Seattle Times file

Mark Powell

Mark Powell, the founder of Kirkland-based online real estate company HouseValues, is stepping down as chairman of the board. Powell founded the company in 1999 and was chief executive through mid-2003 and president through January 2004.

He's been chairman since June of 2003.

In a regulatory filing today, the company said Powell told the board last week that he was stepping down as director and chairman on May 31.

"Mr. Powell's decision not to stand for re-election did not result from a disagreement with the company on any matter relating to the company's operations, policies or practices. After more than seven years with HouseValues Mr. Powell has decided to dedicate his full energies to other interests."

The board picked Pete Higgins as its new chairman. Higgins worked at Microsoft from 1983 to 1999 and went on to found Seattle venture capital firm Second Avenue Partners.