PITTSBURGH - Howard Hanna Real Estate Services has announced its acquisition of Realty One, Ohio's second- and the country's 23rd largest real estate company.

"This is a clear demonstration of our company's commitment to this region and the core markets we serve, to their economic vitality and quality of life people enjoy," said Howard W. "Hoddy" Hanna, chairman of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services.

Locally, Howard Hanna Real Estate Services has offices in Weirton, Wheeling, Wintersville and Toronto.

Robin Viola, the owner/broker of Howard Hanna Mortimer Realty in Weirton, is excited about the acquisition.

"Howard Hanna continues to grow in strength and show their belief in our existing markets. Their willingness to expand in our region shows that they feel our local real estate community continues to be stable and is a great place to own a home," Viola said. "We are excited about doing business with all the new Howard Hanna offices and agents."

The acquisition, which ranks Howard Hanna as the fourth-largest real estate company in the nation, provides many benefits for consumers in the company's Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and West Virginia markets:

A larger network of 152 office locations with 4,400 sales associates and 820 employees in mortgage services, closing and title insurance, land development, appraisal services and corporate relocation.

Availability of new mortgage money $125 million per month from Howard Hanna Mortgage Services

Access to the company's 100 percent Money Back Guarantee, providing greater property visibility, and buyer confidence.

The Buy Before You Sell program from Howard Hanna Mortgage Services, providing an exclusive advanced equity loan making it possible for buyers to purchase a new home before selling their present home.

Howard Hanna entered northeast Ohio in 2003 with the merger of Smythe Cramer Co. The company now has 79 office locations in northeast Ohio with 2,800 sales associates and 400 employees. During the past five years, Hanna has also expanded in the region and in its other core markets.