RE/MAX History – People Know the Balloon
It all began as a dream and an idea on a pad of paper. Dave Liniger had a controversial idea to build a real estate company where experienced, productive agents could keep more of their commissions and enjoy the freedom to run their business as they saw fit. Liniger had previous experience with the maximum commission model. He realized it would appeal to full-time, serious real estate professionals who would rather contribute collectively to office expenses than settle for a traditional commission split. Combining the model with robust marketing and other valuable agent services was revolutionary – and completely changed the worldwide real estate landscape forever.
The Beginning
Dave Liniger and Gail Main (who later became Gail Liniger) founded RE/MAX in Denver, Colorado in January 1973. Along with their core group, they built the foundation of their network on hard work, belief and resolve. And big things began to happen.
1975 – The network expanded outside of Colorado. Dennis Curtin purchased a franchise in Kansas City, Missouri.
1977 – The first Canadian franchise was purchased in Calgary, Alberta.
1978 – The RE/MAX Balloon made its maiden flight at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival.
1979 – The RE/MAX Balloon became the network’s official logo.
Steady Growth
Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s, the RE/MAX Agent count grew every single month. The agent count hit vital milestones along the way:
1984 – 5,000 RE/MAX Agents
1986 – 10,000 RE/MAX Agents
1989 – 25,000 RE/MAX Agents
1999 – 50,000 RE/MAX Agents
During this time, market share grew as well. RE/MAX became the No. 1 in many major marketing across North America. In Canada, RE/MAX became No. 1 nationally in 1987, a position is has held to this day. In the United States, RE/MAX closed more than 1 million transaction sides in 1997. This accomplishment cemented the slogan, “Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX.”
Bright Present and Future
Today, the RE/MAX network has more than 100,000 agents in over 100 countries and territories. For many reasons, RE/MAX is seen as the No. 1 brand in real estate. Whether measured by closed transaction sides, average agent productivity, brand name awareness, education, experience or an assortment of other key metrics, RE/MAX enjoys a top position in a very competitive landscape.
Dave and Gail Liniger are still in their leadership roles at RE/MAX World Headquarters in Denver. Their vision, grit, and drive has inspired thousands of productive entrepreneurs – the very people they hoped their model would attract – to pursue their own dreams of real estate success.
Are you interested in joining RE/MAX in Greater Vancouver or the Lower Mainland? Schedule an informal meeting with one of our managing brokers today!