Goodbye, Realty of Chicago. Hello, Realty of America.
The rebranded and expanded Realty of America is debuting this week with a roster of about 2,000 agents spread across 23 U.S. markets, Crain’s reported. With a combined $5 billion in annual sales last year, these brokers will play a major role in shaping the brand’s presence across its markets.
The company is setting up a 27,000-square-foot headquarters at 6507 West Cermak Road in Berwyn, with completion expected by the end of 2024. Until then, the company plans to operate from its Realty of Chicago office, located on the same block.
Founder Eddie Garcia started Realty of Chicago in Berwyn 12 years ago. Under his leadership, it saw significant growth, amassing 500 agents and generating $475 million in sales volume by 2023.
Garcia immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico with his family, and they shared a cramped one-bedroom apartment in Albany Park.
“Both my parents were homeless before they met,” he told the outlet. “Having a home is important.”
Despite his modest beginnings, Garcia has built a distinguished career in real estate. His approach to the industry has been centered around creating opportunities for homebuyers and aspiring agents.
Garcia, who says he’s turned down venture capital offers from billionaires, is funding Realty of America through personal investments and revenue from his related businesses, which include title insurance and real estate training services.
The transition from Realty of Chicago to Realty of America features collaboration with notable industry figures.
Mark Dimas, who leads a brokerage in Houston, is joining Realty of America as president. Erinn and Peter Nobel, who contributed to the tech platforms at eXp Realty and Real Brokerage, are bringing their expertise to the new company. Peter Nobel will serve as COO, while Erinn Nobel will take on the role of chief culture officer.
In contrast to the last Chicago brokerage to achieve national prominence — @properties, now @properties Christie’s International Real Estate — Realty of America faces the challenge of building brand recognition.
Thad Wong of @properties notes that establishing a strong technology platform was crucial for its expansion. Garcia acknowledges this, emphasizing the role of technology in the company’s future success, though specific details on its tech tools remain under wraps.
The brokerage’s navy blue for-sale signs are expected to appear across the Chicago area in the coming weeks.
— Andrew Terrell
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