Caption: Keller Williams co-founder Gary Keller speaking at an event in 2012.
Keller Williams Realty (commonly referred to as Keller Williams) is an American technology and international real estate franchise that has revolutionized the real estate industry. With its headquarters based in Austin, Texas, Keller Williams has become the largest real estate franchise in the United States by sales volume as of 2022.
Founding and Early History
Keller Williams was founded in 1983 by Gary Keller and Joe Williams. Starting as a single office in Austin, Texas, the company quickly grew to become the largest residential real estate firm in the area. Despite challenges faced during the housing bubble, Keller Williams introduced profit sharing and successfully weathered the storm. By the mid-1980s, the company regained its position as the top real estate broker in Austin.
Caption: Keller Williams co-founder Gary Keller speaking at an event in 2012.
International Expansion
In the early 1990s, Keller Williams expanded its operations beyond Texas and started offering franchising opportunities. The company opened its first office outside of Texas in Oklahoma, which soon became the most successful single real estate office in the state. Keller Williams continued its rapid expansion throughout the United States, thanks to its attractive commission split for agents. By 1997, it was recognized on the Franchise Gold 100 list by Success Magazine. Moving into the 21st century, Keller Williams became the 6th largest real estate agency in the U.S.
Transition to Technology Company
In 2017, Keller Williams started positioning itself as a technology company. It launched KW Labs and introduced "Kelle," an artificial intelligence app that serves as a virtual assistant for real estate agents. Keller Williams also developed "Referrals," a platform for agent-to-agent referrals. The company's focus on technology and innovation has propelled it to become the number one franchise in the United States by sales volume.
Caption: Keller Williams Realty franchise signing in South Africa in 2012.
Company Divisions
Keller Williams operates various divisions to cater to different aspects of the real estate industry:
- Keller Williams Worldwide: Responsible for global franchising and expansion.
- KellerINK: Keller Williams' publishing arm, known for its instructional and inspirational business books.
- Luxury Homes by Keller Williams: Focuses on luxury real estate.
- KW Commercial: Specializes in commercial real estate.
- KW Labs: Keller Williams' technology division that develops and tests software.
Philanthropy and Recognition
Keller Williams is committed to giving back to the community. Through its charitable arm, KW Cares, the company provides assistance to local communities and associates facing hardships. Keller Williams has also received numerous awards and recognition, including being listed as an Inc. 5000 company and being ranked among the top real estate companies by Entrepreneur and Forbes.
Keller Williams Realty has undoubtedly made a lasting impact in the real estate industry. With its innovative approaches, commitment to technology, and dedication to giving back, Keller Williams continues to lead the way in revolutionizing the way we buy and sell properties.
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