Minneapolis-based HomeServices of America, the behemoth behind-the-scenes real estate brokerage, has named a new CEO who will be charged with leading the company through an international expansion, the build-out of a new national search tool and the rollout of a national network of commercial brokerages.
The new chief executive, Gino Blefari, replaces HomeServices of America (HSA) founder Ron Peltier as CEO; Peltier will become executive chairman.
"I have no plans to go anywhere," said Peltier, who on Tuesday was named the most influential person in real estate this year by an industry consulting firm.
HSA is an affiliate of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway and the parent of major brokerages across the country, including Twin Cities-based Edina Realty. HSF Affiliates is an HSA subsidiary that operates the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate franchise networks.
Blefari, who is just one of several executives with a new title this week, will focus on managing several major initiatives including the planned acquisition of five major brokerages in the United States and the company's nascent international expansion.
"I'm not retiring; he's being brought in for reinforcement," Peltier said. "This is all part of expanding the senior management team to make sure there's sufficient management to help manage all of the growth in different directions."
Two weeks into the new year, HSA is already hustling. Last week the company said it acquired one of the largest brokerages in Florida. Peltier promised four more major deals by the end of the year.
And following the recent opening of offices in London and Berlin, Peltier said Wednesday the company's franchise network would open an office in Milan, Italy. He expects several more to be launched by end of the year.
