Re/Max Canada has officially announced the departure of B.C. brokerage Little Oak Realty, marking the end of their longstanding partnership. The separation was confirmed in a statement issued by Re/Max on Monday.
Little Oak Realty joins Royal LePage’s network under continued leadership
Little Oak Realty, which has been affiliated with the brand since 1992, is joining Royal LePage’s network, Royal LePage confirmed. The brokerage will continue to operate under the leadership of Andrew Bracewell and Ray Yenkana.
Different vision for future leads to decision
Elton Ash, executive vice president of Re/Max Canada, says, “Due to a difference of vision for the future of the Little Oak offices in the Fraser Valley, we made the decision not to continue our longstanding relationship.”
Ash adds, “While this wasn’t an easy decision, it was a necessary one in order to ensure continuity for the Re/Max brand.”
Associates’ transition and Royal LePage’s perspective
According to Royal LePage, the brokerage brings more than 160 sales representatives to the network; Re/Max Canada confirms a large number of associates have opted to remain with Re/Max and will be transferring to existing offices within the region.
The duo’s decision to move their operations from Re/Max Canada stemmed from watching the real estate industry shift dramatically over the years and a desire to partner with a brand that was able to adapt to changing environments, the news release from Royal LePage explained.
Bracewell and Yenkana are both highly respected and award-winning real estate professionals. Yenkana has worked in the industry for over 38 years, starting his career as a property manager before earning his real estate license, where he specialized in commercial and investment properties.
Bracewell has been working in the industry for 20 years. After a successful sales career, he entered into a partnership with Yenkana in 2018.
The brokerage will continue to be supported by David Rishel and Natalie Tarrant, who will oversee day-to-day operations and all managing broker activities. Royal LePage Little Oak Realty will continue to service the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland, Grand Forks, and the West Kootenay and Okanagan regions.
Royal LePage’s expansion and welcome
“We are thrilled to be expanding Royal LePage’s reach across British Columbia and are pleased to welcome this group of well-established sales professionals to the network, who will bring their expertise and valued client base to the organization,” said Jim Morris, director of business development, Western Canada.
Keep tabs on that “160 sales representatives”… some journalistic follow up on how many will stay loyal after the insane bait and switch maneuver that was pulled on the Realtors will be telling.
In case you didn’t know – many Little Oak Re/Max Realtors showed up for a weekly meeting and were handed Folders and were told – not asked, told – you are NOW Royal Lepage Agents.
Time will tell how this ‘tactic’ will play out.
It’s too bad the top brass at REMAX are becoming so disconnected with the grassroots. Congrats to Royal LePage on a great snag!