E
ditor’s note: The brokerage sector is in constant motion, with frequent moves, mergers and milestones. Below are the latest developments across the U.S.
**Pozek Group re‑joins Real Brokerage in Orlando**
Ken Pozek, who founded The Pozek Group in 2016 after a 2003 start in real estate, has returned to The Real Brokerage following a period of independence. His 31‑agent team, the official partner of the Orlando Magic, closed nearly $1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $400 million in 2025. “Real’s revenue‑share and equity incentives are compelling, but the real draw is the built‑in collaboration and coaching,” Pozek said. Real’s CEO Tamir Poleg called the move a “major win” and praised Pozek’s forward‑thinking leadership.
**Chernov Team joins Equity Union Real Estate in Los Angeles**
Luxury‑focused The Chernov Team, led by Dennis Chernov and his wife Yana, has joined Equity Union Real Estate’s network of 950+ agents. The nine‑agent group, which typically sells over $300 million annually, set a 2024 record of $329 million from 124 transactions. Equity Union CEO Harma Hartouni highlighted Dennis as “the embodiment of an Equity Union agent” and praised the team’s high ranking and performance.
**Century 21 Circle expands into Chicago**
Century 21 Circle, operating 40 offices across Florida, Illinois and Indiana, has entered Chicago by acquiring JJ Nate Real Estate, a local brokerage owned by Rick Batista. The firm will now operate under the C21 Circle name. Batista emphasized the brand’s community focus and expressed excitement about national reach. Century 21 Circle CEO Melissa Archer‑Wirtz described the move as “just the beginning” and announced the hiring of Tina Johnson as VP of field operations to support growth.
**JM Desert Real Estate adopts Better Homes & Gardens brand**
In Riverside County, JM Desert Real Estate will now trade as Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate JM Desert Collective. Owner Juan Martinez, who began his career as an assistant, specializes in first‑time buyers and second‑home buyers. He sees the affiliation as a chance to scale with the brand’s technology. BHGRE President Ginger Wilcox praised Martinez’s entrepreneurial spirit and expressed enthusiasm for the partnership.
**Coldwell Banker Yost rebranded under new ownership**
Coldwell Banker Yost, serving West Virginia’s Bluefield and Princeton for 25 years, is now Coldwell Banker Hendrick Real Estate under new owner Nathan Hendrick, who brings 15 years of experience. Steve Yost will remain in a sales role, while Hendrick highlighted his regional knowledge and the advantage of the Coldwell Banker brand.
**Douglas Elliman launches global expansion**
Douglas Elliman is opening offices in France and Monaco through a partnership with Philippe Curutchet, Fredrik Lilloe and Edward de Mallet Morgan. The move follows the launch of Elliman International and a brand refresh led by Watson. The new identity will debut next spring.
**Revel Real Estate hires Alan Long**
Beverly Hills firm Revel Real Estate added veteran Alan Long as sales manager. Long, who built DBL Realtors into an 800‑agent brokerage with $5 billion in annual sales, previously served as president of the LA Board of Realtors and director of the California Association of Realtors. He cited Revel’s values of innovation, integrity and relationship‑building as a perfect fit.
**Coldwell Banker Realty Chapin welcomes Tina Horne**
CB Realty Chapin’s South Carolina office has hired Tina Horne, a seasoned agent with expertise in new‑home sales, staging and insurance. Rebecca Hanlon, the broker in charge, praised Horne’s top‑producer track record and client‑service reputation.
