Key facts
- FirstTeam Real Estate has opened a new community office in Monterey, California.
FirstTeam Real Estate has opened a new community office in Monterey, California, marking its expansion beyond Southern California. The office will be led by broker-owner Amber Russell of Over the Moon Realty, who cited FirstTeam's client-focused approach and support for independent brand identity as key factors in the partnership.

The expansion of FirstTeam Real Estate into the Monterey Peninsula signifies a strategic move to broaden its market reach and tap into new demand for primary and second homes. It also highlights a trend of brokerages seeking partnerships that balance growth with the preservation of local brand identity and agent autonomy.
FirstTeam Real Estate has expanded its operations to California's Central Coast with the establishment of a new community office in Monterey. The office will be led by Amber Russell, who operates Over the Moon Realty, Inc. This move signifies FirstTeam's strategic growth beyond its traditional Southern California footprint, aiming to tap into the Monterey Peninsula markets.
Russell, who brings over 32 years of experience in education and a background as a military spouse, chose to partner with FirstTeam due to its emphasis on client experience and its support for the independent brand identity she has cultivated with Over the Moon Realty. She noted a "genuine partnership" and a "future-focused, female leadership team" as key attractions.
Michele Harrington, CEO of FirstTeam, stated that the company seeks partners who possess deep market knowledge and deliver best-in-class service. Harrington praised Russell as a "trusted leader" who has built a culture attracting high-caliber professionals. Russell's expertise includes luxury properties, probate and trust sales, and military relocation. She also holds several professional designations, including the National Association of Realtors’ Green designation.