Biggest Real Estate Companies In The United States

The real estate world is like a bustling marketplace, with companies jostling for the spotlight, eager to grab the best properties, clients, and top-notch agents to boost their progress.

The ones growing at lightning speed?

They often treat their agents like gold and have a knack for getting rave reviews from clients.

Want a peek into this bustling world? Let’s dive into some of the big players in the real estate scene.

To give you a leg up, here are ten names that should definitely be on your radar.

And hey, when you’re sizing them up, don’t forget to look at things like their sales numbers, how many agents they have on board, their rankings, what they own, and the nitty-gritty details like fees and commission rates.

Who is the biggest real estate company in the USA?

So, you’re curious about the heavy hitters in the U.S. real estate scene? Well, when it comes to sheer numbers of agents, Keller Williams takes the crown.

They’ve got more agents under their banner than any other franchise out there.

But if we’re talking about doing the most business, that accolade goes to Realogy Holdings.

They’re the powerhouse behind big names like Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Sotheby’s, ERA, and a few more.

Quite the lineup, right?

So, while Keller Williams has the numbers, Realogy Holdings is bustling with transactions. Both impressive in their own right!

Below are the top 10 largest real estate companies in the United States.

1. Keller Williams Realty

Let’s talk about Keller Williams Realty, a big name in the real estate game. Founded by Gary Keller and Joe Williams back in 1983, this company started its journey in Austin, Texas.

And guess what? They’ve grown leaps and bounds since then but still call Austin home. If you ever hear about the Mega Camp conference, it’s usually happening in Austin, unless they decide to go digital for the year.

What makes Keller Williams Realty tick? They’re all about being the best in the business, supporting their agents and ensuring their clients have a top-notch experience. They’re always looking for the latest tech to make the process to buy and sell homes smoother.

They get that the world of real estate can be a maze, and they’re determined to guide their agents and clients through it. The company’s bigwigs are firm believers in the power of solid training and support to help agents nail those negotiations and close deals like pros.

Now, here’s something interesting. Keller Williams Realty has a pretty sweet deal for agents thinking of joining them. At the start of the year, agents get a 70/30 commission split.

That means they pocket 70% of their commissions, which, let’s be honest, is a pretty generous cut compared to many other places. The other 30%? That’s for keeping the office lights on, plus a 6% franchise fee.

But here’s the kicker. After agents have chipped in $3,000 in commission fees, they can wave goodbye to that 6% franchise fee. And if they hit their local market cap, which is usually somewhere between $18,000 to $25,000, they get to keep all their commissions for the rest of the year.

This kind of deal is a magnet for experienced Realtors who love a good commission setup and those who juggle multiple property deals.

With this smart approach, Keller Williams Realty pulls in top-tier agents while also raking in fees from a big pool of agents. It’s no wonder they keep solidifying their spot in the market and watching their profits climb.

2. RE/MAX

Let’s chat about RE/MAX, a name that’s pretty much everywhere in the real estate world. Way back in 1973, Dave and Gail Liniger had this idea and turned it into a reality. Starting off in Denver, Colorado, they quickly made waves, drawing agents from all over the place.

Not ones to sit still, the dynamic duo soon thought, “Why not franchise?” And just like that, they spread their wings to Kansas City and even took a leap across the border to Calgary, Alberta by 1977.

Oh, and if you’ve ever seen a hot-air balloon and thought of RE/MAX, there’s a reason for that. Their iconic logo made its debut at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta the very next year.

Fast forward to 2013, and RE/MAX made its grand entrance on the New York Stock Exchange, going by the snazzy ticker symbol RMAX. Now, what’s the secret sauce behind their success? Well, they’ve got a pretty tempting commission policy that makes agents sit up and take notice.

Imagine keeping 95% of your commissions. Yep, that’s right. While many companies might offer something like a 70/30 split, RE/MAX turned the tables with their 95/5 split.

But, of course, there’s a catch. Agents do have to pay a monthly desk fee, which covers the franchise’s day-to-day expenses. It’s a setup that many agents like, especially if they’re fans of predictable expenses.

But wait, there’s more! They also have the RAPP model. Here, you kick things off with a 60/40 split. But once you hit the magic number of $23,000 in commissions, you’re back in the 95/5 club for the rest of the year.

And the best part? As you climb the real estate ladder, RE/MAX has got your back. They’ll adjust your commission caps based on how you did the previous year. So, you might start off with a 70/30 or even an 80/20 split, but once you hit that $23,000 mark, it’s smooth sailing.

This flexible approach to commissions is a big hit with Realtors, whether they’re just starting out or have been in the game for years. It’s no wonder that with their forward-thinking commission plans, global footprint, and that unforgettable balloon, RE/MAX stands tall in the real estate world.

3. Coldwell Banker Real Estate

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to 1906. The Great San Francisco Earthquake had just shaken the city to its core. Amidst the rubble and reconstruction, two visionaries, Colbert Coldwell and Benjamin Banker, saw an opportunity.

They wanted to create a real estate company that was built on trust, integrity, and transparency. And so, Coldwell Banker Real Estate was born.

Fast forward to today, and Coldwell Banker has become a household name in the real estate world. With over a century under its belt, the company has spread its wings far and wide. From its humble beginnings in San Francisco, it now boasts a presence in 49 countries and has a whopping 3,000+ offices. That’s quite the growth story!

But like any long-standing company, Coldwell Banker has seen its share of changes. In 1981, the iconic brand was acquired by Sears, Roebuck. However, ownership didn’t stay static for long. After a few rounds of corporate musical chairs, Coldwell Banker found its home as a subsidiary of Realogy, a global leader in real estate franchising.

Now, let’s talk about the agents, the backbone of any real estate company. Coldwell Banker has always been known for its commitment to its agents, offering them competitive commission structures.

While the exact commission can vary based on the region and individual office policies, many Coldwell Banker agents enjoy a favorable split, especially when compared to industry standards.

This attractive commission structure, combined with the company’s extensive training programs and cutting-edge technology, makes it a top choice for both new and experienced Realtors.

Coldwell Banker’s reputation isn’t just built on numbers and deals. It’s the company’s dedication to excellence, its rich history, and its global footprint that truly sets it apart.

Whether you’re an agent looking for a supportive company or a homeowner seeking trusted expertise, Coldwell Banker’s legacy in the real estate industry speaks volumes.

4. Century 21

Let’s rewind to 1971. Century 21 was just getting started, and fun fact, it was initially going to be called Century 20. But due to some trademark hiccups, they shifted gears and Century 21 was born. By 1976, they were on fire, with over 150 new real estate agents hopping on board every single month.

Fast forward to today, and Century 21 isn’t just a big name—it’s one of the biggest. As of April 2021, they’re flexing with more than 11,600 franchised brokers, all independently owned and operated.

And these brokers? They’re teaming up with a massive force of over 122,000 real estate agents. And if you’re picturing a map, their pins are everywhere. From every corner of the U.S. to a whopping 82 other countries, Century 21 has left its mark.

Now, Century 21 isn’t one to rest on its laurels. They recently gave their classic logo and colors a fresh, modern twist. And their website? It’s a treasure trove.

If you’re house hunting, you can dive in and search by map, home features, or even schools in the area. And if you love a good deal, you can zero in on open houses, foreclosures, or homes that just got a price cut.

But wait, there’s more. If numbers make your head spin, Century 21 has got your back with a bunch of handy calculators. Whether you’re figuring out your mortgage, seeing what you can afford, thinking about refinancing, breaking down your payments, or torn between renting and buying, they have a calculator.

And if you’re on the other side of the fence, looking to sell, Century 21 is still your go-to. Their website is packed with guides and tips for sellers. They’ve got you covered from marketing your home to boosting its value and even how to nail that open house.

So, whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or soak up some real estate knowledge, Century 21’s website is a one-stop-shop. It’s like having a real estate guru right at your fingertips.

5. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Let’s talk about a real estate giant with a name that rings a bell in many industries: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Yep, that’s the same Berkshire Hathaway led by the legendary investor, Warren Buffett. When someone with Buffett’s financial acumen dives into real estate, you know it’s going to be big.

And big it is! In 2018 alone, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices closed a staggering 346,629 residential real estate transactions. That’s not just a number; it’s a testament to their prowess in the industry, allowing them to soar above many of their peers.

But what’s the secret sauce behind their success? It’s a mix of smart growth strategies and an unwavering commitment to excellence. They’ve built a formidable army of real estate professionals, each trained and equipped to provide top-notch services to clients.

And they didn’t stop there.

To broaden their horizons and deepen their footprint, they’ve acquired over 90 businesses. This isn’t just about adding numbers; it’s about integrating diverse expertise and local insights to offer clients a holistic real estate experience.

Now, for the agents who are the lifeblood of any real estate firm. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices offers a competitive commission structure.

While the exact percentage can vary based on the region, office, and individual agent’s performance, many agents find their earnings potential with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices to be quite attractive.

This, combined with the company’s reputation and extensive resources, makes it a top choice for real estate professionals looking for a supportive and rewarding environment.

In a nutshell, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices isn’t just another name in the real estate world. It’s a powerhouse, continually evolving and adapting, ensuring it remains a dominant force in the ever-changing landscape of real estate.

Whether you’re an agent, a buyer, or a seller, this is one company that’s always worth a second look.

5. Compass

Let’s shine a spotlight on Compass, a name that might not be as massive as some of the old-timers in the real estate world, but boy, have they made an entrance! Even though they’re considered a smaller player, they’ve got a robust team of 17,000 agents.

And these agents aren’t just anywhere; they’re strategically placed in key regions across the United States, ensuring they’re right where the action is.

What sets Compass apart? It’s their knack for blending the best of both worlds: the personal touch of real estate with the efficiency of modern technology. They’re not just about selling homes; they’re about understanding people, their dreams, and their needs.

And to make this happen, they arm their agents with cutting-edge tools and a platform that streamlines the buying and selling process. It’s like having a personal assistant, data analyst, and marketing guru all rolled into one.

Now, let’s talk numbers. In 2019, Compass wasn’t just on the leaderboard; they were making waves. They clinched the third spot among the top 10 brokerages, boasting over $97.5 billion sales volume.

And if you’re thinking about how many deals that translates to, they secured the fifth position with more than 84,732 transaction sides. Those are some impressive stats for a company that’s still relatively young in the industry!

When it comes to commissions, Compass has a reputation for being competitive. While the exact split can vary based on the agent’s experience, location, and performance, many agents find the earning potential at Compass to be quite enticing.

Plus, with the company’s tech-forward approach, agents often find they can close deals faster and more efficiently, which is a win-win for their pockets and their clients.

In a nutshell, Compass is like that rising star everyone’s got their eyes on. With their tech-savvy approach, dedicated team, and impressive track record, it’s safe to say we can expect even bigger things from them in the future. If you’re in the real estate game, Compass is definitely a name to watch.

6. eXp Realty

Let’s dive into the world of eXp Realty, a name that’s been making waves in the real estate arena. While they might not have the instant brand recall of giants like Century 21 or RE/MAX, they’re certainly not in the shadows.

With a robust team of over 40,000 agents spread across the United States, they’re on a mission: to climb to the top of the real estate ladder.

But eXp Realty isn’t just about numbers; it’s about reach. Beyond the vast expanse of the U.S., they’ve planted their flags in seven international markets.

From the bustling streets of India to the scenic landscapes of Portugal and the diverse terrains of South Africa, eXp Realty is making its presence felt. And guiding this global expansion is eXp World Holdings, ensuring that the company’s vision of becoming a dominant force in the real estate world is realized.

Now, let’s talk about the heart and soul of eXp Realty: its agents. The company offers a unique commission structure that’s designed to be both competitive and rewarding.

While the exact commission split can vary based on various factors, many agents at eXp Realty enjoy a favorable split. What’s more, the company provides an array of tools, training, and support, ensuring that agents are equipped to offer top-notch services to their clients.

But what truly sets eXp Realty apart is its innovative approach to business. They’ve embraced a cloud-based model, which means no physical offices. This reduces overhead costs and allows agents to collaborate and learn from each other, no matter where they are. It’s a blend of flexibility, technology, and community that’s resonating with many in the industry.

While eXp Realty might not be the first name that pops into your head when you think of real estate, they’re steadily and surely making their mark. With their expansive network, innovative approach, and dedicated team, the future looks bright for this rising star in the real estate world.

7. Sotheby’s International Realty

Let’s talk about a name that’s synonymous with luxury and prestige: Sotheby’s International Realty. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because it shares its brand with the world-renowned art and wine auction house.

But while they might be known for auctioning off masterpieces, they’re crafting their own legacy in the real estate world, one luxury property at a time.

Sotheby’s International Realty isn’t just dabbling in the property market; they’re a force to be reckoned with. They’ve spread their elegant touch to over 1,000 offices, spanning a whopping 70 countries. From penthouses in New York to villas in the French Riviera, they’ve got their fingers on the pulse of luxury real estate worldwide.

Now, let’s delve a bit deeper. With a team of over 23,000 sales associates, they’re not just selling homes but curating lifestyles. And these aren’t just any homes. We’re talking about properties that are the stuff of dreams, and the numbers reflect that.

While they might not have the largest roster of agents or offices, when it comes to revenue, they’re in a league of their own. With an eye-watering $114 billion in annual sales, it’s clear that luxury is their language.

The rewards can be substantial for the agents who are lucky enough to wear the Sotheby’s International Realty badge. The commission structure, while varying based on the property, region, and individual agreements, often reflects the high-end nature of the transactions.

Given the price tags on many of the properties they handle, even a smaller percentage can translate to a significant payday. Plus, with the prestige of the Sotheby’s brand behind them, agents often find doors opening a little easier.

In a nutshell, Sotheby’s International Realty is where art meets real estate. It’s a place where luxury isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re an agent looking to elevate your career or a buyer seeking the crème de la crème of properties, Sotheby’s International Realty is a name that promises nothing short of excellence.

8. HomeServices of America

Let’s dive into the world of HomeServices of America, a name that carries the weight and prestige of its affiliate, Berkshire Hathaway. Nestled in the vibrant city of Minneapolis, Minnesota, this company isn’t just another real estate firm; it’s a one-stop shop for all things property-related.

HomeServices of America proudly operates with a team of around 1,600 dedicated individuals. Each person, from the front desk to the top executives, plays a pivotal role in realizing the company’s vision. And what’s that vision? It’s to offer a seamless, comprehensive suite of services that cater to every aspect of a real estate transaction.

Think about it. You’re looking to buy or sell a home. With HomeServices of America, you’re not just getting a brokerage service. They’ve got experts to guide you through mortgage financing, ensuring you get the best rates and terms.

They’ll handle the nitty-gritty of title insurance, making sure there are no surprises down the line. And when it’s time to seal the deal, their closing services come into play, ensuring everything goes off without a hitch.

But what truly sets HomeServices of America apart is their approach. They’ve coined it as “local real estate nationwide.”

What does that mean?

While they have the resources and infrastructure of a national giant, they operate with the heart and soul of a local firm. They understand neighborhoods, know the local coffee shops, and can tell you about the best schools in the area.

This blend of local insight and national strength resonates with many clients.

The benefits are manifold for agents working under the HomeServices of America banner. Not only do they get to leverage the brand’s reputation, but they also enjoy competitive commission structures.

While the exact percentage can vary based on the region, property type, and individual agreements, many agents find that the comprehensive nature of the company’s services allows them to close deals more efficiently, benefiting their clients and their bottom line.

In a nutshell, HomeServices of America is like that friendly neighborhood real estate expert with the resources of a national powerhouse.

Whether you’re an agent looking for a supportive environment or a homeowner seeking a hassle-free transaction, this company promises a personal and professional journey.

9. EXIT Realty

Let’s take a trip back to 1996. Steve Morris, who once walked the halls of RE/MAX as an agent, had a vision. He wanted to create a real estate company that offered agents a competitive edge and a home where they could grow and thrive.

And so, EXIT Realty was born.

Now, when it comes to commissions, EXIT Realty has a pretty enticing setup. They kick things off with a 70/30 split commission. That means for every deal an agent closes, they pocket 70% of the commission. But here’s where things get even more interesting.

Once an agent hits the sweet spot of $100,000 in earnings, EXIT Realty gives them a pat on the back with an even better deal. Their commission jumps to a whopping 90%, with the company taking just a 10% slice. It’s a model that rewards hard work and encourages agents to aim higher.

But EXIT Realty isn’t just about numbers and percentages. They’ve got big dreams. They’re setting their sights on planting their flag across North America with over 3,600 franchises. And they’re not just looking for any agents; they’re on the hunt for 100,000 of the best and brightest to join their ranks.

In a nutshell, EXIT Realty is like that ambitious underdog in a race, steadily gaining ground and turning heads. With a founder who knows the ins and outs of the industry, a commission structure that rewards success, and a vision for the future that’s both bold and achievable, they’re a name to watch in the real estate world.

Whether you’re an agent looking for a new home or a buyer or seller seeking expert guidance, EXIT Realty promises a rewarding and forward-thinking journey.

10. Weichert

Let’s journey back to 1969. While the world was buzzing with the excitement of the moon landing, another significant launch was taking place on terra firma. Weichert Realtors was taking its first steps, and oh, what a journey it’s been since then!

From its humble beginnings, Weichert has grown and flourished, now proudly boasting a team of over 10,000 dedicated individuals. But what truly sets Weichert apart is their “one-stop” approach to real estate.

Imagine walking into a Weichert office and finding everything you need under one roof. From hunting down that dream home to navigating the maze of mortgage options and finally shaking hands on the deal, they’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Now, let’s talk about the heart of Weichert: its agents. The company firmly believes that a well-trained, empowered agent is the key to a successful transaction.

And they don’t just talk the talk; they walk the walk. Weichert invests heavily in professional development, ensuring that every agent is equipped with the latest tools, knowledge, and skills. This commitment to excellence ensures that when you work with a Weichert agent, you’re getting the best of the best.

When it comes to commissions, Weichert offers a competitive structure that’s designed to reward hard work and dedication.

While the exact split can vary based on factors like experience, location, and individual performance, many agents find Weichert’s earning potential to be attractive and motivating.

Plus, with the company’s vast array of resources and support, agents often find they can close deals more efficiently, benefiting their clients and their bottom line.

In a nutshell, Weichert Realtors isn’t just another name in the real estate world. It’s a legacy, built over decades, that promises a seamless, comprehensive, and rewarding experience.

Whether you’re an agent looking to elevate your career or a homebuyer seeking a smooth journey from start to finish, Weichert is a name you can trust.