Berkshire Hathaway Doubles Its Stake in the Triangle

It was Dec. 15, and I was waiting at the RDU airport for Ron Peltier, CEO of HomeServices of America (the real estate arm of Berkshire Hathaway), to arrive.  Ron was coming to town this close to the holidays not just for a casual visit, but instead to make an important announcement.  And over the next three days, it was my privilege to watch Tommy Camp (CEO ofPrudential Carolinas Realty) and Ron execute a merger with one of the finest real estate companies in the United States, York Simpson Underwood. 

Once the closing was finalized, there was dinner for the management team, breakfast announcement meetings for the YSU agents and then the Prudential Carolinas agents, and finally a luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 17 for everyone as we became one family – Prudential York Simpson Underwood Realty.

I was not surprised by the York Simpson Underwood merger, which doubled our Home Services of America family in the Triangle, because the family/owners have know each other for years, living within minutes of each other, and have created companies that share a similar culture.  Many of the agents and managers have played golf, taken yearly vacations and enjoyed close friendships throughout the years.  In fact, Sam Simpson’s mother was my 5^th grade school teacher.  

Both companies have deep roots, with the original company celebrating 50 years in the real estate business this year.  This merger of strength creates a powerhouse of talent and extraordinary customer service, giving Prudential York Simpson Underwood Realty nearly 500 sales associates and the #1 listing market share in the Triangle.

This merger also positions PruYSU to grow in one of the strongest economic climates in the United States.  Residential real estate and unemployment rates have fared better in the Triangle than almost anywhere in the country.  That, along with our diverse economy (state government, medical community, universities, RTP, Biotech) and quality of life, puts us at a crossroads of opportunity.  And we certainly plan to take advantage this special place in time. 

We look forward to providing the best real estate service the Triangle has ever seen with our new Pru YSU family.  And I am certainly proud to be a part of this special team!