Christie’s Austin Wins Top Workplace Award for Employee Support

Christie’s International Real Estate has recently earned recognition as Austin’s Top Workplace among small employers, a notable achievement reflecting its commitment to employee support and agent success. The Austin office, operating under the brand Christie’s International Real Estate | @properties Lone Star, secured this accolade after placing second in 2024. Chief Operating Officer Romeo Manzanilla attributes this success to a blend of boutique support and global resources.

Culture of Support Fuels Success

Employees at Christie’s Austin office consistently express feelings of encouragement and support, particularly in challenging market conditions. One agent remarked to Energage, which conducts surveys on workplace satisfaction on behalf of the Austin American-Statesman, that the local team fosters an environment where “everyone lifts you up.” This supportive atmosphere is especially crucial as the once-booming housing market shows signs of stabilization.

The Austin housing market has seen median home prices peak at $481,000 in January 2022, but now reflects a shift toward a buyer’s market. According to the most recent Central Texas Housing Report, median home prices in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos area have decreased by 1.8% from last year, with inventory levels approaching the six-month threshold that typically indicates a buyer’s market. Manzanilla emphasizes the importance of tenacity and professionalism among agents, noting that those committed to their clients will stand out as the market evolves.

Empowerment Through Innovation and Training

The support culture at Christie’s Austin is bolstered by various programs aimed at agent development and well-being. The @balance initiative provides agents with free monthly activities and classes, while access to proprietary technology, such as the pl@tform suite, helps streamline client relationships and transaction management. Comprehensive coaching and training are offered through @academy, which includes both live and on-demand courses tailored to enhance skills.

“Helping people find homes is my passion, and Christie’s is the best place I’ve ever worked to pursue that goal,” said one satisfied agent. The high standards set by the Christie’s brand not only elevate the level of service agents provide but also create an artful experience for clients that is deeply rooted in luxury and trust.

Despite entering the Austin market only in 2023, Christie’s has established itself as a serious player in the local real estate scene. The firm currently employs around 120 agents in Austin, with growth expected to continue organically. Manzanilla anticipates that the office will eventually expand to accommodate 200 to 250 agents before potentially opening a second location in the city.

As Christie’s prepares to launch its fourth office in Dallas, the company is also evaluating opportunities to penetrate the Houston market. “We prioritize quality over quantity in our growth strategy,” Manzanilla stated, stressing the importance of aligning new hires with the office’s established culture and values.

With its rich history as an auction house dating back nearly 260 years, Christie’s has successfully transitioned into the real estate sector since 1995, competing directly with Sotheby’s International Real Estate. The interconnectedness of its auction and real estate businesses creates unique marketing opportunities that leverage the brand’s prestige in both fields. As Christie’s continues to grow its footprint in Texas and beyond, its commitment to employee support and community service remains central to its mission.