Block Bros to Mortgages: 3 Generations in Real Estate
I have had the great privilege of growing up around a wonderful legacy in the Real Estate business. In 1955 my grandfather Henry Block founded Block Brothers Realty with his brother Arthur and Jack. Within only a period of 10 years, Block Brothers grew to be one of the largest real estate firms in Canada. By 1976 Block Brothers would employ nearing 3000 employees, with assets of $175 million and sales volume of over $80 million each month(Edmonton Journal, January 7th, 1977). Block Bros. was an industry leader in real estate sales, commercial and residential development, mortgage lending, and construction financing. They were known for some of the most innovative strategies in marketing and training seen up to that time in the industry, introducing television programs dedicated to real estate, trading homes, and starting the First National Mortgage Corporation, which is still thriving to this day.
When Block Brothers was sold in 1979, many of of the leading managers and salesman went on to join other franchises and many went on to start their own. To this day there are many offices in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley that were founded and managed by former Block Brothers agents. My Father John Block started his own firm called Block Agencies, which was active in residential development and sales during the early 80’s.
In the late 80′s my Grandfather Henry and my Father formed British Group Realty Corp, which is still active today. The British Group was responsible for a number of high end residential and commercial developments throughout Langley and South Surrey throughout the 80’s and 90’s.
Today, as I continue on in real estate providing Mortgage Lending Solutions for my clients, I draw upon a network of Realtors, Lawyers, Appraisers, Accountants and many more relationships that have been established and developed over 40 years in the business. It is this experience and credibility I pass on to my clients to ensure the most effective mortgage strategies and the best service in the industry.