Brokerage Beat: News from United, KW, Engel & Völkers, eXp 

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.

United merges with Insight Realty in Dallas/Fort Worth area

United Real Estate DFW has merged with Grapevine, Texas-based Insight Realty Network. 

The operation will do business as United Real Estate | DFW Properties with offices in Grapevine and Fort Worth. The merger expands United's presence to 1,810 agents across Texas.

"This merger is a perfect example of how companies can leverage synergies, internal talent and resources to become one of the strongest players in the market," said Rick Haase, President of United Real Estate. "With the support of the sixth-largest national brokerage in the U.S., this union is exciting and strategic for both companies."

Andy Bearden, formerly president and managing broker of Insight Realty Network, will serve as  CEO of United | DFW Properties.

"United approached us because of the value we offer," Bearden said. "By combining our arsenal of resources, we are doubling down on the market and positioning our company and agents for explosive growth. In this merger, one plus one equals four," he said. 

Brenda Cole, owner and principal broker of United | DFW Properties, said growth through mergers or partnerships has been discussed for some time. "We built our brokerage from the ground up and knew we wanted to expand further for our agents and clients," she said. "Having a powerful partner in the Fort Worth market makes a lot of sense for us."

Keller Williams launches Curaçao franchise

Keller Williams is expanding its Caribbean presence, entering into a franchise agreement in Curaçao.

The Curaçao franchise, which is led by Regional Operating Principal Ricarda Ceresa, expects to open its first office by the end of this year.

Ceresa brings leadership experience as the CEO of Curaçao-based car rental company Emma Rentals, and interpersonal skills from her former career as a physical therapist.

"We were intrigued by KW's culture and training, which led to the formation of KW Curaçao," said Ceresa. "KW Curacao will offer unmatched opportunities for agents in our area by providing the world's best training, coaching, and technology in the industry."

 In commenting on the expansion, Keller Williams Worldwide President William Soteroff pointed to the company's global sales as a bright spot in a tough real estate market. 

"In the face of significant economic headwinds, we're thrilled to report a 3.3% increase in international sales volume and a 5.1% year-over-year growth in units, showcasing our strong global momentum," said Soteroff.

The Curaçao office will join a dozen KWW offices across the Caribbean.

Engel & Völkers adds Massachusetts seaport office

Engel & Völkers licensee Karen Hanson has opened a third office, this time in Newburyport, Massachusetts.

Engel & Völkers By the Sea's newest shop will serve the greater Newburyport area and the New Hampshire seacoast.

Hanson brought Engel & Völkers to the Cape Ann region of Massachusetts five years ago when she opened offices in Beverly Farms and Goucester.

"Karen has built an incredible reputation and impressive business in her market, making this an ideal time for her to continue growing in new areas of opportunity," said Anthony Hitt, president and CEO of Engel & Völkers Americas. 

"Newburyport is a thriving community with a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities," said Hanson. "Through our expertise and community-driven approach to business as well as our brand's global recognition, we will continue to attract diverse clientele with elevated marketing strategies that will revolutionize property promotion in the area."

Missouri mother-daughter team joins eXp

The Revoir Group, operating out of Southwest Missouri, is one of several teams to join eXp in recent months.

Led by mother-daughter team leaders Linda and Kellie Revoir, the group of 15 agents and 3 support staff closed $72M in sales last year. 

Linda Revoir got her real estate license in 2006 to help her husband's home building business and quickly became a top seller. Her daughter Kellie joined the business in 2013.

A decade later, the duo moved their team to eXp Realty. 

"We are now considered a 'Mega Team' within the eXp brokerage in what we consider one of the highest honors that we can achieve!," Kellie Revoir said.

"The move to eXp did not come lightly. There were a lot of thought processes and prayers as we tried to visualize our 5- and 10-year plan," she said. "It was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but ultimately we felt that eXp gave both our clients and our agents a ton of opportunities."