Douglas Elliman of California and former escrow head settle lawsuits

The lawsuits alleging kickbacks by high profile brokers, which were launched in October, are now resolved. Founder and former CEO of Portfolio Escrow Bill Grasska said he is “committed to ensuring my name remains synonymous with integrity and excellence.” Continue reading

Alexander brothers kept in custody after Friday court appearance

Oren and Alon will be held in federal custody at least until their detention hearing on Dec. 30. Assistant U.S. Attorneys said in a new filing that Tal’s motion to reopen his detention hearing “should be denied in its entirety.” Continue reading

24 gifts real estate agents actually really want for Christmas this year

Forget gadgets and swag. According to team leader Carl Medford, what Realtors really want right now are well-behaved children at open houses, punctual contractors and, well, an end to 2024. Continue reading

These 5 marketing events will help move the needle on your listing

Make each property listing memorable when you create events that are designed to get your listing seen and sold, Coldwell Banker Warburg’s Kevelyn Guzman writes. Continue reading

Hilton & Hyland brings on Steve Katz as managing director

Katz joins the firm from Anywhere Integrated Services, where he worked exclusively with Sotheby’s as the brand’s primary services manager for greater LA since 2022. Before that, he spent two decades in management at Coldwell Banker. Continue reading

Broker Spotlight: Michelle Valverde, BHGRE Viridis Properties

Find out how this young, first-generation Filipino-American entrepreneur worked her way up from receptionist to broker-owner. Continue reading

LA property where actress Brittany Murphy died lists for $18M

The Los Angeles mansion where late actress Brittany Murphy and her husband Simon Monjack died has long been the source of fascination and speculation. Now, the property is back on the market for $18 million, according to a Realtor.com report. Continue reading

Tal Alexander and lawyers push to reopen his detention hearing

Tal’s parents offered a bond “in any amount secured by the entirety of their assets.” Meanwhile, Side filed a preliminary injunction against Oren and Tal, and the DOJ has asked Douglas Elliman for information about the brothers’ time at the firm. Continue reading

Why recruiting more agents is killing your brokerage

Bringing in huge numbers of mediocre agents won’t make your brokerage better, luxury consultant Chris Pollinger writes. It will just lead to more headaches for you. Continue reading

Alexander twins’ bond review delayed until Thursday

Defense lawyers for Oren and Alon Alexander appeared in court on Monday, but because of a paperwork scuffle, the brothers’ bond review was delayed a few days. Judge Lody Jean said the brothers’ house arrests “may be more of a hurdle than anything else,… Continue reading