Keith Newman
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!
ACCOUNTING/TAX SERVICES
DASG, LLC
Jeff Foust (214) 945-2488 dasgdfw.com
BUILDER
Perry Homes, LLC (972) 629-3900 perryhomes.com; brittonhomestexas.com
Shaddock Homes (972) 526-7700 ShaddockHomes.com
CLIENT AND REFERRAL GIFTS
Gifts of Graze
Eileen Torres (214) 814-1216 giftsofgraze.com
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS
Partners in Building (214) 235-6814 partnersinbuilding.com
DESIGN AND STAGING
Dwell Interior Staging + Design Co (817) 233-9709 dwellinteriors.co
FOUNDATION REPAIR
Elite Foundation Repairs (214) 856-9634 EliteFoundationRepairs.com
HOME INSPECTION
HomeTeam Inspection Service (972) 400-7034 HomeTeam-DFW.com
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com
HOME SERVICES
Casa Verde Home Services (469) 645-8347 stainlessrefinishing.com
HOME WARRANTY
Achosa Home Warranty, LLC
Robyn DiPasquale (888) 509-2916 AchosaHW.com
INSURANCE
Smith Allen Insurance (214) 691-7655 smithallen.com
MORTGAGE LENDING
Benchmark Mortgage
Sara Parker Jones (972) 841-9010 homeloansbysara.com
MPA Home Loans
Michael Proctor (214) 499-4233 mpahomeloans.com
The Edmondson Team (214) 516-2401 thetattooedlender.com
Victory MTG (214) 542-8550 victorymtg.com
MOVING SERVICES
Black Tie Moving
Tyler Coleman (512) 605-7328 blacktiemoving.com
Bolt Movers Dallas LLC (214) 774-2822 www.boltmovers.com
Finesse Movers (469) 657-5975 finessemovers.com
Johnson Storage & Moving (800) 289-6683 johnsonstorage.com
PAINTING AND HOME SERVICES
HOMEstretch (214) 838-7520 home-stretch.com/north-dallas
PHOTOGRAPHER
URSPECIALS by Jin Kim Studio (972) 375-1266 urspecials.com
ROOFING PROCO
Sara Lemley (817) 705-1501 procoroof.com
STAINLESS REFINISHING
Casa Verde Home Services (469) 645-8347 stainlessrefinishing.com
TITLE COMPANY
Acrisure
Julie Jones (214) 971-0668 acrisuretitle.com
Alamo Title - Park Cities (214) 373-7653 alamotitleoftexas.com
Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com
Republic Title
Ken Callahan (214) 793-5979 RepublicTitle.com
VIDEOGRAPHY/ PHOTOGRAPHY
studioUSA (469) 955-5833 studiousa.live
WOOD/WINDOW/ROT/REPAIR
Preservan Dallas (469) 415-1631 preservan.com/locations/dallas
Lindsey Malouf | Principal Designer
Meet The Team
Jordan Espeseth Founder/Co-owner
Reece Gentry Partner Liaison
Ashley Gentry Agent Liaison
Lance Dunahoe Co-owner
BADGES YOUR DALLAS Real Producers
Congrats on earning your Dallas Real Producers Top Agent Badge!
Because of your 2024 MLS production, you earned your spot as a 2025 Dallas Real Producers Top Agent and can represent your badge proudly! Depending on your production will determine if you received the Top 500 or Top 1000. Regardless, that is the top 6% in Dallas!
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Using your badge? We’d love to see how! Show us how you are using your badge, and you may just find a picture of what you shared in the magazine! Social media, email signatures, web listings, marketing material ... nothing’s off limits!
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If You’re Not Using
AI Yet...
You’re Already Behind
Hey Friends,
Last year, AI was the hot topic—something everyone talked about but few fully understood. Fast forward to mid-2025, and let me be clear: the game has changed.
The agents who took AI seriously last year? They’re the ones pulling ahead today.
They’re not glued to their screens 14 hours a day. They’re not buried in emails or scrambling for content ideas. Instead, they’re closing deals, booking referrals, and actually enjoying their weekends—because AI is handling the heavy lifting behind the scenes.
It’s writing listing descriptions, generating marketing campaigns, editing videos, managing social media, analyzing market data, and even teeing up client follow-ups. And it’s doing it faster, cleaner, and more consistently than most teams can do manually.
But here’s what it’s not doing: replacing great agents.
Because what AI can’t do—and probably never will—is replace your instincts, your hustle, and your human connection. The
best agents are the ones who know how to use AI to enhance their edge, not dull it.
The message here? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to start using AI. You just need to be curious and willing to explore the tools that are already out there. Play around. Take messy action. Ask other agents what’s working for them. You don’t need to master everything—just start somewhere. Because the agents who continue to ignore AI will slowly lose time, traction, and relevance. And the ones who lean in? They’ll look back a year from now and wonder how they ever worked without it.
This industry is moving fast. The tools are smarter. The competition is sharper. But so are you—if you’re willing to evolve.
So here’s your nudge: Don’t wait until you’re playing catch-up. AI isn’t the future of real estate. It’s the now.
Let’s keep growing, keep adapting, and keep leading the way—together.
Jordan Espeseth Founder | DFW Real Producers
Minimum down payment requirements apply. Self-employed borrowers are not eligible. Not all borrowers will be approved. Borrower’s interest rate will depend upon the specific characteristics of borrower’s loan transaction, credit profile and other criteria. Not available in all states. Restrictions apply. Visit rate.com/same-day-mortgage for terms and conditions.
**Eligible borrowers must qualify for a “Clear to Close Loan Commitment” (“CTC”). Rate cannoy guarantee that a loan will be approved or that a closing will occur within a specific timeframe. CTC is subject to certain underwriting conditions, including clear title and no loss of appraisal waiver, amongst others. Not eligible for loan types or residence types. Minimum down payment requirements apply. Property must be eligible for an Appraisal Waiver and borrower must opt in to AccountChek for automated income and asset verification. Self-employed borrowers and co-borrowers are not eligible. Not all borrowers will be approved. Restrictions apply.
***Rate Intelligence refers to automated documentation verification. Underwriting experts will provide final mortgage approvals.
Here’s What Dallas Top 500 Agents Sold...
AVERAGE SALES VOLUME PER AGENT $23,432,588 29.7
AVERAGE TRANSACTIONS PER AGENT
$11,716,293,985 14,842 SALES VOLUME TOTAL TRANSACTIONS
HAILEY KIM HAILEY KIM
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
Blessed Blessed
WWhen you first meet Hailey Kim, it’s her warmth that immediately stands out. Not the polished exterior of a topproducing real estate agent, though she has the accolades to back it up, but a genuine, grounded presence that comes from someone who has fought hard for every ounce of joy she now holds close. “Sometimes I look at this life God has blessed me with and can’t believe how lucky I am,” she says. “If that’s not success, I don’t know what is.”
Born in Southern California and raised in Colorado, Hailey’s life has been a journey of constant reinvention across cities, careers, and seasons of struggle. “I lived in Chicago, Honolulu… went to five different universities before landing my marketing degree,” she laughs. But when she moved to DallasFort Worth in 2005, something finally clicked, and she settled in to get her education. In 2008, she graduated from the University of North Texas with a BBA for business, and in 2015, she graduated summa cum laude from Texas Tech with a BSN in nursing, chasing her calling to care for others.
For years, including while she was working on her nursing degree, Hailey worked full time as an ER nurse at Parkland Hospital, witnessing some of life’s most intense moments. “Lots of fun stories with that job,” she jokes. “Not sure if I’m allowed to share those!” That same fire to help others eventually lit the path to real estate when her husband, Matt Scobee, opened his own brokerage in 2018. She dipped her toes in part-time work, juggling shifts in aesthetic nursing while closing deals, but in 2019, Hailey made the leap to go all in.
Since then, she’s done more than just find clients a place to live—she’s helped them build lives. “Like with nursing, I’m passionate about helping people,” she says. “Whether it’s first-time homebuyers finding a starter home they love, or a growing family needing more space, it’s so rewarding.” That same energy carries over even after the ink dries on the contract. “Your relationship doesn’t end when the
transaction is complete,” she insists. “I make sure my clients know they can call me anytime—even just to catch up.”
It’s no surprise then that 100% of Hailey’s business is referral-based built on trust, integrity, and the kind of personal touch that can’t be taught. “I don’t chase the money,” she says. “People are trusting you with one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. You’ve got to be their advocate.” That authenticity has earned her recognition from D Magazine, Real Producers Top 500, and her own brokerage, Iconic Real Estate, as a top producer in both 2023 and 2024. Her career volume now exceeds $53 million.
But success hasn’t come without its challenges. “Real estate isn’t always glitz and glamour,” Hailey admits. “It’s a lot of rejection and failure. No matter what, you’ve got to pick yourself up and keep going. Do what others aren’t willing to do.” It’s a work ethic instilled by her late father, who always told her, “The harder you work, the luckier you get.”
There’s also a deeper layer to her strength—a resilience forged from a painful childhood she doesn’t often talk about. “I had a really tough childhood, a lot of trauma. You name it, I probably went through it,” she shares. “But my faith in God is what kept me going. And now I feel like there’s nothing I
can’t handle… which is nice, because real estate isn’t for the faint of heart.”
Today, faith remains her cornerstone. Every moment of joy—every milestone closed, every happy client, every precious moment with her girls—is something she lifts up with gratitude. “I feel so blessed,” she says. “God gave me the most amazing husband, who I often call my unicorn, the most adorable little daughters,
and a mother who supports my career and helps make all of this possible.”
Home, for Hailey, is everything. It’s not just what she sells—it’s what she’s spent a lifetime trying to build. After living on her own since she was 17, she’s created a sanctuary in DFW, where her mother and brother also now live. Her daughters—Olivia, 9, and Sienna, 1.5 —are her heart. “A career in real
“I GET TO GO ON FIELD TRIPS, DO SCHOOL DROP-OFFS, AND MAKE IT TO EVERY PERFORMANCE.
THAT’S THE DREAM.”
estate allows me to be present in what truly matters the most—time with my family,” she says. “I get to go on field trips, do school drop-offs, and make it to every performance. That’s the dream.”
And it’s not just about the present— it’s about building for the future. “My husband and I both grew up not having much. Nothing was easy. I don’t want my girls to go through that,” she explains. “My biggest goal is to leave my children generational wealth, so they never have to worry about their future.”
This year, Hailey’s turning her sights on real estate investing —flips, rentals, new builds—anything that will help create that legacy. “I want to take a stab at it,” she says, always up for the next challenge.
Despite her packed schedule, she finds solace in movement—walks around White Rock Lake, F45 classes, and Sessions in Lakewood are her go-to outlets for clarity and peace. “Working out is my respite,” she says. “That’s my time.”
As for what sets her apart, it’s simple: she answers every text or call within 30 minutes. “If I don’t, call 911 because I’m probably dead in a ditch somewhere!” she laughs. But beneath the humor is unwavering reliability, the kind of rare loyalty that clients don’t forget.
“I want to be remembered as someone who is honest and loyal, who LOVES her friends and family and would do anything for them,” Hailey says. “This life isn’t about the commissions or the titles. It’s about being present, showing up for people, and giving it your all— just like God has shown up for me.”
•
TheEDMONDSON TEAM
MORE THAN MORTGAGES
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
When you meet David Edmondson and Karensa Bridges-Edmondson of Rate, you immediately sense that their story is anything but conventional. They’re mortgage professionals, yes—but they’re also parents, visionaries, creatives, and community connectors. Together, they’re redefining what it means to lend in today’s market, blending bold authenticity with cutting-edge technology in a way that feels entirely fresh—and entirely intentional.
“Ink isn’t just for mortgage documents anymore,” David says with a smile. “As The Tattooed Lender, we pride ourselves on being bold, innovative, and unapologetically
authentic—while maintaining the highest level of professionalism.”
That fearless approach is reflected in every aspect of their work. With eight years in the mortgage lending industry, David and Karensa have built a powerhouse team that’s not just keeping up with the competition—they’re setting the pace.
“We don’t just keep up—we lead,” David says. “From AI-assisted instant pre-approvals to same-day mortgage solutions, our technology is light-years ahead. We combine the speed and efficiency of modern tools with real, human connection. That’s what makes us different.”
The difference starts with Rate, where they’ve found a company that mirrors their values. “We’re so excited to be with Rate,” Karensa shares. “The convenience, the tech-forward
approach, the wide range of products—it all allows us to better serve our clients.” Whether it’s VA, FHA, conventional, or HELOCs, The Edmondson Team offers something for everyone, with a special focus on serving those who’ve served.
“We specialize in VA loans and proudly serve those who’ve served us,” Karensa explains. “Coming from a Veteran family ourselves, this work is personal. Helping Veterans achieve homeownership is our way of giving back.”
That deep sense of purpose drives every decision they make. For David, the journey began in 2017—though the spark ignited earlier. “In December 2016, while we were building our first home, our loan officer—who became my mentor—asked if I’d ever thought about becoming a loan officer myself,” he recalls. “With Karensa’s encouragement, I took the leap.”
It wasn’t easy at first. David immersed himself in learning the business, guided by a mentor with over 30 years of experience. “I was fortunate to study under someone who taught me what it really takes: grit, perseverance, and a relentless desire to help others,” David says. “And with Karensa cheering me on—and our kids excited that I no longer had to travel for work—I was all in.”
Today, David is among the top in his field. He’s been named a Scotsman Guide Top Originator for 2025, is a seventime President’s Club honoree, a 5-Star Professional, and most recently, a Real Producers preferred partner for 2025. Yet, accolades aside, his true reward is found in the smiles at the closing table.
“Handing over the keys to a new homeowner after a successful loan process—that’s success,” David says. “We’re helping people create generational wealth. We’re contributing to their dreams.”
And the work isn’t done alone. The Edmondson Team is a family, in every sense of the word. David leads with passion and precision. Karensa, who began her real estate journey in 2001, now serves as the team’s business
Photo by Michael Krebs Photography
development coordinator. Her focus? Building relationships, enhancing community presence, and driving brand growth through events and marketing. “Being part of this team allows me to live out my mission of helping others achieve the American dream of homeownership,” Karensa says.
Supporting them is Mark Rankin, their licensed loan assistant and partner, whose decade of experience ensures that every file is handled with care and accuracy. “Mark plays a critical role in making the process seamless from start to finish,” David notes. “He’s truly an invaluable part of what we do.”
Their collaborative dynamic isn’t just internal. Agents who work with the team experience a level of support that goes far beyond the loan.
“We partner closely with listing agents, helping them market their properties through Broker Opens, web campaigns, and creative strategies,” Karensa shares. “Top producers need partners who move as fast as they do—and that’s us.”
Their “why” is always clear. “At the end of the day, we’re driven by relationships,” David says. “We’re incredibly grateful to the agents and clients who put their trust in us.
“WE DON’T JUST HELP YOU CLOSE LOANS—WE HELP YOU OPEN DOORS.”
That trust is what motivates us to keep innovating and improving.”
The couple’s life outside of work reflects the same balance of hustle and heart. With three busy kids in acro/ tumbling, karate, and football, life is fast-paced—but always grounded in family. “It’s a juggling act for sure,” Karensa laughs. “But we schedule family time just like business meetings. Whether it’s watching the kids, poolside hangouts, or our favorite beach trips to Orange Beach, Alabama—we make it a priority to unplug and be present.”
Looking ahead, The Edmondson Team has big goals. “This year, we’re focused on partnering with more like-minded professionals,” David
says. “We want to scale our impact, grow our network, and continue delivering value in every transaction.”
Their story is one of grit, grace, and grounded excellence. And at the center of it all is a quote that guides their every move: “We don’t just help you close loans—we help you open doors.” For those looking for a lending partner who brings passion, speed, and true heart to the table, The Edmondson Team isn’t just an option—they’re the difference.
TO CONNECT WITH DAVID AND KARENSA EDMONDSON, reach out by calling (214) 516-2401, or visit their website: thetattooedlender.com.
AMANDA
STRIMPLE
with Smith Allen Insurance
A FRESH FACE FOR AN OLD INDUSTRY
H. FONDREN
If you had told Amanda Strimple eight years ago that she’d one day be featured in a magazine as a top insurance broker, she likely would’ve laughed— not out of doubt, but because the idea seemed so far from where she started. “When I started in the business, I knew absolutely nothing about insurance,” Amanda recalls. “I knew no one in the industry, and I was living at home with my parents.”
Fast forward to today, and Amanda is not only an established insurance broker at Smith Allen Insurance, she’s also reshaping perceptions in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Breaking the Mold
The stereotype of the insurance agent isn’t exactly flattering. Amanda jokes, “What comes to mind is Dwight Schrute from The Office or Larry David — middle-aged, boring, and just out to take your money.” But she’s anything but. As the only female agent in her office, Amanda stands out — not just for her gender, but for her energy, humor, and human approach to insurance. “I’m proud to be a new face and stereotype in the industry and change the stigma,” she says. “I want clients to have a positive experience when they think of me.”
That fresh perspective began early in her career, when Amanda launched a video series titled Quit Wining About Your Insurance. Equal parts educational and entertaining, the series paired wine knowledge with insurance tips and evolved into hilarious skits inspired by Seinfeld and Jimmy It wasn’t just a marketing strategy — it was a declaration: Amanda wasn’t here to sell policies the way everyone else had. She was here to connect.
The Climb from Nothing
Her journey into insurance wasn’t the result of a long-term plan but a pivot away from an unpleasant work environment. After college, Amanda worked as a service advisor at a dealership in San Antonio and later in a highpressure used car department. “It was a miserable environment that I had to get out of,” she says. A cold outreach to the Dallas Aggie Alumni Association changed everything—they pointed her to Smith Allen Insurance.
“The rest is history,” Amanda says. But that history wasn’t written without grit.
“My first year was quite possibly the worst year of my life,” she admits. She spent her days hustling — networking, making targeted drop-offs to lenders and agents, and sitting through meeting
after meeting refining her sales approach. “I worked my tail off every year. All this to say, my definition of success is never giving up and constantly believing in where you are going— and making the ones believing in you proud.”
Powered by Passion
Amanda’s drive isn’t just to sell—it’s to serve. “It’s a toss-up between making a pain-point expense enjoyable for my clients or making magic happen for my referral partners on the deals that seem impossible,” she says. Her ideal clients? “Anyone purchasing a home in Texas— except coastal areas. I don’t have a good market for them,” she laughs.
Amanda doesn’t aim to be the cheapest option, but she promises to be the right one. “I’m going to give them the policy that is going to properly insure the beautiful home you’ve moved mountains to get them,” she assures her agent partners.
And they’re taking notice. “Like every top producer in this magazine, they have earned their right to be here, and I believe I have earned my right as well,” she says with pride.
A Leader Who Listens
Behind Amanda’s confidence is a boss who saw her potential and gave her space to grow. “I’ve truly been blessed with a boss that has invested in me and wants to see me succeed,” she says. “He’s always met me where I am, patient with my more emotional and passionate approach to sales, rather than analytical and numbersdriven like many of the men in my office.”
That support gave Amanda the courage to build her business on authenticity. Today, she’s not only a trusted advisor but a resource her partners know they can count on. “I’m proud to be different, reliable, and a great agent for my partners and clients.”
Balancing Success and Motherhood
Amanda’s greatest role came last March with the birth of her son, Archie. “I just had a son this past year. My new daily passion is going for a walk with him and seeing the simple joys of the outdoors through his eyes,” she says.
Balancing her career and motherhood was a wake-up call. “With picking him up at 4 and him going to bed at 7, I quickly realized I only get three hours a day with him during the workweek. That was a harsh reality to swallow.” But it made her more efficient—and more intentional. “It’s made me work harder in a shorter time, and maximize those three hours and the weekends.”
Eyes on the Future
Amanda’s goals now stretch far beyond just closing deals. “I want to be a resource for many of the agents in this magazine, for them to know my name and trust my knowledge,” she says. And with the Real Producers’ platform offering quality networking opportunities with Dallas’ best, Amanda is poised to take her business even further.
From mascot dreams in Ennis, Texas, to winesoaked insurance videos, and now a well-earned spot in the pages of this magazine, Amanda has carved out a space that is uniquely her own.
“I worked my tail off every year.
MEGAN
RAY
Kelly Berry
Tracey McCann
Jason Ramsey
Rashelle Gallegos
Tatum Vanderpool Christine McLean Navette Davis
&Amy Timmerman Beth Rider
There’s something magnetic about a partnership built on mutual respect, hard work, and a shared sense of humor. For Dallas real estate professionals Amy Timmerman and Beth Rider, the foundation of their success is rooted in more than just market knowledge and sales skills—it’s about human connection, authenticity, and a surefire belief that they’re better together.
Their journey didn’t start in a boardroom or even at a closing table—it began at 6 a.m., at a CrossFit gym in Lake Highlands. Introduced by a mutual connection at a title company, Amy and Beth were both at pivotal points in their careers. Amy was leading a brokerage and building her team; Beth was seeking a more dynamic environment where she could grow and sharpen her skills. “We met several times, found common ground, and hit it off,” Beth recalls. “The rest is history.”
But to understand how they built The BAR Group—a powerhouse team now operating under Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate— it helps to rewind.
Amy grew up in Spring, Texas, and came to Dallas chasing the city lights and a degree in advertising and studio art from SMU. While her early days were filled with dreams of ad agency work and campus activities with Chi Omega, life had other plans. “Everything shifted during my senior year when I met Brent,” she says. Brent was flipping houses in college, and his work sparked something in Amy. The blend of design, marketing, and the human element of real estate was too appealing to
OF THE BAR GROUP
resist. By 21, she had her license and a new calling. “I might not be as fancy as Lynda,” she laughs, referencing legendary Dallas broker Lynda Adleta, “but I feel her inspiration and guidance in much of what I do every day.”
Beth, on the other hand, grew up in Plano and thrived as a natural connector— someone who intuitively built community wherever she went. She started her career in home building and title before taking a leap into sales at just 22, working
for her stepdad’s awning company. “Gary taught me the psychology behind sales and how to truly understand your customer,” Beth says. “It shaped everything about the way I work.”
By the time Beth earned her real estate license in 2010, she was ready. She jumped in with broker Britt Morris, shadowing him for six months. “I loved every minute!” she says. “Open houses, buyer showings, listing appointments—I was hooked.” But when Britt shifted to a corporate role,
The BAR Group (l to r): Tatum Wells, Courtney Conley, Robin Moss Norcross, Amy Timmerman, Beth Rider, Karen Wyatt, and April Cope
BETTER TOGETHER
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
Beth went searching for her next home. That’s when she met Amy at Nathan Grace. “It was a mutual fit,” Beth says simply. And it was also the beginning of something more than just mentorship.
Amy’s team, pickaperch, intrigued Beth. What began as an agent role on Amy’s team quickly evolved. Within six months, Amy proposed that they become official partners. Fourteen years and three brokerages later, they’ve weathered every season together—career pivots, market changes, and personal growth. “We’ve had other business partners through the years, and yet we’ve stayed true to each other,” Amy says. “We challenge each other, work through problems together, and laugh—a lot.”
Their chemistry is evident, and their complementary strengths make the partnership sing. Amy is the visionary—always thinking big, scanning the horizon for growth. Beth is the operational backbone, detailoriented and precise. “She has lists for days,” Amy jokes. “And somehow, it works.”
What really keeps the wheels turning? “Respect for each other and not taking ourselves too seriously,” Beth says. “We have a lot of fun.”
Their early years in real estate were marked by hustle. Amy’s style was bold and unrelenting—doorknocking, balloon-carrying, business-card-handing determination. “I didn’t realize going into this career how important each personal story would be,” she reflects. “Every client I’ve had has touched my
EVERY CLIENT I’VE HAD HAS TOUCHED MY LIFE IN SOME WAY.”
giving.” Their business isn’t just about buying and selling homes—it’s about honoring each person’s story, creating a lasting impact, and giving back to the community that has given so much to them.
life in some way.” Beth’s path was more relational, rooted in community, open houses, and nurturing her sphere. “There’s always been something special to me about how this job is really about helping people,” she says.
Over the years, they’ve grown from teammates to true business partners. They’ve built The BAR Group with intention, anchored in service and gratitude. “Every high and low has brought us to where we are today,” Amy says. “We approach our work with a spirit of
Their production numbers reflect their drive and dedication. In 2024, The BAR Group doubled their volume, selling $142 million in real estate and closing 168 transactions. They’ve consistently been recognized as D Magazine Best REALTORS®, a reflection not just of sales, but of the trust they’ve earned in the community.
And yet, they remain humble. “Kindness goes a long way,” Amy says. “Kindness to each other, within our team, to other agents, and to our clients. It always comes back tenfold.” It’s a simple philosophy, but one that has served them well.
Today, they lead a team of seven agents, along with founding team member Robin Moss Norcross (the “R” in BAR), and they’re continuing to scale their business with the same integrity and joy that brought them together all those early mornings ago. “We have worked with Robin since 2017, and have long admired how she has a heart for community, gives back, and how loyal her clients are,” added Amy.
Because at the end of the day, success for Amy and Beth isn’t just measured in numbers—it’s measured in laughter shared, trust earned, and lives changed, one home at a time.
Amy Timmerman
Beth Rider
AMANDA
PHILLIPS
WRITTEN BY
PHOTOS BY
By the time Amanda Phillips was 15, she’d already called eight cities and six states home. The constant moves—part of life with a father in the medical field—shaped her outlook early: Community isn’t something you just inherit; it’s something you build. And in Sherman, Texas, Amanda is doing just that—
every single day, one house, one family, and one smile at a time.
“I love Sherman,” Amanda says with the kind of conviction that doesn’t need an exclamation mark to prove it. “I know it sounds weird, but I pride myself in selling this town, so I feel like I need to be part of it.” And “part of it” doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface.
With a list of community contributions longer than a closing checklist, Amanda’s fingerprints are everywhere. From serving as past president of Grand Central Soup Kitchen to leading the bond committee that secured funding for new elementary schools, her involvement is woven into the very fabric of the city. “I love my community and pride myself
KATHERINE H. FONDREN
BETH GRAEME
PHOTOGRAPHY
I could always be available for our child. Dreams of homeroom mom, field trip chauffeur, and PTA meetings,” she laughs. She got her license in August of that year and, ever the go-getter, set a goal to close her first deal before the baby arrived in November.
“If it doesn’t make sense to sell, I don’t suggest you sell your home,” she says without hesitation. “I would rather be a provider of information and a plan that makes more sense in the future than someone who just puts a sign in the yard for publicity.”
That ethos—one rooted in service, not sales—has guided her entire career. Whether helping a single mom buy her first home or supporting a family relocating across the country for a dream job, Amanda’s mission is simple: make the plan come together. “All of these and every other story, I love connecting the resources and pieces to make their plan come together.”
Her passion for education—both in and out of real estate—is relentless. “I’m always passionate about educating people about their homes and how it’s an asset,” she explains. Whether it’s teaching first-time buyers about equity or helping sellers consider options like estate planning or keeping their home as a rental, Amanda makes it her business to know the market inside and out. “That’s important to consider when you’re hiring a REALTOR®,” she adds.
Amanda also thrives on the autonomy that real estate allows. “I get to celebrate when I do things right, but also, I can only blame me when I don’t do the things I need to do to be successful.” And her family is very much part of that success story. Her husband, Jamie, now serves as her marketing director, handling everything from photography to video production. Their daughter Paige, a high school senior, is a powerhouse in her own right—bass line captain, state qualifier in powerlifting, and varsity softball team manager. SHERMAN
on shining a bright light on all the good that happens here,” she says. And she doesn’t just shine the light—she’s often the one flipping the switch.
Amanda’s journey to real estate started with equal parts serendipity and grit. In 2007, after stepping away from a job in event planning and discovering she was pregnant, she found herself at a
Amanda did one better. “I actually went into labor six weeks early and negotiated my first contract from the hospital bed—closed the deal prior to my epidural, so barely checked that box.”
Nearly 18 years later, Amanda is a seasoned, solo real estate force with REAL Broker and a career volume of $90 million. Yet, numbers only tell part of the story. What sets her apart isn’t just her success—it’s her approach.
Still, even with a full plate, Amanda keeps giving back. She’s the incoming president of the athletic booster club at Sherman High School. She’s also part of the National Giving Alliance, helping provide students with clothes and shoes, and she leads fundraising efforts through the Sherman Education Foundation. “Recognition of student athletes and fine arts is very important in building confidence in our children,” she says. “I want to be available.”
Amanda’s heart for service isn’t just reflected in her résumé—it’s who she is. She’s been named 2024 Woman of Integrity by the Grayson County United Way, a REAL Broker Culture Ambassador, and was previously named Realtor of the Year and Volunteer of the Year by the Greater Texoma Association of REALTORS®.
But even with a trophy case full of accolades, Amanda stays grounded. “The biggest challenge
“I GET TO CELEBRATE WHEN I DO THINGS RIGHT, BUT ALSO, I CAN ONLY BLAME ME WHEN I DON’T DO THE THINGS I NEED TO DO TO BE SUCCESSFUL.”
When asked what she wants to be remembered for, Amanda doesn’t hesitate. “The biggest cheerleader you know,” she says. “There is too much negativity. I want to clap for everyone and literally wish success on anyone that is in the business.”
And if you’re a new agent stepping into this world?
Amanda has some advice: “Don’t let someone who introduces themselves with how many years they’ve been in the business kill your ideas for marketing.”
has been understanding that just because someone is your friend doesn’t mean they will definitely work with you as their REALTOR®,” she admits. That lesson stung at first, but she’s learned to rise above. “There is enough business to go around for everyone working—you can’t take it personally.”
It’s a fitting sentiment from someone who once tossed cow chips competitively (yes, she placed third in the world), danced through the airwaves as a morning radio DJ, and now builds communities with the same energy she brings to a school fundraiser or real estate seminar. Amanda Phillips reminds us that authenticity, heart, and showing up for your community, rather than just selling to it, are the real keys to success.
Newman Keith
The real estate industry is often marked by shifting trends and fluctuating markets, but few voices convey the clarity and calm of Keith Newman. A Dallas native with deep roots and strong convictions, Keith brings a thoughtful, measured presence to an industry often characterized by high energy and hustle. “I’ve worked very hard over the years to maintain a good reputation in the industry,” Keith shares. “I hope that I will be remembered as being professional, fair, and collaborative.”
As the managing broker of record for COMPASS RE TEXAS, LLC, Keith no longer juggles open houses or client closings. Instead, he is tasked with guiding more than 3,000 agents across the state, ensuring not only that they remain compliant but also that they develop into their best professional selves. Although he is no longer a producing agent, his influence is evident in countless successful transactions through his mentorship and leadership.
Raised in Dallas, Keith is one of those rare locals who remembers when the Tollway ended at Harvest Hill, and Preston Road turned rural just north of Campbell. “To get to DFW airport, you had to exit 635 at Valley View and shoot down to 114,” he recalls, painting a picture of a simpler, slower city. His mother, a hardworking woman who prioritized education, made sure Keith had access to opportunities that would later shape his career. He graduated from Jesuit—part of its 50th class—before going on to Austin College, laying a strong foundation for what was to come.
CALM IN THE STORM
Before finding his calling in real estate, Keith worked in retail, managing a large apparel store at NorthPark at an age when he couldn’t even rent a car for the out-of-town manager’s conference.
“I was good at selling things,” he says, “but I also found that I was better when I cared about what I was selling.” This passion, combined with his natural talent for connecting with people, made real estate a logical next step.
After passing his licensing exam on April 19, 2001, Keith faced a challenge familiar to most agents: lead generation.
“If you don’t do it, who will?” he quips. He quickly realized that purchased leads weren’t his style and instead leaned into open houses, direct mail, and good old-fashioned networking.
Beyond the tactical efforts, Keith dug deeper: “Defining my brand as an agent was crucial,” he explains. “Not just logos, colors, or fonts—but what would clients say about my service? What would I be known for?”
Over time, what Keith became known for wasn’t just successful deals but the way he conducted business—with fairness, calm, and collaboration.
“I’ve never understood agents who choose to be aggressive and unpleasant towards the other side,” he admits.
“Other agents are where you might make your next deal—it makes sense to have a good rapport.”
Today, Keith is passionate about advocating for the real estate profession,
Be genuine. People want to work with someone who is real. Also, get in your car, drive the streets, tour properties, and build real relationships with your colleagues. It makes all the difference.”
especially as it navigates challenges and external influences. “Our industry is at a pivotal moment,” he says. “We’ve allowed too many outside interests to dictate how we conduct our business.” He believes it’s time for agents to stay informed and engaged. His concerns are not abstract—they’re rooted in a desire to protect the profession he’s dedicated so much of his professional life to.
When asked about his favorite part of the business, Keith doesn’t hesitate: “I am addicted to the art of the deal and negotiation strategy.” However, he’s quick to note that the beauty of real estate lies in its variety. “There are many different ways to be effective in this business,” he says. “That fascinates me.”
While some people say, “I don’t do this for the money,” Keith has always been refreshingly candid. “When I
was an agent, I definitely did it for the money because I liked to pay for things like food, gas, and a car to drive,” he jokes. “But the truly rewarding part is being a part of successful deals where everyone gets what they want, and the agents are compensated for their efforts. That collective sigh of relief when a deal closes—it’s real.”
Though introverted by nature, Keith is deeply present for those in his life— his partner of 24 years, his mother who still lives in Dallas, as well as other extended family nearby. And, of course, his beloved dog, Buddy. Outside of work, you’ll find Keith reading, traveling, shopping, or researching wines and tequilas, often while enjoying a quiet game of backgammon.
To those entering the industry, Keith’s advice is grounded in authenticity. “Be genuine,” he says. “People want
to work with someone who is real. Also, get in your car, drive the streets, tour properties, and build real relationships with your colleagues. It makes all the difference.”
As Dallas continues to grow and diversify, Keith sees a bright future. “I love how DFW is becoming more and more diverse. I can only expect this to continue and grow over the next 5–10 years.”
For Keith, success is simple. “It’s being able to enjoy life without too many worries or stress. There’s always a solution to the problem. There’s always a way forward.” Spoken like someone who’s seen the industry’s highs and lows and still believes in its possibilities. And for those lucky enough to work alongside him, that steady, collaborative presence is exactly what makes Keith Newman unforgettable.
