Each month, REM shares brokerage expansions and conversions, leadership appointments and other key industry moves. Have an announcement to share? Email your news to editor@realestatemagazine.ca by the 26th of each month, and don’t forget to include a photo!
Leadership appointments
Sotheby’s International Realty Canada welcomes Stefani Penner as Regional Managing Broker
Stefani Penner, regional managing broker, Sotheby’s
Sotheby’s International Realty Canada has announced the appointment of Stefani Penner as Regional Managing Broker for Southwestern Ontario and its Kingsway office in Toronto. Penner will collaborate closely with Erin Henry, newly named Regional Director, to drive business development and elevate client services across these key markets.
Prior to joining Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Penner served as Managing Broker at Royal LePage Real Estate Services, overseeing the West Toronto Region. With 15 years of experience, she is known for her collaborative leadership style and dedication to professional excellence. She also recently joined the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board’s Professional Standards and Arbitration Committee.
Don Kottick announced as President of Re/Max Canada
Re/Max Canada has named industry veteran Don Kottick as its new president, ushering in a new era of leadership. Kottick, who brings over 30 years of real estate industry experience, including recent success as president and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty Canada.
Based in Toronto, Kottick will oversee operational strategy for Re/Max Canada’s network of over 25,000 agents.
eXp Realty appoints Nadia Habib as managing director, eXp Realty Canada
eXp Realty has appointed Nadia Habib as managing director of eXp Realty Canada, announced during eXpcon Montreal. Habib, who has helped grow eXp’s Canadian presence to over 7,000 agents, will focus on enhancing agent experiences and aligning regional operations with global priorities.
Sam Wyatt installed as chair of Greater Vancouver Realtors Board
Greater Vancouver Realtors (GVR) has named Sam Wyatt as Chair for the 2025/2026 term. Wyatt, a Realtor with Stilhavn Real Estate Services and an ICD.D designation holder, steps into the role following a Mar. 28 installation ceremony.
“It’s a privilege to serve as Chair during this pivotal time for our industry,” Wyatt said. He will be supported by Chair-Elect Raman Bayanzadeh and Vice-Chair Steve Jamieson.
The 2025/2026 GVR Board of Directors includes representatives from leading brokerages across the region.
Brokerage expansions and conversions
Coldwell Banker Elevate launches to serve Halton and Wellington Regions
Coldwell Banker Canada has welcomed Coldwell Banker Elevate, Brokerage, the newest addition serving the Halton and Wellington regions. Led by Broker/Owner Lisa Hartsink, who has nearly 20 years of experience, the new brokerage aims to raise industry standards through client-focused service and collaborative leadership.
With a team of 11 agents, Coldwell Banker Elevate will host a grand opening celebration in late May.
Two top Century 21 brokerages form shared ownership group
Century 21 Leading Edge Realty Inc. and Century 21 Atria Realty have officially announced a shared ownership group under the leadership of Paul Baron, Tasis Giannoukakis and Stephen Chow.
Despite the new structure, both brokerages will retain their distinct branding and operational leadership, ensuring continuity for over 1,400 agents. Century 21 Canada President and CEO Martin Charlwood praised the move, noting the leadership’s commitment to agent success during industry changes.
L-R: C21 Executive Vice President Todd Shyiak, C21 Atria Owner Stephen Chow, C21 Leading Edge owner Tasis Giannoukakis, C21 Leading Edge owner Paul Baron, C21 President and CEO Martin Charlwood
Realty One Group expands into Hamilton region with new brokerage
Wayne Picyk
Wayne Picyk, a well-respected name in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara real estate, has launched Realty ONE Group Insight in Stoney Creek after 13 years with Century 21.
“We’re building something bold, forward-thinking, and truly for the future of real estate,” said Picyk. His brokerage joins Realty ONE Group’s rapidly expanding Canadian network, bringing its UNtraditional model and innovative support systems to the region.
Engel & Völkers opens Comox shop on Vancouver Island
Luxury real estate brand Engel & Völkers has expanded its Vancouver Island footprint with the opening of Engel & Völkers Comox. License partners Erik Clevering, Nathan King, and Abel O’Brennan, along with Managing Broker Jeff Neild, will lead the new location.
The Comox Valley shop will focus on delivering world-class real estate services to a growing market known for its vibrant community, outdoor lifestyle, and luxury property opportunities.
Want your team’s latest success featured in next month’s column?
Reach out to editor@realestatemagazine.ca with your announcement and a high-res photo by the 26th.
The post The Real Deal: Industry highlights for April 2025 appeared first on REM.