Ward Morrison Announces Retirement from Motto Mortgage and wemlo

In a significant leadership transition for RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: RMAX), Ward Morrison, President and CEO of Motto Mortgage and wemlo, has announced his retirement effective June 15, 2025. Morrison's departure marks the end of a notable 20-year career with the RE/MAX family, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the company’s mortgage operations. He will continue to support Motto Mortgage and wemlo in a consultative capacity through the end of 2025.

Morrison joined RE/MAX Holdings in its early days and was instrumental in the launch of Motto Franchising, LLC in 2016. As the President of Motto Mortgage from its inception, he developed the innovative Mortgage Brokerage In-A-Box℠ model, allowing entrepreneurs to establish their own mortgage businesses with tailored support. This model has been a game-changer in the mortgage brokerage landscape, earning recognition for its approach to empowering franchisees.

Reflecting on his career, Morrison expressed, "My time with Motto has been incredibly fulfilling—full of meaningful work, incredible colleagues, and a shared commitment to helping families achieve their dream of homeownership. I am proud to have been a part of the Motto journey from the beginning."

In a heartfelt statement, Morrison explained that his decision to retire was deeply personal. With plans to marry in June, he aims to focus on spending quality time with his new wife and embracing this next chapter of his life. "This was an incredibly difficult decision, but I know what I want for this next chapter of my life," he stated, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunities he experienced at Motto Mortgage, wemlo, and RE/MAX.

As Morrison prepares to step down, RE/MAX Holdings is actively seeking a successor to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Adam Sartin, currently the Vice President of Franchise Growth & Development, will lead the Motto Mortgage and wemlo brands during this transition period. Morrison has agreed to provide his expertise on transition matters as a part-time consultant, helping to guide the company through this critical change.

Erik Carlson, CEO of RE/MAX Holdings, commented on Morrison’s impact: "Ward's commitment to Motto Mortgage has had a profound impact on the real estate and mortgage industries. He was the perfect leader for the visionary brand that has disrupted the mortgage brokerage landscape. As happy as we are for Ward as he embarks on this new chapter, he will be missed."

Morrison’s leadership has positioned Motto Mortgage for continued success, and he expressed confidence in the brand's future. "I look at how far Motto has come since our launch in 2016, and I'm confident the brand is positioned for continued success in the future," he said.

As RE/MAX Holdings continues to innovate and adapt in the competitive real estate market, the leadership transition at Motto Mortgage and wemlo will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and franchisees alike.

Founded in 1973, RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. is a leading global franchisor of real estate brokerages and the first national mortgage brokerage franchise brand in the U.S. With more than 145,000 agents in nearly 9,000 offices across over 110 countries, the company has established itself as a dominant player in the real estate industry. The launch of Motto Franchising, LLC in 2016 expanded RE/MAX’s offerings, further solidifying its role as an innovator in the sector.

As Morrison prepares to leave his post, the future remains bright for Motto Mortgage and the broader RE/MAX family, with a commitment to supporting franchises and helping families achieve their homeownership dreams.