Gov. Ned Lamont on Wednesday proclaimed March 27 as “William Loves Day” in Connecticut, where an unforgettable gala was held to commemorate the brokerage firm’s 50th anniversary.
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William Rabeis Real Estate celebrated its 50th anniversary Wednesday with a grand birthday celebration attended by approximately 1,500 people and a proclamation from the Governor of Connecticut honoring the business that started in the state in 1974.
Governor Ned Lamont officially proclaimed March 27th as “William Lavis Day” in the state of Connecticut in honor of both companies’ 50 years of service.
“The Governor’s proclamation is a testament to all of William LaVeiss’ dedicated salespeople, managers, and employees,” Bill LaVeisse, the company’s proud patriarch, said in a statement to Inman. “It has been extremely rewarding to have helped millions of homeowners over 50 years. Giving back to the community and contributing to the economy is the right thing to do.”
Bill LaVais addresses the crowd Wednesday.Image: AJ Canary Creative Services
William LaVais Real Estate was founded in 1974 by the 27-year-old Mr. LaVais out of an office above a grocery store in his hometown of Fairfield, Conn.
Over the next 50 years, the company grew to more than 4,500 agents in 140 offices in nine states on the East Coast. Bill Rabeis remains the company’s chairman, and his sons Chris Rabeis and Ryan Rabeis serve as co-presidents.
The company has also expanded over time to offer mortgage loans and insurance in addition to traditional brokerage services.
The firm was named a Top Brokerage Firm in 2023 by Inman, among the top 100 in the world by Luxury Portfolio International, and is considered the number one independent brokerage firm in the Northeast, Florida and South Carolina by RealTrends.
The company celebrated its 50th anniversary this week at its annual meeting, which drew nearly 1,500 attendees to the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut. The event will feature business training sessions, industry keynote speakers including Amy Jo Martin and Tom Ferry, and entertainment including “Ravais the Musical,” the Decadia Band, and singer-songwriter Mike DelGuidis. was featured.
“We’ve always done our best for our agency and our team, but this year is going to be a great year,” LaVais said.
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