Names & notes

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Based on sales volume in 2006, RE⁄MAX Colonial Homes Inc., with headquarters in La Plata, ranks high on a national survey of the top residential real estate brokerages in the United States. The firm ranks No. 332 in the nation on the REAL Trends 500 Survey, according to a RE⁄MAX press release.

‘‘A significant factor in our success is the marketing and educational support provided by RE⁄MAX International,” said Ron Mellott, broker⁄owner of RE⁄MAX Colonial Homes Inc., in a press release. ‘‘RE⁄MAX University is a multi-media system that provides state-of-the-art training to our affiliated agents using online streaming video, video and audio podcasts, broadcasts on the RE⁄MAX Satellite Network and classroom instruction.”

Mellott noted that much of the education is technology oriented.

RE⁄MAX International leads all national real estate brand networks in the REAL Trends 500 Survey, according to the release.

‘‘We have the most productive real estate network in the world because we have the best brokers,” Margaret Kelly, CEO of RE⁄MAX International, said in the release. ‘‘Because of RSN and other education programs we offer online and on-site at our headquarters in Denver, RE⁄MAX associates lead the industry in advanced designations.”

Beebe, Brechteljoin AtHome America

Courtnie Beebe of Indian Head and Patricia Brechtel of Waldorf have joined the team of AtHome America.

The business is a direct seller of home decorating accents.

Pet sitting servicejoins business network

The Southern Maryland Business Network recently welcomed new member Joanne Farrin of Joanne’s Pet Sitting Service Inc.

The Port Tobacco-based business offers professional pet care focusing on providing pets with care in their home environment, and vacationing homeowners know that their home is checked on a daily basis.

Joanne’s Pet Sitting Service is a member of Pet Sitters International, is certified in the American Red Cross First Aid for Dogs and Cats, is a Pet Sitters International Accredited Pet Sitter and is bonded and insured, according to a press release.

SMBN is an independent nonprofit organization that encourages business referrals and new business relationships. It meets from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Southwinds Adult Active Community off Billingsley Road on Southwinds Place in White Plains.

For more information, go to www.smbn.org or call Irene Cusack at 301-893-9001.

New members join chamber

The Charles County Chamber of Commerce has announced its new members that joined in May and June.

*Andrews Federal Credit Union is on Plaza drive in Waldorf.

*BR Lahman Industries LLC in La Plata specializes in remodeling, additions, decks and fences.

*Fantasy World Inc. in Prince Frederick is for entertainment and parties.

*Law Office of Hammad S. Matin in La Plata handles criminal, domestic and personal injury cases.

*Referral Xchange Group Inc. in Waldorf is a nonprofit that helps small businesses.

*Synergy Business Alliance provides business consulting for small business.

*The Computer Doctors in Leonardtown offers services for individuals and businesses.

*Thompson Appraisal Company Inc. in La Plata provides residential real estate appraisals.

*Winkler Real Estate in La Plata deals with both residential and commercial sales.