Keller Williams Realty Inc. continues to expand its standing as the second-largest real estate firm in the Mid-South area by merging with a Memphis-based firm.

Kendall Haney Realty Group will operate under the Keller Williams brand and will remain in its current location at 420 S. Front St.

Kendall Haney, broker and owner of Kendall Haney Realty Group, has owned and operated both Kendall Haney Realty Group and Downtown Condo Connection for the past six years. Haney will remain as principal broker of the new operation, Keller Williams Downtown Convenience

Center, and will continue to focus on growth of the Downtown and Midtown market areas.

Austin, Texas-based Keller Williams is the second-largest real estate firm in North America, with nearly 800 offices and 80,000 associates.

“They are the embodiment of how well our company is performing, not only in Memphis but in North America,” Trae Williams, Dallas operating partner, said in a statement. “We are thrilled that two of Memphis’ real estate players are coming together into one, and believe that the synergies from this merger will have positive effects for the buyers and sellers we serve throughout the community.”

Because Keller Williams is a franchised organization, there are several avenues the firm has to go through to handle this type of situation. While the long-term effects of the merger are unknown at this time, Keller Williams is very fortunate, said Bruce Milner, team leader and CEO of Keller Williams Memphis.

“We are excited to include Kendall and the entire Haney Realty Group in our expansion plans here in Memphis,” said Milner. “It’s a great opportunity; Kendall’s been around for quite a while.”