DALLAS
C O N N E C T I N G .
JENNIFER SHINDLER & J.L. FORKE
E L E VAT I N G .
I N S P I R I N G .
WELCOME 2022
TOP 500!
B I G P I CT U R E P E R S P E CT I V E RISE & GRIND: TIFFANY CABALLERO FEATURED AGENT: CHRIS HICKMAN WORLD CHANGER: AMANDA RAVETTA PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: AMERICAN REAL PM Photo by: URSPECIAL
FEBRUARY 2022
SOLID GROWTH INVOLVES
PARTNERS
Lisa Peters Branch Manager NMLS ID#: 552548 214-763-7931 lisa.peters@caliberhomeloans.com petersgroup1.com
Christian Johnson Branch Manager NMLS ID#: 552551 214-763-8767 christian.johnson@caliberhomeloans.com homeloansbychristian.com
Caliber Home Loans, Inc., 1525 S. Beltline Rd., Coppell, TX 75019 NMLS ID: 15622 (www.nlmlsconsumeraccess.org). 1-800-401-658 to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Not all products are available d, TX 76063 in all states or for all dollar amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. Residential Mortgage Loan Originator. Equal
2 • February 2022
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TA BL E OF
CONTENTS 06
11
12
Preferred Partners
Publisher’s Note: Big Changes Coming to Real Producers This Year
Rise and Grind: Tiffany Caballero
19
22
29
FAQ About This Magazine
Partner Spotlight: American Real PM
Which Real Producers Territory Are You a Part of?
32
42
50
World Changer: Amanda Ravetta
Featured Agent: Chris Hickman
Cover Story: J.L. Forke and Jennifer Shindler
If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at Jordan.Espeseth@realproducersmag.com DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Dallas Metro Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.
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Dallas Real Producers • 5
PREFERRED PARTNERS
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community! BUILDER Shaddock Homes (972) 526-7700 ShaddockHomes.com CLIENT AND REFERRAL GIFTS Gifts of Graze (214) 814-1216 www.giftsofgraze.com Indulgent Treats (469) 992-1911 GabbysIndulgentTreats.com
Home Warranty of America (214) 601-4561 hwahomewarranty.com HomeServe Home Warranty (972) 266-6829 home-warranty.com JUNK REMOVAL Junkluggers of Greater Dallas Andrew Siegel (214) 476-6003 junkluggersofgreater dallas.com
Gracie Morrow Mortgage Group (972) 757-2132 GMMG-MTG.com
ROOFING New View Roofing (469) 232-7220 newviewroofing.com
Willow Bend Mortgage (214) 449-2334 wbm.com
Remedy Roofing, Inc Chris Wander (214) 335-8953 www.remedyroofing.com
MOVING SERVICES Element Moving and Storage (972) 805-0988 elementmoving.com
CLIENT ENGAGEMENT LEADS by Mandi Jackson (801) 598-5767 LEADSbyMandi.com
MAKE READY SERVICES Ready My Property (214) 886-1280 ReadyMyProperty.com
Stonebriar Moving Services (469) 734-9000 stonebriarmoving.com
FOUNDATION REPAIR Elite Foundation Repairs (214) 856-9634 EliteFoundationRepairs.com
MEDIA PRODUCTIONS #TheDifference Radio, Livestream and Podcast (214) 883-1294 www.hashtag-the difference.com
PHOTOGRAPHER URSPECIALS by Jin Kim Studio (972) 375-1266 urspecials.com
FCS Foundation and Concrete Services (877) 554-8284 FoundationAndConcrete.com HOME INSPECTION Home Inspection Solutions (214) 448-9572 HISDFW.com Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com HOME WARRANTY Acclaimed Home Warranty (817) 422-2113 AcclaimedHW.com
6 • February 2022
MORTGAGE LENDING Axen Mortgage Wade Betz (469) 906-2522 winningwithwade.com Caliber Home Loans Lisa Peters (214) 763-7931 caliberhomeloans.com/ loan-consultant/texas/dallas/ lisa-peters Caliber Home Loans Christian Johnson (214) 763-8767 HomeLoansByChristian.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT American Real PM (469) 620-0114 americanrealpm.com Healy Property Management (214) 368-4663 HealyProperty Management.com PROPERTY PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY TruPlace Courtney Schafer (240) 654-0575
Tarrant Roofing (972) 470-9999 TarrantRoofing.com ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION Red Dirt Roofing & Construction (817) 454-0608 ROOFING & ROOF WARRANTY Total Roof Protection (817) 675-0905 TotalRoofProtection.com SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING/ MANAGEMENT Content Compounding (405) 888-9119 contentcompounding.io STAGE & DESIGN George Bass Stage & Design (469) 776-5118 GeorgeBassDesign.com Loft Allure (214) 544-9345 LoftAllure.com TITLE COMPANY Alamo Title Co - Park Cities (214) 373-7653 alamotitleoftexas.com
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Fair Texas Title (602) 421-6417 fairtexastitle.com Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com
VIDEOGRAPHER White Rock Films Bill Brock (214) 405-3909 whiterockfilms.com
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Dallas Real Producers • 7
8 • February 2022
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Dallas Real Producers • 9
MEET THE DALLAS REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Jordan Espeseth
Rachelle Marie Assistant Publisher
Administrative Assistant
Jenica Hein
Danica Dacayo Administrative Assistant
Crystal Barley Content Specialist
Mandi Jackson
Katherine Fondren
Missy Kremer
Owner/Publisher
Lanie Schaber Ad Strategist
Events Assistant
Dave Danielson Writer
Content Coordinator
Bill Brock Videographer
Editor
Jin Kim
Photographer
ALBANY • ALBUQUERQUE • CHESAPEAKE • ATLANTA • AUSTIN • BALTIMORE • BOULDER CHARLOTTE • CHICAGO • CINCINNATI • CLEVELAND • COUR D’ ALENE • COLORADO SPRINGS COLUMBUS • DALLAS • DAVENPORT • DAYTONA BEACH • DENVER • FT. WAYNE • GRAND RAPIDS HOUSTON • INDIANAPOLIS • JACKSON • JACKSONVILLE • KANSAS CITY • LAS VEGAS • LINCOLN LITTLE ROCK • LUBBOCK • MILWAUKEE • MURRIETA MONTERREY BAY • NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS AMERICA'S BEST REAL• ESTATE AGENTS NEWPORT BEACH • NORTH DALLAS • NOVA • OAKLAND COUNTY • OKLAHOMA CITY • OMAHA ORLANDO • PHILADELPHIA • PHOENIX • PITTSBURGH • PORTLAND • RALEIGH • SALEM • SAN DIEGO SEATTLE • SILICON VALLEY • SPOKANE • ST. LOUIS • TAMPA BAY • TEMECULA • TRI-CITIES • TRIAD TUCSON • TWIN CITIES • VIRGINIA BEACH • WASHINGTON D.C • WAYNE COUNTY • WEST VALLEY WILMINGTON • YOUNGSTOWN • ALBANY • ALBUQUERQUE • CHESAPEAKE • ATLANTA • AUSTIN BALTIMORE • BOULDER • CHARLOTTE • CHICAGO • CINCINNATI • CLEVELAND • COUR D’ ALENE COLORADO SPRINGS • COLUMBUS • DALLAS • DAVENPORT • DAYTONA BEACH • DENVER • FT. WAYNE BE PART OF THE NATIONAL REAL PRODUCERS MOVEMENT GRAND RAPIDS • HOUSTON • INDIANAPOLIS • JACKSON • JACKSONVILLE • KANSAS CITY • LAS VEGAS FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM TODAY LINCOLN • LITTLE ROCK • LUBBOCK • MILWAUKEE • MURRIETA • MONTERREY BAY • NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS • NEWPORT BEACH • NORTH DALLAS • NOVA • OAKLAND COUNTY • OKLAHOMA CITY @realproducers
RECOGNIZED
10 • February 2022
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to
2 02 2 ,
To p
5 00
Agents!
Big Changes Coming to Real Producers This Year publisher’s note If you are reading this, then you should give yourself a big pat on the back! That means you have made the Real Producers Top 500 list for 2022! Congrats! For some of you, this is the first time you are receiving this publication and you may not know entirely what it is all about yet. Others of you have been receiving the Real Producers publication every month since 2018. Either way, you will want to tune in to the rest of this publisher’s note, because I am going to give you a bit of a recap on what we’re all about, as well as fill you in on some new and exciting changes that are coming to Real Producers in 2022. First, you are receiving this magazine because you are a Top 500 producing real estate agent (based on your annual MLS production numbers) in your given area! That means that each month you will receive this publication, which is exclusive for the highest producing agents in the market, every single month, for the next 11 months. Consider it a badge of honor! Being in the Top 500, you also have the opportunity to be featured in our publication to share your story, and, the beautiful thing is, there is no cost to you. It is a testament to you and your hard work! We certainly cannot guarantee a feature, but if you would like to be considered for one, here are a few quick tips to increase your chances: meet up with a member of our team, support Real Producers, and attend our private events (three events/year). If that doesn’t work for you, we also accept large sums of money. Kidding! No agent can buy their way into Real Producers. All of the businesses that are a part of Real Producers have been recommended by top producing agents and vetted by us. They are our Real Producers vetted
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businesses, and this community could not be possible without them! If you are looking for some of the best businesses in the market to work with, look no further than here. There are currently three Real Producers’ markets in DFW: North Dallas, Dallas, and North Fort Worth. Last year, Tarrant County was one publication, called Tarrant Real Producers, and after some contemplation and a year of being in print, we realized that Tarrant County really should be split up into two different markets. So, starting with this issue, Tarrant Real Producers is now split into North Fort Worth and Fort Worth Real Producers. Fort Worth Real Producers is currently in ramp-up and won’t be in print until later 2022. That means that out of the ~60,000 licensed real estate agents in DFW, Real Producers collectively brings together the top 2,000 producing real estate agents and vetted businesses! Huge congrats to each and every one of you. Be sure to reference the DFW map and FAQ Page in this publication for more details. Last year was an amazing one for the Real Producers community, and we cannot wait to raise the bar in 2022! Cheers, Jordan Espeseth Owner jordan.epseseth@realproducersmag.com
Dallas Real Producers • 11
Tiffany CABALLERO P O S I T I V E AT T I T U D E
rise and grind Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: URSPECIAL
It takes about three seconds once you meet Tiffany Caballero to see the joy she feels for what she does each day.
As a REALTOR® with Halo Group Realty, Tiffany puts true positive gratitude to work on behalf of her clients.
“I still drive around wondering how I got so lucky to be able to do this job every day,” Tiffany says with a smile. “It’s fun working with people and providing guidance as they make a significant purchase and investment. It means so much to me to be there to be a guide and resource for them.”
Moving Closer to Real Estate
In the meantime, Tiffany and her dad had started buying foreclosure properties. “I had gone through Dave Ramsey’s courses, and I always loved investing in real estate,” she says. “That was the bug that bit me. We were using a real estate agent for our deals, and we thought I could do that. I got my license, and it just took off from there.” That was about ten years ago. “I got my start with hosting open houses, working with leases, and picking up a few buyers here and there. I also advertised a little,” Tiffany remembers. “I learned early on that, in order to be successful in this business, you have to get out there every day and see who needs help.”
Making an Impact
When Tiffany graduated from college, she worked in ministry outreach and taught high school. “It was important to me to be in that role,” she remembers. “I liked being there to support high school students who needed guidance and love.”
12 • February 2022
Gaining Ground Each Day
Through the last decade, Tiffany has continued learning and moving forward … reaching new milestones along the way. In 2021, she surpassed $19 million in sales volume.
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Dallas Real Producers • 13
Family Time
Away from work, Tiffany’s world revolves around her time spent with her husband, Johnny. Together, Tiffany and Johnny like spending time with their two dogs, Ehlie and Sophie. In their free time, Tiffany and Johnny like to exercise, go on walks with their dogs, and travel with their friends and family, with Mexico being a favorite destination. Tiffany has a heart for helping. She supports Young Life, an organization she used to work with. Helpful Advice
As Tiffany continues building and serving her clients, she also offers advice for others who are looking to take the next positive steps in their own real estate careers. “I always tell people that it’s very important that they are self-starters and go-getters,” she emphasizes. “Agents have to be proactive by getting involved in their community and getting to know more people. Ask other agents if they need help. Get a mentor at your brokerage and get the advice they would give out on how to drum up business. Also, it’s very important to get your sphere of influence put together and reach out to them.”
14 • February 2022
Individual Impact
With a caring and loyal persona, Tiffany focuses her energy on her clients’ best interests. “I don’t mind going out of my way to help. It’s really important to have a community who isn't afraid to help each other,” she says. “As part of that, transparency is important to let people know what you’re going through and how they can help.” Congratulations to this month’s Rise and Grind agent, Tiffany Caballero. Those who get the chance to know and work with her definitely come out ahead in the process.
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It’s fun working with people and providing guidance as they make a significant purchase and investment. It means so much to me to be there to be a guide and resource for them.
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Dallas Real Producers • 15
I don’t mind going out of my way to help. It’s really important to have a community who isn't afraid to help each other.
16 • February 2022
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Dallas Real Producers • 17
18 • February 2022
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FAQ ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE Real Producers magazine started in Indianapolis in 2015 and is now in over 100 markets across the nation and continues to spread rapidly. Real Producers first launched in DFW in August of 2018 with North DFW Real Producers (now called “North Dallas”). In May 2019, Dallas Real Producers launched and then Tarrant Real Producers in March of 2021. In 2022 Tarrant Real Producers split into two publications, North Fort Worth and Fort Worth Real Producers. Fort Worth Real Producers will go to print later this year. Q: WHO RECEIVES REAL PRODUCERS MAGAZINE? A: The top 500 real estate agents in each of
the 4 Markets in DFW based on their MLS Production for the previous year. Refer to the Map in this publication for the exact territories. If your broker address is within that given territory and you are in the top 500 then you will receive that publication for the year. There are approximately 60,000 licensed real estate agents in DFW. The list will reset at the end of every year and will continue to update annually. Q: WHAT IS THE GOAL OF THIS MAGAZINE? A: We believe that we are better together.
When we surround ourselves with other successful, like-minded people, we grow to new heights. Real Producers is a platform the brings together the most elite individuals in DFW Real Estate. In every market, we take the Top 500 real estate agents, and RP Vetted Businesses, and we build an exclusive community around that group. We share their stories,
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successes, market trends, upcoming events — really, anything that will connect, inform and inspire, we put in our monthly publication. Q: DOES REAL PRODUCERS HAVE EVENTS? A: Yes! Each community will have two
main events a year and then we do a combined event at the end of the year, which is an awards gala called The ESPE's. For these events, we invite the top 500 real estate agents and our RP vetted businesses. Top 500 agents are allowed to invite members on their team as well. These events are an incredible opportunity to connect with the best of the best in DFW real estate. It is amazing to see the power in the connections made at these events. Be on the lookout for your exclusive invites! Q: WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR BEING FEATURED IN THIS MAGAZINE? A: It’s really simple. You have to be on
the Top 500 list, and we take nominations seriously. You can nominate other real estate agents, businesses, brokers, owners, or even yourself! Office leaders can also nominate real estate agents. We will consider anyone brought to our attention who is in the Top 500 because we don’t know everyone’s story, so we need your help to learn about them. We cannot guarantee a feature but to increase your chances we encourage you to meet with one of our team members, support Real Producers, and attend our private events.
You can email your nominations to jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com Q: WHAT DOES IT COST A REAL ESTATE AGENT/TEAM TO BE FEATURED? A: Zero, zilch, zippo, nada, nil. It costs
nothing, my friends, so nominate away! We are not a pay-to-play model. We share real stories of real producers. Q: WHO IS THE RP VETTED BUSINESSES? A: They are one of the best businesses
in DFW in their category and you can find them listed in our index! We don’t just find these businesses off the street, nor do we work with all businesses that approach us. One of many of the top real estate agents has recommended every single business you see in this publication. We won’t even meet with a business that has not been vetted by one of you and “stamped for approval,” in a sense. Our team will further vet every business to make sure they are a good fit and bring value to our community. Our goal is to create a powerhouse network, not only for the best real estate agents in the area but the best businesses, as well, so we can grow stronger together. Q: HOW CAN I RECOMMEND A BUSINESS? A: If you know and want to
recommend a business that works with top real estate agents, please email us to let us know at jordan. espeseth@realproducersmag.com.
Dallas Real Producers • 19
Current Real Producer Shows on #TheDifference REAL Producers Live w/ Jordan Espeseth (Publisher of North DFW RP)
THURSDAYS @ 11AM
Real Talk w/ Brian Poduska (Real Property Management Focus)
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A N D R E W N E I LA N
Sales Executive aneilan@fairtexastitle.com
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www.FairTexasTitle.com 20 • February 2022
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Dallas Real Producers • 21
partner spotlight Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: URSPECIALS
AMERICAN
REAL PM
R E S O U R C E F O R R E S U LT S The bond you enjoy with your clients is something you protect. You strive each day to meet their needs as you build relationships for life. That’s why it means so much to have someone who understands that — someone who comes alongside you to support your efforts and growth for the future. That’s where Kyle Karker and American Real PM come into the equation. Experience and Expertise
Kyle is Co-Founder of the company with Scotty Mitchell. His emphasis on supporting his REALTOR® partners is no coincidence. It’s a direct result of his own experience. “I started in real estate in New York City in 2005. In the process, I worked for 13 years selling and renting places, starting my own brokerage in 2014 before coming to Dallas,” Kyle explains. “I understand the business deeply. We’re not here to sell houses. Our main focus is to protect the relationships that agents have with their clients. Our role is to manage these properties in between the transactions. We work to help them do more deals, because we believe that if a client has a really good property management experience, more houses will be sold.”
22 • February 2022
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Dallas Real Producers • 23
Building Trust on an Individual Level
Kyle’s approach to reaching results is straightforward. “It’s all predicated on trust. If you don’t have trust, it doesn’t work. I use my knowledge and lessons from real estate in New York, and I can add value. No matter what, I’m helping REALTORS® sell more houses and have them deepen their relationships with clients. In the process, we take an individual approach. I work in a way that’s best for each REALTOR®,” he says. “Along the way, I always answer my phone, and they can have their clients call me with any questions. It’s about trying to do as much as I can. It’s the human connection.” Kyle’s reputation for reaching results is far-reaching. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find him as a part of his partners’ team meetings — people like local iconic real estate leader Lance Taylor. A Fresh Take
Those who work with Kyle experience a fun, fresh approach to property management — and business development. “We focus on excellence. Also, since we manage so much property, the owner naturally comes to us to sell a house we manage. We refer those deals to preferred partners, or whoever it was that referred the deal in the first place, and we guarantee the commission if we don’t,” he says. “Those deals get referred to our preferred partners. Plus, we also have an active real estate investor database of more than 30,000 people that was built over a number of years. We’re going to start to market sales to these investors. We aren’t going to write those deals. Again, these will be referrals to agents we work with.”
24 • February 2022
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“
IT’S ALL PREDICATED ON TRUST. IF YOU DON’T HAVE TRUST, IT DOESN’T WORK.”
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Dallas Real Producers • 25
What Matters Most
Away from work, Kyle looks forward to time spent with his wife, Ilana. They were married in June 2020 and have a baby on the way. They also have lots of fun with Kyle’s dog, Talulah, who also serves as the Chief Happiness Officer at American Real PM. In his free time, Kyle has a passion for golf. In fact, he played the game at the Division I level in college. He also works out with a personal trainer, enjoys fly-fishing, and enjoys outdoor activities. Growing up, Kyle was an allcounty bass player and toured in Chile with an orchestra, where he learned to speak Spanish fluently. He also takes pride in working with other local people to support disabled veterans, as well as the Creek & Timber Legacy, and other causes important to local REALTORS®, like Sharp Shoes and Missions to Haiti with Alan Billman. Delivering a Difference
When you work with someone who cares about your success, you view them as a truly valued partner. That’s definitely the feeling and experience you get with Kyle Karker and American Real PM … a resource for results. For more information about American Real PM: Phone: 214-801-6555 Email: info@americanrealpm.com
26 • February 2022
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Lakewood
Joe Theriot VP Dallas Residential Operations/Attorney
Kelsey Berry Escrow Officer
Erin Myers Escrow Officer
Catherine Daves Sales Executive
Glenda Webb Escrow Officer
Jeff Rader Sales Executive
Preston Center
Jason Ramsey Branch Manager/ Escrow Officer
Creighton Dippel Escrow Assistant
Ruth Falcon Escrow Assistant
Michael Moon Escrow Assistant
Julie Jones Sales Executive
YOUR Dallas County CLOSING TEAM
We LOVE Our Real Estate Community! Preston Center
214-647-9748 dfw.ltic.com/Preston-Center 8343 Douglas Ave., Suite 175 Dallas, TX 75225 realproducersmag.com
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214-459-0222 dfw.ltic.com/Lakewood 6333 E. Mockingbird Ln., Suite 270 Dallas, TX 75214 Dallas Real Producers • 27
We are here year-round to help you with all your home warranty needs! Call Irma today to set up your home warranty and reduce the cost of repairs.
IRMA DELGADO Dallas Brand Manager 817-442-2113 (No upfront fee for sellers/listing coverage.) 888-494-9460 / irma@acclaimedhw.com / AcclaimedHW.com
KYLE KARKER
Managing Partner (214) 801-6555 kyle@americanrealpm.com
Darien Hall, Diamond D. Real Estate with EXP.
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CONTACT
The highest standard of Property Management in America.
(469) 620-0114 www.americanrealpm.com 13747 Montfort Drive #280 Dallas, TX 75240
28 • February 2022
Chris Carr 100% Construction
Ask our Trusted Partners about us!
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WHICH REAL PRODUCERS TERRITORY ARE YOU A PART OF? REAL PRODUCERS IN THE DFW METROPLEX A Quick Look at the Different DFW Real Producers Markets Real Producers has 100 franchises nationwide, and there are four in DFW alone. In each of these markets, we pull the top 500 agents based on the MLS production and depending on where your broker address is located will determine which publication you will be a part of. This map shows the territories for each of the four franchises. If you are a top 500 agent in either of these markets, you will be receiving a publication every month and have the possibility of being featured at no cost to you!
North Dallas Real Producers
North Ft Worth Real Producers
Dallas Real Producers Fort Worth Real Producers
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Dallas Real Producers • 29
www.wbm.com Drew Brenner
Caleb Buczek
Dianne Glenn
Kelsey Acosta
(214) 282-6387 drew@wbm.com
214-412-9118 caleb@wbm.com
(214) 334-2401 dglenn@wbm.com
(214) 803-7129 kacosta@wbm.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #298139
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1087661
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #295232
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1774334
Willow Bend Mortgage Company, LLC. NMLS# 117371. 5800 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 105, Plano, TX 75093. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Not all applicants will qualify for all loan products offered. This is not an offer to enter into a rate lock agreement under any applicable law. Willow Bend Mortgage, LLC is licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. License #4130600. Further, Willow Bend Mortgage, LLC represents itself and conducts business only as a residential mortgage lender. Willow Bend Mortgage, LLC is not a mortgage broker.
30 • February 2022
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Sara Parker Jones Daniel Carson
David Betbadal
Chad Stansell
(972) 841-9010 sara@wbm.com
(214) 918-9957 david@wbm.com
(214)-449-2334 chad@wbm.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #966480
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Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1642355
(512)878-3047 dan@wbm.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #925520
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #375766
Dallas Real Producers • 31
world changer Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: URSPECIAL
32 • February 2022
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AMANDA R AV E T TA FA I T H A N D P U R P O S E
IF YOU LOOK FOR THE POWER OF GOD AND GOOD IN THE WORLD, YOU WILL FIND IT.
One of those who demonstrates that is Amanda Ravetta.
“I met my husband, Mark, in that role, and we quickly got married and started our family with the birth of Luke in 2009. He was perfectly healthy, and we decided that I would be a stay-athome mom,” Amanda says. “There were sacrifices made to be a one-income family, but we were very happy with that.” In 2013 Amanda and Mark expected their second child.
As a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Apex, Amanda lives with true faith and purpose. “I love watching miracles happen in people’s lives … where the perfect scenario doesn’t seem like it’s going to present itself,” she says. “I get a front-row seat to see God’s hand at work in people’s lives. That’s what keeps me excited about what I do in real estate.” WITNESSING HIS POWER
Amanda has witnessed the power of God’s influence in her life, as well.
“I was older so we knew there was a risk with the pregnancy. We went to a pro-life doctor who worked with us without pressure,” Amanda says. “When Eli was born, I thought he looked different, and the day he was born, we heard the diagnosis that he had Down syndrome. I didn’t know how I was going to come out of that. After three days, we left the hospital. As we made our way through the lobby, one of my best friends’ sisters came running in with her Bible. She said that God had laid a Bible verse on her heart that she wanted to share with us.” JOHN 9
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “But this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” The impact of those words poured over Amanda.
Years ago, Amanda worked as a mortgage Branch Manager.
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“That Bible verse is how I started climbing out of the pits. I had said what sins did I do to get punished in this way? But that was some of the ignorance that I had,” Amanda emphasizes.
Dallas Real Producers • 33
Amanda and her family moved forward despite other hurdles that came. “Those who are born with a developmental issue get three years of therapy from the state. When Eli turned three, that turned off, so we researched how to get these therapies on our own,” she says. “It was going to cost us about $3,000 a month, so we decided that I would go back to work in real estate. My goal was to sell one house a month to pay for his therapy.” TAKING ACTION
At the same time, Amanda has also been very active in educating and informing people positively about the possibilities of life despite Down syndrome. “I started a Facebook page to show that Down syndrome is not scary or horrendous,” she says. “In fact, you’re lucky if you get to know one or parent one.” Amanda moved beyond that to take action in other ways, as well. “I felt I also needed to do more than typing words on a social media page. I wanted to fund those who have the ability to talk with pregnant moms.
34 • February 2022
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So, I support the Pregnancy Resource Center with ten percent of my commissions,” Amanda says. “Since then, my business has skyrocketed. And now I’m doing about $1 million to $2 million a month. It’s not me. It’s God.” Today, Eli continues to make progress. “Eli is talking more and more, and he is working on enunciating his words better,” Amanda says. “Plus, I have watched my oldest interact with my youngest and I believe my oldest was created to help with my youngest. Luke has always gravitated to children with special needs. Luke is going to be a better person because of Eli’s influence in his life.” As you read this now, there are steps you can take in ways that speak to you. “If you’re reading this, this is a unique opportunity to give back and do more for the community … to give back to what you’re passionate about and spread blessings across so many platforms that really need it.” She says. “If you’re making good money, it is a huge blessing to be able to give back. If you’re passionate about something, we should do more than just talk about it.” 36 • February 2022
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Dallas Real Producers • 37
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CHRIS
HICKMAN BRINGING HIS TALENT TO THE TABLE WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT THE IMPORTANT STEPS IN LIFE, MANY OF THEM HAPPEN AROUND A TABLE … A GATHERING POINT FOR PEOPLE TO COME TOGETHER TOWARD A COMMON CAUSE.
In those moments, those who have been trusted to pull up a seat and wait are relied on to bring their best.
STEADY SUCCESS
The past 20 years have come and gone for Chris during his real estate career. Yet, he has been a steady member of the Ebby Halliday family all the way along. That sense of consistent longevity seems to be part of his DNA. Chris grew up in Dallas and has been
That’s where Chris Hickman thrives. As team leader and REALTOR® with The Chris Hickman Group with Ebby Halliday, Chris always brings his talent to the table on behalf of those around him.
42 • February 2022
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featured agent Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: URSPECIAL
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Dallas Real Producers • 43
The Chris Hickman Group (standing left to right): Jason Graves Ken Knight Susan Schweidel Chris Hickman Allison Amaya Cotton Mendenhall (seated left to right): Mckinzye Riley, Melinda Roberston (not pictured: Christian Tewes)
here all his life, other than when he attended the University of North Texas. “I worked in sociology for a nonprofit organization that helped single moms get back on their feet with their resumes, job skills, and transitioning back into the workforce. It was my internship that turned into my full-time job. As part of that, I taught classes on work readiness.” From there, Chris moved into HR for a few years and took steps forward in homeownership. “I wanted to buy a house, and I got a fixer-upper in Richardson,” Chris remembers. “Through that process, I bought a house that was a dump and learned how to tile, do hardwood 44 • February 2022
floors, and went in and remodeled the house with the help of some friends. That started my interest in real estate.” NEW OPPORTUNITY
That interest caught fire and led to a new chapter of opportunity in his life. “Some people came along and offered me a good price on the property. So, I sold the house and then bought another house and rehabbed that, as well. Through the process, I thought I needed to get my real estate license and handle the transaction on my own,” Chris says. “Right as 9/11 was happening, I got my license and started flipping houses. I got so busy with my clients … people I had worked with. So, I stopped flipping houses and started selling houses full-time.”
The transition into the business wasn’t without challenges. “It was difficult. I was making decent money before. I had a steady paycheck coming in, and then when I made the change, my mentor said you have to do it full-time.” Chris didn’t necessarily have excess funds to do that, but he did his best to sacrifice and persevere. “I sold my home and moved into an apartment and said a prayer that I could survive in real estate … and I did,” Chris says. “It was tough, but I thought I’m going to do this right. My first manager and mentor at the time said you’re going to have to prove yourself. I was scared to death.” @realproducers
One of the best things I have lived by is my relationships with other agents. Those bonds within our industry are equally important to me as the ones I have with my clients.
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Dallas Real Producers • 45
BUILDING WITH STRONG BONDS
There were moments of doubt that soon crumbled in the face of the passion and drive that Chris put forth. “One of the best things I have lived by is my relationships with other agents. Those bonds within our industry are equally important to me as the ones I have with my clients,” Chris says. “I remember my mentor telling me, ‘Other agents are not your competition. They are your salesforce.’ I pride myself on building great relationships with them. I tell them we are going to get this deal done … we all have the same goal in mind.” Chris also gets a charge out of the work he does with his clients. “I love working with young first-time homebuyers. There is something exciting about that. I love coaching and counseling them,” Chris says. “I love the excitement and joy that a first-time homebuyer has in finding that right place … the sheer excitement. Getting to be part of that is fun.” TEAMWORK: THE HEART OF SUCCESS
At the heart of the enjoyment Chris has with his work is the time he spends with the nine members of his team. The Chris Hickman Group features an all-star cast of professionals, including Allison Amaya, Christian Tewes, Cotton Mendenhall, Jason Graves, Ken Knight, Melinda Robertson, Mckinzie Riley, and Susan Schweidel.
LIFE’S PASSIONS
Away from work, Chris has a big place in his heart for his family, especially his parents, who have been very supportive of him through time. He also has a self-admitted addiction to antiques.
“One of the most gratifying parts of working with them is the fact that several of them are past clients of mine,” he says with a smile. “It means a lot to have the team work together that we do.” The diverse strengths at work among the members of the team are inspiring to Chris. “Most everyone has come from a very professional background. It’s a varied group of professionals who are used to running a business,” Chris says. “As a result, they naturally approach what they do in real estate from a business approach. Their clients come first, they understand that, and they are committed to them.”
46 • February 2022
“Several times a year I go to big antique shows and explore,” he says. “That is my side passion.” You’ll also be likely to find Chris at his farm in East Texas. As he says, “It’s a great place I like spending a lot of time at … gardening, remodeling, fishing, and more.” Those who get a chance to work with Chris appreciate his genuine nature. “I’m not a salesperson,” he smiles. “I am authentic in my desire to help them. They trust me that what I tell them is in their best interest.”
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cover story Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: URSPECIAL
&
J.L. FORKE JENNIFER SHINDLER
50 • February 2022
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BIG PICTURE PERSPECTIVE
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Dallas Real Producers • 51
A REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION HAS A DEFINITE START AND END. BUT, A FAMILY’S LIFE IN A PROPERTY GOES WAY BEYOND THAT AND IN UNPREDICTABLE WAYS. J.L. Forke and Jennifer Shindler keep that in mind with each client they work with.
The meeting did take place. As a result, J.L. was licensed and started his career with Ebby Halliday.
As REALTORS® and team members who work together at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, J.L. and Jennifer put a big-picture perspective to work with their clients.
Joining Forces
“One of the things I love the most about what I do is seeing the beautiful homes we sell and seeing our clients be happy with them,” J.L. says. Jennifer agrees, adding, “I really enjoy making connections with clients and becoming friends with them. It’s fun to see them raise kids and send them off to college – just seeing them grow as a family in their home.”
J.L. moved away to Nashville and Los Angeles for a few years, and two months after he closed on his home, he moved back to Dallas and was working as a REALTOR® when he met Jennifer and they started working on transactions together. As J.L. says, “I brought her in on a listing, and then she brought me in on a listing. For a year, we did that and liked how hard each other worked and decided to work as a 50/50 team.”
J.L. and Jennifer are a 50/50 team, sharing in the work and rewards of each transaction.
“I think the fact that our team has a male and female dynamic has also helped us win some listings and buyers as well,” Jennifer says. “In addition, our personalities are opposites, as well, which also helps us connect with more people than we would individually.”
Getting Their Start
Serving Their Clients’ Interests
J.L. earned his real estate license in 1998, while Jennifer entered the business and got her license in 2007.
Those who have an opportunity to work with J.L. and Jennifer trust that their long-term interests are always the driving force in the advice they receive.
Jennifer grew up in a real estate family, and her father was a commercial real estate developer. She moved around a lot as a kid and watched her parents build many houses. This is where she found the love of residential real estate from a young age.
“When we work with someone, we let them know that we only want to sell them a property that they can easily resell if their plans change in the future,” J.L. says.
As J.L. began his career, he worked in pharmaceutical sales. Like Jennifer, something else had pulled on him through time. “I had always been drawn to houses as a kid. I remember drawing pictures of houses and giving them to my classmates. I always thought I wanted to be an architect,” J.L. says. “When I bought my first home, I enjoyed the process and the REALTOR® I met as part of the process. When I went under contract, I asked my agent if I could meet his manager.” 52 • February 2022
And Jennifer adds, “We want them to enjoy their homes and also hopefully be able to make money on those properties when they go to resell them in the future.” Local Impact
The knowledge of the market that J.L. and Jennifer have translates to tangible benefits for their clients. They specialize in the tight-knit, gated community of Vaquero. “We both know Dallas very well, and we also work with a lot of relocation buyers. We sell in many of the suburbs, as well, including Southlake, Westlake, and Coppell, where I grew up,” Jennifer says. “When a buyer comes to Dallas, we can show our clients any area they want to see.” @realproducers
I really enjoy making connections with clients and becoming friends with them. It’s fun to see them raise kids and send them off to college – just seeing them grow as a family in their home.
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Dallas Real Producers • 53
The love that J.L. and Jennifer have for architect-designed homes sometimes shows up when opportunities to make off-market transactions come up. “We have been known to sell some significant architectural homes. We sell well-known homes in Preston Hollow, including The Haggerty House that was built in the 1960s for one of the founders of Texas Instruments and designed by mid-century architect, O’Neil Ford,” J.L. remembers. “We had a lot of publicity on this home, and it was in near original mint condition. We even hosted architectural tours there. I’m very passionate about modern architecture. We just sold a Forest Hills neighborhood home in an off-market deal we had with Surf Shack, designed and built by Chad Dorsey. Our buyer was moving back from New York City.” Rewarding Lives
Away from work, J.L. has a passion for traveling. He also lives near the Katy Trail and enjoys time exploring that, as well. J.L. has a heart for helping. He has been involved with the Design Industry Foundation Fighting AIDS, along with supporting the Children’s Center for
54 • February 2022
One of the things I love the most about what I do is seeing the beautiful homes we sell and seeing our clients be happy with them North Texas … a group that brings hope to children victimized by abuse. In her free time, Jennifer has three dogs that she enjoys spending time with. She also looks forward to chances to travel, along with bird
watching and golf. When it comes to giving back, Jennifer supports local groups such as the Humane Society of Dallas and various other local charities. Congratulations to J.L. Forke and Jennifer Shindler for the positive impact they make each day with their relentless, big-picture perspective.
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