The Brokery, a residential real estate brokerage based in Phoenix, has announced its acquisition of the Arizona division of Kenneth James Realty. The transaction, effective November 1, marks a significant step in The Brokery’s growth and its commitment to offering a community-driven real estate experience.
Following the acquisition, The Brokery will expand to 160 agents, positioning it as one of the largest independent brokerages in the region. The combined firms will represent an estimated $650 million in annual sales volume. Kenneth James Realty, which has recorded more than $1 billion in sales and over 2,300 transactions since its founding, will officially consolidate its Phoenix operations into The Brokery’s five existing offices located in Arcadia, Biltmore, Scottsdale, and North Central Phoenix.
The Brokery Co-founders Tucker Blalock and Oleg Bortman will continue to lead the company. Kenneth James Realty founder Karl Freund will join The Brokery’s leadership team as Director of Agent Development.
“We have been looking to grow,” said Blalock. “But it has been an intentional process to find a brokerage that shares our culture and core values. When a mutual friend introduced us to Karl, we quickly recognized the similarities between Kenneth James Realty and The Brokery. This move is a major step toward solidifying our position as the go-to independent brokerage in the Valley.”
Freund, who launched Kenneth James Realty in 2014 and brings more than 25 years of experience, is known for his emphasis on agent training and professional development. In his new role, he plans to bring that same commitment to The Brokery’s growing team.
“I’m excited to join The Brokery and implement our proven training program,” Freund said. “I’ve seen how this experiential approach builds the skills and confidence agents need to achieve long-term success.”
The acquisition comes at a time when many independent brokerages across the country are being absorbed by large national firms. Blalock and Bortman say their vision remains rooted in staying local, supporting agents directly, and offering a relationship-driven experience to clients.
“In addition to best-in-class training, our expanded team will bring our Relentlessly Local™ service to a wider area, particularly in the East Valley. We’re excited about the momentum and the opportunity to welcome new agents who want to grow with us,” Bortman said. “We see ourselves as a bold alternative to corporate, tech-driven brokerages, instead offering a highly personal, relationship-focused approach.”
With the integration of Kenneth James Realty and the expansion of its agent base, The Brokery is poised to deepen its presence across the Phoenix metro area, continuing to build on its reputation as a trusted, independent brokerage that knows and serves the Valley from within. Learn more at thebrokery.com.
