Real estate firm HomeSmart International recently opened its newest franchise in Seattle, Washington. The nationwide company based in Phoenix, Arizona began franchising in 2011, offering one of the most attractive business models in the real estate industry. HomeSmart provides their Franchise Partners with specific systems and technology that create efficiency in operations and keep costs down while allowing exponential growth.

Since opening in January 2000, HomeSmart has had tremendous success by growing to over 7,500 agents nationwide. Recently ranked as the number one real estate company in the Southwest, HomeSmart continues to open new offices and add jobs across the United States.

Seattle franchise owner Teri Jones has more than 22 years of experience in the real estate business. Jones felt that affiliating with HomeSmart International was the best way to take her business to the next level. The franchise operates as HomeSmart Real Estate Associates.

“I am excited to be a part of HomeSmart and very encouraged with the company’s tools and commitment to their agents and clients,” said Jones. “I feel confident with the company’s reputation for advanced technologies and that we will continue to grow and assist brokers with the tools needed to grow the business in a more efficient and professional way.”

HomeSmart emphasizes the importance of being aware of client needs and exceeding their expectations, which in turn builds strong relationships with the buyers and sellers in every market. HomeSmart’s proprietary software also puts its franchise partners ahead of the curve. Created by Founder and Chairman Matt Widdows and his development team, the reputable systems are proven to save business owners huge costs attributed to web hosting, lead generation and back office systems. This allows the franchise owners to provide the technology to their agents for free while allowing them to keep 100 percent of their commissions. Other advantages to HomeSmart’s franchise program include a virtual receptionist, generous fee structure, and a full suite of branding and marketing products.

“Some of the world’s best companies are based in Seattle; Amazon.com, Nordstrom’s and Starbucks to name three. Each is known for their innovation, operational excellence and customer service,” said HomeSmart International CEO and President Chuck Lemire. “We are proud to now be among those successful businesses. Teri brings decades of experience along with a youthful, innovative team. Armed with the technology and systems HomeSmart provides, she will bring a tremendous environment to all agents in Seattle and the surrounding communities.”

HomeSmart currently has offices throughout eight states and international operations in Shanghai, China. They added approximately 3,500 new jobs in 2012, and their goal is to continue to grow nationally and internationally in 2013.

For more information on HomeSmart and its franchise opportunities, visit www.homesmartinternational.com. Follow HomeSmart on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homesmart.