P
ortside Real Estate Group, a leading Maine-based real estate company, is expanding its reach into Mount Desert Island through a merger with Swan Agency Real Estate of Bar Harbor. The Swan Agency will retain its name and operate under Portside's umbrella, leveraging the larger company's resources to meet growing demand in the area.

    The merger bucks a national trend towards virtual real estate agencies, ensuring that Mainers can still visit brick-and-mortar offices and work face-to-face with local agents. "You can solve so many problems when you're belly-to-belly," said Dava Davin, Portside's founder. "Real estate needs to be local, tender, and attentive."

    Portside has grown significantly since its founding in 2012, now operating eight offices across Maine and New Hampshire. The company is set to open a new flagship location in Portland this summer and achieved a record-breaking $1 billion in sales last year, with a 25% growth over the previous year.

    The merger also launches Portside's new hospitality division, which will specialize in selling bed and breakfasts and other hospitality properties. Dana Moos of the Swan Agency will lead the division. The two companies share similar values, including being women-owned and independent, as well as a commitment to giving back to their communities through initiatives like "Share Our Success" and "1% Back."