Keller Williams Realty, an Austin, Texas-based real estate franchise operation, recently announced the launch of Keller Williams Southern Arizona. This new operation, formerly with Realty Executives, includes seven offices with more than 375 real estate agents and staff.

“We felt it was our responsibility to be the stewards of our agents’ careers, and based on our research and what we have seen, it is obvious that Keller Williams Realty is the right choice for a positive future,” said Anthony Azar, operating principal of Keller Williams Southern Arizona. “We are thrilled to be a part of a company that is as serious about growth and success as we are.”

This expansion comes on the heels of a year of positive growth for the company. In 2009, Keller Williams Realty opened 30 new franchises and ended the year with a 16 percent year-over-year increase in the number of contracts closed per agent. In addition, the company received the highest overall satisfaction rating from homebuyers among the largest full-service real estate firms from J.D. Power and Associates for the second year in a row.

“We make it our business to get in business with the best, and Anthony and his associates are proven leaders in the Southern Arizona marketplace,” said Mark Willis, CEO of Keller Williams Realty. “It’s our honor to welcome them to the Keller Williams family.”