C
ompass announced on Sept. 22 that it will acquire Anywhere Real Estate in an all‑stock deal valued at roughly $1.6 billion, creating the world’s largest residential brokerage. The combined firm will be worth about $10 billion and employ nearly 340,000 agents who serve roughly 120 countries and territories.

    Anywhere’s portfolio includes major franchise brands such as Coldwell Banker, Century 21, Corcoran Group, Sotheby’s International Realty and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. In July, Anywhere reported more than 300,000 affiliated agents and $1.7 billion in revenue.

    Compass CEO Robert Reffkin called the merger a “monumental step” toward its mission of equipping real‑estate professionals with the tools they need to grow and serve clients. He added that Compass will preserve the independence of Anywhere’s leading brands.

    The deal is part of Compass’s strategy to dominate the luxury market. The company already owns Christie’s International Real Estate and @properties, and last year added Tennessee’s Parks Real Estate and New Orleans’ Latter + Blum, expanding its regional presence. Anywhere’s luxury brokers—Sotheby’s and Corcoran—have been key revenue drivers, a point Schneider emphasized in earnings calls.

    Compass has been reshaping its brokerage model around a three‑phase marketing strategy and a push for private exclusives. While Schneider has cautioned against a wholesale shift to off‑MLS listings, he noted that Anywhere would be ready to offer private listings if market conditions demand it. After the acquisition, @properties’ founders began promoting private‑to‑prominent listing strategies, suggesting that the combined entity could accelerate a move toward competitive inventory use.

    Industry observers warn that a coordinated push for private exclusives by the largest brokerages could threaten a free, transparent market and disadvantage small and independent firms.