Ownership and Structure of Christie’s International Real Estate: The 2025 Landscape

By Victoria NguyenLast Updated June 28, 2025

Introduction: Christie’s International Real Estate and Its Global Role

Christie’s International Real Estate stands as a prominent luxury property network, renowned for its worldwide reach and close association with the legendary Christie’s auction house. This network, comprising more than 100 independently owned affiliates across 50 countries and territories, provides access to some of the world’s most prestigious properties and real estate services. Its unique structure and evolving ownership have positioned it as a central player for high-net-worth individuals, investors, and entrepreneurs seeking excellence in real estate transactions. Understanding who owns Christie’s International Real Estate-and how recent developments affect its operations-is crucial for anyone aiming to engage with the brand or leverage its resources for business growth or personal investment.

Section 1: Historical Ownership and Brand Evolution

The origins of Christie’s International Real Estate date back to 1987, when it was founded as Great Estates. In 1995, Christie’s, the renowned London-based art auction house, acquired the Great Estates brand. This acquisition fortified the connection between luxury real estate and the world of fine art, leveraging Christie’s reputation for exclusivity and sophistication. The brand underwent a rebranding in 2011, adopting its current name: Christie’s International Real Estate. For more than two decades, the firm operated under the ownership and strategic guidance of the Christie’s auction house, maintaining a close partnership that allowed mutual benefit from shared clientele, marketing initiatives, and cross-industry expertise. In December 2021, a pivotal change occurred when Mike Golden and Thad Wong-co-founders of the Chicago-based real estate brokerage and technology firm @properties-acquired Christie’s International Real Estate from Christie’s, establishing a long-term global brand licensing agreement. [1]

Section 2: The 2024-2025 Acquisition by Compass

In December 2024, the real estate landscape shifted yet again. Compass Inc., a major player in the residential brokerage market, announced its intention to acquire both @properties and Christie’s International Real Estate in a deal valued at $444 million. This acquisition marks Compass’s first significant expansion into global markets, bringing Christie’s International Real Estate’s network of 100+ independent affiliates into Compass’s broader operational reach. [2] The deal is scheduled to close in 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions. [4] Upon closure, Compass will pay a combination of $150 million in cash and 44 million shares of its Class A common stock, integrating the Christie’s International Real Estate brand into its fold while continuing to operate the network of affiliates. [3]

This strategic move aims to empower independent brokerages under the Christie’s International Real Estate umbrella, expanding resources and support for entrepreneurial agents and broker-owner entrepreneurs on a global scale. Compass’s leadership has publicly committed to maintaining the brand’s international identity and close partnership with the Christie’s auction house. [2]

Section 3: Current Leadership and Network Structure

As of May 2025, Gavin Swartzman has been named president of Christie’s International Real Estate, overseeing global strategy and expansion. Swartzman brings significant experience in managing brokerage firms and navigating mergers and acquisitions, previously serving as CEO of Peerage Realty Partners. His appointment reflects the brand’s commitment to growth and innovation, ensuring that the network remains competitive and responsive to the needs of its affiliates and clients. [5]

The Christie’s International Real Estate network itself remains a collective of independently owned firms, each operating under the global brand and benefiting from its resources, marketing, and prestige. Affiliates are selected based on rigorous standards of service and market expertise, ensuring a consistent luxury experience across markets.

Section 4: Practical Guidance-Accessing Christie’s International Real Estate Services

If you are seeking to buy, sell, or invest in luxury property through Christie’s International Real Estate, there are several actionable pathways:

Contact a Local Affiliate: You can search for Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates in your region by visiting the official website and browsing their directory of member firms. Each affiliate operates independently but upholds the network’s standards for service and discretion.
Leverage Compass Resources: With the acquisition expected to close in 2025, Compass’s established infrastructure will provide additional tools, technology, and support for buyers and sellers. To access Compass’s resources, visit the official Compass website and look for updates about the integration process.
Explore Partnership Opportunities: Entrepreneurs and independent brokerages interested in joining the network can reach out to Christie’s International Real Estate through official channels listed on their website. Affiliates are selected based on market performance, reputation, and alignment with the brand’s values.

For those unable to verify direct contact information, it is advised to search for “Christie’s International Real Estate official website” or “Compass Real Estate” to find the most current and accurate portals. Additionally, you may contact the brand via their main offices or through the public relations teams listed on major press releases. [1]

Section 5: Challenges, Solutions, and Alternative Approaches

Challenges: Navigating a global luxury real estate network can be complex, especially as ownership structures evolve. Potential clients and affiliates may encounter confusion regarding whom to contact, especially during a transition period like the Compass acquisition. Solutions: Rely on verified, official channels and maintain awareness of organizational updates published by Christie’s International Real Estate and Compass. Consider reaching out to multiple affiliates if your inquiry spans different regions or service types. Utilize trusted news sources for information about ongoing changes and leadership appointments. Alternatives: For those seeking luxury property services outside the Christie’s network, other major brands such as Sotheby’s International Realty or Luxury Portfolio International offer similar global reach and market expertise. Researching and comparing these networks can provide additional options for buyers, sellers, and brokers.

Section 6: Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Christie’s International Real Estate’s ownership has transitioned over time-from the Christie’s auction house to @properties, and now, pending final regulatory approvals, to Compass Inc. Despite these changes, the network retains its global luxury identity and continues its close partnership with the auction house. Leadership under Gavin Swartzman signals ongoing growth and innovation, while the affiliate structure ensures local expertise and personalized service. To access Christie’s International Real Estate services, contact an affiliate through the official website or monitor Compass’s integration updates. For those interested in partnership or franchise opportunities, detailed guidance is available on the brand’s site and through public announcements. As the market evolves, staying informed through verified sources will ensure successful engagement with the network.