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Los Angeles luxury brokerage, Estate Properties, has broken free from the RE/MAX franchise after over four decades. Founded in 1984 by Sandra Sanders, the family-run business is now managed by her three children: James as CEO, Diane as CMO, and John as CTO. The decision to go independent was driven by a desire to reallocate resources and invest in its agents and local community.

    Estate Properties had developed its own systems and programs over the years, making it less reliant on national brand support. With most of their franchise contracts set to expire in 2025, the Sanders family decided to take control of their business and focus on elite, high-performing agents. The brokerage has thinned its numbers from 750 to around 450, prioritizing top talent.

    "We work for the agents; they don't work for us," Diane said, highlighting the agent-first culture at Estate Properties. The firm provides regular opportunities for agents to network, learn, and grow, including a state-of-the-art video production studio and three weekly networking meetings broadcast across its vast geographical area.

    While some agents left when the brokerage went independent, interest from new agents has increased, and former agents have expressed a desire to return due to the unique culture. The Sanders family believes they are part of a growing trend towards boutique, independently owned brokerages that can adapt quickly and deliver personalized experiences for both agents and clients.