T
he brokerage industry is experiencing significant activity, with various companies expanding their market share through acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Howard Hanna Real Estate has made several key moves in the Southeast, including the acquisition of Coastal Properties, a 160-agent firm serving South Carolina and Georgia since 1998. This marks Howard Hanna's entrance into Georgia and further solidifies its presence in South Carolina.

    Howard Hanna CEO Hoby Hanna emphasized that these deals are part of an overarching strategy to invest in markets with growth opportunities and meaningful connections for clients. The trend reflects a consolidation among independent brokerages, as large family-owned or independent brands like Howard Hanna acquire smaller firms within their market.

    In other news, Douglas Elliman has welcomed the Schemmel Soda Group, a west Florida team co-founded by Joel Schemmel and Donna Soda, to its Sarasota office. The group brings expertise in law, tax consulting, and real estate, particularly in Sarasota's luxury markets. They cited unmatched global reach, cutting-edge marketing, and boutique-style agility as reasons for joining Elliman.

    eXp Realty has seen significant activity with the merger of Whissel Realty Group and Beer Home Team in Southern California, forming the 160-agent Whissel Beer Group. This unification aims to deliver an end-to-end experience that sets a new standard in real estate. Additionally, the Victorica Group, a San Antonio-based brokerage, has returned to eXp after a short stint as an independent, citing shared values as the reason for their decision.

    Other notable developments include the launch of Privé Haus, a boutique firm supported by Side's platform, founded by David and Nicole Ten Hoeve; John S. Finn Jr.'s appointment to the Maggie Walker Community Land Trust board of trustees in Virginia; Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices' adoption of Zillow Showcase; and The Agency's expansion into Costa Rica with its third Central American office.