Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, the new real estate brokerage network operated by HSF Affiliates LLC, was named “Real Estate Brand of the Year” in the 26th annual Harris Poll EquiTrend study.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices received the highest ranking in the Real Estate Agency category based on consumers’ perception of its brand familiarity, quality and purchasing consideration, among other qualifying elements. The study was based on opinions of more than 40,000 U.S. consumers surveyed online earlier this year.

“We are delighted to be recognized by consumers in the venerable Harris Poll EquiTrend study,” said Earl Lee, CEO of HSF Affiliates LLC, which operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “This terrific honor by consumers is a tribute to our powerful brand – whose namesake is the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway Inc. – and the top-quality affiliates and agents who represent it.”

The brand received the highest numerical equity score among large real estate brands included in the 2014 poll, which measures and compares the brand health of more than 1,500 brands across 170 categories from airlines and apparel to retailers and real estate. Consumers responded with their brand perceptions, gauging their emotional connection to the brand, plus brand awareness, influence and familiarity.

“We’re so proud that the (study) acknowledged the undeniable strength of our brand,” said Susie Horan, manager, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northwest Real Estate. “Coupled with the skills and talent of our agents, we truly are an unstoppable force in the market.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northwest Real Estate, with seven local offices spanning the Puget Sound region, became the ninth brokerage to make the transition from the Prudential Real Estate franchise to the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise last November.

Their Federal Way office has more than 70 licensed real estate agents working out of that location. For information, visit www.BHHSNWRE.com.