bay Area. Partnering with and sponsoring the work of nonprofit organizations that support greater homeownership for members of underserved communities. Sponsoring and supporting a variety of policies that address supply and affordability challenges for communities of color. Co-sponsoring a bill that would overturn Article 34, a law California REALTORS® helped pass in the 1950s that makes it much harder for California communities to build affordable housing. Supporting a law that provides a system for redacting restrictive covenants in property records. C.A.R. will continue to develop and strengthen programs that break down barriers to homeownership. To learn more, visit fairhousingcalifornia.org. Leading the way ...® in real estate news and information for more than 110 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (www.car.org) is one of the largest state trade organizations in the United States, with more than 217,000 members dedicated to the advancement of professionalism in real estate. C.A.R. is headquartered in Los Angeles.

FTC Takes Action to Stop Online Home Buying Firm Opendoor Labs, Inc. from Cheating Potential Sellers with Misleading Claims about its Home-Buying Service
Company Will Have to Pay $62 Million and Stop Deceiving Consumers about the Supposed Benefits of its Service August 1, 2022 -- The Federal Trade Commission today took action against online home buying firm Opendoor Labs Inc., for cheating potential home sellers by tricking them into thinking that they could make more money selling their home to Opendoor than on the open market using the traditional sales process. The FTC alleged that Opendoor pitched potential sellers using misleading and deceptive information, and in reality, most people who sold to Opendoor made thousands of dollars less than they would have made selling their homes using the traditional process. Under a proposed administrative order, Opendoor will have to pay $62 million and stop its deceptive tactics. "Opendoor promised to revolutionize the real estate market but built its business using old-fashioned deception about how much consumers could earn from selling their homes on the platform," said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "There is nothing innovative about cheating consumers." Opendoor, headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, operates an online real estate business that, among other things, buys homes directly from consumers as an alternative to consumers selling their homes on the open market. Advertised as an "iBuyer," Opendoor claimed to use cutting-edge technology to save consumers money by providing "market-value" offers and reducing transaction costs compared with the traditional home sales process. Opendoor's marketing materials included charts comparing their consumers' net proceeds from selling to Opendoor versus on the market. Those charts almost always showed that consumers would make thousands of dollars more by selling to Opendoor. In fact, the complaint states, the vast majority of consumers who sold to Opendoor actually lost thousands of dollars compared with selling on the traditional market, because the company's offers have been below market value on average and its costs have been higher than what consumers typically pay when using a traditional realtor. The agency's investigation found that Opendoor also violated the law by misrepresenting that: Opendoor used projected market value prices when making offers to buy homes, when in fact those prices included downward adjustments to the market values; Opendoor made money from disclosed fees, when in reality it made money by buying low and selling high; consumers likely would have paid the same amount in repair costs whether they sold their home through Opendoor or in traditional sales; and consumers likely would have paid less in costs by selling to Opendoor than they would pay in traditional sales. Enforcement Action Opendoor has agreed to a proposed order that requires the company to: Pay $62 million: The order requires Opendoor to pay the Commission $62 million, which is expected to be used for consumer redress. Stop deceiving potential home sellers: The order prohibits Opendoor from making the deceptive, false, and unsubstantiated claims it made to consumers about how much money they will receive or the costs they will have to pay to use its service. Stop making baseless claims: The order requires Opendoor to have competent and reliable evidence to support any representations made about the costs, savings, or financial benefits associated with using its service, and any claims about the costs associated with traditional home sales. The Commission vote to accept the consent agreement was 5-0. The FTC will publish a description of the consent agreement package in the Federal Register soon. The agreement will be subject to public comment for 30 days, after which the Commission will decide whether to make the proposed consent order final. Instructions for filing comments appear in the published notice. Once processed, comments will be posted on Regulations.gov. NOTE: When the Commission issues a consent order on a final basis, it carries the force of law with respect to future actions. Each violation of such an order may result in a civil penalty of up to $46,517. The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and protect and educate consumers. Learn more about consumer topics at consumer.ftc.gov, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

NAR Announces Inaugural Fair Housing Champion Award Winners
Winners recognized for making a difference in their businesses and communities as they help expand homeownership to buyers of all backgrounds. WASHINGTON (April 27, 2022) -- The National Association of Realtors and Realtor.com today honored the four inaugural winners of the first Fair Housing Champion Awards during NAR's Fair Housing Month event, "What Will it Take to Close the Racial Homeownership Gap?" Honorees were recognized for their work to increase access to homeownership in their communities. The Fair Housing Champion Award honors Realtors® who have gone above and beyond to advance fair housing and expand homeownership in underserved communities. Sponsored by Realtor.com®, the Award provides a $4,000 prize that winners can dedicate to a housing-related nonprofit organization of their choice. "NAR is committed to helping build thriving, inclusive communities in every zip code in America," said NAR President Leslie Rouda Smith. "I am so proud of all the work our winners have done to increase access to homeownership and hope their leadership can serve as an example to inspire others into action." This year's winners: Harrison Beacher is Managing Partner of the Coalition Properties group, serving the D.C. metro area, and affiliated with Keller Williams Capital Properties. Harrison currently serves as the 2022 President for the Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors® and an at-large director for the D.C. Association of Realtors®. Many of his clients are first-time buyers, and Harrison helps them succeed by connecting them with down payment assistance and other resources. Sabrina Brown is a Broker-Owner of Brown and Brown Real Estate in Fresno, California. Sabrina is a director at her local and state associations, the Madera Association of Realtors® and the California Association of Realtors®. Sabrina regularly holds homebuyer workshops that connect first-time buyers with programs to help them achieve homeownership and invest in real estate, with an emphasis on outreach to people of color. Bobbi Howe is a second-generation real estate professional with more than 24 years of experience as a Realtor®. Bobbi currently serves as the Treasurer-Elect for Missouri Realtors® and is dedicated to using her platform to spread the word about systemic racism in real estate. Bobbi works to expand opportunities for Black real estate investors in the Kansas City area. Rafael Perez has been a Realtor® since 2012 and has extensive experience as a mortgage banker, lender and educator. Rafael serves on NAR's Fair Housing Policy Committee and is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals San Diego, where he is a past Chapter President. He continues his eight plus years of service as a Commissioner for the City of San Diego on the Citizens' Equal Opportunity Commission. Rafael is passionate about helping families create household wealth through homeownership and created the Companion Unit Handbook for the City of San Diego to expand housing supply. He also helps people in San Diego who have been displaced by development to move back into their old neighborhoods. "Realtor.com® was inspired to help create and sponsor the Fair Housing Champion Awards based on our support of NAR's Good Neighbor Awards," said Realtor.com® Chief Marketing Officer Mickey Neuberger. "Like the Good Neighbor Award winners, the Realtors® who are recognized today as fair housing champions are making a real difference in their communities as they help people overcome bias, discrimination and inequality." For more information and to read more about the award winners, please click here.

'First-Time Buyer' Season 2 Now Available on Hulu
CHICAGO (December 28, 2021) -- The second season of First-Time Buyer by the National Association of Realtors is now available to stream on Hulu. The docuseries was created by NAR to provide the most realistic portrayal of the American homebuying process while highlighting the vital role that Realtors® play in helping U.S. consumers achieve the dream of homeownership. "First-Time Buyer gives viewers a genuine, inside look into the emotions our clients face as they go through the homebuying process," said NAR President Leslie Rouda Smith, a Realtor® from Plano, Texas, and a broker associate at Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate in Dallas. "This series does a fantastic job of showing how Realtors® help their clients navigate all the challenges that can pop up during a transaction to ensure a successful and secure first home purchase." Like season one, each of the eight new episodes follows different individuals, couples and families through their first homebuying journey. The new season was filmed in different locations across Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina and South Carolina. "The appeal in these stories is that they feature people that you can relate to," said NAR Head of Production Alicia Bailey. "They face many of the common first-timer fears that can often prevent someone from starting or continuing their home search. We also see firsthand how Realtors®' expertise is invaluable when facing the unexpected. Sometimes you need an expert to help make a milestone decision with confidence." First-Time Buyer is an extension of NAR's consumer advertising campaign, which works to elevate the Realtor® brand by highlighting unique differentiators, such as Realtors®' commitment to the association's Code of Ethics and how that distinguishes Realtors® from non-member real estate agents and listing apps. Third-party market research conducted in Fall 2021 showed that roughly 89% of viewers were more likely to use a Realtor® as a result of NAR's "That's Who We R" campaign. All episodes from season one are also currently available to stream for free on YouTube, Facebook and firsttimebuyer.realtor. The National Association of Realtors® is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

National Association of Realtors Announces Partnership with 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Realtors® will be able to book discounted service for themselves or on behalf of clients CHICAGO (August 5, 2021) -- The National Association of Realtors today announced a new partnership within the REALTOR Benefits Program. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will be providing $50 off full-service junk removal services to all NAR members and their families, in addition to all national, state and local association staff. This new partnership will also allow Realtors® to extend the benefit to their clients, who can then take advantage of the service at a discounted rate throughout their home sale or purchase process. According to the REALTOR Benefits® Program team, the 2020 RBP member perception survey revealed that members were very interested in pass-through offerings for their clients. "By teaming up with 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, not only will our members have access to discounts for themselves and family members, but they will be able to easily share discounted, value-added offers with their homebuyers and sellers," said Rhonny Barragan, NAR vice president of strategic alliances. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? provides full-service residential and commercial junk removal services, hauling virtually all non-hazardous materials that can be handled by a two-person team, including mattresses, furniture, electronics, appliances, televisions and exercise equipment. Based in Vancouver, Canada, the company currently has 160 franchises across Canada, Australia and the U.S. "Since 1989, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has provided a critical service in the market, and its seamless, hassle-free junk removal capabilities are in demand today more than they've ever been," said Brian Scudamore, founder & CEO. "At 1-800-GOT-JUNK? we love to be part of our customers' moves by making their junk disappear so they can make their house a home. We are thrilled about this partnership with NAR and our local teams are ready to send junk packing!" NAR members can use their $50 benefit when booking services on behalf of their clients or when making their own arrangements. The REALTOR Benefits® Program is the association's official member benefits program, connecting members with savings and unique offers on products and services just for Realtors® from roughly three dozen companies recognized as leaders in their respective industries. Learn more at https://www.nar.realtor/realtor-benefits-program. The National Association of Realtors® is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.4 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Dallas-based HomesUSA Realty Agent Navjot Singh Selected for Coveted '30 Under 30' Class of 2021
Only Texas agent to make the national list of rising young stars Dallas, Texas -- April 28, 2021 -- Navjot "Nav" Singh of HomesUSA Realty in Dallas, Texas, was named to the highly coveted Class of 2021 "30 Under 30" by the National Association of Realtors' Realtor Magazine. Nav is the only Texas-based real estate agent named to this year's class. Selected from more than 300 entries, Realtor Magazine notes, "During a year marked by the heartache of the COVID-19 pandemic — which also required substantial shifts in how people live and work — this year's class of 30 Under 30 not only persevered but found ways to go the extra mile for their clients and communities." Ben Caballero, a current Guinness World Record title holder and owner of HomesUSA.com and HomesUSA Realty, hired Nav as both an agent and his Chief Operating Officer. "Nav has a natural business acumen as well as a hunger to go the extra mile to help his clients whether they are buying a $200,000 bungalow or a multimillion-dollar home. He embodies the HomesUSA.com philosophy of putting our client's needs first," Ben said. Nav manages a team of 10 – the Singh Real Estate Group – at HomesUSA Realty, generating $18.1 million in total team sales and 67 team transaction sides last year. Nav handles the interview process, provides coaching and mentoring, as needed, for his nine agents. He also assists his team with business plan development, social media strategies and sales brainstorming. Nav notes he looks for agents who want to grow with HomesUSA Realty and are interested in selling both new and existing homes. For Nav, born and raised in Arlington, Texas, achieving national recognition at age 28 is especially poignant to both him and his family. As he told Realtor Magazine, "I remember when I was younger, my family lived in an apartment. When we moved into our brand-new house, it was one of my family's proudest and happiest moments." He added, "My dad and mom sacrificed so much as immigrants to give me a brighter future and better life. My parents moved to the United States in 1984 from India, and my dad has worked very hard. He went from driving a taxi to work on cars to eventually opening his own dealership. Along the way, he became a real estate investor and general contractor." Nav says that both his father and his uncle instilled in him "to work hard and be an honest man." Nav started working with his dad and uncle at a car dealership when he was 13, selling his first car when he was 15. A University of Texas Arlington graduate with a degree in psychology, Nav assumed he would become an entrepreneur like his dad and uncle. "I knew I wanted to be in business. I just didn't know what kind of business." He joined the family's dealership out of college, became a internet sales manager, and earned his real estate license to help his family buy investment properties. But Nav found a work-life balance was difficult to achieve at a dealership. He couldn't find the flexibility that gave him the time he wanted to spend with family and friends. Nav joined a progressive and fast-growing real estate firm, and three years later, he was a top producer, having found his calling. Last December, he joined HomesUSA Realty because of its owner: legendary agent and industry leader, Ben Caballero. "I knew that it was an opportunity to really take my career to the next level because it's amazing to see Ben's hustle and his work ethic after being in the business for more than 50 years," Nav pointed out. "He's still trying to revolutionize the real estate industry because there's so much further to go, and I see it as an opportunity of a lifetime," Nav added. While Nav continues to build his team at HomesUSA Realty, he still makes time for his close-knit family: his mom, dad, uncle, aunt, and cousins, whom he calls his "brother and sisters." "My life definitely revolves around my family. I lost my sister when she was just 17, and I was 19. She is a big reason why I am so dedicated to my family. One of my big goals is to make her proud," Nav said. According to Realtor Magazine, a panel of judges chose the Class of 2021 30 Under 30 based on qualities of innovation, leadership, involvement, and the ability to overcome setbacks. The list also strives "to have a good mix of honorees who showcase the best-of-the-best in real estate, from all parts of the country, different specialties, and various backgrounds," the magazine said. About HomesUSA Realty HomesUSA Realty is a burgeoning real estate brokerage based in Dallas, Texas, and owned by HomesUSA.com. Both real estate firms were founded by real estate entrepreneur and current Guinness World Record titleholder Ben Caballero. Ben is the only individual real estate agent to exceed $1 billion in residential sales transactions in a single year, a feat first achieved in 2015 and has been repeated or exceeded ever since. In 2018, he became the first individual agent to exceed more than $2 billion in annual home sales. HomesUSA Realty is one of Texas's fastest-growing brokerages, providing exceptional service and support to home buyers and sellers. All HomesUSA.com agents have a proven new home sales history, with a minimum of five years of real estate experience. Learn more here. About HomesUSA.com® HomesUSA.com was founded by its CEO Ben Caballero, who holds the current Guinness World Record title for "Most annual home sale transactions through MLS by an individual sell side real estate agent." Ranked by REAL Trends as America's top real estate agent for home sales since 2013, Ben is the most productive real estate agent in U.S. history. He is the only agent to exceed $1 billion in residential sales transactions in a single year, a feat first achieved in 2015 and repeated each year through 2018, when he completed more than $2 billion in home sales, another industry first. An award-winning innovator and technology pioneer, Ben works with more than 60 home builders in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. HomesUSA.com owns and operates Dallas-based HomesUSA Realty.

CoStar Group Agrees to Acquire Homesnap, a Digital Residential Real Estate Solutions Provider Used by 300,000 Agents Responsible for More Than Half of All US Residential Real Estate Sales
WASHINGTON--CoStar Group, Inc., the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics and online marketplaces, announced today that it has reached an agreement to acquire Homesnap, Inc. for $250 million in cash. Homesnap is an industry-leading online and mobile software platform that provides user-friendly applications to optimize residential real estate agent workflow and reinforce the agent-client relationship. Over 300,000 agents nationwide use the application an average of 30 times each month. Those 300,000 agents are also the nation's most productive, selling the majority of homes in the US. The platform enjoys high growth and engagement as the number of active monthly users has grown at a compounded annual growth rate of over 40% since 2016, while marketing product sales have risen over 75% per year over that same period. Supported by a consortium of hundreds of the country's largest multiple listing services (MLSs), over 1.1 million real estate agents have access to Homesnap Pro. These agents represent over 90% of the residential real estate agents and listings in the United States. With the support of this impressive consortium, Homesnap's public residential real estate portal showcases 1.3 million active property listings. Tens of millions of home shoppers use the Homesnap website and app to look for a home. "The acquisition of Homesnap will enable us to enter a new space and expand the total addressable markets in which we can compete," said CoStar Group founder and CEO, Andy Florance. "The estimated value of commercial real estate assets in the U.S. is $16 trillion. With the new addition of clients and information covering 90% of the estimated $27 trillion dollar U.S. residential real estate market we are almost tripling the size of our addressable markets. Over the past thirty years, CoStar has become the leading real estate technology platform by working in partnership with commercial real estate brokers to serve their needs for data, analytics and advertising exposure for their property listings. Similarly, Homesnap works in very close partnership with residential agents to serve their needs for data, analytics and advertising exposure for their property listings. We will continue to differentiate our residential real estate portal and solutions by working solely to help agents market their listings and their brands, which is in sharp contrast to other portals that increasingly advertise on top of agent listings and offer brokerage services directly." The addition of Homesnap's complementary offerings will quadruple the number of professional, paying brokers and active agent users on the CoStar Group U.S. platforms from approximately 100,000 today to over 400,000. The number of U.S. property listings available across CoStar's brands will double from approximately 1.35 million today to over 2.6 million. "Homesnap has great relationships, data, software, and tools for residential real estate professionals that are complementary to our existing offerings," continued Florance. "The tools and functionality developed by Homesnap for residential property agents, such as lead generation, client collaboration, and digital advertising, have direct applicability to commercial brokers. Our goal is to make these enhanced capabilities available to all of our audiences. Combining forces with Homesnap is also expected to enable us to expand and deepen our collaboration with MLSs nationwide. A very large percentage of CoStar's clients such as investors, banks, government agencies, appraisers, suppliers, and brokerage firms are active in both commercial and residential real estate, so we believe that they would welcome a more comprehensive solution for their needs across all real estate segments." "Homesnap has spent years building tools that reinforce the agent-client relationship and arm both home buyers and agents with the data and software they need to find homes and do their jobs," said John Mazur, CEO of Homesnap. "In addition, residential property agents spend an estimated $10 billion every year on software and marketing, while influencing a further $21 billion of spending in adjacent markets, such as lending, insurance and relocation services. We are excited to join CoStar Group and leverage their 30 years of knowledge and experience in property data, software and marketing to take advantage of this significant growth opportunity." Homesnap is also headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area, employs approximately 150 people and is projected to achieve approximately $40 million of revenue for the full year 2020, representing revenue growth of approximately 45% compared to the full year 2019. The transaction is expected to close in 2020, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory review. The preceding forward-looking statements reflect CoStar Group's expectations as of November 22, 2020. We are not able to forecast with certainty whether or when certain events, such as acquisition-related costs, the exact timing of the closing of the acquisition, or the exact amounts or timing of any investments related to the acquisition will occur. Given the risk factors, uncertainties and assumptions discussed above, actual results may differ materially. Other than in publicly available statements, CoStar Group does not intend to update its forward-looking statements until its next quarterly results announcement. About CoStar Group, Inc. CoStar Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGP) is the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics and online marketplaces. Founded in 1987, CoStar conducts expansive, ongoing research to produce and maintain the largest and most comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. Our suite of online services enables clients to analyze, interpret and gain unmatched insight on commercial property values, market conditions and current availabilities. STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for the global hospitality sector. Ten-X provides a leading platform for conducting commercial real estate online auctions and negotiated bids. LoopNet is the most heavily trafficked commercial real estate marketplace online with over 7 million monthly unique visitors. Realla is the UK's most comprehensive commercial property digital marketplace. Apartments.com, ApartmentFinder.com, ForRent.com, ApartmentHomeLiving.com, Westside Rentals, AFTER55.com, CorporateHousing.com, ForRentUniversity.com and Apartamentos.com form the premier online apartment resource for renters seeking great apartment homes and provide property managers and owners a proven platform for marketing their properties. CoStar Group's websites attracted an average of approximately 69 million unique monthly visitors in aggregate in the third quarter of 2020. Headquartered in Washington, DC, CoStar Group maintains offices throughout the U.S. and in Europe, Canada and Asia with a staff of over 4,300 worldwide, including the industry's largest professional research organization. For more information, visit www.costargroup.com. About Homesnap Based in Bethesda, MD, Homesnap was founded in 2012 to provide residential real estate agents and consumers with an intuitive technology that facilities buying and selling homes. Homesnap's flagship product, Homesnap Pro, is a free software application for real estate agents to view and manage property listings, communicate with clients, receive market alerts and schedule showings on their mobile devices. Homesnap collects data from over 500 data sources and has subscription service agreements with approximately 240 MLSs who provide data and subscription revenue to Homesnap in exchange for free agent access to Homesnap Pro. Homesnap also provides marketing products through its mobile application that agents can use to promote their listings, as well as a premium product called Homesnap Pro+, which provides agents with enhanced functionality and business intelligence through individual subscription agreements. The Homesnap platform contains approximately 1.3 million active property listings, including residential, commercial, land and other property types, covering approximately 90% of active listings. The company also aggregates information on property taxes, mortgages, individual property parcels, neighborhood schools and other property data elements.

RE Technology's Top 10 Articles of 2019
Over the past 10 days, we've been counting down our top 10 articles of the year. These articles are an exclusive breed--at RE Technology, we publish over 2,000 pieces of content each year. So which types of articles were among the 0.5 percent that made it into our top 10? Well, article #4 was the most read among many popular articles about agent headshots and real estate photography. Our readers were all business this year, with articles about Google Sheets (#2) and PDFs (#10) making our list. The lighter side of things peeked through, too, with a fun article about real estate memes charting at #5. However, anxiety about low commissions dominated the year, with an article about 1% and $1 commissions coming in at #1. So what else made it onto our list of the most read articles? Take a look at the full selection below: Listing Agents Offering 1% and $1 Commissions: Is This a New Trend? 7 Google Sheet Templates for Real Estate Businesses 5 Things an Agent Should Never Say to Leads and Past Clients Headshot Ideas from the Pros: Stand Out from the Crowd 19 Real Estate Memes and GIFs that Will Make You Smile Facebook Business Pages: 4 Hidden Features to Boost Visibility Friday Freebie: Downloadable Report for Home Buyers and Sellers 10 Real Estate Email Subject Lines and Why They Work 10 Real Estate Apps that Will Amplify Your Productivity The Top 6 Things Agents Need to Know about PDFs

The Constellation Real Estate Group Acquires Assets of SmartZip
Constellation Real Estate Group adds to its best-in-class lead generation solutions for real estate agents and brokers. BELLEVUE, WASH. (AUGUST 19, 2019) -- The Constellation Real Estate Group ("CREG"), has announced today that it has acquired certain assets of SmartZip Analytics Inc. ("SmartZip"), a pioneer in predictive analytics and award-winning provider of data-driven marketing automation and lead generation products for the real estate industry. The acquisition includes SmartZip's SmartTargeting platform, patent-pending predictive analytics, data solutions, and automated referral-building content system, Reach150. The addition of SmartZip, which closely follows the recent acquisition of the Offrs.com business in July, marks CREG's second predictive analytics company and fourth new portfolio business in 2019, and aligns with CREG's strategy of investing in forward-thinking technology companies with a focus on strong solutions and its commitment to being a long-term, stable technology partner for the real estate industry. "We are excited to have both Offrs.com and SmartZip in the Constellation portfolio of real estate and mortgage software companies," said Scott Smith, President of the Constellation Real Estate Group. "We recognize the value of predictive analytics and big data and the importance of making it accessible to agents in a way that allows them to make smart business decisions. With these two companies, we can deliver unprecedented value and insights to our customers." "The Constellation Real Estate Group has a proven track record of delivering long-term value and stability to the companies it invests in, with a demonstrated commitment to their customers, products, and people," said Avi Gupta, CEO of SmartZip, "As demand for our pioneering work in predictive analytics and data-driven marketing continues to grow, this union presents a powerful opportunity to leverage decades of expertise to advance our products, ultimately benefiting SmartZip customers." Founded in 2009 in Silicon Valley, CA, SmartZip has spent over a decade developing predictive analytics and data-driven marketing automation solutions for the real estate industry and has consistently been recognized as a leading innovator in both the technology and real estate industries. The acquisitions of Offrs.com and SmartZip strengthen the Constellation Real Estate Group's position as one of the largest technology providers in the fragmented real estate industry, providing innovative lead generation, automated sales and marketing solutions, back office software, and mortgage loan origination and servicing solutions for over half of a million real estate agents, brokerages, MLSs, and banks across the U.S. and Canada. "I am very excited to combine the value propositions of Offrs.com and SmartZip and continue to deliver a best-in-class lead generation solution to real estate agents and brokers nationwide. Predicting future real estate transactions and driving high-value leads to our customers is our number one priority, and this acquisition demonstrates our commitment at the Constellation Real Estate Group," confirms Rich Swier, co-founder of Offrs.com. The Constellation Real Estate Group welcomes SmartZip customers and partners and we look forward to enhancing and growing these relationships for the long-term. The Constellation Real Estate Group The Constellation Real Estate Group, which is a business unit within the Perseus Operating Group of Constellation Software Inc., acquires and invests in real estate software brands that are committed to providing long-term solutions and partnerships with franchises, brokers, agents, MLSs, and banks. CREG provides a suite of market-leading technology solutions designed specifically for the real estate industry through its brands, which include: Market Leader, Constellation Web Solutions, Sharper Agent, Zurple, Z57, Diverse Solutions, Birdview, ReloSpec, Real Estate Digital, Baynet World, Mortgage Builder, TORCHx, Offrs.com and now SmartZip. Over 500,000 real estate agents, teams, and brokerages across North America rely on CREG's products and services to power, manage, and grow their businesses. For more information, visit: https://www.constellationreg.com The SmartZip Products The SmartZip SmartTargeting platform uses patent-pending predictive analytics, multi-channel marketing automation, and smart CRM to identify top home seller prospects, engage them through targeted marketing campaigns, and ultimately close more business with smart nurturing and prospecting tools. It also integrates the Reach150 system that automatically requests and publicizes client-generated testimonials and referrals to help real estate teams and professionals boost their reputation, online presence, and word-of-mouth business. Together, SmartTargeting and Reach150 help enterprises and professionals across the real estate ecosystem efficiently grow their business with the targeted acquisition of new, repeat and referral customers. For more information, visit: https://smartzip.com/

RE Technology's Top 10 Articles of 2018
Over the past 10 days, we've been counting down our top 10 articles of the year. These articles are an exclusive breed--at RE Technology, we publish over 2,300 pieces of content each year. So which types of articles were among the 0.4 percent that made it into our top 10? Well, considering four of our top 10 articles were about smartphones, we think it's safe to say that agents and brokers were thinking a lot about what their phones could do for their business in 2018 (check out articles #1, #5, #7, and #8 below for those). So what else made it onto our list of the most read articles? Take a look at the full selection below: Get Your Own, Personal Emoji The 6 Listing Photos You MUST Upload to the MLS 50 Words Real Estate Agents Should NOT Use in Email Subject Lines 5 Things You Didn't Know Google Maps Could Do Safe Selling: Screen Prospects with This Easy Phone Trick Top 5 Greatest Real Estate Closing Gift Ideas 10 Apps that Boost Your Real Estate Marketing Firepower 6 Unorthodox Ways to Use Airplane Mode on Your Phone Fire Your Client: The 4 Types of Real Estate Clients You Should Cut Ties With 93 Leads from a Facebook Post: One Agent's Strategy Revealed

News Corp Completes Acquisition of Opcity
Market-leading tech platform will enhance realtor.com® and lead generation offerings to benefit real estate professionals and consumers New York, NY – October 11, 2018 – News Corp announced today that its subsidiary Move Inc., operator of realtor.com®, has successfully completed its acquisition of Opcity, the market-leading real estate technology platform that matches qualified home buyers and sellers with real estate professionals in real time. The acquisition broadens realtor.com®'s lead generation product portfolio to include Opcity's concierge-based model. With its broker-centric model, Opcity has grown its U.S. client base to over 5,000 brokerages and more than 40,000 agents since 2015. "Real estate is an increasingly significant part of the News Corp portfolio, and the acquisition of Opcity deepens our engagement with agents and homebuyers alike," said Robert Thomson, Chief Executive of News Corp. "Realtor.com® and Opcity share a consumer-first philosophy that is focused on keeping real estate professionals at the center of the transaction," said Ryan O'Hara, CEO of Move, Inc. "Our combination will enable us to more effectively bring buyers, sellers and agents together, improving the consumer experience and providing our industry partners with more opportunities to connect with clients and grow their businesses." Opcity, with headquarters in Austin, Texas, will continue to operate under its current brand. The acquisition purchase price is $210 million, subject to adjustments. Digital real estate services is News Corp's fastest growing segment. Move, Inc. has nearly doubled its revenues since News Corp's acquisition in 2014 to $452 million in fiscal 2018. News Corp, the most global digital property company, also owns 61.6 percent of REA Group Limited, the operator of the leading Australian residential property website, realestate.com.au. About News Corp News Corp (Nasdaq: NWS, NWSA; ASX: NWS, NWSLV) is a global, diversified media and information services company focused on creating and distributing authoritative and engaging content. The company comprises businesses across a range of media, including: news and information services, book publishing, digital real estate services, and subscription video services in Australia. Headquartered in New York, News Corp operates primarily in the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, and its content is distributed and consumed worldwide. More information is available at: http://www.newscorp.com. About Move, Inc. Move, Inc. provides access to unsurpassed real estate information, tools and professional expertise across a family of websites and mobile experiences for consumers and real estate professionals through all stages of the home journey. It has a perpetual license to operate realtor.com® from the National Association of REALTORS®. The Move network includes realtor.com®, The Home of Home Search℠, as well as Doorsteps®, Moving.com™ and SeniorHousingNet℠. Realtor.com® pioneered the world of digital real estate 20 years ago, and today helps make all things home simple, efficient and enjoyable. Move also offers a complete solution of software products and services to help real estate professionals serve their clients and grow their business in a digital world, including ListHub™, the nation's leading listings syndicator and centralized intelligence platform for the real estate industry; Top Producer® Systems; FiveStreet℠ and Reesio as well as many free services. For more information, visit realtor.com. About Opcity Inc. Based in Austin, Texas, Opcity is modernizing the real estate industry by matching top real estate professionals with transaction-ready home buyers and sellers in real-time. Using proprietary data sets and applied analytics, Opcity's unique technology and matching algorithm turn online inquiries into transactions, drive increases in conversion, and provide real estate professionals with centralized insights to effectively manage their pipelines. Opcity's growth has been fueled by investment from Silicon Valley-based Icon Ventures, with participation from artificial intelligence-focused Georgian Partners, and Texas-based LiveOak Venture Partners. For more information, visit http://www.Opcity.com.

REAL Trends Announces 2018 The Thousand
Thirteenth annual real estate ranking published in conjunction with The Wall Street Journal DENVER, June 29, 2018 -- Today, REAL Trends Inc., in conjunction with The Wall Street Journal, published the 13th annual The Thousand list of America's top 1,000 real estate sales professionals and teams. An abridged list of the designees is published in today's edition of The Wall Street Journal and a complete listing is available online at www.realtrends.com/rankings/rt1000. REAL Trends The Thousand, as advertised in The Wall Street Journal, is an annual, national awards ranking sponsored by REAL Trends—the Trusted Source—and advertised in The Wall Street Journal. Designees are recognized as the top one-half of one percent of more than 1.3 million licensed real estate professionals nationwide. The Thousand is divided into four categories, each listing the top 250 designees: Individual Agent—Sales Volume; Individual Agent—Transaction Sides; Agent Team—Sales Volume and Agent Team—Transaction Sides. "The real estate sales professionals ranked in The Thousand have proven that they have the skills to grow their businesses year after year," said Steve Murray, president of REAL Trends and publisher of The Thousand. "The average U.S. real estate professional closed 8.0 transaction sides in 2017. The average agent ranked in The Thousand closed 204 transaction sides and the average team closed over 533 transaction sides. These kinds of results show that those who commit to being full-time professionals can build meaningful businesses and succeed beyond expectations. Achieving this level of results is simply incredible." The top five designees in each category of the 2018 REAL Trends The Thousand are: Individual Agent—Sales Volume Ben Caballero, HomesUSA.com, Inc., Addison, Texas Chris Cortazzo, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Malibu, Calif. Mauricio Umansky, The Agency, Beverly Hills, Calif. Alexa Lambert, Stribling & Associates, New York, N.Y. Aaron Kirman, Pacific Union International, Beverly Hills, Calif. Individual Agent—Transaction Sides Ben Caballero, HomesUSA.com, Inc., Addison, Texas Brian Bair, OfferPad, Gilbert, Ariz. Jason Saphire, www.EntryOnly.com, Boston, Mass. John Swartz, RE/MAX Connection, Turnersville, N.J. Sherri Saad, RE/MAX Leading Edge, Detroit, Mich. Agent Team—Sales Volume Lucido Agency, Keller Williams Realty, Ellicott City, Md. The Serhant Team, Nest Seekers International, New York, N.Y. Halton Pardee + Partners, Halton Pardee + Partners, Santa Monica, Calif. The DeLeon Team, DeLeon Realty, Inc., Palo Alto, Calif. Ben Kinney/Home 4 Investment Team, Keller Williams Realty, Bellingham, Wash. Agent Team—Transaction Sides Mark Spain Real Estate, Mark Spain Real Estate, Alpharetta, Ga. Lucido Agency, Keller Williams Realty, Ellicott City, Md. Ben Kinney/Home 4 Investment Team, Keller Williams Realty, Bellingham, Wash. The Minnesota Real Estate Team, RE/MAX Advantage Plus, Bloomington, Minn. Duffy Realty, Duffy Realty of Atlanta, Alpharetta, Ga. "In total, this year's professionals in The Thousand closed 184,407 sides and sold more than $86 billion in 2017—a new record for sales volume with a 9 percent increase over last year," said Murray. "It is incredible to consider that 1,000 sales professionals and teams could accomplish so much." METHODOLOGY REAL Trends The Thousand awards program was developed jointly by WSJ, Custom Studios and REAL Trends, a leading source of analysis and information for the residential real estate brokerage industry. The Thousand honors America's finest real estate professionals and their companies and is compiled and analyzed by REAL Trends. Rankings are compiled based on surveys from virtually every national branded network, state and local associations of Realtors®, multiple listing services, all applicants from past years' rankings, and the 1,752 largest brokerage firms in the United States. Verification from an independent source is required for all submissions. In addition, REAL Trends senior staff reviews every submission for completeness and accuracy. ABOUT REAL TRENDS REAL Trends has been The Trusted Source of news, analysis and information on the residential brokerage industry since 1987. The privately held publishing, consulting and communications company is based in Castle Rock, Colorado. Residential real estate leaders look to REAL Trends for timely and trusted information and analysis through its monthly newsletter, news updates, conferences and publications. In addition to creating research studies, REAL Trends is a leading provider of high-level business consulting services to the residential real estate industry. The firm provides a wide range of advisory services to local, regional and national real estate organizations. Areas of expertise include operational analysis, valuations, merger and acquisition advisory services, consumer and business research and strategic planning. For more information, visit www.realtrends.com or call 303-741-1000.

MRED President/CEO Rebecca Jensen Inducted into REALTORS Political Action Committee Hall of Fame
Nine from Chicagoland MLS will be honored at the ceremony LISLE, Ill., May 15, 2018 -- Rebecca Jensen, Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) President/ CEO, was inducted into the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC) Hall of Fame during a Wednesday, May 16th ceremony. Six other MRED real estate professionals were welcomed into the Hall alongside Jensen, with two others receiving honorable distinctions on top of their current Hall of Fame status. RPAC is a national bipartisan political advocacy group assembled by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) that defends the rights of the real estate industry and homeowners at local, state, and federal levels. The group's first Hall of Fame class was inducted in 2002 for the purpose of honoring members who have invested $25,000 or more in RPAC. "I take immense pride in supporting RPAC because of the protection it offers Realtors® and homeowners alike," said Jensen. "The work they do isn't just important for those of us in the real estate world, it's important for everyone." Joining Jensen in the Hall of Fame this year is MRED's former Chairman of the Board and current Board member Jeff Gregory, of Realty Executives Success in Shorewood, Illinois. Other MRED customers being inducted into the RPAC Hall of Fame include: Michael Golden – @properties of Chicago, Illinois Carol Meinhart – RE/MAX Choice of Champaign, Illinois Ezekiel Morris – EMA Realty & Management of Chicago, Illinois Pattie Palzet-Taylor – RE/MAX Plaza of Wauconda, Illinois Karen Robertson – Spring Realty of Shorewood, Illinois Former Chicago Association of REALTORS® CEO Ginger Downs and Broker Nancy Suvarnamani of Century 21 S.G.R., Inc. also received special recognition as Hall of Fame members achieving a new contribution tier. "I want to congratulate all of the inductees; it's a pleasure to be in such great company with others in this business who care so much about preserving and improving the real estate industry," Jensen said. "It goes to show how much good can happen when REALTORS® work together." About MRED Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) is the real estate data aggregator and distributor providing the Chicagoland multiple listing service (MLS) to more than 40,000 brokers and appraisers and over 7,300 offices. MRED serves Chicago and the surrounding "collar" counties and provides property information encompassing northern Illinois, southern Wisconsin, and northwest Indiana. MRED delivers more than 20 products and services to its customers. MRED is the 2013 Inman News Most Innovative MLS/Real Estate Trade Association, and for nine consecutive years the MRED Help Desk has been identified as one of the best small business centers in North America by BenchmarkPortal. For more information please visit MREDLLC.com.

Realtors Offer Support for Proposed Association Health Plan Rule
WASHINGTON (March 7, 2018) — A proposed rule from the U.S. Department of Labor could make it easier for small businesses and self-employed individuals to purchase health insurance through association health plans, or AHPs, according to the National Association of Realtors®. In a comment letter submitted yesterday, NAR expressed mostly strong support for the proposed regulation, which modifies and broadens the definition of "employer" to include "working owners," opens the door to potentially allowing trade associations, including NAR, to offer health insurance coverage to members through the large group insurance market. The large group insurance market typically offers greater flexibility in insurance plan design and lower policy costs through improved negotiating power. While most Americans get their health coverage through an employer, most real estate agents, and nearly nine in 10 Realtors®, are independent contractors, not employees, of their real estate brokerage. As an independent contractor, many typically don't have access to traditional employer-provided benefits, such as 401K plans and health insurance, since these types of benefits could jeopardize their independent contractor status. As a result, self-employed professionals are forced to purchase insurance in the individual insurance market, which tends to offer fewer choices at higher costs. NAR's 2017 Member Profile found that 46 percent of members paid for their health insurance out of pocket; 32 percent received it through a spouse, partner, or family member; 3 percent had employer-provided health insurance; and 20 percent didn't have any health insurance at all. "As health insurance costs continue to rise and the number of coverage options shrink, the need for affordable health care option remains a top concern for the nation's 1.3 million Realtors®," said NAR President Elizabeth Mendenhall, a sixth-generation Realtor® from Columbia, Missouri and CEO of RE/MAX Boone Realty. "Allowing working owners to participate in AHPs could expand access and provide more reasonably priced health insurance options for individuals and families." In the letter to regulators, NAR recommended changes to the proposed eligibility requirements to maximize participation among self-employed real estate professionals. NAR encouraged the Department of Labor to reconsider a provision preventing working owners from participating in an employer health plan if subsidized coverage is available to them through a spouse's employer; however, that may not always be the most affordable option for a family. "Eliminating this requirement will provide greater insurance choices to more real estate professionals, many of whom are struggling to find affordable insurance," said Mendenhall. "We urge the administration and the Department of Labor to move forward with our recommendations in mind, and while challenges likely remain ahead that could delay its completion, we have strong hope that a final rule will be issued sometime in the near future and real estate professionals will have improved access to affordable health insurance." As next steps, DOL will be reviewing the hundreds of comments submitted and issue a final rule reflecting that feedback, likely later this year; that rule could then be used by insurers for plan design. However, the final rule may be subject to legal challenges that could delay implementation. For more than a decade, NAR has advocated for reforms to the health insurance market to provide better coverage to real estate-related businesses and the self-employed, and NAR will continue to advocate and be closely following DOL's progress and the potential benefits for real estate professionals across the country. Additional information on NAR's health insurance advocacy efforts, please visit www.nar.realtor/health-care-reform. The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

CoreLogic Expands Access to Natural Hazard Reports in California
IRVINE, Calif., February 7, 2018—CoreLogic®, a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider, today announced it is adding DisclosureSave to the Clareity® SSO Dashboard to enable nearly twenty-thousand California agents simpler access to natural hazard disclosure reports required to close each transaction. Three multiple listing organizations throughout the state now display DisclosureSave as an option for their members—allowing them to conveniently select and order reports directly from the Discover Network panel within the Clareity SSO Dashboard. "We brought DisclosureSave into the CoreLogic family to offer real estate professionals in California a high quality, data-powered product and a simpler way to order," said Chris Bennett, executive leader of Real Estate Solutions for CoreLogic. "Home sellers must provide natural hazard reports in California—and we have leading edge underlying data and world-class processes to stay current. That's product quality that agents, escrow officers and home buyers can feel confident about." "We touch over 1.2 million agents, almost every day, with our combined Matrix™, Realist®, and Clareity platforms," adds Bennett. "With this volume of daily agent-touch, we're always asking ourselves how we can take more work off an agent's plate by making it as simple as possible to do a job they spend time worrying about today. And we've done that with DisclosureSave by adding it to the Clareity SSO Dashboard. We think our California members will find it easier than ever to order a report they're tasked to chase down for every closing." For more information about DisclosureSave, visit DisclosureSave.com. About CoreLogic CoreLogic (NYSE: CLGX) is a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider. The company's combined data from public, contributory and proprietary sources includes over 4.5 billion records spanning more than 50 years, providing detailed coverage of property, mortgages and other encumbrances, consumer credit, tenancy, location, hazard risk and related performance information. The markets CoreLogic serves include real estate and mortgage finance, insurance, capital markets, and the public sector. CoreLogic delivers value to clients through unique data, analytics, workflow technology, advisory and managed services. Clients rely on CoreLogic to help identify and manage growth opportunities, improve performance and mitigate risk. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., CoreLogic operates in North America, Western Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit www.corelogic.com.

Welles Bowen Realtors Joins Forces with Howard Hanna Real Estate
Cleveland, Ohio (January 30, 2018) – Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, the third largest real estate company in the United States, is pleased to welcome Welles Bowen Realtors to the Hanna family of companies. For over 100 years, Welles Bowen Realtors has been serving Northwest Ohio with the latest in marketing and technology. A reputable local real estate broker, Welles Bowen Realtors will now be able to provide the over 150 professionals in their 10 offices with Howard Hanna's programs, services, and business resources. "Two years ago, we opened up our new Howard Hanna Toledo/Maumee office with a commitment to the region," said Howard W. "Hoby" Hanna, IV. "The joining of these two dynamic companies will give us the opportunity for local expansion, allowing us to better serve agents and customers in 2018 through this partnership with Welles Bowen." "The Howard Hanna values and company philosophy closely resemble ours at Welles Bowen. Our combined success through commitment to top notch service, our agents and our clients will help all of us to thrive in 2018 and beyond," said David Browning, President of Welles Bowen. "The transition to Howard Hanna will be seamless for our clients. Under the Howard Hanna umbrella, we'll be offering the same people and same services," said Kevin Smith, Vice President of Welles Bowen. "Howard Hanna's network of 259 offices will be an excellent resource for strengthening and supporting Welles Bowen." "Coming together and the great synergy of Welles Bowen Realtors with Howard Hanna will allow us continued growth throughout the markets we serve," said Kristine Burdick, President of Howard Hanna Midwest. "Our partnership together, and the professionalism and expertise of our great Northwest Ohio sales associates, will continue to be the strength that consumers will see when choosing a company for all of their real estate needs." Agents will be able to offer exclusive Howard Hanna programs, including the 100% Money Back Guarantee. Buyers will be able to purchase a new home with confidence in their homes' worth as Howard Hanna stands behind the value of the home. Sellers will be able to set their home apart from others on the market, resulting in the home selling for the highest market value. "Howard Hanna is dedicated to our strategic growth, and we aim to be the top choice in the Toledo area marketplace. The addition of the team at Welles Bowen Realtors will help us to achieve this in the coming year," added Hanna. Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is the 3rd largest real estate company in America, the #1 privately owned broker in the nation, and the largest home seller in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. The family-owned and operated real estate company specializes in residential and commercial brokerage service, mortgages, closing and title insurance, land development, appraisal services, insurance services, corporate relocation and property management. With 259 offices across OH, NY, PA, VA, MI, WV, NC and MD, our more than 9,000 sales associates and staff are guided by a spirit of integrity in all aspects of the real estate process. To learn more please visit www.howardhanna.com.

Gary Keller Tops Rankings on the SP200
The Most Powerful People in Real Estate Lead by Keller Williams Realty, Zillow Group and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CALIF. (JANUARY 16, 2018) -- Gary Keller, the founder and Chairman of the Board of Keller Williams Realty International, climbed two slots to become the most powerful person in real estate for 2018, according to the Swanepoel Power 200 (SP200), released by T3 Sixty today. Keller Williams also became the largest residential real estate brand in the U.S. by sales volume as of the fourth quarter of 2017, according to T3 Sixty analysis. It was already the largest residential real estate brand in the U.S. by agent count, growing to a record-breaking 154,675 sales associates. Zillow Group's steady growth and accomplishments under CEO Spencer Rascoff kept last year's highest-ranked leader at No. 2. Company revenues were up 25 percent year-over-year to $281.8 million, and Zillow web properties remain the most trafficked real estate websites in the U.S. by a large margin. HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway company and the second largest brokerage company in residential real estate, is led by CEO Ron Peltier, the third highest-ranked executive on the SP200. The company had a strong 2017, which included the acquisition of the third largest brokerage in the U.S., Long & Foster; it was the largest acquisition in the brokerage industry for the year. With post-acquisition annualized sales of $123.6 billion, HomeServices is only the second real estate brokerage to have annual sales in excess of a hundred billion. NRT, a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings, is the current market leader with an estimated 2017 sales volume of almost $167 billion. The SP200 is the only ranking of the residential real estate industry's most powerful leaders and executives. T3 Sixty, the custodian of the annual rankings, devotes over 400 hours each year researching and analyzing the approximately 3,000 CEOs and executives who are considered. This year, the rigorous three-part methodology lists 274 leaders in eight categories: Corporate Executives, Power Brokers, Women Leaders, Technology Executives, Executives, Organized Real Estate Leaders, Emerging Leaders, Trendsetters and Social Media Influencers. Two notable changes include: Glenn Kelman, who led Redfin to a successful IPO in July, jumped 20 spots to the No. 9 position; and Compass's leaders, Robert Reffkin and Rob Lehman, who raised $550 million in 2017 on a $2.2 billion valuation, skyrocketed to No. 32. After a strong year of growth, new business model CEOs all climbed the list, including Glenn Sanford (No. 88), founder and CEO of eXp World Holdings; Dan Duffy (No. 102), CEO of United Real Estate; and James Dwiggins (No. 105), CEO of NextHome. Various top-ranking CEOs all retired during the past 12 months and dropped off the list. This included Richard Smith (2017's No. 2), Realogy Holdings chairman, president and CEO; Dale Stinton (2017's No. 6), CEO of the National Association of Realtors; Alex Perriello (2017's No. 7), CEO of Realogy Franchise Group; and Bob Moline (2017's No. 11), president of HomeServices of America. Rankings with bios and photos of all executives are listed at http://www.sp200.com. About T3 Sixty T3 Sixty is the largest management consultancy dedicated to the residential real estate brokerage industry and has served the industry since 1998. The company is also author and publisher of 36 reports and studies analyzing the industry, including the Swanepoel Trends Report, the DANGER Report and the SP200. Learn more at http://www.t360.com.

RE Technology's Top 10 Articles of 2017
Over the past 10 days, we've been counting down our top 10 articles of the year. In 2017, we published over 2300 pieces of content. So which posts most resonated with real estate agents and brokers during the year? Well, our number one article features evergreen advice from top Realtor Leigh Brown on the traits of successful agents. Take a peek for tips on how to be on top the real estate game in the new year. Want to whip your work processes into shape? Check out article #2 for free transaction checklists, article #9 for advice on building a winning CMA, and #7 for over five dozen ways you can cultivate new business. What other topics piqued the interest of agents and brokers in 2017? Check out the list below to find out! 3 Habits of Highly Successful Real Estate Agents Friday Freebie: Stay Organized with Listing and Closing Checklists Hidden Features: 3 Google Maps Tricks Agents Should Know How to answer, "How's the market?" so strangers never (ever) forget you True Confessions of a FSBO 3 Places to Look for Motivated Sellers 65 Sources of Real Estate Referrals You May Have Overlooked 21 Steps to a Stellar Listing Presentation Must-Have Pages for a Winning CMA Prospecting with Public Records: 7 Campaigns to Try Today

Constellation Web Solutions, Inc. Acquires Relocation Service, ReloSpec
Constellation Web Solutions, Inc., a provider of innovative online technology and marketing solutions for real estate brokerages, has purchased the Relocation Services software from Professional Software Services, LLC. MILWAUKEE, WIS. (NOVEMBER 14, 2017) - Constellation Web Solutions, Inc. (CWS), a provider of innovative online technology and marketing solutions for real estate brokerages, today announced that it has purchased the Relocation Specialist software from Professional Software Services, LLC. Originally released in 2001, Relocation Specialist (known generally as "ReloSpec") provides relocation software solutions to many of the largest real estate brokerages and relocation service providers. ReloSpec provides easy-to-implement technology to help real estate professionals manage inbound and outbound referrals. This acquisition further expands CWS's presence in providing powerful lead management tools for real estate brokers and their agents. "We're thrilled to bring ReloSpec into the CWS family of products. ReloSpec fits with our strong history and track record for providing enterprise-grade solutions to help real estate brokers build and manage their businesses," said Aaron Nummerdor, General Manager of CWS. "We look forward to continuing to deliver great products and services for the ReloSpec customers and to being a trusted partner to the industry." "We believe our respective products are complementary and provide our customers and staff with increased choice and opportunity. We are pleased to be part of CWS and look forward to working with them to serve our customers," said James Evans, President and Founder of ReloSpec. About Constellation Web Solutions Constellation Web Solutions, Inc. provides industry-leading websites, mobile technologies, interactive voice response systems, and home builder marketing services to the real estate industry. We work with our customers to define strategies and implement innovative ways to grow their businesses by combining strategy, technology, and marketing to provide the best real estate websites available. Constellation Web Solutions is a part of the Constellation Real Estate Group with well-known brands that provide a suite of market-leading software products, designed specifically for the real estate industry. The Constellation Real Estate Group includes ReloSpec, Constellation Web Solutions, Market Leader, Zurple, Z57, Sharper Agent, Diverse Solutions, and Birdview. Over 300,000 Real Estate Agents and hundreds of Real Estate Brokerages across North America and Canada rely on our products to make their business more successful.

Century 21 Real Estate Names Nick Bailey as President and CEO
Former Zillow Executive to Build on Iconic Brand's Strong Foundation, Leadership Positioning in Global Markets MADISON, N.J., Aug. 16, 2017 -- In today's connected world, consumer expectations of products, services and experiences are continuing to rise, and in no industry are these ever-growing expectations more apparent than the real estate industry. As part of an ongoing effort to meet and exceed industry professionals' and consumers' ever-changing needs and expectations, Century 21 Real Estate LLC today announced that Nick Bailey, formerly of the Zillow® Group, has been appointed president and chief executive officer. The iconic brand did its part to engage home buyers and sellers and sales professionals online by ushering in the Bailey era this morning via a multi-channel release of an innovative Facebook Canvas ad that allows viewers to not only connect with the announcement but also to be a part of it. "We are excited to welcome Nick Bailey to the Realogy family," said John Peyton, president and chief executive officer of Realogy Franchise Group LLC. Realogy, a leading global provider of real estate and relocation services, is the parent company of Century 21 Real Estate LLC. "Nick brings a unique mix of leadership experience and industry insights to our company and we are eager to see him lead the CENTURY 21® brand into the future." Bailey has over 20 years of real estate industry experience as a leader in franchising, brokerage, management, and technology, and he is also a licensed broker. He is known as a revenue-generating operations leader who increases margins while mitigating the impact of economic change. "It's an honor to be taking the reins at CENTURY 21 at a time when this iconic brand is experiencing tremendous growth around the world, and the foundation for its success is in its recognition as a global leader in real estate services," said Bailey. "My challenge is to build this company to its greatest market potential by inspiring, interacting and working collaboratively with the people inside and outside this organization and translating this ongoing momentum into additional share for CENTURY 21 agents." Bailey's journey in real estate began at 17 when he purchased commercial property. From there, his fascination with real estate grew stronger, becoming licensed at 21 years old and becoming a broker shortly thereafter. He built a successful real estate career including buying three houses by the age of 23, learning at a young age "that the value of an agent is not in the data but the professional service, knowledge and negotiation skills he or she brings to the table." After 11 years at RE/MAX world headquarters, where he helped drive agent growth and retention, Bailey joined Zillow in 2012. In his most recent role as vice president, broker relations, he provided innovative online technology and marketing solutions for real estate professionals and drove the expansion of products and services through partnerships, business development and broadening of brand awareness across the industry. "Nick's appointment signals the beginning of a new era at CENTURY 21," added Peyton. "We are an agent-centric company, and with Nick's analytical understanding of the needs and wants of today's digital consumers, he will immediately begin fostering a culture of developing and retaining high-performing talent within C21® that leverages the company's branding and marketing, knowledge-base and the Realogy Franchise Group's 'Centers of Excellence' in delivering an unparalleled value proposition for personal and professional growth." About Century 21 Real Estate LLC Century 21 Real Estate LLC is comprised of approximately 7,450 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 79 countries and territories worldwide with more than 115,000 independent sales professionals.

eMerge welcomes new Director of Marketing, Melissa McHone
July 28, 2017 - eMerge today announced that real estate industry veteran Melissa McHone has joined the company as the new Director of Marketing. Melissa brings more than ten years of industry experience to eMerge. She most recently served as a marketing manager for DocuSign Inc., developing and managing strategies and building relationships with the industry's leading Franchises, brokerages, MLSs/Associations and the NATIONAL Association of REALTORS® trade organization. ​Melissa also serves as a mentor for the NAR Reach Program helping to support new and upcoming companies in the real estate space with strategy ideas and GTM plans. "I wanted to take my time after DocuSign to find the next big opportunity within the real estate industry and I am confident that I have found that with eMerge," stated Melissa. "Unlike other marketing platforms in the space, eMerge covers your business from end to end including top agent recruitment, retention of current agents, and the easy ability for agents and brokers to be more productive so they can sell more real estate. Bondilyn and Ethan Jolly have put together a world-class team and I am excited to join them and use both my industry experience and marketing knowledge to further greater success with the team." "Melissa brings a tremendous amount of energy and ideas to the eMerge team, and we're excited to how that will translate to our brand awareness and educational outreach," said Bondilyn Jolly, Founder & CEO. "It's so refreshing to work with someone with such an intimate knowledge of the real estate space and how a technology such as eMerge can aid agents and brokers in lead engagement, nurturing and conversion." About eMerge The leading email marketing platform in the real estate space, eMerge services thousands of real estate agents, brokers and companies around the globe. Subscribers can use the platform’s do-it-yourself tools to create, schedule and analyze email campaigns and workflows or gain a helping hand with one of the proven real estate campaigns designed to help busy real estate pros stay on task and engaged with their online audience.

Nothnagle Realtors and RealtyUSA Become Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Rochester/Buffalo, New York (July 19, 2017) – Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is now the #1 real estate company in New York state as of July 18, creating market dominance and brand uniformity under one name. Nothnagle Realtors and RealtyUSA, who both merged with Howard Hanna in the past two years, have changed their names across the region. The strategic decision of the three family-owned and operated companies to partner together has produced a strong, viable company with more than 3,000 agents and employees in 101 offices across New York state, and a 32% market share of homes sold. Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is also the third largest real estate company in the United States with more than 9,000 agents and employees across the eight states of NY, PA, OH, VA, MI, WV, NC and MD. Last year, the company recorded 95,152 closed transactions. Beginning immediately, the Howard Hanna brand will appear on signs, advertising and marketing materials throughout the region. Visitors to the Nothnagle Realtors and RealtyUSA websites will be redirected to HowardHanna.com, where listings will instantly have a greater reach, as the Howard Hanna website had 15,895,478 visits in 2016. "We continue to grow and evolve, remaining mindful of our mission to provide unparalleled, innovative, and comprehensive real estate services to our clients," said Howard W. "Hoby" Hanna, IV, President of Real Estate Brokerage. "This is the right time to bring the three companies together and the transition of merging has been an ongoing benefit to our agents, employees and clients. Nothnagle and RealtyUSA agents have been able to expand the services they offer, as we introduced the exclusive Howard Hanna 100% Money Back Guarantee to our New York markets shortly after the mergers took place. Bringing everyone together under one name and brand will create consistency and is a win-win for the agent and client." In Pennsylvania and Ohio, Howard Hanna has a long legacy of vibrant green and gold colors, white post yard signs, and branded marketing. "We look forward to that same success in our New York markets. We are recognized as the most professional real estate brokerage in every market we serve. Adding Nothnagle and RealtyUSA only makes the Howard Hanna brand stronger," added Hanna. "Howard Hanna is the largest family-owned real estate company in America. It is only logical to leverage that broad identity across all markets, including New York, where the Hanna name will be the dominant market leader," said Merle Whitehead, former owner of RealtyUSA and now Chairman of Howard Hanna New York. "With the marketing and technology of Howard Hanna, we plan to serve the real estate needs of over 100,000 families this year." "Establishing brand consistency is about more than just putting a logo on buildings and for sale signs. It is about being compatible and credible. The attributes of Howard Hanna, RealtyUSA and Nothnagle are interlinked, and we are all working together for the best interests of our clients. There is a high level of loyalty and longevity among management, agents, employees and clients that will allow for continued growth. We are all moving forward together," said Armand D'Alfonso, former owner of Nothnagle Realtors and now President of Howard Hanna New York. Last year, Howard Hanna launched a new corporate tagline, "Home Happens Here," which communicates the company's desire to help make the dream of home ownership a reality. "With the Hanna brand name on all 101 New York offices, we want to be known for an extraordinary combination of agents, services and products, with experience to back it up," said Hanna. Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is the third largest real estate company in America, the #1 privately owned broker in the nation, and the largest home seller in New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. The family-owned and operated real estate company specializes in residential and commercial brokerage service, mortgages, closing and title insurance, land development, appraisal services, insurance services, corporate relocation and property management. With 259 offices across NY, PA, OH, VA, MI, WV, NC and MD, our more than 9,000 sales associates and staff are guided by a spirit of integrity in all aspects of the real estate process. To learn more, please visit www.howardhanna.com or www.facebook.com/howardhanna.

Crye-Leike Expands Outside Continental United States
Memphis, Tenn. (July 7, 2017) - Crye-Leike Real Estate Services, the nation's fifth-largest independent residential real estate firm, is expanding outside of the continental United States for the first time in its 40-year history, with a new franchised office in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Santiago Coll-Camalez, a veteran independent real estate broker in San Juan, is now the owner and managing broker of the new Crye-Leike franchise in San Juan, the capital of and largest city in Puerto Rico, an island commonwealth that is a territory of the United States. About 1 million people live in the San Juan area. Coll-Camalez has been a real estate broker there since 2004, operating as an independent, said Keith Sullivan, president of Crye-Leike Franchises and chief marketing officer for Crye-Leike. Most of the major real estate brands familiar to Americans on the continental U.S. are active in Puerto Rico; however, the market also has many small independent real estate firms. Coll-Camalez's small formerly independent brokerage has three full-time and one part-time agent, with plans to grow to about 14 agents, Sullivan said. Sullivan said the company would like to have more franchised stores in Puerto Rico. "We've had some discussions with others in Puerto Rico for additional offices. Nothing has transpired yet but we'd like to expand our presence there," he said. "One of the main reasons to affiliate with Crye-Leike is to better compete in the local market, particularly incoming/outbound referral opportunities through our network of agents as well as through our international relocation network, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World," he said, explaining why becoming a Crye-Leike franchisee may be attractive to more independent brokers in Puerto Rico. "In addition, he (Coll-Camalez) now has access to more marketing/technology platforms which should help him grow his business." Sullivan says the real estate transaction in Puerto Rico is conducted in a similar fashion. Additionally, tax incentives (Act 20 and 22) were created to lure wealthy investors to the island. One difference: Spanish, not English, is the most commonly used language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is also widely spoken. Coll-Camalez' Crye-Leike franchise is "fully bilingual," Sullivan said. In 2012, Puerto Rico passed new tax laws, known as Act 20 and Act 22, that make the island territory a tax haven for U.S. citizens who become residents of Puerto Rico. The laws shield new residents residing in Puerto Rico for at least half of the year from paying most federal income taxes. An alumnus of John Carroll University, Coll-Camalez received his insurance license in 1982 and his real estate license in 2004. His real estate expertise includes helping buyers and sellers, property management, investment properties, and foreclosures for single-family homes, and excess and surplus property. He also has expertise in condominium insurance sales, commercial insurance, and personal insurance. His real estate specialties include commercial, residential, management, BPO's and inspections. "I decided to join Crye-Leike because of its performance and good will in the Mid-South," Coll-Camalez said. "With Crye-Leike, I am in a better position to serve my existing residential clientele, asset managers, and expand in commercial real estate, business brokerage and the Act 20/22 market, luxury market , as well as the referrals, due to emigration tendencies." The Crye-Leike San Juan Real Estate office is located at 268 Ponce de Leon, Suite 1014, San Juan, PR 00918. Managing Broker Santiago Coll-Camalez can be contacted at 7870772-4978 or [email protected].

REach® Technology Accelerator Named Among Best in Nation
WASHINGTON (July 12, 2017) - REach®, the growth technology accelerator operated by the National Association of Realtors®' strategic investment arm, Second Century Ventures, was recently named among the top 30 accelerators in the U.S. by the Seed Accelerator Rankings Project, or SARP. Now in its fifth year, SARP is compiled by researchers from the MIT Innovation Initiative Lab for Innovation Science, Rice University and the University of Richmond and aims to provide transparency around performance so that entrepreneurs can make an educated decision when choosing from the hundreds of programs that market themselves as accelerators. "NAR's REach program is the perfect example of the innovative strategies that the association has taken to enrich our Realtor® members and their business, and being named among the top accelerators in the country affirms our success," said Dale Stinton, president of SCV and NAR CEO. "Since becoming REach's managing director Mark Birschbach has really taken SCV and REach to the next level, and he 'owns' that success now and in the future." This year SARP reviewed performance metrics and solicited feedback from alumni of over 150 startup accelerators; the top 30 were ranked in five categories: platinum plus, platinum, gold, silver and bronze. This is the first time that REach, which received a silver ranking, has been included on the list. Since REach's launch in 2013, it has accepted 40 companies into its accelerator program and recently announced the nine companies participating in its 2017 class, which runs through November 2017. "The future of the real estate industry depends on forward thinking and the adoption of technology that benefits consumers and agents in the real estate transaction," said Bob Goldberg, SCV officer and NAR senior vice president of Business Development. "As incoming NAR CEO one of my top priorities for the future is to continue to successfully leverage REach and SCV's technology investments to expand the value that Realtors® bring to the real estate transaction." REach differs from other accelerators in both its vertical focus within the real estate and related industries and in the early-to-mid growth stage at which most companies enter the program. Past classes have found great success within the accelerator program and have on average doubled their customer base and collectively raised over $100 million in financing both during and after the program. "It is an honor to be recognized by SARP alongside other elite accelerators in the U.S. Our selection is an indication of the significant strategic value we provide to entrepreneurs looking to work with our members and penetrate our key markets" said Mark Birschbach, managing director of SCV and REach®. "We see tremendous opportunity for REach companies to meet a similar level of success that SCV investment companies like DocuSign, Updater and others have achieved." More information about REach can be found at http://narreach.com and on the SARP rankings and selection criteria at seedrankings.com. Second Century Ventures is an early-stage technology fund, backed by the National Association of Realtors® that leverages the association's 1.2 million members and an unparalleled network of executives within real estate and adjacent industries. SCV systematically launches its portfolio companies into the world's largest industries including real estate, financial services, banking, home services, and insurance. SCV seeks to define and deliver the future of the world's largest industries by being a catalyst for new technologies, new opportunities, and new talent. The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

America’s #1 Real Estate Agent Isn't from Manhattan or Beverly Hills, but Texas
Ben Caballero Invented His Own Technology to Sell Over 3,500 Homes Worth $1.44 Billion Addison, TX (June 26, 2017) – America's number one real estate agent doesn't cater to the rich and famous in Beverly Hills, or the titans of Wall Street in Manhattan. Ben Caballero is the broker-owner of HomesUSA.com®, based in Addison, Texas, and sells new homes to Texans for more than 60 top builders in Dallas-Ft. Worth, Houston, Austin and San Antonio. Caballero was named America's top individual real estate agent for the sixth straight year, landing atop the coveted REAL Trends "The Thousand" list for selling 3,556 homes last year: he sold seven times more homes than his closest competitor, who sold 467 homes. His home sales last year totaled a new individual real estate agent sales record of $1.444 billion, breaking his own previous record of $1.022 billion, set last year when he became the world's first "Billion Dollar Real Estate Agent." REAL Trends ranks the top sales professionals in the United States by transaction sides and sales volume, and Caballero led the REAL Trends "The Thousand" in both the 2017 Individuals by Transaction Sides and 2017 Individuals by Sales Volume. This ranking is done in partnership with The Wall Street Journal and requires independent third-party verification. The total number of homes Caballero sold last year increased by more than 42% last year and his dollar volume increased by more than 43%, despite the fact that economists warned last year that home sales in Texas might suffer from the volatility in oil prices. But Dallas-Ft Worth area-based Caballero continues to point out that Texas is not as dependent on oil as it once was. "Dallas is headquarters to 21 Fortune 500 firms; Austin is a hub for technology, education and legislation; San Antonio continues to benefit from a massive military base; and even though Houston has oil dependency, it still continues to see more home sales and price increases," Caballero said. Caballero also is the only individual real estate agent ever to surpass the total production of the number one ranked real estate teams in "The Thousand" list, as measured by total sales transactions (sides) and total transaction volume, as verified by REAL Trends. Caballero sold nearly twice as many homes in both dollar volume and number of homes than the top real estate teams in the "The Thousand" list this year. But Caballero does it differently than nearly every other agent on "The Thousand" list: essentially all of his transactions are for new home sales. Caballero invented an online technology for builders – provided by the company he owns, HomesUSA.com, which allows him to achieve these remarkable numbers. It's a cloud-based listing management and marketing platform that streamlines the MLS listing and real estate marketing process for homebuilders. The HomesUSA.com platform allows builders to provide more accurate data to consumers while also dramatically increasing their ability to market their new home listings to real estate agents. "Whether a Volume Builder chooses to manage their MLS listings in-house or outsource them to an agent, it's a struggle to maintain them accurately when they attempt to do it manually. When you have dozens and dozens of listings, it's nearly impossible to keep them updated and accurate when doing it manually, no matter how many people work on them. I invented a way to automate much of the process to ensure data accuracy throughout the life of the listing. The system I created also is what has enabled me to achieve record sales volume at a level that is really hard for most people to fathom, but it really demonstrates how scalable our technology is," he added. Caballero grew his business in the last year from serving 40 builders to now serving 60. "Builders really don't effectively market to real estate agents and that's what I provide. You can't just enter a new home into the MLS and think that's that. Every listing must be updated constantly on the MLS and that's what my builder platform delivers. Plus, I provide every builder with custom marketing and production reports, a complete professional listing photography package for every home listed, and a lead capturing and forwarding system so they can quickly see how my system more than pays for itself: it saves them time and money." Caballero shows builders how his system also speeds up the sales process, typically between 10-30 days faster than comparable new homes in the marketplace. "Builders appreciate the extra value I deliver when they look at their competition and see that our system helps them sell their homes faster," Caballero says. From 2010 to 2016, Caballero's total home sales volume totaled $7.2 billion. To put his 2016 new home sales numbers in perspective, Caballero sold an average of more than 68 homes per week, that's nearly 10 homes a day, every day of the week, or more than one-and-a-half sales every business hour. Caballero was a builder for 18 years and became a real estate agent at the age of 21. He developed his online platform in 2007. While the Caballero system is currently used solely in Texas, he expects it to soon rollout to other large volume homebuilder markets, including North Carolina and Florida. Builders interested can contact HomesUSA.com directly at (800) 856-2132 x300 or email Caballero at [email protected]. About Ben Caballero and HomesUSA.com® Ben Caballero is the #1 ranked real estate professional in the U.S. in two categories: (1) number of real estate sales transactions and (2) cumulative transaction (dollar) volume. In 2016, he completed 3,565 home sales totaling $1.449 billion in volume. Between 2010 and 2015, he had 16,618 home sales totaling $5.765 billion in volume. Ben has been the #1 agent in the nation in these categories for the last 6 years and is the first and only agent in U.S. history ever to exceed the $1 billion mark for residential sales transaction volume in a single year, accomplished in both 2015 and 2016. Caballero is an acclaimed innovator and technological pioneer within the real estate industry. His drive to leverage technology has allowed him to reach unprecedented, historic levels of sales, as he developed a proprietary SaaS platform, HomesUSA.com, to aid him in servicing his clients. His individual record-setting production is only possible due to the efficiencies it enables. He was named a 2017 Inman Influencer and a SP2017 Trendsetter by Swanepoel T3 Group. Caballero received the 2014 Pinnacle Award for Real Estate Entrepreneurship, presented by Keller Williams Realty. He was named the Most Innovative Real Estate Agent by Inman News in 2013 and a finalist in 2016. He is CEO and President of HomesUSA.com, Inc., operating in Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio and Houston. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Metro MLS, MetroTex Association of REALTORS®. A lifelong Realtor and former homebuilder, Caballero has been a real estate broker since age 21. Follow Ben on Twitter at @bcaballero and learn more about HomesUSA.com online.

Bob Goldberg Named CEO of National Association of Realtors®
WASHINGTON (June 23, 2017) – Bob Goldberg has been named CEO of the National Association of Realtors®. Goldberg currently serves as NAR senior vice president of Sales & Marketing, Business Development & Strategic Investments, Professional Development and Conventions for NAR. Goldberg was the choice of NAR's leadership team after an extensive national search. He succeeds Dale Stinton, who is retiring after 36 years at NAR and 12 as CEO. Goldberg has been with NAR since 1995 and will be NAR's 12th CEO since the association was founded in 1908. "Bob's vision, business acumen and unique ability to successfully leverage NAR's technology investments will ensure Realtors® remain at the center of the real estate transaction," said 2017 NAR President William E. Brown, a Realtor® from Alamo, California. "With extensive knowledge of the association and real estate industry, Bob brings with him a strong track record for future-based thinking and enacting change, which is why the NAR leadership team is extremely confident in his ability to lead the association and membership to continued future success." In his current SVP role, Goldberg is responsible for brand and strategic marketing and association non-dues revenue, and oversees the largest employee base at NAR, with 69 division personnel. He guides a broad range of association initiatives including business development, strategic planning and partnerships, association product and marketing services and management, member professional development, competitive brand positioning, marketing, advertising and promotions, and group conventions. In addition to his NAR roles, Goldberg also acts as SVP of administration for REALTOR® University, overseeing graduate school staff, day-to-day operations of the research center, curriculum development and budgets. He is also president and CEO of the REALTORS® Information Network, or RIN, an NAR for-profit and wholly owned subsidiary responsible for overseeing the realtor.com® operating agreement with Move, Inc. "I'm humbled and excited to be named NAR's next CEO," said Goldberg. "This is a dynamic time for the association and the industry, and I am looking forward to my new role and working with Realtor® leaders and staff to advance the association and our members towards long-term success." After soliciting and considering recommendations from NAR's members, the Leadership Team appointed a diverse 15-member search committee in December 2015 to work with executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles to recruit candidates for the CEO position. 2015 NAR President Chris Polychron served as the search committee chair, and 2003 NAR President Cathy Whatley served as vice chair. "Finding a successor for Dale Stinton was far from easy, but it was a challenge our search committee took very seriously. The final candidates, who were all top-notch, brought diverse backgrounds and the right mix of skills, but Bob Goldberg stood apart because of his considerable understanding of and expertise in the many the issues facing the industry and NAR's members," said Polychron. "We greatly appreciate Heidrick and Struggles' insights and assistance throughout the entire selection process and look forward to moving ahead." The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

MLS Industry Veteran Tom Beede to Retire in July
MetroList Board Appoints Next Leadership Team SACRAMENTO, California – Tom Beede, President, CEO and CFO of MetroList Services, Inc., has announced his retirement after more than 32 years of service with MetroList and over 40 years in the MLS industry. His retirement is set for July 14, 2017. "MetroList has been very fortunate to have such a visionary leader at the helm," said Wayne Rose, chairman, MetroList Board of Directors. Prior to joining MetroList, Tom was an Account Manager for PRC Realty Systems where he created the first PRC regional MLS computer system for the Sacramento, Placer and El Dorado Associations of REALTORS®. With his expertise and knowledge in the new electronic age, Beede was the first employee at MetroList and was hired to manage, build, and lead MetroList as one of the first MLSs in the nation that "owned and operated" its own MLS Computer system. Under Tom's leadership, MetroList grew to become the largest Northern California MLS, now serving more than 18,000 Participants and Subscribers in Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, Yolo, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and West Merced counties. Tom built an organization and culture focused on delivering unparalleled subscriber value, customer centric service, and the highest level of data integrity. "Tom has an aptitude for bringing the best products and services to subscribers, and an ability to create regional relationships, collaborations and identifying new and cost-effective ways to share MLS data," Rose added. "Tom will leave a lasting legacy not only with MetroList, but with the entire Industry. We are eternally thankful for his leadership and loyalty," Rose said. Bill Miller, a MetroList executive for the past 21 years, has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer by the Board of Directors. Miller's previous roles as COO, Corporate Secretary and Vice President of Business Development, make him the ideal person to lead the organization. Prior to his new role, Miller led the company's business segments, including marketing, communications, human resources, business development and subscriber education. Milleralso earned the CMLX3 designation, the highest-level certification offered by the Council of Multiple Listing Services. In addition, the Board of Directors has promoted Nancy Madolora as Chief Financial Officer and Bob Greenspan as Vice President and Corporate Secretary. "Tom has been an excellent leader and mentor," said Miller. "He leaves behind a great team of seasoned MLS professionals who will continue to develop and grow the organization bydelivering the innovative products and services so our subscribers can list and sell more property." This leadership evolution is consistent with the MetroList Board of Directors' corporate strategy and demonstrates the strength of management development within the organization. About MetroList Services, Inc. MetroList Services Inc. is the largest multiple listing service in Northern California, headquartered in Sacramento, the state's capital. Formed in 1985 by the Sacramento Association of REALTORS®, the Placer County Association of REALTORS® and the El Dorado County Association of REALTORS®, MetroList's ownership group has grown to include the Lodi Association of REALTORS®, the Yolo County Association of REALTORS®, and California Real Estate Brokers, Inc. MetroList acts as a seamless real estate information network serving more than 18,000 real estate professionals in seven counties: Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced and Yolo.

Proxio Appoints Two Industry Veterans As Directors to Its Board
Robert (Bob) Moles and Irving Levin bring decades of business experience to help guide the real estate technology company’s rapid growth.SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA (MAY 23, 2017) - Proxio, Inc., provider of digital marketing and collaboration solutions for builders, brokerages, and agents worldwide, announces the appointment of Robert (Bob) Moles and Irving Levin to its board of directors. The company added the new directors to help guide the expansion of its enterprise sales strategy across the real estate industry domestically and internationally. Bob Moles has over 35 years of leadership experience in the real estate industry. He is currently Chairman of the board of Intero Real Estate Services, a division of HomeServices of America (a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate). He is also a director of Heritage Bank, and previously served on the board of Trulia. Prior to joining Intero in 2004, Moles was the President and CEO of the Real Estate Franchise Group of Cendant Corporation (now Realogy), the largest franchiser of residential and commercial real estate brokerage offices in the world. As CEO, Moles oversaw the Century 21®, Coldwell Banker®, Coldwell Banker Commercial®, ERA® and Sotheby's International Realty® real estate companies. Moles is recognized as a leader in the area of developing relocation and financial services for brokers, and has led the industry in advocating the creation of value-added services for the purpose of recruiting and retaining agents. “Intero was an early adopter of the Proxio platform, attracted by its translation technology,” said Moles. “Now Proxio's collaboration technology is helping brokerages leverage agents in an entirely new way. I'm excited to be part of a team that continues to innovate and lead the industry forward." Irving Levin is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and philanthropist based in Portland, Oregon. Levin was the founder and CEO of the first credit card bank in the U.S., and later started Renaissance, a consumer lender, which he sold to Household International (now HSBC) in 2000. Levin sits on a number of private company boards and acts as a mentor for entrepreneurs. He is also active in the non-profit world as a Trustee of Portland State University and The Renaissance Foundation, and as Chairman of Digital Divide Data, a social enterprise operating in Africa and Asia. Levin holds a BA and MBA from the University of Chicago. “Proxio is primed for rapid growth, evidenced by the recent adoption of its digital marketing platform by Fortune 500 real estate companies.” said Levin. “It's an exciting time to be joining the Board.” “With impressive track records in the real estate industry, business and finance, Bob and Irving are tremendous additions to our board,” Proxio CEO Janet Case said. “Their advice will be invaluable as we continue to grow the company domestically and internationally.” About Proxio Proxio’s multilingual sales platform is moving the real estate industry into the modern era— powering the digital creation, sharing, and tracking of property marketing information globally. Proxio’s collaboration technology enables builders, developers, and brokerages to leverage motivated agents anywhere to reach more buyers and accelerate sales, while tracking activity, interest, and leads. For more information, visit http://www.Proxio.com.

Second Century Ventures adds Adwerx and immoviewer to 2017 REach® Accelerator Class
  WASHINGTON (May 17, 2017) — Two more innovative technology companies have been selected to join REach®, a growth technology accelerator program from the National Association of Realtors®' strategic investment arm, Second Century Ventures. Adwerx, a digital advertising provider, and immoviewer, a 3-D virtual tour technology company, will join the seven other companies announced last month as part of the fifth REach class. REach provides early-to mid-stage companies with access to NAR's industry expertise, influence and key relationships to help launch companies into the real estate, financial services, banking, home services and insurance industries. "This year we had a record number of applications, which demonstrates REach's value proposition to participating companies and the tremendous opportunity there is for them in the trillion dollar real estate industry," said Dale Stinton, president of SCV and NAR CEO. "We are excited by the talent and diversity of innovation among the nine selected companies and are eager to kick off our 2017 cohort with the final addition of Adwerx and immoviewer." Adwerx provides cost-effective, highly-targeted and localized online advertising for real estate brokers, agents and listings. "By participating in the NAR REach program, Adwerx is in a great position to expand our footprint in real estate and strengthen our relationship with NAR. The opportunity to be part of the class of 2017 is perfect timing for us with the launch of our enterprise offering of marketing automation to brokers and franchises," said Adwerx CEO Jed Carlson. The newest trend in real estate listing marketing is 360 degree virtual tours, and immoviewer's 3-D virtual tour software makes the process simple and affordable. "As the European market leader in 3-D virtual tour technology and the first international company to be selected to participate in the REach program, we are excited about the opportunity to accelerate and expand the use of this technology among real estate professionals in the U.S." said immoviewer CEO Ralf von Grafenstein. The seven other organizations making up the 2017 REach class are Centriq, an app that transfers home repair and maintenance knowledge from the seller to the buyer and keeps agents connected to their clients after the transaction; HouseCanary, a leading source for residential valuations and analytics; Notarize: a remote electronic notary service; Occly: a portable alarm solution that helps protect real estate professionals and properties; Pearl Certification, which certifies homes with features that contribute to its comfort, energy performance, indoor air quality and value; Relola, a site for agents to share insights about local listings, neighborhoods and service providers with clients; and Trusted Mail, a certification program that uses facial-biometrics to sign and encrypt email and attachments to protect against wire fraud and email spoofing. NAR's 2017 REach accelerator companies will be showcasing their innovative technology solutions this week during the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C., at the trade expo on Wednesday, May 17 and Thursday, May 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at booth #1731. Second Century Ventures is an early-stage technology fund, backed by the National Association of Realtors® that leverages the association's 1.2 million members and an unparalleled network of executives within real estate and adjacent industries.  SCV systematically launches its portfolio companies into the world's largest industries including real estate, financial services, banking, home services, and insurance. SCV seeks to define and deliver the future of the world's largest industries by being a catalyst for new technologies, new opportunities, and new talent. The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Remine Hires Three Real Estate Technology Veterans
FALLS CHURCH, Va., April 26, 2017 -- Remine has hired three real estate technology veterans: Lucie Fortier and Bill Weis formerly of Corelogic and Joel Shears from Lone Wolf. Lucie Fortier will serve as Remine's VP of Product to oversee product development and MLS implementations. Bill Weis was hired as Director of Data Acquisitions. Joel Shears is Director of Industry Relations. Fortier joins Remine from Corelogic, where she was Senior Director of Operations for Real Estate Solutions, including Matrix and Realist, which is in use by more than 700,000 Realtors® today. "MLS executives across North America have a deep respect for Lucie because she can take complex situations and deliver results. She's got the track record to deliver the Remine platform to more than one million Realtors®," said Remine CEO Leo Pareja. Weis began his career in the data acquisition business more than 20 years ago at First American, before it became Corelogic. "His relationships are extensive as he was one of the first architects of creating a public record acquisition system," says Jonathan Spinetto, COO of Remine. "Bill will help us continue to build out our impressive data assets." Shears initially became involved in the real estate industry with the original wireless MLS portals for mobile which later turned into some of the apps we see today. Over the past 12 years, Joel oversaw an MLS platform that was in wide use in the Canadian markets, and is deeply connected in the MLS, Association and Brokerage space, both in Canada and the US. "On the heels of our unprecedented success in the MLS industry, we knew we needed a team of pros that can deliver results, and who have the credibility amongst MLS and Broker executives," said Mark Schacknies, CFO of Remine. About RemineRemine delivers real estate intelligence to MLSs, Brokers/Teams and Realtors®. We analyze property records, transactional history, consumer data and deliver results on an intuitive user interface. Visit Remine.com or call 855-217-0171.

Howard Hanna Moves Up in Rankings of the Top Residential Real Estate Brokerage Firms across America
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services has moved up in the national rankings of residential real estate firms and now ranks as the 3rd largest company in the United States, based on total transaction sides closed last year.  The family-owned and operated company recorded 90,016 closed transactions sides, up 45.9% over the year before. The new rankings were published in the annual REAL Trends 500, a list of the top real estate brokerages distributed by REAL Trends, Inc., a leading source of statistical analysis for the residential real estate industry, and in RISMedia's annual Power Broker Report, both of which were released earlier this week. "2016 was a record year at Howard Hanna spearheaded by organic internal growth and acquisitions.  In fact, Howard Hanna Realtors individually out performed our competitors' agents by 18%.  The results can be attributed to the overall hard work, dedication and pride in performance of our more than 9,000 colleagues in eight states," said Chairman Howard W. "Hoddy" Hanna, III. Howard Hanna advanced in the rankings of closed sales volume ranking as well, moving from 7th to 5th largest in the United States, with closed sales volume of $16.8 billion last year, an increase of 39.6% over the year before. The company's year-to-year increases in closed transactions and closed volume were the highest among the residential real estate firms ranked. About Howard Hanna Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is the third largest real estate company in America, the #1 privately owned broker in the nation, and the largest home seller in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. The family-owned and operated real estate company specializes in residential and commercial brokerage service, mortgages, closing and title insurance, land development, appraisal services, insurance services, corporate relocation and property management. With more than 270 offices across PA, OH, NY, VA, MI, WV, NC and MD, our more than 9,000 sales associates and employees are guided by a spirit of integrity in all aspects of the real estate process. For more information, please visit howardhanna.com.

REAL Trends 500 Report Ranks Nation's Largest Real Estate Firms
  CASTLE ROCK, Colo., March 31, 2017 -- REAL Trends, the trusted source for news and research about the real estate brokerage industry, announced the results of the 2017 REAL Trends 500, an independently verified compilation of the Nation's leading residential real estate companies. According to a research report produced by REAL Trends, the 500 largest residential real estate brokerage firms in the nation closed over 3.1 million residential sales transactions in 2016. These transactions represent over one-third of all new and resale transactions completed by brokers during the year, yet the REAL Trends 500 represented less than one-half of one percent of all brokerage firms. The 500-ranked brokers closed 3.1 million home transactions with a value of over $1.0 trillion during 2016, up from $935 billion in the calendar year 2015. This year's survey represents the most comprehensive collection of data assembled on the leaders of the residential brokerage industry. Numbers are documented by outside accounting firms. "Housing sales in the Nation were up 4.9 percent in 2016 from 2015. The REAL Trends 500 firms were up 6.6 percent in the same period. For the third year in a row, the Nation's largest brokerage firms gained market share," said Steve Murray, president of REAL Trends. "This market-share growth is unusual in that historically larger firms lose market share in robust markets. Clearly, America's largest brokerage firms have figured out how to grow their share in all kinds of market environments." It took 1,843 transactions to be included in this year's REAL Trends 500, up from a minimum of 1,702 transactions a year ago. In 2015, there were 209 firms recording over $1 billion in residential sales while there were 235 firms that accomplished this in 2016. NRT, LLC led the REAL Trends 500 as the largest residential brokerage company in the country. The firm closed 337,780 transactions in 2016. Owned entirely by Realogy, NRT, in Madison, New Jersey, acquires residential real estate brokerage firms and operates them as affiliates of Coldwell Banker, Sotheby's International Realty, The Corcoran Group, Zip Realty and Climb Real Estate. Number two on the list of the Nation's largest firms is HomeServices of America Inc., headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with 245,154 closed transaction sides. Number three on the list is Hanna Holdings, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with 90,016 transactions and number four was Chantilly, Virginia-based Long & Foster Companies, Inc., with 81,032 transactions. To view the rankings, click here. To purchase a copy of the 2017 REAL Trends 500 publication, visit this page. About REAL Trends REAL Trends has been The Trusted Source for news, analysis and information about the residential real estate industry since 1987. We are a privately-held publishing, communications and consulting company based in Castle Pines, Colorado. Residential real estate leaders find timely and trusted information and analysis through our yearly event—Gathering of Eagles—our monthly newsletter and other publications.

Century 21 Real Estate CEO Rick Davidson to Return to His Entrepreneurial Roots and Become a C21 Franchisee
Madison, N.J. 03-27-2017 — Century 21 Real Estate LLC, franchisor of the iconic CENTURY 21® brand, announced today that Rick Davidson will be transitioning from his role as President and CEO on April 21 to return to his entrepreneurial roots in real estate brokerage. Davidson will pursue his passion within the CENTURY 21 System as a principal and president of the Everest Group, operator of CENTURY 21 Everest-Troop Real Estate, a Salt Lake City-based firm with 17 offices in Utah and California. CENTURY 21 Everest-Troop ranks among the top five C21® franchise affiliates worldwide. "We thank Rick Davidson for his 11 years of outstanding leadership and service at Realogy, the last seven of which have enabled CENTURY 21 to become a far stronger and healthier franchise network today than ever before," said John Peyton, president and chief operating officer of the Realogy Franchise Group, the parent company of the CENTURY 21 System. "We are delighted that he will remain affiliated with the franchise system as he moves forward with this next stage of his career. There is no better validation for the C21® System than to have a leader of Rick's caliber choose to affiliate with the franchise." Peyton continued, "In the interim, CENTURY 21 remains in extremely good hands with its existing senior leadership team, and the day-to-day operations of the brand will continue to be managed by Chief Operating Officer Greg Sexton. We are moving expediently, yet deliberately, to conduct a thorough search and evaluate candidates for the CEO position." During the past seven years, Davidson and his leadership team are credited with reinvigorating the CENTURY 21 System, putting in place a comprehensive plan to create excitement about the brand throughout the industry, drive brand pride, foster loyalty within the system and drive growth. The momentum behind CENTURY 21 today is powerful, as evidenced by the brand's unprecedented sweep of the annual J.D. Power Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction StudySM, in which it earned "Highest Overall Satisfaction for First-Time Home Sellers, First-Time Home Buyers, Repeat Home Sellers, and Repeat Home Buyers (Tied in 2016) among National Full Service Real Estate Firms in each of the past three years. The satisfaction level of CENTURY 21 affiliates has increased in every category since 2010. Last year was the best year for franchise sales that C21 has experienced in the past decade. In addition, the brand's marketing campaign continues to evolve while promoting the expertise of its System members and reinforcing the brand's positive momentum. "I am deeply proud of the growth and market positioning we have been able to accomplish together as a team at CENTURY 21," said Davidson. "I cherish the relationships I have built through the years, and I am excited to become a principal of a leading franchise affiliate brokerage firm within the C21 System. This is the start of an exciting new chapter for my career, and my decision to remain affiliated with the CENTURY 21 brand should speak volumes about where my heart is. In my return to real estate brokerage, I wanted CENTURY 21 and the Realogy Franchise Group to remain my home." About Century 21 Real Estate LLCCentury 21 Real Estate LLC is comprised of approximately 7,330 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 77 countries and territories worldwide with more than 110,000 independent sales professionals. Century 21 Real Estate has numerous websites to help answer specific consumer needs. Century 21 Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services.

LeadingRE Names New Advisory Council Officers, Members
CHICAGO, IL – (03/14/17) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has announced new officers and members for its Advisory Council, a leadership group comprised of business development and relocation professionals who provide guidance on key initiatives for the global real estate community comprised of 550 market-leading firms spanning six continents. Pam Metzger, director of relocation and corporate services for WK Real Estate in Boulder, Colo., has been named chairperson and will serve a one-year term. Allison Rybarczyk, relocation director, associate broker for Arizona Best Real Estate in Scottsdale, Ariz., has been elected vice chairperson and will assume the position of chairperson next year. Newly-elected Advisory Council members include Kimberly Barkoff, Halstead Real Estate, N.Y.; Andrea Bowles, Blanchard & Calhoun Real Estate, Augusta, Ga.; Jo Lay, Baird & Warner, Chicago, Ill.; and Catharine Pappas, Dickens Mitchener, Charlotte, N.C. These professionals join current Advisory Council members Ryan Carrell, Carpenter Realtors, Indianapolis, Ind.; Rachael Joyner, Joyner Fine Properties, Richmond, Va.; Diana McGrogan, Intero Real Estate Services, Cupertino, Calif.; Frank Morrice Arias, Siuma Realty, Panama; and Kim Mullins, HUFF Realty, Cincinnati, Ohio. Concluding their service on the council are Jane Gowarty, Smith & Associates Real Estate, Tampa, Fla.; Liz Nunan, Houlihan Lawrence Real Estate, Rye Brook, N.Y.; and Denise Talboy, The Keyes Company, Miami, Fla. The Advisory Council works closely with the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® management team on strategic network initiatives. Council members also mentor other affiliates and serve as ambassadors for the organization's extensive programs. Members are elected by fellow council members to serve a three-year term and are chosen based on the merits of their professional experience and reputation and their willingness to share their expertise for the benefit of the network. "We are incredibly fortunate to have such talented, experienced council members providing guidance on vital programs that impact our members around the world, particularly those that relate to business development, lead generation and relocation," said LeadingRE Director of Member Services Brent Williams who serves as the staff liaison to the group. LeadingRE connects its members to opportunities and people around the globe, supporting them with an international referral network, professional development programs, unique events and connections to people and opportunities worldwide. For more information, visit www.LeadingRE.com. About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is a selective global community of the highest quality independent real estate companies, with over 550 companies and 130,000 sales associates spanning six continents. Network members generate over 1.2 million transactions annually. LeadingRE exists to make its members better by connecting them to opportunities and people around the globe, supporting them with an international referral network, professional development programs, unique events and connections to people and opportunities worldwide.

Senate Confirms Carson Nomination as Realtors® Look to Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
  WASHINGTON (March 2, 2017) — The U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. Ben Carson as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development today with a roll call vote of 58-41. National Association of Realtors® President William E. Brown, a second-generation Realtor® from Alamo, California and founder of Investment Properties, said Realtors® will work closely with Secretary Carson to support homeownership and real estate investment. Following is a statement from NAR President William E. Brown on the nomination: "Dr. Carson should be proud of his achievement. The task at hand is a big one, and we applaud his commitment to the challenges that lie ahead. "NAR has been the voice of real estate for over a century. In that time we've seen changes in markets, in Washington and in the business of our Realtor® members. But there's a reason that homeownership is called the 'American Dream,' and that hasn't changed one bit. "Homeownership helps build communities and build wealth for families. And we know that the policies set in Washington can make a real difference for Americans as they work to realize their dream of homeownership. "We're committed to helping them get there, which means addressing the hurdles that buyers, current homeowners and investors face in the marketplace. Housing inventories are tight and mortgage credit is hard to come by, and at the same time far too many buyers are saddled with high rents and student debt that stand in the way of saving for a down payment. "We look forward to working with Secretary Carson to meet these challenges head on." The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

DocuSign Lands High Profile SaaS Industry Veteran Daniel Springer as CEO
SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 18, 2017 -- DocuSign announced today that Daniel Springer has joined the company as CEO. Previously, Springer served as Chairman and CEO at Responsys for ten years where he transformed and scaled the business from private start up to the leading cross-channel marketing automation platform globally and a publicly traded company. Springer brings more than 25 years of executive leadership and experience in driving innovation and hyper growth across technology and, specifically, the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) industry to his role at DocuSign. Keith Krach will continue in his role on DocuSign's board as Chariman. "DocuSign has delivered tremendous value for hundreds of thousands of companies and millions of consumers around the world by providing them with a faster, easier and more secure set of services for their digital transformation journey," said Dan Springer, CEO at DocuSign. "I'm thrilled to join a team of such highly passionate leaders and employees so deeply focused on customer success. I look forward to leading the next chapter of DocuSign innovations to bring even more value to our customers, developers and partners around the world." "After our comprehensive CEO search, I am confident that Dan is the right leader to continue our hyper growth, further strengthen our preeminence in the market, and further inspire the innovative, entrepreneurial, values-based culture of DocuSign," said Keith Krach, Chairman of the Board at DocuSign. "Dan brings an exceptional track record of executive leadership, along with deep SaaS expertise and public company experience. As we pursue one of the largest strategic markets in the cloud today, we must continue to sprint this marathon, and I could not be passing the baton to a better person and leader than Dan." "Dan is a world class executive and a tremendous addition to lead DocuSign over the next decade and beyond," said Pete Solvik, DocuSign Board Member and Managing Partner at Jackson Square Ventures. "I've had the privilege of working with Dan while he served as CEO at Responsys where he showed he has a competitive spirit and plays to win. Dan is the type of leader who inspires high performance teams to deliver customer-focused innovation that scales businesses and creates massive market value. We're thrilled to have Dan join DocuSign to accelerate our leadership and the momentum of the DocuSign Global Trust Network." Springer served as Chairman and CEO of Responsys for a decade during which he transformed the company into an industry leader, drove its initial public offering on NASDAQ, and led its sale to Oracle for $1.6 billion in 2014. During his tenure, Springer was honored as both a Bay Area Most Admired CEO and Best CEO. Previously, Springer was the Managing Director of Modem Media and also served as CEO at Telleo, Inc., CMO at NextCard, and a consultant at McKinsey & Company. He started his career at DRI/McGraw-Hill and Pacific Telesis. Springer holds an MBA from Harvard University and an AB in Mathematics and Economics from Occidental College. Springer serves or has served as a board member at both public and private companies, including iCIMS, Ansira, YuMe, ELOAN (Banco Popular), Heighten, Persado, and eGroups (Yahoo!), as well as at nonprofits, including YearUp, The Urban School, Shop.org, AdTech, The Randall Museum and The San Francisco Friends School. Springer has posted his first blog as CEO of DocuSign at https://www.docusign.com/blog/dsds/ highlighting some of the details behind his decision to return to operations as the CEO of a hyper-growth company. About DocuSign, Inc.DocuSign® is changing how business gets done by empowering anyone to send, sign and manage agreements anytime, anywhere, on any device with trust and confidence. DocuSign and Go to keep life and business moving forward. For more information, visit www.docusign.com.

Chris Bennett Named to Inman's 2017 Real Estate Influencers List
Irvine, CA, Jan 2, 2017 - Inman, the real estate industry's leading source of news and analysis, announced Chris Bennett of CoreLogic as one of the real estate industry's most influential leaders for 2017. The Inman Influencer List salutes a mix of industry professionals who shape, change and influence the industry. Like Chris Bennett they bring a mix of credentials, viewpoints and backgrounds from all walks of the real estate business. Some are creative, intuitive and gifted. Some have power, reach and charisma. And some are controversial, rabble-rousers and disrupters. All of the Inman Influencers, including Chris Bennett contribute to change in one way or another. The list is both young and hardened, made up of connectors, power brokers, high earners, CEOs, hackers, troublemakers and startup founders. It's a list of entrepreneurs, big and small; the old-school and the new; controversial and quiet plodders. "They are not cut from the same cloth, they do not speak the same language and they do not always necessarily share the same values. But they influence the industry by their work, through their followers and by expressing their opinions," said Inman publisher Brad Inman. In selecting this year's Inman Influencers, Inman considered recommendations from readers, editorial staff and outside suggestions. Thousands of real estate professionals make a difference in the real estate industry every day, but Chris Bennett and others on this year's list are some we believe stood out. View the complete Inman Influencer list here. About Inman | Inman is the leading real estate news source for real estate agents, brokers, real estate executives and technology leaders who need the latest real estate news, insights and analysis to grow their business and stay ahead of the competition. For more information, visit www.inman.com.

Crye-Leike's CIO Appointed to Board of UpstreamRe, the Future Google Drive of Real Estate
Memphis, Tenn. (December 19, 2016) - Crye-Leike Real Estate Services, a full-service real estate company, announces that its Chief Information & Operations Officer Gurtej Sodhi has been appointed to the board of managers of UpstreamRE, LLC, a Bellevue, Wa.-based real estate broker-owned and controlled data management company that governs Upstream, a collaborative broker initiative for the benefit of every sized broker in the real estate industry. Upstream is a comprehensive data management project that promises to deliver a universal system for real estate listing information and distribution. In development since 2014, Upstream's functionality is being described by its peers to become the Google Drive of real estate. Upstream is managed by a tiered board of managers as well as networks and national franchisors. Being affiliated with Crye-Leike, Sodhi's seat on the Upstream board represents large firms. Crye-Leike is ranked the nation's sixth largest residential real estate brokerage firm among the nation's top 500. In his role, Sodhi will join Upstream's 23-member board and CEO to ensure that the organization has a well-articulated, long range strategy in addition to a successful initial launch of Upstream. "Our board of managers is one of the strongest boards of directors in the real estate industry," said Alex Lange, president and chief executive officer of UpstreamRE, LLC who confirmed Sodhi's appointment. Gurtej will serve as a valuable member of the board with 20 years in the technology and real estate industries. He has been critical while serving on our technology workgroup as he understands the importance of technology, systems and processes imperative to our achieving maximum efficiency." About Upstream. "More than a platform for brokerage data entry, management, storage and distribution, Upstream is the culmination of an industry groundswell to take back control of brokerage data," said Sodhi. Brokers of every size are frustrated with how inefficiently they leverage one of their greatest assets - data. Upstream cross references a broad set of real estate data extending beyond real estate listings posted in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). It creates a single entry point for the entire real estate industry and seeks to eliminate duplicative data entry costs. Upstream then gives brokers full control to distribute their data simply and efficiently." Upstream will not have any consumer-facing websites. So, it will not be competing with syndication sites like Zillow and Trulia. Upstream will not be a Multiple Listing Service (MSL), or a MLS vendor. Instead, Upstream focuses on empowering brokers to manage their data as an asset. To accelerate development, Upstream entered into a technology agreement with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and Realtors Property Resource (RPR), the data analytics and reporting subsidiary of NAR. Why Should Real Estate Agents Care about Upstream? Upstream will offer real estate agents, nationwide, a simplified data entry process and control over the distribution of their real estate listings. This new entry process will ensure not only that accurate listing information is distributed, but also that each agent can decide when and where to send their listings, notes Sodhi. "Upstream will offer protection to real estate agents, brokers and consumers; it is why Crye-Leike Real Estate Services has been working with Upstream from the beginning." Crye-Leike Real Estate Services, a full service real estate company for 39 years, is the nation's fourth largest privately-held residential real estate brokerage firm, and the largest serving Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and the Mid-South. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Crye-Leike has a network of over 3,000 sales associates in 86 company-owned offices and 26 franchise offices located throughout a nine-state region in Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, Oklahoma, Alabama and Missouri. As a full service real estate company, Crye-Leike Group of Companies (dba Crye-Leike Real Estate Services) offers real estate and related services in a nine-state region. Those services include: relocation services; commercial business and investment real estate services; property leasing and management services; insurance services; title & closing services; mortgage services; home warranty services; home services; auction services; business brokerage services; REO services for bank-owned & foreclosed properties and real estate schools.

National Association of Realtors® Congratulates Dr. Ben Carson, Nominee for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
  WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2016 -- In response to the announcement of Dr. Ben Carson as President-Elect Donald J. Trump's selection for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, NAR President William E. Brown issued the following statement: "Realtors® know that the incoming Secretary of Housing and Urban Development has a big job ahead. Potential homebuyers face a range of hurdles, from rising prices to mortgage credit that's burdened by fees and extra costs." "We congratulate Dr. Carson on accepting this important challenge and wish him the very best of luck in meeting the task ahead. While we've made great strides in recent years, far more can be done to put the dream of homeownership in reach for more Americans. The National Association of Realtors® and its 1.2 million members looks forward to working with Dr. Carson to fulfill this important mission." The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. Information about NAR is available at www.realtor.org. This and other news releases are posted in the "News, Blogs and Video" tab on the website.

FHA Single Family Handbook Update Delivers Clarity for Appraisers, Say Realtors
  WASHINGTON (October 5, 2016) — Realtors® raised concerns earlier this year when the Federal Housing Administration's "Single Family Housing Policy Handbook" included new requirements for appraisers to operate and physically observe appliances on a property during the completion of an appraisal. This inspector-type role far exceeded previously understood appraiser duties and had the potential to make appraisals longer and more costly for consumers. In response to those concerns, HUD recently announced updates to their SF Handbook that clarifies this requirement. According to the new guidance, appraisers must simply note that certain appliances contributing to the market value of the property are physically present. The National Association of Realtors® expressed appreciation to FHA for its clarification in the following statement from NAR President Tom Salomone: "Appraisers have a lot on their plate, and their work is important to ensuring buyers, sellers, lenders and everyone else involved in a transaction has a credible source to turn to when determining the value of a property. Requiring appraisers to perform duties that are better left to a home inspector only slows the process while potentially adding unnecessary costs. "FHA did appraisers and consumers a big favor by clarifying appraiser duties and specifically listing the appliances to which this new guidance applies. While there are still improvements to be made, FHA's announcement provides our Realtor® members with additional certainty as they continue playing a critical role in the home buying and selling process."

Metro MLS's Caitlin McCrory Accepts NAR MLS Manager Position
MILWAUKEE — Metro MLS Communications Director Caitlin McCrory has accepted a position with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) as MLS Manager. Within this role, she will be responsible for actively connecting with MLSs and REALTOR® associations, the Council of Multiple Listing Services, and the Real Estate Standards Organization by attending relevant meetings and cultivating relationships with the organizations' leadership and executives. McCrory joined Metro MLS and the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® in a joint position in 2013. During her time with these organizations, Caitlin helped with many strategic communication plans, grew key social media accounts, implemented membership surveys, and was a true student of the real estate industry. "While we are sad to see Caitlin leave, I am eager to see what she can accomplish in her new position," said Chris Carrillo, CEO of Metro MLS. "I don't think there was a better fit for this position in the country than her. I speak for the rest of the staff at Metro MLS in wishing her the best of luck." Her last effective day with Metro MLS and the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® will be October 5. While this move came as a surprise, both organizations support McCrory in her decision and are happy to see her continue on in the MLS industry.

Alain Pinel Realtors VP Named Vice Chair of National Association of Realtors Advisory Group
SARATOGA, CA (AUGUST 29, 2016) -- Jeff Barnett, vice president and regional manager for Alain Pinel Realtors, has been named vice chair of the National Association of Realtors (N.A.R.) Large Residential Firms Real Estate Advisory Group. The Large Residential Firms Real Estate Advisory Group, along with several other N.A.R. groups, is part the organization's Realtor Leadership 2017 program. Led by 213 others like Barnett, the program, referred to by N.A.R. as its "Realtor Revolution," is designed to help N.A.R.'s 1.2 million members successfully navigate a changing landscape of economic, demographic and technological innovations reshaping the nation's $3.3 trillion residential and commercial real estate industry. "I've been part of this large-broker group for more than 10 years, working with policy makers in Washington D.C. that deal with issues affecting our industry," said Barnett. "I'm deeply honored to have the opportunity to play a leadership role as we continue to study and address challenges and opportunities that will lead to improving our professional practice and, most importantly, client satisfaction." Barnett joined Alain Pinel Realtors in 1991 after beginning his career in real estate in the late 1980s at Fox & Carskadon. As one of Alain Pinel Realtors' original sales agents, Barnett rose quickly in the organization, eventually becoming vice president, regional manager and leading the firm's Los Gatos office. Under Barnett's leadership, the Los Gatos office has grown to more than 200 agents and well over one billion dollars in closed sales annually. "Jeff is a doer and a great mentor to countless Realtors who have had the good fortune to work with him," noted Rainy Hake, COO of Alain Pinel Realtors. "His activities at the local, state and national level to advance the real estate profession date back to almost the beginning of his nearly 30-year real estate career. We're proud to see him in this new leadership role with N.A.R. and honored to have him as part of our team." About Alain Pinel Realtors Alain Pinel Realtors (APR) is the sixth largest residential real estate firm in the United States and the largest privately-owned residential real estate company in Northern California based on its closed-sales volume. The firm has 1,400 agents in more than 30 offices throughout Northern California. APR was founded in 1990 by CEO and President Paul L. Hulme, and is based in Saratoga, Calif. Visit us at apr.com.

CoreLogic Wins "Most Innovative Real Estate Company" Award
  IRVINE, Calif., August 27, 2016—CoreLogic®, a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider, announced today that the company has been awarded the coveted 2016 Inman Innovator Award for "Most Innovative Real Estate Company." CoreLogic was selected from a field of 20 nominees that included many of the real estate industry's top brands and hot new startups. Presented at a red carpet gala in San Francisco, the award recognizes and celebrates innovation and accomplishments in the real estate industry and is presented each year by real estate's leading news provider, Inman News. This Innovator Award is designed to recognize a company that has led the real estate industry for innovative efforts in 2016. "This truly is the 'Year of Innovation' for CoreLogic," said Chris Bennett, general manager of real estate solutions for CoreLogic. "We listened to our clients and worked hard to improve how property intelligence is delivered to consumers, brokers and technology vendors. The result is Trestle™ and ePropertyWatch™, and I believe both innovations will have deep and long-lasting impact on the real estate industry. We are honored to win this award and give full credit to the Trestle and ePropertyWatch product teams." Trestle from CoreLogic, named a runner up in the "Most Innovative Technology" category, is a national marketplace that connects data sources with data recipients to address the fundamental data access and data management problems that real estate brokers, technology providers, and multiple listing organizations struggle with today. At the same time, Trestle simplifies the delivery of CoreLogic property intelligence to a broad audience of real estate professionals and technology vendors. Trestle is scheduled for release this fall. Trestle delivers features that help multiple listing organizations improve control and management of their listing data relationships. Key innovations include the combination of listing data with access to best-in-class CoreLogic property data, access to premium automated valuation content, and the aggregation of national listing data into a single repository certified by the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO). With Trestle, brokers and technology providers will power their real estate applications with high quality listing data enhanced by unique CoreLogic property intelligence not available on popular Internet search portals. "While Trestle will help MLSs achieve RESO certification with data standardization to distribution control, contract management, and fee processing, Trestle will also provide real estate brokers a single source for all their listing data, as well as access to proprietary CoreLogic property content," said Kevin Greene, senior director of strategic partnerships and new initiatives. "For technology providers, Trestle will offer access to a national data source and the opportunity for greater innovation." Greene also pointed to the new innovations of ePropertyWatch, which gives real estate brokers and agents the ability to stay connected to clients and prospects by automatically delivering monthly "neighborhood intelligence" reports together with up-to-date home valuations powered by the industry-leading CoreLogic automated valuation model (AVM). For more information, visit www.corelogic.com/trestle and www.epropertywatch.com. About CoreLogic CoreLogic (NYSE: CLGX) is a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider. The company's combined data from public, contributory and proprietary sources includes over 4.5 billion records spanning more than 50 years, providing detailed coverage of property, mortgages and other encumbrances, consumer credit, tenancy, location, hazard risk and related performance information. The markets CoreLogic serves include real estate and mortgage finance, insurance, capital markets, and the public sector. CoreLogic delivers value to clients through unique data, analytics, workflow technology, advisory and managed services. Clients rely on CoreLogic to help identify and manage growth opportunities, improve performance and mitigate risk. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., CoreLogic operates in North America, Western Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit www.corelogic.com. CORELOGIC, the CoreLogic logo and TRESTLE and EPROPERTYWATCH are trademarks of CoreLogic, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

NAR's Second Century Ventures Adds Top Industry Strategist Dave Garland to Investment Team
  CHICAGO, July 28, 2016 -- Second Century Ventures, the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors®, has selected Dave Garland – a respected industry consultant and investor – to join the firm. Garland will help set a forward looking direction for the venture capital fund, which develops early-stage technology companies, and guide its technology accelerator program, REach. In this new role, Garland will search out and evaluate investment opportunities that promise to improve the global residential and commercial real estate industries. Under his guidance, SCV and REach will fund and nurture innovation that will make a positive impact on the day-to-day activities of NAR members. "Partnering with a real estate executive who has practical brokerage, development and technology experience is a true win for NAR and the industry as a whole," said Dale Stinton, CEO of NAR. "This is by far the strongest team we've ever put together at SCV and REach. Combined with the Realtor® brand, SCV continues to be the number one incubator of ideas and technologies in the real estate space." Garland will continue his work from his Silicon Valley office in Menlo Park, Calif., and report to SCV Managing Director Mark Birschbach. "As a mentor for REach®, Dave has already been playing an active role in the success of our companies, and behind the scenes, he has driven many of the industry's biggest deals. We are fortunate to have him as part of our team," said Birschbach. Garland brings over 16 years of strategic advisory experience to numerous venture-backed, public and private real estate companies - bridging these entities with established brokerages and technology firms. As a startup investor, he sits on the boards of growing organizations in Silicon Valley. "Dave is an accomplished professional. He knows our industry from the street up to the very highest levels," said Mike Ryan, RE/MAX, LLC executive vice president.  "He is a seasoned, knowledgeable broker with a stellar track record for identifying promising technologies and startups with a real future." As an industry practitioner, Garland has acquired, owned and managed portfolios of single-family residential, commercial and development properties in 30 states.  During the housing crisis, he worked with several key organizations to create practical solutions for thousands of real estate professionals, including critical short sale programs instrumental in helping homeowners survive the great recession. Garland holds an MBA from the Melbourne Business School and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Notre Dame.  He has also attended advanced programs at Oxford and Stanford and is a licensed real estate broker. Over the past nine years, NAR and SCV have invested in and cultivated dozens of innovative technology companies, including well-known names: DocuSign, Xceligent, SentriLock and zipLogix, and past companies, ePropertyData and ifbyphone. REach is among the largest tech accelerators in the industry with a network of experts that includes over 300 executive level mentors and more than 4,000 Realtors.  Past participant companies include well-known names: Updater, BombBomb, and SmartZip. About Second Century VenturesSecond Century Ventures (SCV) is an early-stage technology fund, backed by the National Association of Realtors®, which leverages the association's 1.1 million members and an unparalleled network of executives within real estate and adjacent industries.  SCV systematically launches its portfolio companies into the world's largest industries including real estate, financial services, banking, home services, and insurance. SCV seeks to define and deliver the future of the world's largest industries by being a catalyst for new technologies, new opportunities, and new talent. Learn more at www.secondcenturyventures.com. About REachREach® is a unique strategic accelerator created by Second Century Ventures, the investment arm of the National Association of Realtors®, which helps technology companies launch into the real estate vertical and its adjacent markets. REach® is a 9-month program that provides education, mentorship and market exposure to help its portfolio companies access the trillion-dollar real estate market and leverage NAR's strategic expertise. REach® accepts fewer than a dozen companies each year to access one of the world's largest industries. Learn more at www.narreach.com. About National Association of Realtors®The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing over 1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. Information about NAR is available at www.realtor.org. This and other news releases are posted in the "News, Blogs and Video" tab on the website.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Announces Leadership Succession
07-18-2016 — Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, the original Silicon Valley real estate startup founded in 1906, today announced the appointment of Charlie Young as the brand's president and CEO, which will take effect September 1, 2016. Young is a well-respected leader in the residential real estate and franchising industries, and this marks his return to Coldwell Banker after serving with distinction as president and CEO of ERA Franchise Systems LLC since 2009. Prior to that, Young spent five years in senior executive leadership roles with Coldwell Banker Real Estate, most recently as its chief operating officer. "Charlie Young has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, solid strategic thinking and a passion for innovation during his 12 years with Realogy," said Alex Perriello, president and CEO of the Realogy Franchise Group, the parent company of both Coldwell Banker and ERA. "He is well prepared to return to his roots and lead Coldwell Banker into the future. The leadership succession plan we have executed speaks to the management talent we have assembled within the Realogy Franchise Group." "It will be a privilege and an honor for me to lead the Coldwell Banker Real Estate franchise system," said Young. "I have a wealth of respect for the brand's 100-plus year heritage and the tradition of innovation that has been the hallmark of Coldwell Banker for many years. I also look forward to reconnecting with the members of its distinguished network as we work together on growing the brand's considerable market presence, both domestically and internationally." Young succeeds Budge Huskey, who elected to retire from the position after spending the past 18 years with the Coldwell Banker system in both franchising and brokerage executive roles. Huskey led the Coldwell Banker brand for the past six years, first as president and chief operating officer in June 2010 before becoming president and CEO in January 2013. During his tenure, Huskey was recognized for his industry leadership, which included being named among the top 10 most influential real estate leaders in the annual Swanepoel Power 200 ranking for 2016. Huskey plans to return to his home state of Florida where he eventually intends to return to the real estate brokerage business. "I am incredibly grateful to Realogy for the amazing opportunities afforded to me over these many years, none more rewarding than the privilege of leading the iconic Coldwell Banker franchise network," said Huskey. "I would like to thank Budge Huskey for his hard work, dedication and service to Coldwell Banker at both the brand and brokerage operations level," added Perriello. "He is a consummate professional, and we wish him well in the future." About Charlie Young: Charlie Young was appointed as president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, which will take effect September 1, 2016. He is a well-respected leader in the residential real estate and franchising industries, and this marks his return to the Coldwell Banker brand after serving with distinction as president and CEO of ERA Franchise Systems LLC since 2009. Prior to that, Young spent five years in senior executive leadership roles with Coldwell Banker Real Estate. Both franchise brands are subsidiaries of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), and Young is a 12-year veteran of Realogy. Young has more than 20 years of experience in business management, field operations, marketing and real estate operations. He was promoted to president and CEO of ERA Real Estate in April 2009, a role he held for seven and a half years after joining the ERA executive team in February 2009 as chief operating officer. During his tenure, Young was primarily responsible for repositioning the ERA brand with a number of key initiatives, including a major rebranding effort and most recently becoming the first real estate franchise system to connect its entire network on the innovative Zap® technology platform, which was developed by another Realogy subsidiary, ZapLabs. Young also has served in leadership roles on a number of Realogy Franchise Group projects through the years. Between 2004 and 2009, Young served at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, as senior vice president of marketing and later as chief operating officer. During his initial term with Coldwell Banker, Young spearheaded several innovative programs that served as industry firsts while establishing him as a recognized leader in the industry. About Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker® organization has been a premier provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate brokerage services. Coldwell Banker Real Estate is the oldest national real estate brand and franchisor in the United States, and today has a global network of approximately 3,000 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 47 countries and territories with almost 85,000 affiliated sales professionals. The Coldwell Banker brand is known for creating innovative consumer services as recently seen by taking a leadership role in the smart home space, being the first national real estate brand with an iPad app, the first to augment its website www.coldwellbanker.com for smart phones, the first to create an iPhone application with international listings, the first to develop an iPad application (CBx) to easily bring big data into home listing presentations, and the first to fully harness the power of video in real estate listings, news and information through its Coldwell Banker On Location YouTube channel. Coldwell Banker is a leader in niche markets such as resort, new homes and luxury properties through its Coldwell Banker Previews International® marketing program delivering exceptional experiences for all consumers served.

Realogy Appoints Seasoned Internet Veteran to Its Board of Directors
Madison, N.J. 07-07-2016 — Realogy Holdings Corp., the premier provider of residential real estate services in the United States, today announced the appointment ofChris Terrill to its Board of Directors. With his appointment as an independent director, the Realogy Board now consists of nine directors, seven of whom are classified as independent directors for purposes of the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange. "We are pleased to welcome Chris Terrill and his strong background in e-commerce to the Realogy Board of Directors," said Richard A. Smith, Realogy's chairman, chief executive officer and president. "He is a seasoned Internet veteran who has specialized in consumer online subscription and marketplace business models with top-tier brands, a background that will serve our Board and shareholders well." "Chris's appointment to our Board strengthens our growing focus on innovation and e-commerce in our industry and brings a new consumer perspective to our web-based initiatives," said Michael J. Williams, the lead independent director of Realogy's Board. Mr. Terrill is the Chief Executive Officer of HomeAdvisor.com, a wholly owned subsidiary of IAC, and a leading nationwide home services digital marketplace that helps connect consumers with home professionals in the United States, as well as in France and the Netherlands under various brands. He has served in this role since May 2011. Prior thereto, he held senior marketing positions at Nutrisystem.com, the leader in the direct-to-consumer diet space, serving as its Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of eCommerce from June 2009 to May 2011 and Senior Vice President of e-commerce from January 2007 to June 2009.  For one year prior to joining Nutrisystem.com, he served as Vice President of Product and Marketing for Blockbuster.com, the online division of Blockbuster Inc. Additionally, he spent six years with Match.com where he held several senior marketing roles, his last being Vice President of New Brands & Verticals, where he developed and launched new online brands, including Chemistry.com. Mr. Terrill is currently a Board Member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and previously was a Board member from November 2010 to November 2015 with Neat.com, a leading digital filing system at the time. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Austin and an MBA from the University of Houston. About Realogy Holdings Corp. Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY) is a global leader in residential real estate franchising and brokerage with many of the best-known industry brands including Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, CENTURY 21®, Coldwell Banker®, Coldwell Banker Commercial®, The Corcoran Group®, ERA®, Sotheby's International Realty® and ZipRealty®. Collectively, Realogy's franchise system members operate approximately 13,600 offices with more than 257,200 independent sales associates conducting business in 110 countries and territories around the world. NRT LLC, Realogy's company-owned real estate brokerage, is the largest residential brokerage company in the United States, operates under several of Realogy's brands and also provides related residential real estate services. Realogy also owns Cartus, a prominent worldwide provider of relocation services to corporate and affinity clients, Title Resource Group (TRG), a leading provider of title, settlement and underwriting services and ZapLabs, its innovation and technology development subsidiary. Realogy is headquartered in Madison, New Jersey.

Lone Wolf Real Estate Technologies Appoints New CEO and Executive Chairman
  CAMBRIDGE, Ontario--Lone Wolf Real Estate Technologies Inc. ("Lone Wolf"), the North American leader in residential real estate software and services, today announced that it has appointed Patrick Arkeveld as its new Chief Executive Officer. Lorne Wallace, founder and former CEO of Lone Wolf, will assume an active role as Executive Chairman, focusing on strategic growth opportunities, industry engagement, and long-term corporate vision. Vista Equity Partners, a leading private equity firm and an investor in Lone Wolf, is making additional investments in the business to fuel product development, increase sales, and cultivate customer success. Arkeveld served as President of Lone Wolf for the past year, working to ensure a solid infrastructure and foundation for future expansion. Arkeveld transformed Lone Wolf's talent acquisition strategy, championed business systems and best practices to drive analytical rigor to the company's go-to-market approach, and formalized the product management function to increase market-driven focus. "I am very proud of how far we have come, and I'm excited for our next chapter of growth under Patrick's leadership," said Lorne Wallace, Executive Chairman of Lone Wolf. "Patrick brings a wealth of operational knowledge in the software industry, and I look forward to working with him and the entire leadership team as we continue to serve our customers." Arkeveld brought a vast set of experiences in the technology sector to Lone Wolf. Prior to joining, he served as the President of Jonas Construction Group, a division of Constellation Software, one of Canada's top software companies and a prominent international provider of enterprise management software and solutions. During his time at Jonas Software, Patrick held a number of operational roles, which included spending time in the UK as the Managing Director of International Operations, responsible for growing the Jonas brand in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. "By combining Lone Wolf's market presence and product expertise with Vista's increased investment and support, we are helping to shape the future of real estate, and that's very exciting," said Patrick Arkeveld, CEO of Lone Wolf. "Our clients always will remain our top priority as we continue to drive innovative solutions, invest in our own infrastructure to improve our ability to serve our customers, and extend our reach across North America in order to better serve the evolving needs of real estate professionals." Vista Equity Partners is investing additional capital to fund Lone Wolf as it continues to expand its offerings and customer base. Vista—a leading private equity firm with focused investments in software, data, and technology enabled companies—partners closely with management teams and provides multilevel support to help companies reach their full potential. "Already a market leader, Lone Wolf is in a great position to build its market presence through innovative products and exceptional customer service, and we look forward to continuing and strengthening our partnership with the leadership team," said Alan Cline, Principal at Vista Equity Partners. "Lorne has built a very strong business, and we are thankful that he will continue to play an active role. Patrick is an exceptional leader, and we look forward to working with him as he guides the company into its next phase of growth." About Lone Wolf Lone Wolf Real Estate Technologies Inc. is the North American leader in real estate solutions and services with 10,000 offices and over 250,000 agents utilizing their fully integrated product lines. Lone Wolf's experience and unmatched knowledge of the industry has provided a unique opportunity to develop the Complete Enterprise Solution. The Complete Enterprise Solution is a fully integrated product line comprised of back office, front office and web-based software providing a single point of data entry, improved efficiency and additional opportunities to identify revenue for real estate professionals. The Complete Enterprise Solution also integrates with partner solutions to create an eco-system of brokerage operations that enable brokerages and agents to operate more efficiently and increase opportunities for profitability. Lone Wolf has offices in Cambridge, ON, Langley, BC, Mississauga, ON, Las Vegas, NV, Show Low, AZ, Atlanta, GA, and Tallahassee, FL. For more information, please visit www.lwolf.com. About Vista Equity Partners Vista, a U.S.-based private equity firm with offices in Austin, Chicago and San Francisco, with more than $25 billion in cumulative capital commitments, currently invests in software, data and technology-based organizations led by world-class management teams with long-term perspective. Vista is a value-added investor, contributing professional expertise and multi-level support towards companies realizing their full potential. Vista's investment approach is anchored by a sizable long-term capital base, experience in structuring technology-oriented transactions, and proven management techniques that yield flexibility and opportunity in private equity investing. For more information, please visit www.vistaequitypartners.com.