Brokerage Beat: News from eXp, Century 21, @properties, The Agency
eXp begins search for new CFO; Century 21 strengthens Georgia presence; @properties Christie's International promotes key execs; The Agency adds Toronto office.
Editor's note: The brokerage business is a busy one, with frequent moves, mergers and milestones. Here we highlight some of the latest activity among brokerages across the U.S.
CFO shift at eXp World Holdings
Jeff Whiteside is stepping down after five years as chief financial officer for eXp World Holdings, saying he looks forward to "watching their continued success as they build upon their agent-centric innovation model."
Whiteside, who also held the title of chief collaboration officer, will stay with the company through Dec. 1 to ease the transition. Kent Cheng, eXp World Holdings' chief accounting officer, will serve as principal financial officer until a new CFO is found.
"Jeff's financial expertise has been invaluable," said Glenn Sanford, who is Founder, Chairman and CEO of eXp World Holdings. "We are grateful for his many contributions and wish him the best in his future endeavors."
The company noted in a press release that Whiteside's "planned departure is not a result of any disagreement regarding the company's financial statements or disclosures."
Century 21 expands presence in Georgia with John Bunn Realty
John Bunn Realty, a fixture in west-central Georgia, is affiliating with Century 21 Real Estate. The firm, now known as Century 21 Bunn Real Estate, brings its local market expertise together with Century 21's technology and marketing resources to elevate its service to the area.
John Bunn, a Harris County native with over 30 years of experience, leads the brokerage. "Our ties to the local communities make business interactions feel more like a family gathering than a professional meeting," said Bunn.
The partnership aims to expand the firm's market presence while maintaining its strong community connections. Mike Miedler, president and CEO of Century 21 Real Estate, praised Bunn and his company, saying, "We understand that John knows better than anyone else," what their clientele is looking for. "We're proud to be the brand that gives him the support he needs to help elevate his existing skills and services."
@properties Christie's International Real Estate elevates executive leaders
@properties Christie's International Real Estate has promoted Amy Corr to chief brokerage officer and Tom Downing to executive vice president of brokerage services. Both are new roles in the organization.
Corr, part of the firm since 2004, is set to direct overall brokerage experience, strategic planning, and agent growth.
"It's hard to overstate Amy's positive impact on agent development, the successful agent mindset, and @properties' culture over the years," said Thad Wong, @properties co-founder. "She's a dynamic leader who brings out the best in her team, and she's hyper-focused on helping our firm and our agents continually grow and thrive in today's rapidly evolving market."
Downing, who worked as a business management consultant to Fortune 500 companies before moving into real estate, joined @properties in 2015. He will focus on coaching, mentoring, and business development strategies as well as agent recruitment and retention.
Mike Golden, @properties co-founder, said Downing's "experience and knowledge add another layer of depth to our management team."
The Agency strengthens Toronto presence with Yorkville office
The Agency has launched its third Toronto office, which will be led by industry veterans Peter and Paige Torkan and Nurit Coombe. This new office, known as The Agency Yorkville, is the 17th in the company's expanding Canadian network.
"The region offers some of Toronto's most vibrant culture and serves as an international hub for luxury," the Torkans said. "Working closely with Nurit Coombe, we look forward to highlighting Yorkville's incredible real estate offerings throughout The Agency's global network."
The Agency's CEO, Mauricio Umansky, called the Torkans and Coombe "incredible stewards of The Agency brand." The Agency is noted for its television presence and rapid global growth, integrating its offices into a cohesive network.