Chase ends Sotheby affiliation

Chase International, a real estate company based at Zephyr Cove, said last week it ended its affiliation with Sotheby's International Realty.

Sotheby's International Realty was recently purchased by Cendant Corp.

and is now part of a group of franchise companies that includes Coldwell Banker, Century 21, ERA, Cheap Tickets, Budget,Avis, Ramada Inns, Days Inn, Travel Lodge and Howard Johnson.

"It is apparent to me that Cendant's goal is to sell franchises as opposed to selling luxury, upscale real estate," said Shari Chase, president of Chase International.