REAL ESTATE

Habitat Centers: Realty giant Coldwell Banker Corp. said it has selected the nonprofit Habitat for Humanity International as its main community activity.

The realty company, based in Mission Viejo, said it will encourage its 2,300 offices nationwide to serve as community centers for Habitat activities and information.

“Both Coldwell Banker and Habitat are in the business of helping people fulfill the American dream--owning their own homes,” said Chandler Barton, Coldwell Banker’s president.

“Habitat’s goal of seeking to eliminate substandard housing from the world, and of making decent shelter a matter of conscience and action, complements our corporate philosophy.”

Habitat, based in Americus, Ga., is now building in 1,500 communities in 43 countries.

It has built or renovated more than 30,000 homes since it was founded in 1976.

Habitat’s volunteers include former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn.