"We begin the first page of the new chapter in our history, as we continue to seek ways of providing the highest level of service to our clients," says Jack Box, president and CEO of the company founded in 1888. Last year, Ross had boasted $687 million in transactions.

In addition to its 42 brokers, the company manages about five million sf and maintains a large research department. Ross' development arm, owned by Box and Rich McClintock, last year had developed 1.5 million sf and leased 500,000 sf, making it the largest development company in Denver, McClintock says. Westfield Development will remain 100% owned by Box and McClintock.

"The change in ownership will allow us to accomplish two very important objectives," says Box, only the fourth president in the company's history. "It ensures stability since the firm will remain locally owned by those who care most about the company and its employees, yet it will bring new ideas and new approaches as we build a company to meet the needs of the next century," Box says.