Berkshire Hathaway real estate grows in Sarasota

SARASOTA — Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty has acquired Sarasota-based Cristello & Company Real Estate, a family-run brokerage with 13 agents.

Terms of the deal, which marks Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty's ongoing statewide expansion, weren't disclosed. “Cristello & Company Real Estate is well-respected throughout Sarasota and is known particularly for its exceptional leadership, prime location and over 30 years of experience in the Sarasota markets,” Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty President and CEO Rei Mesa says in a release.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty, part of Bonita Springs-based developer WCI Communities' real estate services network, was formerly Prudential Florida Realty. Berkshire Hathaway, run by Warren Buffett, acquired Prudential Florida Realty last year. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty, according to a release, now has more than 40 locations and 1,600 brokers who work in 18 counties across Florida. Recent acquisitions include Elite Preferred Realty in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch and Main Street Realty International in Orlando.

“The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brokerage network has strong momentum, and we're proud to be among its members in the Sarasota market,” Cristello & Company owner Gail Cristello says in the release. “We believe the brand will resonate extremely well with our clients and sales professionals alike. It will help us grow for years to come.”