Merit Launches RE Division

Merit Financial Inc., Kirkland, Wash., has announced the launch of Merit Real Estate Services, which will serve the buyers and sellers of homes in the Puget Sound region.Merit Financial said its goal in forming the new division is to leverage its operations -- such as centralized mortgage brokering, internal bank lines, and title and escrow services (via an affiliation with Platinum Escrow) -- to provide clients with "seamless turnkey services" that offer convenience and lower fees. "In a typical real estate transaction, there are several third parties involved in ensuring the deal is completed," said Scott Greenlaw, the founder and chief executive officer of Merit Financial. "With more hands in the pot, there is greater potential for stalemates to occur, whether that is through underwriting obstacles, contract issues, or problems with release of funds." Merit Real Estate Services can be found online at http://www.meritres.com.