History

The story of Coldwell Banker is a story of leadership and success. From its beginnings in San Francisco in 1906, Coldwell Banker continues its superiority in the real estate industry by becoming the premier residential real estate organization in North America.

Coldwell Banker was founded on a commitment to professionalism and customer service that continues to be the core of its business philosophy today.

In 1906, a devastating earthquake and fire ruined much of the city of San Francisco, California. A young real estate agent named Colbert Coldwell disapproved of how some businessmen took the chance to benefit financially through fraud and deception. Coldwell saw the need for honest, knowledgeable and professional real estate services to help the city rebuild.

With two partners, he formed a real estate company dedicated to the principal that they would work only for their customers and not trade for their own account. This was the beginning of the tradition of integrity and customer support that continues to this day.

Benjamin Banker joined the firm in 1913 as a salesman and he and Colbert Coldwell soon discovered they held similar views and ethics. In 1914, Banker became a partner and the two remained active in the company throughout their lives.

Their vision of customer service excellence has been proudly maintained for over 98 years.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation, a subsidiary of Cendant Corporation, has more than 3,500 independently owned and operated residential and commercial real estate offices with over 106,000 Sales Associates globally. Coldwell Banker continues to advance its superior service and high standards for real estate.