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
HOME INSPECTION
HomeTeam Inspection Service (972) 400-7034 HomeTeam-DFW.com
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com
Viking Inspections (469) 209-8130 vikinginspections.com
HOME RENOVATION & REPAIR
Prep To Close
Taylor McKinney (469) 771-6613 preptoclose.com
HOME SERVICES
Casa Verde Home Services (469) 645-8347 stainlessrefinishing.com
HOME STAGING
Set the Stage - Dallas Metro (469) 998-0305 dlm.wesetthestage.com
HOME WARRANTY
Achosa Home Warranty, LLC
Robyn DiPasquale (888) 509-2916 AchosaHW.com
American Home Shield
Jen Giraud (214) 675-0013 PRO.AHS.com
Armadillo Home Solutions
Julie Jones (214) 971-0668 armadillo.one
INSURANCE
Smith Allen Insurance (214) 691-7655 smithallen.com
INTERIOR DESIGN & HOME STAGING
Audra McIntyre Interiors (469) 612-3424 ami.designs.com
Dwell Interior Staging + Design Co (817) 233-9709 dwellinteriors.co
MORTGAGE LENDING
Benchmark Mortgage
Sara Parker Jones (972) 841-9010 homeloansbysara.com
One Group - Highlands Residential Mortgage
Dan Carson (512) 878-3047 applywithcarson.com
The Edmondson Team (214) 516-2401 thetattooedlender.com
Victory MTG (214) 542-8550 victorymtg.com
MOVING SERVICES
Black Tie Moving
Tyler Coleman (822) 920-2966 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 (817) 975-1403 procoroof.com
T-Rock Roofing & Contracting (469) 931-9867 dallasroofer.com
STAINLESS REFINISHING
Casa Verde Home Services (469) 645-8347 stainlessrefinishing.com
TITLE COMPANY
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) 722-4200 preservan.com/locations/dallas
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 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.
Jordan Espeseth Founder/Co-owner
Reece Gentry Partner Liaison
Ashley Gentry Agent Liaison
Katherine Fondren Editor
Jin Kim Photographer
Jessica Espeseth Social Media Director
Lance Dunahoe Co-owner
Sarah Constentino Ad Strategist
MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
But Seriously…The Numbers are KIND OF INSANE
it mattered most. That is what we are actually recognizing.
It is also what makes this community so powerful. Last month, we talked about being one conversation away. This is the room those conversations are happening in. This is a room full of people who are not only producing at a high level, but who are consistently solving problems, building relationships, and finding ways to move things forward.
If you were to look at this community on paper, it would be easy to focus on the numbers. And to be fair, the numbers are pretty wild.
Across our four DFW Real Producers communities, the top 4,000 agents collectively closed over 91,000 homes in 2025, representing more than $57 billion in total sales volume. Let that sink in for a second.
In North Dallas alone, our top 1,000 agents closed over 28,000 homes. Dallas over 22,000. North Fort Worth over 22,000. Fort Worth nearly 19,000. These are not normal numbers. This is uncommon air.
And when you consider that each of these groups represents roughly the top 1,000 agents out of an estimated 15,000
in each market, it becomes even more significant. We do not get too caught up in whether that number is exactly 12,000 or 15,000 or 18,000 agents in a given area. The reality is, no matter how you look at it, you are seeing the top tier of the top tier. And if you are receiving this magazine, that includes you.
But here is the important part. It is not about the numbers. It is about what those numbers represent.
Behind every transaction is a conversation. A relationship. A client trusting someone with one of the biggest decisions of their life. Behind every one of those 91,000 homes are long days, tough conversations, deals that almost fell apart, and moments where you had to show up at a high level when
That is rare. And it is easy to get used to it. But do not.
Because the truth is, most rooms do not look like this. Most rooms do not have this level of consistency, this level of production, or this level of people showing up and doing the work at a high level year after year.
So whether you are an agent or a partner, take a moment to recognize what you are a part of. Be proud of it. Be grateful for it. And do not overlook the opportunity that comes with being in a
Because the numbers are impressive. But what they represent, and what can come from it, is even more powerful.
BADGES YOUR DALLAS Real Producers
Congrats on earning your Real Producers Top Agent Badge!
Because of your 2026 MLS production, you earned your spot as a 2026 Dallas Real Producers Top Agent and can represent your badge proudly! This year, we have added NEW badges to the top 500 and top 1000 – top 10, top 25, top 100, top 250, and top 750 —the badge you will receive is determined by your production. Regardless, that is the top 6% in Dallas!
Missing your badge? Email team@ dfwrealproducers.com.
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!
Our preferred partners have been carefully selected to be a part of this community and have their own badge as well! They have been recommended by
your peers and are some of Dallas’ most elite businesses. Look for this badge to know that you are working with one of the best, recommended by the best!
$12,392,953,495 14,112 SALES VOLUME TOTAL TRANSACTIONS AVERAGE TRANSACTIONS PER AGENT
AVERAGE SALES VOLUME PER AGENT $24,835,578 28.28
GP
THERIOT IV
Built in the Storm
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
For GP Theriot IV, success didn’t arrive at the easiest time. In fact, it came in the middle of one of the most challenging markets the real estate industry has seen in years.
And that’s exactly the point.
Because his story isn’t about catching the perfect wave—it’s about learning how to move forward when the tide is against you.
“Rates were going up and homes were sitting,” he recalls. “It was like a storm hit.”
Most would have hesitated. Some would have waited. But Theriot did something different.
“I jumped right in anyway,” he says.
A Legacy Rooted in Home
Born and raised in Dallas, Theriot’s connection to the city runs generations deep. He grew up in a Lakewood home that holds decades of family history, one he now shares with his own family. “I’m raising my family in the same house I grew up in,” he says.
It’s a full-circle moment that speaks to what matters most in his life.
His wife, Megan, an interior designer with a strong presence in the community, and their three children—Addy, Emerson, and Prescott V—are at the center of everything he does. That grounding force has shaped not only his personal life, but also his approach to business, leadership, and long-term success.
From Service to Sales
Before real estate, Theriot’s path was anything but conventional.
After high school, he attended Louisiana State University on an ROTC scholarship and was commissioned as
a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He served four years on active duty as a transportation officer, stationed at Fort Campbell with the 101st Airborne Division, including a deployment to Kosovo around the time of 9/11.
By the time he left the military as a captain, he had already developed a foundation built on discipline, structure, and accountability.
Those traits carried into his next chapter: a 20-year career in the mortgage industry.
“I had a great career in mortgage,” he says. “I was in the private wealth space and became known as a luxury mortgage broker.”
But over time, the industry began to change. Increased regulation and shifting dynamics started to limit his ability to operate the way he once had.
“They were controlling my destiny,” he explains. “I wanted to take the reins.”
At 50 years old, Theriot made a decision that many would consider risky: He started over.
Starting Over—In the Hardest Market In 2024, Theriot officially launched his real estate career with eXp Realty. With decades of experience in lending, he believed he could transition quickly.
But the market had other plans.
“I thought I would just dive right in,” he says. “But I quickly realized I needed to figure out how to get deals now.”
Instead of waiting for opportunities, Theriot went back to basics.
He picked up the phone.
“I became the cold-calling, expired listing agent,” he says.
Day after day, he reached out to homeowners whose properties hadn’t sold; people who were often frustrated, uncertain, and skeptical.
“Two things those clients are looking for are trust and confidence,” he explains. “They’re asking, ‘Can you actually sell my house?’”
For Theriot, the answer came through consistency and a clear strategy.
“Price, presentation, and exposure,” he says. “Those are the three things that get a home sold.”
Finding Momentum Through Discipline
The early days were humbling.
“There were moments I questioned whether I made the right decision,” Theriot admits.
But instead of backing off, he leaned in. “I had to trust the process and believe in myself,” he says.
That belief began to pay off. In one stretch, he set five appointments in a single week and converted four of them into listings.
“There’s nothing better than making those calls, setting the appointment, and knowing they’re going to sign,” he says. “I know I can help every one of those clients.”
By his first year, he did over $9 million in volume and earned Rising Star recognition, proof that even in a difficult market, success is possible. After moving to another brokerage for a time, he eventually returned to eXp, where he has been since August 2025.
“You can do anything to achieve success in a tough market,” Theriot says. “But you have to do the work.”
Redefining Success
Like many in the industry, Theriot once equated success with income.
“Early on, I thought success was chasing money,” he says.
But over time, and through both professional highs and personal challenges, that definition evolved.
“Now, success has everything to do with time,” he explains. “It’s about controlling my destiny.”
More importantly, it’s about the people around him.
Consistency.
If you don’t feel like doing it, you still have to do it.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family,” he says. “Success is family.” That perspective was shaped in part by a deeply personal chapter in his life.
In 2011, Theriot faced a period where he “almost lost everything.” Today, he is 14 years sober and uses that experience to mentor others facing similar struggles.
“I’m very close with my family because of that,” he says. “We support each other. We love each other.”
Leading by Example
Theriot’s journey has also fueled a desire to help others grow, especially agents who are just starting out.
“I’ve always been a leader,” he says. “I want to show people that if you work hard, you can make it in this business.”
His advice is direct and practical.
“Consistency,” he says. “If you don’t feel like doing it, you still have to do it.”
He emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals.
“Social media is great,” Theriot explains. “But if you’re new, you have to get back to basics. Conversations lead to contracts.”
It’s a mindset he lives out daily, with structured routines, ongoing coaching, and a commitment to improving his systems.
“I know what it takes to build a great business,” he says. “Now it’s about refining it.”
A Life Built on Purpose
Outside of work, Theriot prioritizes staying active and present. Early mornings often start with a 5:30 workout, followed by time with his family. He enjoys playing golf, especially with his son, and cheering on the Dallas Stars.
But even in those moments, his purpose remains.
“I love being a dad and a husband,” he says, “and I want to be remembered as a man of my word. If I say I’m going to get something done, I’m going to get it done.”
It’s a simple principle, but one that defines everything he does.
Because for GP Theriot IV, success isn’t about avoiding the storm.
It’s about proving, day by day, that you can build something meaningful right in the middle of it.
FINESSE MOVERS
Moves to Remember
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN • PHOTOS BY SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
When most people think about moving day, the word stressful usually comes to mind. Boxes piled high, the clock ticks quickly, and valuable belongings are carried out the door with a mix of relief and anxiety. But for Colby Long, owner and president of Finesse Movers, the goal is something entirely different. “Moving day can either be a really bad day or a really great day,” Colby says. “Our aim is to make it the best day ever.”
That promise—to transform a typically exhausting milestone into a joyful experience—sits at the very heart of Finesse Movers. Colby and his team provide white glove packing and moving services across the DFW area, with their central focus being one thing: quality. “Our quality is what sets us apart. The smallest details matter when moving, and we take the time to get those details right.”
A Family Touch
At its core, Finesse Movers isn’t just another moving company. It’s a family business, one with deep roots and strong values. Colby’s mother, TerryAnn, serves as vice president,
handling marketing, customer relations, and sales. Armando, their operations manager, keeps daily logistics running smoothly. And then there’s the crew—loyal, hardworking movers who Colby describes as an extension of his own family. “We know all of our guys and team like family, and they’ve worked for us for years. Our customers feel that warmth the moment we step through the door.”
That family-first approach carries over to how they treat every client. “Every client, regardless of the size of their home, receives the same finesse experience. We treat our customers like royalty,” Colby says.
And when those same customers watch their belongings carefully padded, wrapped, and handled with precision, the reaction is always the same: “They’re wow’d every time.”
A Passion for People
Colby’s enthusiasm for the business comes down to more than just boxes and furniture. For him, moving is about people. “I’m most passionate about helping families during one of the most important times of their lives,” he shares. “Seeing the smiles and joy on their faces when they get into their new home, once everything is set up and feels like home, that’s what makes all the hard work worth it.”
That passion comes from Colby’s own life experience. Having moved often as a child due to his mother’s career, he understands the emotions tied to relocating. After being introduced to the industry during college, he discovered how naturally it came to him—and how rewarding it felt to deliver a seamless move. “Once I experienced the customer satisfaction at the end of a job, I knew this was what I wanted to do,” he recalls.
Guided by Faith and Family Colby doesn’t measure success by profit margins or the number of moves completed. His perspective is much broader. “Success isn’t measured by money. Success is measured by the number of lives you touch. How many people can you help? How many people can you make smile? And most of all, how many people can you bring to Jesus?”
It’s a philosophy shaped in large part by his mother, who instilled confidence and faith in him from an early age. “She always told me I could accomplish anything I put my mind to,” Colby remembers. “She lifted me up, taught me how to dress, shake hands, look someone in the eyes, and speak with respect.” Those lessons, paired with his favorite scripture, 2 Corinthians 5:17, guide the way he leads his team and serves his clients.
Family remains the center of his world, both in business and beyond. He and his wife love spending time outdoors with their son, Camilo, and their Bernedoodle, Lucci. From hiking and biking to church on Sundays and cheering at baseball practice, their days are full of connection and activity. And now, with another baby on the way, Colby says his biggest goal is simple: “To be the best dad in the world.”
Doing the Next Right Thing
The principles behind Finesse Movers can be summed up in the mottos Colby and his team live by: “Quality and care over price,” “Don’t stress, just call Finesse,” and “Always do
the next right thing.” These aren’t just slogans—they’re standards that guide every decision, big or small.
It’s also why real estate agents trust Finesse Movers with their clients. Colby knows how critical it is to deliver excellence in an industry where referrals and reputations matter. “We go over and above for every client. Agents who connect with us know their clients will feel cared for every step of the way,” he explains.
Looking Ahead
As Colby looks to the future, his focus is twofold: growth and impact. He’s aiming for the strongest fourth quarter in company history while also investing time in his family and faith. Beyond
moving, he also runs a handyman service, All Around The House Repairs and Construction, expanding the ways he can serve the community.
Ultimately, though, Colby wants to be remembered for more than his businesses. “I want to be remembered for the people I’ve helped, the smiles I’ve created, and the faith I’ve shared,” he says with conviction.
For most people, moving often means stress, but Finesse Movers is rewriting the story. For Colby Long, quality isn’t just about how well boxes are packed or furniture is wrapped—it’s about how deeply people are cared for during life’s transitions. And that’s a move worth remembering.
BUILT, NOT BORN
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
Success, for Jason Saucedo, has never been about a single moment. It’s something built over time through discipline, selfawareness, and a willingness to do the work long before the results show up.
Born and raised in Dallas, a rare fourth-generation native, Jason’s story is rooted in familiarity with the city he now serves. He attended St. Monica and Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas before continuing on to the University of Dallas, where he played baseball, an experience that would later shape how he approaches both business and life.
Because for Jason, real estate isn’t just a profession. It’s a calling—and like any athlete, success is built in the quiet hours long before game day ever arrives.
Jason SAUCEDO
“You don’t just wake up one day and decide you want to be a professional athlete,” he says. “You train. You identify your weaknesses and work on them. You can do the exact same thing in business.”
A Career Shift with Purpose
Before stepping into real estate, Jason spent a decade in brand management,
PHOTOS
working with high-end clothing lines across regional and local markets. It was a successful career, but something was missing.
“I got tired of selling a product,” he explains. “I wanted to do a service. Something more people-focused.”
The shift came at a time when the retail industry was slowing down following the 2008 recession, while real estate was gaining momentum. Encouraged by close friends in the industry and supported by his wife, Jason made the leap.
In 2015, he earned his license. By 2016, he joined a high-performing team, quickly rising through the ranks before stepping into leadership roles and eventually becoming a partner in Hewitt & Habgood just three years later. In 2021, the name officially changed to Hewitt+Saucedo.
Looking back, he credits that early support system for helping him move forward with confidence.
“My wife supported me through a career change in my 30s,” he says. “That made a huge difference.”
Building a Foundation
Unlike many new agents, Jason entered real estate already familiar with commission-based income. The unpredictability didn’t intimidate him; it motivated him.
“I came from a commission job already,” he says. “So getting paid in 30 days felt fast.”
But instead of focusing solely on transactions, he focused on structure.
“I wanted to grow as fast as possible, but that meant building systems first,” he explains.
That mindset, prioritizing preparation over immediate results, became a defining factor in his early success.
And it didn’t hurt that he knew the Dallas market intimately.
“Being born and raised here gave me an advantage,” he says. “I understood the area and the people.”
A Team That Reflects the Vision Today, Jason leads a growing team, and while production numbers are strong—$54 million in sales last year— he’s quick to point out that
the true strength of the business lies in the people behind it.
“My team is what makes the team what it is,” he says. “It’s about creating a true team atmosphere.”
That culture is intentional. Jason believes that when individuals grow, the business naturally follows.
“I want every agent on my team to grow individually,” he explains. “That’s how we continue to provide the best for our clients.”
It’s a philosophy rooted in leadership, not just management.
Redefining Success
Early in his career, Jason admits that success looked like numbers: sales volume, production goals, milestones.
But that definition didn’t last.
“What I once imagined would take years came together much sooner than I expected,” he says. “It shifted my perspective and I realized it wasn’t about chasing figures, but about focusing on the people we’re able to serve. If we keep helping people well, the rest tends to follow.”
That perspective has also translated into his definition of success. “Success is doing what I love and enjoying what I do,” Saucedo says. “It’s creating a fulfilling life every day and having time with my family.”
It’s also about growth, something he believes should never stop.
“If you’re not constantly redefining success, you
won’t be happy in the long run,” he adds.
Again, he returns to a familiar comparison.
“In real estate, there really isn’t an off-season,” he says. “What I’ve learned is that success isn’t something you hit once and hold onto; it evolves as you do. The way you define it early in your career looks different later on, just like it does in different seasons of life. As things change, your vision of success should grow right along with it.”
Lessons from Uncertainty One of the most defining chapters of Jason’s career came during a time of global uncertainty.
In 2019, he stepped into a leadership role just before the world changed. By early 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted industries across the board, the playbook he had relied on suddenly no longer applied.
“I had to throw everything out,” he recalls. “We just focused on what we needed to do that day to sell a house.”
Instead of long-term projections, the focus became immediate action.
“Listing appointments were different. Showings were different. Everything changed,” he says. But that shift led to unexpected results.
“Once we got through the first few months, the floodgates opened,” Saucedo says. “It ended up being our biggest year ever.”
Looking back, he sees it as a turning point.
“It forced me to think outside the box,” he explains. “Because the box was broken.”
The Discipline Behind the Success
Behind every milestone is a level of intention most people never see.
For Saucedo, that foundation wasn’t just built on long hours, but it was shaped by a shift in mindset that redefined how he approached both business and life.
One of the most influential moments early on came from reading The Go-Giver, a book that challenged the traditional idea of success. Its message, that true success comes from giving more value than you receive and staying authentic to who you are, resonated deeply.
in service, and the discipline to put it all into practice— became the framework for the business he’s built today.
Work on Yourself First
If there’s one principle that defines Jason’s philosophy, it’s this: personal growth drives professional success.
That mindset was shaped during a pivotal moment early in his transition into real estate.
It’s a simple idea, but one that requires constant effort.
A Life of Impact
As Jason looks ahead, his focus extends beyond his own achievements.
“That really changed how I saw everything,” he says.
“This is a people business, and when you focus on serving at a high level and being genuine, it all starts to come together.”
Of course, embracing those principles still required discipline. Saucedo committed himself to learning, growing, and applying what he absorbed, not just from books, but from the mentors who helped shape his path along the way.
“I was intentional about learning from the people around me,” he says.
“And then pushing myself to go even further, so I could continue to grow in every area.”
That combination—strong guidance, a mindset rooted
“I had lunch with a former client—he’d been the VP of Haggar Clothing—and he shared something that stuck with me,” he recalls. “He told me a lesson he’d carried with him for years, one he originally got from Jim Rohn: to work harder on yourself than you do on your business. He talked about how, as a young traveling salesman, he’d listen to Earl Nightingale tapes on the road and how much that shaped who he became. Then he gave me two books to start with— Winning with People and How Successful People Think —and that’s really what sparked my obsession with personal development.”
He wants to do his part to make the world a better place, whether that’s by helping clients achieve their real estate goals, having an impact on the community through community service, or even having a positive interaction with a stranger.
“In general, service has been an important part of my life going back to Jesuit, whose motto is ‘Men for Others,’” says Jason. “One of the things that drew me to real estate was using my talents to serve people. I am currently serving on the Board of Directors for Bishop Dunne as well as several other areas and organizations. There is so much else still to contribute, but I think that all I can do is be a good person, help as many people as I can, and hope that in 20 years I look back and can be proud of the person I see in the mirror.”
It’s advice that stuck and continues to guide him today.
“Being the type of person people want to work with,”
Jason says, “is an excerpt from another book. In the beginning, we chase business; however, by improving ourselves, we can become the type of person that can attract business. It’s an abundance principle in the same way that a flower attracts the bee.”
Mentorship and coaching have also become such an important part of his work.
“I want to leave it better than I found it,” Jason says.
And in a business where success is often measured in numbers, that perspective stands out.
Because for Jason Saucedo, the real measure of success isn’t just what you build—it’s who you help become better along the way.
Lindsey Malouf | Principal Designer
Megan Tierney
Keith Williams
/ Attorney
Phoebe Toombs
Christine McLean
Kelsey Berry
Kelly Berry
Tracey McCann
Jason Ramsey
Tamera Gaede
Trey Mccann
Taylor McKinney
RESTORING POSSIBILITY
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
For Taylor McKinney, renovation has never been just about materials, timelines, or finishes. It has always been about people. About dignity. About possibility. As sales manager and designer at Prep To Close, Taylor has spent the last decade reshaping how sellers, agents, and families experience one of the most stressful moments in real estate—preparing a home for market—by removing the very barriers that so often stand in the way.
of Prep To Close
Prep To Close is a fullservice renovation and remodeling company, but its true distinction lies in its model. “We provide fullservice home renovations with no upfront costs or credit checks for your listings,” Taylor explains. “It’s simple—we do the work and wait to get paid at the closing table.” In an industry filled with financing programs, liens, and fine print, Prep To Close stands alone in North Texas by offering true pay-at-close
renovations—no loans, no interest, no fees, and no maximum spending cap.
That simplicity is intentional. And it’s deeply personal.
Taylor’s passion for homes began long before Prep To Close existed. Growing up, she watched her mother Diane— an Enneagram 4 turned DIY-er, remodel homes with no formal training—turn worn spaces into something meaningful. Her mother had a gift for transforming the tired into the timeless, using creativity as both expression and income. But when her mother became terminally ill, Taylor’s family lost their home. The experience left an imprint that would later define her career.
“That shaped me and taught me how deeply a home ties into dignity, stability, and hope,” Taylor says. “So now, every listing we touch is personal.” What could have remained a painful memory instead became a calling. “My mission is simple: No homeowner should ever lose equity or opportunity just because their home needs work they can’t afford upfront.”
That belief is the foundation of Prep To Close.
While many companies offer renovation financing, Taylor is clear about the difference. “We remove
every barrier that usually stops a seller from saying ‘yes’ to the updates their home needs,” she says. “No credit requirements, no maximum ceiling, no debt— ever.” The results speak loudly: Prep To Close has never had a home fail to sell, never had a homeowner fail to recoup their investment, and even in today’s challenging market, their listings average just 29 days on market.
The heart behind the numbers matters just as much. Taylor doesn’t shy away from that. “Renovations aren’t just about fresh paint and pretty finishes; they’re about restoring possibility,” she says. That perspective has made Prep To Close a trusted partner for agents who want more than a contractor—they want an ally. “Everything we do is designed to make the agent look like a hero.”
And the data supports it. Homes sell faster, sellers walk away with more equity, and agents benefit as well. “Our average agent makes 7% more on their commission cut when the home is fully turn-key,” Taylor notes. By eliminating the biggest objection in real estate—a home that needs work the seller can’t afford— agents gain confidence, credibility, and stronger outcomes for their clients.
Renovations aren’t just about fresh paint and pretty finishes; they’re about restoring possibility.
Everything we do is designed to make the agent look like a hero.”
Taylor’s journey to this industry was anything but accidental. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, she moved to Dallas 13 years ago. “I thought we would be here for a year or two,” she says, “and we fell in love with Dallas and the community.” Her professional path included scaling multiple real estate start up companies including HomeLight, where she saw firsthand how a home’s condition directly impacted equity, days on market, and opportunity. Combined with her desire to help solve problems no one is thinking
about and background in lived experience, the idea for Prep To Close began to take shape—full renovations, paid at the closing table.
When asked what has been the biggest reason for her success, Taylor doesn’t hesitate. “Who I know,” she says simply. “I have had some of the most incredible mentors, REALTORS®, and vendor partners take me under their wing.” Those relationships propelled her forward and built a network rooted in trust. Today, she jokes that she’ll “always know who you need to know
with their Bernese mountain dogs or cheering from the sidelines of Trenton’s football and basketball games.
“Faith anchors everything we do,” Taylor shares. “I’m a lover of Jesus and believe deeply in serving others with compassion, generosity, and integrity.” That faith also shapes how she protects her time. Sabbath, Sundays as a reset, and intentional rest are important, even as an Enneagram 2 who admits that balance doesn’t always come easily.
to get a property that’s stuck to the finish line.”
At home, Taylor’s life is anchored by faith and family. She met her husband in college, and fifteen years later, she says she loves him “more than the day I said I do.” Together, they serve at their church, helping other couples strengthen their marriages and break generational cycles. They’re raising their 12-year-old son, Trenton—“pure joy wrapped in cleats and a jersey”—and spending downtime at Arbor Hills
Looking ahead, Taylor’s goals are expansive but grounded. She wants to help more real estate agents empower the families their serving to reach the closing table with confidence, expand Prep To Close’s footprint across Texas, and continue proving that meaningful transformations don’t require financial strain. Long-term, she hopes to change how Texas thinks about listing preparation altogether—ensuring every homeowner, regardless of season or circumstance, has access to renovations that protect equity rather than create debt.
Her favorite quote from C.S. Lewis captures that spirit perfectly: “I am yours, O Lord, with all that I am. You can make me more than I am.”
Taylor McKinney is focused on transformation—of homes, of outcomes, and of lives. And in doing so, she’s reminding the real estate industry that restoring possibility may be the most valuable renovation of all.
Eli Howard General Manager
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READY FOR THE
BOARDROOM?
BY LES MCGEHEE, CHIEF EDUCATION STRATEGIST, RIALTO ACADEMY
There’s a room in every real estate market where important decisions get made.
It’s where policies are shaped. Where education is decided. Where the direction of the industry is influenced for the next year—and often for years beyond that.
It’s the boardroom—and you are invited to it, if you choose to prepare yourself with the right leadership education.
Most agents never step into it.
But you can.
Across DFW, we’re surrounded by high-performing agents and brokers—professionals who have
built real businesses, led teams, and earned the trust of their clients and peers. Many of those same professionals have wondered:
“I’ve never been on a board before.”
“I’m not sure what happens in those meetings.”
“I don’t know if I’m qualified to be in a room like that.”
Those aren’t limitations. Those are opportunities. Signals that the next level of growth isn’t just about production—it’s about preparation for leadership.
And that preparation is now available.
Whether you’re a member of the MetroTex Association
of REALTORS®, the Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS®, Collin County Area REALTORS®, Lewisville Area REALTORS®, or another organization across North Texas, leadership education is no longer something you have to figure out on your own.
It is being offered—intentionally.
Through leadership academies, structured onboarding, and focused board-level training, there are now clear ways to understand how leadership works before you ever step into it.
Because the boardroom isn’t just a place—it’s a different level of responsibility, perspective, and influence.
Your Path to the Boardroom
STAGES:
Agent Performance
Top Producer / Team Leader
Prepared Leader (Education)
Boardroom Influence
And like anything else in real estate, the professionals who prepare tend to perform.
This is where education expands beyond contracts and compliance.
The best education helps you grow into the next version of your career.
It helps you understand how decisions are made.
How organizations operate.
How leadership conversations move forward.
And how to contribute in a way that elevates everyone in the room.
In many markets, one of the clearest paths to that kind of preparation is through structured board education—programs like the Board Excellence Series and the leadership academies that surround it.
They’re practical. Focused. Built for professionals who are already succeeding and want to grow their influence.
And they’re being used by exactly the people you’d expect:
Current board members sharpening their effectiveness
Future leaders preparing before they raise their hand
Ambitious professionals who simply want to understand the system at a higher level
Because whether you serve on a board or not, this level of education changes how you see the business.
You become more strategic.
More connected.
More aware of how decisions shape your market.
And for those who do step into leadership, that preparation shows immediately.
They contribute faster.
They collaborate more effectively.
They help move important work forward.
If you’re building a serious career in real estate, leadership isn’t a separate path.
It’s a natural extension of growth.
And today, you don’t have to wait to be invited and then figure it out. You can prepare now.
You can understand the room before you walk into it.
And whether you step into the boardroom this year, later, or never at all, this kind of education strengthens your position in the industry.
Because the boardroom isn’t reserved for a different type of professional.
It’s where prepared professionals go next.
And you can be one of them.
Les McGehee Chief Education Strategist Rialto Academy
WHITE Emily
WHEN PEOPLE ARE THE PRIZE
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
\PHOTOS BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
On any given day in the Dallas area, you might find Emily White walking a property with a client, coffee in hand, talking through dreams that are beginning to feel real. For Emily, real estate is about connection. It’s about trust. And most of all, it’s about people.
“People are the prize. I love my clients genuinely,” she says simply.
That mindset has carried Emily through the first four years of a real estate career that is already turning heads across the metroplex.
Raised in Rowlett, Emily grew up with a strong sense of community and drive. After graduating from Rowlett High School, she headed to Texas State University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business in 2017. Even then, real estate was quietly working its way into her story.
“In college I managed apartments all four years, so that led me to love real estate,” she recalls.
Still, her path didn’t begin with open houses and lockboxes. It began in a kitchen.
Before becoming an agent, Emily built something entirely her own—a meal prep company called Busy Body Prep. What started as a passion for fitness and wellness grew into a full operation with staff, delivery drivers, and a commercial kitchen. At one point, the company even became the official sponsor of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
“I started it from the ground up,” she says. “We had the whole nine yards.”
Entrepreneurship taught her lessons she would carry forward. It sharpened her instincts, expanded her network, and showed her what it takes to build trust with people.
“My previous business has helped my network tremendously,” Emily explains.
In 2022, after selling the company, she stepped fully into real estate. What she found was an industry that felt both exciting and demanding from the very beginning.
Like many new agents, she started on a team, learning the rhythm of the business and observing those who had already built successful careers. One early influence left a lasting impression.
“Kait, the team lead, was such a cute blonde on the outside, but a hardcore solid agent on the inside,” Emily remembers with a smile. “I admired her courage and strength, and I will forever be thankful for her.”
That season helped shape the agent she is today—someone who blends confidence with care.
Now part of the White & Vines Real Estate Group at The Agency Rockwall, Emily has quickly established herself as a rising presence in the market. In just four years, she has surpassed $50 million in career volume, earned recognition as a D Magazine Best Agent in 2024 and 2025, and received Real Producers honors in 2024, 2025, and 2026, along with RealTrends verification.
But numbers alone aren’t what drive her.
For Emily, the real reward comes on closing day.
“Success to me is when my buyer is crying happy tears because they just achieved their lifelong goal of home ownership and I got to steward them,” she says.
That sense of responsibility runs deep in how she approaches her work.
“I see God in every transaction,” she shares. “Real estate is someone’s biggest investment, and I get the privilege to help. I’m always honored.”
Being a young woman in a field filled with seasoned professionals hasn’t always been easy. Early on, she realized that respect isn’t handed out automatically.
“Being only four years in the industry but sitting in rooms with agents who have done this for 25 years, it can be hard to be taken seriously sometimes,” she says. “But my grit and my numbers speak for themselves.”
If I was afraid to lose, I wouldn’t be as GOOD OF A
NEGOTIATOR
in this business.”
Her determination has already produced memorable milestones— some more comfortable than others.
Her very first showing included a moment she’ll never forget.
“I broke my tailbone on a slide,” she laughs.
Not long after, she found herself celebrating a very different kind of story: selling a $2.5 million home in less than 30 days in the luxury community of Heath, setting a new benchmark for price per square foot in the neighborhood.
Moments like that are exciting, but Emily remains grounded in something deeper than achievement.
What motivates her today, she says, is simple: “Freedom. Impact. And giving back at my church, Shoreline City Church.”
Outside of work, Emily’s energy continues. She’s a black belt in karate, a fan of hot yoga, and someone who rarely turns down a good workout. Fitness remains part of her identity, just as it was when she ran her business years ago. When she’s not showing homes or negotiating contracts, she might be cooking, enjoying coffee with friends, playing golf, or taking what she calls a “hot girl walk.”
And then there’s Meredith—her French bulldog and, as Emily describes it, “my heartbeat.”
Still, even with the pace of real estate and a life full of interests, her focus always returns to people.
“I want to be remembered for being warm and making everyone feel seen,” she says. “I want people to know that I genuinely care about them outside of our real estate transaction.”
That philosophy also shapes how she negotiates deals. One piece of advice, given to her years ago, stuck.
“Go into every deal like you’re not afraid to lose it.”
Emily explains, “If I was afraid to lose, I wouldn’t be as good of a negotiator in this business.”
Looking ahead, she has her sights set on continuing to grow—personally and professionally.
Her goals for the year include reaching $30 million in individual volume, expanding further into the Dallas market, and building stronger relationships with home builders.
But even as her career rises, her message to newer agents is straightforward.
“Don’t stop. And don’t fake it till you make it—that’s actually very dangerous advice in this industry. You have to actually know what you’re doing.”
It’s honest advice from someone who believes authenticity matters more than appearances.
Because in the end, Emily White’s story isn’t just about production numbers or accolades. It’s about something much simpler—and far more lasting.
People.
And to her, that’s always been the real win.
Real Producers FAQ
Real Producers Magazine is a national franchise that started in Indianapolis in 2015 and is now in over 130 markets across the nation and continues to spread rapidly. DFW has four Real Producers Communities: North Dallas, Dallas, North Fort Worth, and Fort Worth Real Producers.
Q: What is the goal of Real Producers?
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 that brings together the most elite individuals in DFW real estate. We take the highest producing real estate agents, and RP-vetted businesses in every market, and build an exclusive community around that group. We share their stories, successes, upcoming events, and educate –really anything that will connect, inform and inspire, we put in our monthly publication.
At Real Producers, we believe we are one person, one conversation, or one idea away from everything in our business and life changing. With this powerhouse community, it happens all the time.
Q: How do you become a Real Producers Top Agent?
A: In all of DFW, there are roughly 60,000 licensed agents, meaning there are ~15,000 agents in each of our four communities. We rank all those agents based off their yearly MLS sales volume. In years past, we congratulated the Top 500 Agents, and we still are, but in 2026, we are adding a other groups to our community… all in the RP Top 1000! These agents are in the top 6%.
Q: Who receives Real Producers Magazine?
A: The Top 1000 agents in each community will receive the digital magazine for the year. The Top 500 agents will also receive the magazine physically to their mailbox. Our RP Vetted Businesses also receive the magazine physically and digitally.
Q: Can I be featured?
A: If you are in the Top 1000, you have the opportunity to be featured! We love nominations and take them seriously. If you’d like to be considered for a feature, or if you would like to nominate someone, you can email team@dfwrealproducers.com.
Q: What does it cost to be featured as an RP Top Agent?
A: Zero, zilch, zippo, nada, nil. How, you ask? Because of the businesses that your peers have recommended, who partner with Real Producers, and invest in this community to support you. These companies have all been recommended by top agents and have been vetted by us to ensure they are of the highest quality. So instead of you paying $5k - $10k for this feature…they cover all those costs for you! Pretty incredible, right?
Q: Does Real Producers host events?
A: Yes, we host many different events throughout the year! Some large 400-800 people, some 75-250 people, and other more intimate events that are 30-50 people. We do Social Events, Magazine Celebration Events, an Awards Gala, and Masterclass Events. You can see quick recaps of some of our events under the “Events” tab on our website.
For our events, we invite the top 1000 real estate agents and our RP-vetted businesses. The Top 1000 agents are allowed to invite agents on their team, as well. These events are an incredible opportunity to connect with the best in DFW real estate. It is amazing to see the power in the connection made at these events. Be on the lookout for your exclusive invites!
Q: Who are the RP Vetted Businesses?
A: They are some of the best businesses in DFW in their category! You can find them listed in our index and their ad in the magazine. We don’t just find these businesses off the street, nor do we work with all businesses that approach us. Each business has come recommended by your peers, the top producing real estate agents in the market. 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: Can I nominate an agent or recommend a business?
A: Absolutely! Email your nominations and recommendations to team@dfwrealproducers.com.
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