Last Updated:

2024-05-13 21:42:11

Keller Williams Realty

American real estate franchise headquartered in Austin, Texas

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American real estate franchise headquartered in Austin, Texas

Keller Williams Realty, commonly known as Keller Williams, is a prominent American real estate franchise founded in 1983. With over 1,100 offices and 200,000 associates globally, it is the largest real estate franchise in the United States by sales volume. Despite its success, Keller Williams is under scrutiny for potential cult-like activities during their office meetings and training sessions.

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1983

Keller Williams Realty founded in Austin, Texas

Keller Williams Realty was founded in 1983 in Austin, Texas. The first agent, Gary Gentry, wrote the first offer for $55,000, and the starting roster of 32 agents closed $28 million in volume.

1986

Formation of Associate Leadership Council (ALC)

In 1986, Gary Keller convened the first Associate Leadership Council (ALC) to transform Keller Williams from a traditional real estate company to a disruptive force in the industry. He aimed to establish a unique real estate company with a strong culture that prioritized the success and happiness of its agents.

1991

Keller Williams begins franchising

In 1991, Keller Williams expanded its business model to franchising, allowing for rapid growth and expansion outside of Texas. This move marked a significant milestone in the company's history.

1993

Franchising of Keller Williams Realty

By 1993, Keller Williams Realty had started franchising their business model, becoming the 6th largest real estate agency in the nation. They expanded into commercial realty and continued to offer their profit-sharing business model across North America.

1994

Judy Hopkins Purchased Northeast Franchise

In 1994, Judy Hopkins purchased the Northeast franchise of Keller Williams in Houston, Texas, becoming one of the first ownership groups to build their own real estate office.

1995

Mark Heinrich Joined Judy Hopkins as Partner

In 1995, Mark Heinrich joined Judy Hopkins as a partner in the Northeast franchise of Keller Williams in Houston, Texas.

1996

Completion of Building on West Lake Houston Parkway

In 1996, Judy Hopkins and Mark Heinrich completed the building on West Lake Houston Parkway in Kingwood, Texas, which became the real estate office for their Keller Williams ownership group.

1997

Recognition on Franchise Gold 100 list

In 1997, Keller Williams was recognized by Success Magazine on the Franchise Gold 100 list, highlighting its success and impact in the real estate industry. This recognition further solidified the company's position as a major player in the market.

2000

Keller Williams Ranks as 6th Largest Real Estate Franchise in the US

In 2000, Keller Williams had become the 6th largest real estate franchise in the US, solidifying its presence in the industry. The company's growth and innovative approach positioned it as a major player in the real estate market.

2002-08-01

Keller Williams Capital Partners celebrates move into new building

Keller Williams Capital Partners in Ohio celebrated their move into a new building on August 1, 2002, marking a significant milestone in their growth and success.

2004

Publication of The Millionaire Real Estate Agent

In 2004, The Millionaire Real Estate Agent was published by Keller Williams, achieving national bestseller status and providing valuable insights for real estate professionals.

2006

Keller Williams becomes fifth-largest real estate franchise in the US

By 2006, under the leadership of executives like Mo Anderson and Mary Tennant, Keller Williams had grown to become the fifth-largest real estate franchise in the United States. This marked a significant milestone in the company's expansion and success.

2007

Keller Williams Capital Partners purchases new building

In 2007, Keller Williams Capital Partners purchased a new building as they had already outgrown their previous space, showcasing their continuous growth and expansion.

2008-06

Merger of 1960-Champions and North Houston Offices

In June 2008, the 1960-Champions office purchased by Judy Hopkins, Mark Heinrich, and Michael Clapp was merged with the North Houston office to form the Professionals office in Spring, Texas.

2009

Inception of RED Day by Keller Williams

Starting in 2009, Keller Williams initiated RED Day, an annual event where associates dedicate a day to community service. This tradition underscores the company's commitment to giving back and community engagement.

2010

Recognition as Third Largest Residential Brokerage by Houston Business Journal

In 2010, Judy Hopkins, Mark Heinrich, and their team were recognized by the Houston Business Journal as the third largest residential brokerage in homes sold in the Greater Houston Area.

2011

Recognition as 'Community MVPs' by Points of Light

In 2011, Keller Williams associates were recognized as 'Community MVPs' by Points of Light for their volunteer work with Hands-On Central Texas and Interfaith Action of Central Texas.

2012

Launch of Keller Williams Worldwide

In 2012, Keller Williams launched Keller Williams Worldwide as its international division to expand the brand globally.

2013

Keller Williams becomes top real estate franchise in North America

In 2013, Keller Williams became the top real estate franchise in North America based on agent count, showcasing its rapid growth and success in the real estate market.

2014

Keller Williams becomes the largest real estate franchise in the world

In 2014, Keller Williams surpassed all other real estate franchises in the world in terms of the number of associates, solidifying its position as a global leader in the industry.

2015

KW Becomes Largest Real Estate Franchise

Keller Williams becomes the largest real estate franchise in the world based on agent count, solidifying its position in the real estate industry.

2016

Top Real Estate Company in Sales

In 2016, Keller Williams became #1 nationally with more agents closing more sales than any other real estate company in the world.

2017-02

Keller Williams announces $1 billion investment in real estate technology

At the 2017 Family Reunion event in February, Keller Williams revealed its commitment to developing a real estate platform preferred by buyers and sellers, planning to invest $1 billion in technology to enhance agent resources and services.

2018

Keller Williams inducted into Training Hall of Fame by Training Magazine

In 2018, Keller Williams was honored by being inducted into Training Magazine's Training Hall of Fame, highlighting its exceptional training practices and long-term impact in the industry.

2019-12-30

Keller Williams Reigns as No. 1 Real Estate Franchise

Keller Williams has maintained its position as the top real estate franchise, surpassing industry giants like RE/MAX and Coldwell Banker. In January 2018, KW declared its status as the leading real estate franchise in agent count, closed units, and closed sales volume in the United States.

2020

Formation of KWx by Keller Williams

In 2020, Keller Williams established KWx, a holding company aimed at overseeing its portfolio of companies. This strategic move indicated the company's focus on organizational structure and management.

2021-10-14

Five Steps to Building a $1B Real Estate Business from Top CA Agent Elizabeth Do

Top CA Agent Elizabeth Do shared five steps to build a $1B real estate business, focusing on strategies for success in the real estate industry.

2021-12-06

Agent Shares Impact of Moving from Indie to KW

An agent discusses the impact of transitioning from an independent real estate agency to Keller Williams Realty.

2022-12-21

Keller Williams Further Expands Command Capabilities

Announcement of Keller Williams Realty expanding its Command capabilities, showcasing the company's commitment to technological advancement and innovation in the real estate market.

2023-04-12

Three KSCORE Graduates Share Real Estate Career Journey

Three graduates of KSCORE share their experiences and insights on pursuing a career in real estate.

2023-11-20

A Journey Through Time: A Conversation With a Real Estate Pioneer

A conversation with a real estate pioneer exploring the history and evolution of the real estate industry. It provides insights into the challenges and successes of early real estate professionals.

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Keller Williams Realty