Ashland Realty Co. is expanding.

"We're taking on a new name, constructing a new headquarters building, and doubling our sales staff," said Herb Annis, president of the firm.

Annis announced Ashland's affiliation with the Century 21 system. The new member of the international real estate organization will be known as Century 21 Ashland Realty Co. effective Wednesday.

"We're enthusiastic about joining the Century 21 system," said Annis, "The wide range of real estate services afforded by our membership will allow us to serve our clients in new and better ways."

In announcing the new franchise, Annis said plans were already on the board to build a 4,000-square-foot headquarters building at 125 S. Broadview. "This will be a free-standing building and will include ample parking," he said.

Ashland is currently leasing space at 2424 Kingsway. "We hope to be in our new quarters by Aug. 15."

Ashland Realty has been in business more than 20 years and now employs 15 people.

"We will at least double that," said Annis. "We're looking for new associates now."

As part of Century 21, Ashland is linked to approximately 7,200 other Century 21 offices throughout the United States, Canada, Japan, Great Britain and other countries via the Century VIP Referral System.

"This network of independently owned and operated offices means wider exposure for listed properties," said Annis. "It gives more options for buyers and an efficient system for relocation."

Century 21 also offers its associates career development programs in real estate. The CareerTrak training program provides brokers and associates with an opportunity to develop a career in any area of real estate.

"Homeowners listing with our office will also benefit from a national and local advertising campaign designed to attract more buyers, nationally, regionally and locally," said Annis. "Added to all of this is our clear knowledge of the local real estate market."

Century 21 is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Metropolitan Life Co., and is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. It is the largest real estate organization in the world with more than 7,200 independently owned and operated offices. Worldwide an estimated $65 billion worth of real estate was sold last year by the Century 21 system.

Annis said Century 21 Ashland Realty will plan a grand opening when its new building is completed.