About Christie’s
Christie's International Real Estate, established in 1987 as Great Estates and later acquired by the renowned Christie's auction house in 1995, has evolved into a premier network of luxury real estate firms. With over 400 offices and approximately 10,000 agents across nearly 50 countries and territories, the firm offers a global platform for marketing and brokering upscale residential properties.
In December 2021, a significant development occurred when a venture led by Mike Golden and Thad Wong, co-founders of Chicago-based real estate brokerage and technology firm @properties, acquired Christie's International Real Estate from Christie's. This acquisition established a long-term global brand licensing agreement, positioning the firm for continued growth and innovation in the luxury real estate market.
Christie's International Real Estate's affiliation with the esteemed Christie's auction house, founded in 1766, enhances its prestige and global reach. This relationship allows for a unique synergy between art and real estate, providing clients with unparalleled access to luxury markets worldwide.
The firm's commitment to excellence is reflected in its notable sales, including record-breaking transactions such as the sale of Copper Beech Farm in Greenwich, Connecticut, which sold for $120 million in 2014, marking one of the highest residential transactions in U.S. history.
Through its global network and association with Christie's auction house, Christie's International Real Estate continues to set benchmarks in the luxury real estate industry, offering clients unparalleled service and access to some of the world's most exclusive properties.
Services
Christie's International Real Estate provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the luxury real estate market:
Residential Sales and Leasing: Specializing in high-end properties, the firm assists clients in buying, selling, and leasing luxury residences worldwide.
Global Marketing: Leveraging its affiliation with Christie's auction house, the firm employs sophisticated marketing strategies to reach an international clientele.
Development Projects: The company collaborates with developers to market and sell luxury developments, offering expertise from project inception to completion.
Strengths
Prestigious Brand Association: The affiliation with Christie's auction house enhances the firm's credibility and appeal in the luxury market.
Global Network: With a presence in nearly 50 countries, the firm offers clients access to a vast international market.
Exclusive Listings: The firm's portfolio includes some of the world's most prestigious properties, attracting discerning buyers and sellers.
Weaknesses
Franchise Model Variability: As a network of independently owned firms, service quality may vary between locations.
Market Sensitivity: The firm's focus on luxury properties makes it susceptible to economic fluctuations affecting high-end real estate.
Summary
Christie's International Real Estate stands as a distinguished entity in the luxury real estate sector, offering a blend of global reach and prestigious branding. Its comprehensive services cater to an upscale clientele seeking exceptional properties worldwide. However, potential clients should consider the variability inherent in a franchise model and the firm's sensitivity to economic shifts when making their choice. When comparing luxury real estate agents, Christie's International Real Estate's esteemed reputation and extensive network are significant factors to consider.