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ditor’s note: The brokerage world moves fast, with mergers, milestones, and relocations. Here’s a snapshot of recent U.S. activity.
Portland, Oregon – Christie's International Real Estate enters the city with a new affiliate. Brian Pienovi, a four‑decade veteran of the Portland market, will head Christie's International Real Estate Evergreen alongside his son Andrew, top agent Patrick Clark, and principal Ken McLarty. Their average sale price tops $1 million, about twice the local average, indicating a strong luxury focus. Pienovi and his team previously founded and sold two Portland brokerages, the latest employing over 200 agents. The new venture emphasizes boutique service and growth through quality, not quantity. CIRE President Gavin Swartzman praised the trio’s generational leadership and client‑service commitment, marking the launch as a new chapter on the West Coast. Pienovi highlighted the global network, iconic brand, and advanced tools that complement their four‑decade‑old local relationships.
Clermont, Florida – Hancock Realty Group, founded in 2015 by Matthew L. Mobley, has joined Century 21 and will operate as Century 21 Hancock. The 10‑year‑old firm offers residential and commercial services. Mobley said the affiliation was driven by agent and client welfare, noting Century 21’s brand recognition and support would enhance service to Lake County residents. Century 21 President Mike Miedler commended Mobley’s personal brand growth and predicted the firm would become a top‑regarded business in Central Florida.
Washington – After expanding into the state, FirstTeam announced Aaron Shriner as broker of record for Washington. Shriner, co‑founder of The Shriner Group and former VP at Group One Sotheby’s International Realty and LIV Sotheby’s, brings 25 + years of experience. He will use FirstTeam’s resources to usher in a new era of excellence for clients in Washington and Idaho. CEO Michele Harrington praised his local insight, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit, noting his success will help the firm deliver exceptional service and broaden its regional presence. Shriner cited FirstTeam’s tech, customizable branding, and team‑focused approach as key attractions.
Florida – Julie Larsen, a luxury agent with over $200 million in sales, has joined Michael Saunders & Company. A builder’s daughter, Larsen has been a top producer for years and ranks in the top 500 agents in Tampa Bay and the top 1.5 % nationwide. She will focus on luxury clients in St. Petersburg, leveraging the brokerage’s marketing team, buyer networks, and professional management to scale relationship‑driven service. Saunders’ President Drayton Saunders praised her long‑term client focus and alignment with the firm’s high‑touch, high‑integrity standards.
Miami – Douglas Elliman added Rachael Brook to its Miami office. Brook, who began her career in 2012, previously worked with S. Pearlman & Associates, Coldwell Banker, Partners Trust, and Keller Williams. She chose Elliman for its reputation, global reach, and culture of excellence, and aims to grow alongside the brand’s visionary projects in modern luxury.
Florida Keys – The Agency opened a new office in the Keys, its seventh in the state, led by Managing Partner Lisa Swanson and Managing Director Tim Swanson. Founder Mauricio Umansky noted Florida’s demand for the brand and highlighted the Keys as a unique market. EVP James Ramsay said the expansion cements The Agency’s leadership in Florida’s luxury sector.
Los Angeles – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties rebranded as Coldwell Banker Envision, retaining its leadership and 1,300 agents across Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange counties. Coldwell Banker Affiliates Jason Waugh highlighted the team’s market expertise and client‑service commitment, positioning Envision as an ideal partner to accelerate growth in a dynamic region.
