Premier Properties reaches deal with Sotheby’s International Realty

One of Southwest Florida’s premiere real estate companies is going international.

Scott F. Lutgert, chairman of The Lutgert Companies and founder of Premier Properties of Southwest Florida, announced Friday that Premier Properties has affiliated with the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand and now will operate as Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

“This is a long term strategic move,” stated Scott Lutgert in a written statement. “We have always concentrated on professionalism and quality and our affiliation with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand will enhance Premier’s ability to serve our clients.”

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty will continue to be a wholly owned subsidiary of The Lutgert Companies, under Chairman Scott F. Lutgert.

In addition, Premier Commercial-- the commercial real estate operation of Premier Properties of Southwest Florida -- will be spun off into a separate entity.

Tom Bringardner, current President and CEO of Premier Properties will serve as CEO of Premier Commercial, which will focus on commercial real estate and will not be part of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand. He will also become a Vice President of The Lutgert Companies.

In the statement, Lutgert wrote Bringardner has provided exceptional leadership for the past seven years at Premier Properties.

“We look forward to Tom’s leadership in his new position,” he wrote.

Lutgert also announced that Premier Properties of Southwest Florida was acquiring a majority interest in Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, which operates real estate offices in Sarasota and Venice, effective Nov. 15.

Signature Sotheby’s International Realty will continue to operate in Sarasota and Venice as Signature Sotheby’s International Realty under the leadership of Judy Green, the current President and CEO who will also serve as President and CEO of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

“We are fortunate to have found such an energetic and competent real estate professional,” Lutgert wrote. “Judy’s expertise and experience will further enhance our efforts for unparalleled real estate service.”

For more information visit www.premiersothebysrealty.com or www.lutgert.com.