ANDREW BRADSHAW THE WINDING ROAD
TONJA DEMARET DEEP CONNECTIONS
RAVEN MOK FINDING HOME
EMILY & JUSTIN PATE OF RENOVATION SELLS HANDS-ON APPROACH
THE KRAFT-OAKES TEAM
&
AND
Meeting People Where They Are
DAVID
GAYLAN KRAFT
CHRISTY OAKES
Greg Esquilino and his wife wanted to bring DFW a roofing company that would push communication and high values over all else. He noticed that lack in the industry since he first started in roofing
Brendan Thomas, a lifelong friend of Greg's, shared this vision and ultimately joined Greg. He and Greg are expanding their services across DFW and East Texas, creating long lasting relationships.
REAL PRODUCER S Real Partners For
Kelly Berry
Tracey McCann Jason Ramsey Rashelle Gallegos
Maria Bermudez
Tatum Vanderpool Brooke Bullock Christine McLean
SABETPOUR
NORTH DALLAS MEET THE
Beth Graeme Photographer
Jessica Espeseth Social Media Director
Vanessa Corral Photographer
Rick Davis Videographer
Scott Peek Photographer
Lance Dunahoe Co-owner
Jordan Espeseth Founder/Co-owner
Julie Altemus Executive Director
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!
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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
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REAL ESTATE SCHOOL
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A Time for
New Beginnings
publisher’s note
December has arrived, and with it, the usual suspects: festive lights, holiday music on repeat, and an overwhelming number of cookies and other sweet treats that seem to multiply by the hour (not that I’m complaining). And let’s not forget that familiar end-ofyear scramble, the one where we realize that somehow, 2024 is practically over, and we’re days away from 2025. Where did the year go?
understand the true power of coffee in ways I never imagined. But more than that, I know this journey will be filled with more love and joy than I can comprehend right now.
As we approach the finish line of one year and look toward the start of another, December always feels like a time to pause, take stock, and start plotting for the year ahead. But this December holds something particularly special for me—it’s the month I’ll become a dad. My beautiful wife and I are expecting our first child—a little girl—right in the heart of the holiday season. Suddenly, the “new year, new beginnings” theme has taken on a whole new meaning for us!
It’s a strange feeling, knowing that life as I know it is about to change forever. I’ve heard that babies bring a whirlwind of sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and a complete rearrangement of priorities (and apparently, most parents would give it five stars if they could). I’m told that I’ll soon
As we gear up for the holidays and start thinking about what 2025 might hold, I encourage you to take a moment to embrace the changes coming your way, whether it’s setting new goals, making a big move, or even just welcoming a bit more joy and laughter into your life. Remember, change doesn’t just happen on New Year’s Day. It’s a constant, unpredictable force that shapes our lives in unexpected ways—and sometimes, it shows up as an 8-pound bundle of joy right in time for the holidays.
Let’s face 2025 with open hearts, big dreams, and maybe a little more caffeine. I’ll see you in the new year—hopefully a little wiser and definitely a little sleepier!
Happy Holidays, and here’s to new beginnings!
Jordan Espeseth DFW Real Producers Founder/Co-owner
rising star
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
by: Beth Graeme Photography
THE WINDING ROAD ANDREW BRADSHAW
Andrew Bradshaw’s journey into real estate is a story of resilience, hard work, and the power of relationships. His path, filled with unexpected twists and personal challenges, laid the foundation for a career that thrives on trust, mentorship, and a genuine passion for helping others. Now a successful REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Apex in North Dallas, Andrew’s story is a testament to the belief that success is not a straight line but a winding road built on trust and perseverance.
Andrew’s beginnings were far from traditional. Born in South Korea and adopted as a baby, he grew up in Oregon, later moving to Seattle at 18. His early career, however, wasn’t in real estate. For over 15 years, Andrew worked in high-end hospitality, managing operations at the prestigious Wynn and Encore resorts in Las Vegas. It was here that he learned the value of customer service, serving some of the most exclusive clients in the world. His expertise in handling high-pressure situations in luxury environments gave him the tools to seamlessly transition into real estate. As Andrew reflects, “My blended
background of failing forward and high-end hospitality management prepared me for success in real estate.”
But it wasn’t just his professional life that shaped him; his personal experi-
me appreciate each client, each day, all the more.” That appreciation is evident in the way he conducts his business.
For Andrew, real estate isn’t about transactions or numbers. It’s about the people. “I’m not transactional. This is about the people for me, not about the money,” he explains.
“I truly view this as a calling to serve, which I know most agents view as a call to sell.”
Andrew’s approach to real estate is built around helping clients make informed decisions, even if that means advising them not to buy a home. He prides himself on being process-oriented and takes satisfaction in guiding his clients through complex situations, whether they decide to make a purchase or not. One recent example involved helping a dentist from California navigate the complexities of a 1031 exchange for his son and daughter-in-law’s new home in Texas. The transaction required precise timing and coordination with out-of-state brokers and builders.
“It was very complex,” Andrew admits, but it was also rewarding to see it through successfully.
Photos
This hands-on approach, combined with a deep understanding of the emotional and financial weight of buying or selling a home, is what sets Andrew apart. He’s quick to acknowledge that his success is owed to the trust he builds with his clients. Trust, in Andrew’s world, is not something that comes easily; it is earned through transparency, dedication, and a relentless focus on his clients’ needs.
Reflecting on his career thus far, Andrew recognizes the significant role mentorship has played in his growth.
“I’m a byproduct of great mentorship and leadership that was modeled before my eyes,” he notes, crediting his parents, colleagues at Wynn, and a mentor in Seattle for teaching him the importance of integrity, hard work, and caring for others. These values are at the core of his real estate practice, where he continues to “help a large number of others achieve their goals” through information, organization, and professional coordination.
For Andrew, success in real estate is not about accolades or volume, though he’s certainly garnered his fair share of recognition. He has been named a D Magazine Top Producer for the past two years, ranked #13 in sales volume out of 1,300 agents at Coldwell Banker Apex, and featured in Real Producers magazine.
But when asked what his most rewarding moments are, he does not speak of awards. “It’s such a blessing when people are able to buy real estate and feel informed and empowered in the process,” he says. Helping people achieve their dreams, in whatever form that takes, is his greatest reward.
Beyond real estate, Andrew is a devoted son and father. His parents still live in Oregon, and their influence is deeply woven into his life and career. His father, who taught him the value of hard work and integrity, remains a source of inspiration. “I’ve
never in my life met someone that can outwork my dad,” Andrew shares.
“He taught me that sales is creating solutions for people and going above and beyond.” Andrew has a girlfriend and four-month-old son, who are his world when finding moments in between his dedication to real estate.
Looking to the future, Andrew is committed to continuing his growth, both personally and professionally.
He owns a small portfolio of properties around the Dallas metroplex and is eager to expand it further. His passion for real estate extends beyond just buying and selling homes; it encompasses learning about architecture, market trends, and economic models. For Andrew, real estate is not just a career—it’s a lifelong passion.
As Andrew looks ahead, his goals remain simple: “Just take care of
as many people as I am able to.” His success, as always, will be measured not by numbers but by the impact he has on his clients and the relationships he builds along the way. Though he traveled a winding road, Andrew Bradshaw has arrived at a career that continues to create a lasting legacy of trust, service, and excellence in the North Dallas real estate market.
“Andrew is an amazing agent who puts the needs of his clients front and center in all he does. He is one of the most detail-oriented agents I have had the pleasure of working with, and I know his clients appreciate this attribute as well. He spends a tremendous amount of time being sure he is knowledgeable about the transaction a client is about to enter into. We are proud to have him as part of our company.” —Lori Arnold, broker/owner of Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtors.
“I truly view this as a calling to serve, which I know most agents view as a call to sell.”
Emily and Justin Pate of Renovation Sells
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Emily and Justin Pate of Renovation Sells are not just the owners of a business— they’re the heart and soul of a growing operation that transforms homes, helping homeowners sell quicker and for top dollar. For them, success is personal. With just three years in the pre-sale renovation industry, the Pates have already made a name for themselves by taking a hands-on approach to every project they manage.
“When you call Renovation Sells, you are speaking to me or Justin,” Emily explains. “We do the walkthroughs, proposals, kickoffs, and completions—and everything in between.” This level of involvement is rare in their industry, but for the Pates, it’s what sets them apart. “Our personal touch and interaction with the process, clients, and agents are what make our business different. We are personally and professionally invested in every project that we do.”
At its core, Renovation Sells is about more than just making homes look good—it’s about ensuring homeowners get the maximum return on investment. Specializing in cosmetic updates, such as paint, countertops, backsplashes, lighting fixtures, and carpet, Emily and Justin are focused on making homes more appealing to buyers in the shortest time possible. “We strive to get our projects completed in two to three weeks,” Emily says. “Today’s homebuyers are hesitant to purchase when work is needed in a home. They only see dollar signs. Taking the time to make those updates before selling brings in a whole new group of shoppers and can allow the home to be listed at a higher price.”
rp vetted business spotlight
Hands-on Approach
Photos by: Scott Peek Photography, LLC
Success for us is all about quality and communication.
Their business model revolves around a simple yet powerful belief: Homeowners should get 100% on their ROI for pre-sale renovations. To make this happen, Renovation Sells employs an in-house design team that helps select local, cost-effective, and on-trend materials and finishes, making the projects both affordable and desirable. The Pates have worked hard to build a reliable and talented team they would trust in their own home. “Transformation is our passion,” Justin shares. “It’s amazing what a coat of paint or a light fixture can do for a home. We love seeing how even small changes can broaden the appeal of a home and make the selling process faster for everyone involved.”
A defining characteristic of Renovation Sells is their connection with REALTORS®. For Emily and Justin, their role is clear: to help agents focus on what they do best—selling homes. “We want to take the stress and responsibility of updating and renovating off agents’ plates so they can focus on their strengths,” Emily says. Their work with top-producing agents from notable real estate groups across the metroplex has cemented their reputation as reliable partners in the selling process. Renovation Sells even offers a Continuing Education (CE) class called “The Renovation Advantage,” where they teach agents the concepts and actions needed to get homes ready for listing.
Though they are business partners, Emily and Justin have a well-balanced dynamic when it comes to their roles within Renovation Sells. Emily leads the design and coordination process, while Justin handles most of the on-site project management. Together, they are a dream team, and their complementary skills have been key to their success. “Running a business together gives us more reason to spend time together,” Emily says, but she also acknowledges the need for intentionality when it comes to balancing work and life. The couple makes it a point to have date nights at least once or twice a month, and they divide and conquer to attend as many of their children’s volleyball, basketball, and soccer games as possible.
Originally from Delaware, Emily met Justin—who was raised in Plano—while attending the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Their shared love of food and hospitality is still a big part of their lives today, and it informs much of their approach to Renovation Sells. “With our hospitality backgrounds, we felt this industry was a great place to blend that with our love of building and design,” Emily explains. Whether they’re cooking together at
Photo courtesy of: Paige Rance Photography
home, traveling with their children, or exploring new restaurants, the Pates are a family that cherishes time spent together. “Spending time with the kids is important to us. We all have such busy lives, and the girls are growing so fast. We need to cherish the time with them.”
As for the future, Emily and Justin have big plans. They are focused on growing their reach and relationships with REALTORS® and brokers, as well as partnering with other real estate professionals to expand their CE offerings. “We are always looking to grow,” Emily says. “We want to continue cultivating amazing relationships with agents and expanding our presence in the real estate community.”
For Emily and Justin Pate, success is not just about getting the job done—it’s about staying on time, staying on budget, and making sure their clients are happy. “Success for us is all about quality and communication,” Emily says, and their clients would surely agree. With a commitment to personal involvement and professional excellence, Renovation Sells is making a lasting impact on the Dallas real estate market.
Photo courtesy of: Dallas Real Estate Media
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THE KRAFTOAKES TEAM
cover story
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Photos by: Scott Peek, Scott Peek Photography
DAVID & GAYLAN KRAFT AND CHRISTY OAKES
Meeting People Where They Are
In North Dallas, there is a real estate team that has been quietly making waves, not through flashy sales pitches, but by building genuine relationships with every client they encounter. The Kraft-Oakes Team, led by principal partners Christy Oakes and David and Gaylan Kraft, has amassed over 50 years of combined real estate experience. This powerhouse team, based out of RE/MAX Four Corners, operates with one mission: to serve and care for their clients beyond expectations.
For them, it’s not about the transaction. “Our focus is on our people,” says David Kraft, a Texas native who started his real estate career in 2001. “We’ve grown every year because of our referral network. We spend our time and resources caring for our past, current, and future clients.” This client-first mentality has garnered the team a loyal following, with glowing testimonials filling their Google page. One client wrote, “The Kraft-Oakes Team made the buying process stress-free and enjoyable. They were attentive to every detail, and I couldn’t imagine using anyone else for my real estate needs.”
A Foundation of Faith and Service
David and Gaylan’s story began not in real estate but in ministry. David served as a youth pastor, while Gaylan’s early career was rooted in accounting. The couple, both Texas A&M graduates, took a leap into real estate in 2001, drawn by the flexibility it offered to combine their calling of serving others with building a business. “In all that you do, in word or deed, do it all for the glory of God,” Gaylan reflects, quoting Colossians 3:17. It’s a verse that has guided their business from day one. “Real estate gives us unique opportunities to meet people where they are, in moments that can be life-changing. It’s our mission to love and serve them through that process.” Still heeding the call to minister to others, David spends significant time and resources serving with various groups around the world on mission trips whenever possible.
Christy Oakes, who joined the team in 2013, shares this passion. A Baylor University graduate with a background in communications and human resources, Christy brought her own set of skills to the team. “Helping others achieve their hopes and dreams by constantly building new relationships is what drives me,” she says. For Christy, real estate is deeply personal. Raised in Richardson and a longtime McKinney resident, she and her husband, Tim, have been active in their local church for years, mentoring young couples and giving back to their community.
“David & Gaylan Kraft and Christy Oakes—The KraftOakes Real Estate Team—are absolute professionals, and we are so proud of their high standards. Their team does a phenomenal job for every client they work with. I have known David and Gaylan for over 20 years, and their work ethic and standards are still the same today as they were when I first met them.”
— Chris Harden, RE/MAX Four Corners Broker/Owner
Rounding out the team is a group of agents who are valuable contributors to the Kraft-Oakes Team’s success: Team Manager Korey Hudson and agents Tori Grace Spiars, Blair Abbott, and Peyton Pearson.
Navigating Challenges with Grace Like many in real estate, the Kraft-Oakes team has weathered its share of challenges. From the 2008 recession to the COVID19 pandemic and recent interest rate hikes, their resilience has been tested. But through it all, their commitment to their clients has never wavered. “We know the importance of balancing the demands of a successful business with personal life,” Christy says. “There are times when you need to unplug, recharge, and be fully present for your family.” This balance is key to their success, not just as real estate professionals but as individuals.
The team’s ability to navigate tough times has earned them numerous accolades, including multiple D Magazine recognitions as “Best of Dallas,” RE/MAX Hall of Fame inductions, and a Lifetime Achievement Award. Despite these honors, the Kraft-Oakes Team remains focused on the relationships that have brought them this far. “Success, for us, is when our clients, family, and friends say, ‘There is no other REALTOR® I would use,’” David shares. “That’s the highest compliment we could ever receive.”
A Commitment to Lasting Relationships
What sets the Kraft-Oakes Team apart from others in the industry is their deep commitment to fostering longterm relationships. “We go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences,” Christy explains. From the very first meeting, the team ensures that their clients feel heard, valued, and supported. They’ve even been known to step in and handle tasks themselves to make their clients’ lives easier. “Each client brings unique experiences, needs, and goals, and we excel at deeply understanding these, often before they even realize them,” Gaylan adds.
It’s this attention to detail and personal care that keeps clients coming back and referring their friends. As one testimonial reads, “They made us feel like family. Their knowledge and professionalism were unmatched, but what impressed us the most was their genuine care for us as people, not just clients.” This approach has helped the Kraft-Oakes Team build a robust referral network, allowing them to grow steadily, year after year.
Life Beyond Real Estate
Outside of real estate, the Kraft-Oakes team enjoys a life filled with family, faith, and fun. David is an avid outdoorsman, spending his free time hunting, fishing, and fixing things around the house. Gaylan, when not decorating or gardening, loves curling up
with a good book and her dogs. Christy, a talented musician who once performed with a group that sang the national anthem at Yankee Stadium, loves cooking, baking, and entertaining friends. All three share a love for their families and communities, giving generously of their time and resources.
Looking ahead, the Kraft-Oakes Team is excited about what the future holds. With their sights set on another successful year—projected to close out 2024 with over $39 million in sales—they remain steadfast in their mission to serve others. Their advice to aspiring REALTORS®? “There is enough business for everyone. Focus on improving yourself every day, not just competing with others. Make your business about other people, not about yourself.”
A Legacy of Love and Service
As the Kraft-Oakes Team continues to grow, one thing is clear: Their legacy will be one of love, service, and genuine care for their clients. “We want to be remembered for the impact we’ve made,” says Gaylan. “Not just in real estate, but in the lives of the people we’ve had the privilege to serve.” That impact is felt daily by their clients, who, like one recent homebuyer, will tell you: “There’s no one else I’d trust with my real estate journey. The Kraft-Oakes Team is simply the best.”
2024 DFW REAL PRODUCERS event recap
Super Social At Globe Life Field
Our DFW Real Producers Super Social Event was a grand slam of an event! Not only did we have over 400 beautiful people attend this event, we celebrated inside the Lexus Club at Globe Life Field. It was such a blast! Have you ever been inside the stadium when there is no game or fans? Just an empty stadium? It is such a unique experience. Oh, and the World Series Trophy was there for us to all take pictures with, too!
At this event, we gave out over 200 RP Top Agent Awards for the agents who not only earned their 2024 Award but also attended the event. The agents who were at this event collectively produced over $3 billion in real estate in 2023 alone. Impressive!
Some people asked me if this was the ESPE Awards. And the answer is, “No!” Just a really sweet event. The ESPE Awards, which includes special awards that are voted on like Rising
Star of the Year, Leader of the Year, Most Inspirational Agent, etc., will be coming again in the near future!
This event was such a huge success and would not have been possible without Perry Homes, the Preferred Builder of the Texas Rangers and the host sponsor of this event!
Y’all are seriously so amazing!
I always need to give a big thank you to our incredible RP Vetted Business Partners who are truly the reason DFW Real Producers is possible and exists! Thank you all so so much.
I must thank my incredible team… Lance Dunahoe, Co-Owner of DFW Real Producers; Julie Altemus, Executive Director; Jess Espeseth, my beautiful wife and Social Media Director; Scott Peek and Jin Kim behind the cameras; Rick Davis with studioUSA Team behind the video camera; Lauren Essex, Master of Balloons; all the amazing people who
helped with the check in process, and to all the staff at Globe Life Field…y’all are seriously the best and I have so much gratitude in my heart for you all!
Thank you all for an incredible year! We cannot wait to celebrate with you more in 2025.
Cheers!
Jordan Espeseth, Founder/Co-owner
inspirational agent
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Raven Mok
FINDING
HOME
Raven Mok’s journey is a story of a life shaped by international roots, passion for people, and a deep desire to make a difference. Her story begins in a place far from Dallas, Texas, where her career and family now flourish. “I’m the product of an international love story,” Raven reflects. Born to a father from Hong Kong and a mother from Vietnam, she grew up immersed in two rich cultures. “I spent every summer traveling between both countries,” she recalls, and this upbringing gave her a deep connection to her heritage and an appreciation for diversity.
At just 15, Raven moved to the U.S. as an international student—a pivotal moment that would ultimately shape her path. While her journey brought her to America, it also came with challenges. “The biggest challenge I’ve overcome in life was coming to America on my own at the age of 15,” she explains. “I barely spoke English and struggled to understand the American way of life.” Yet, with determination and resilience, she navigated her new world, learning valuable life lessons along the way. Her host family in the U.S. became a source of inspiration and support, encouraging her
to pursue college on the West Coast, where she eventually earned her degree in accounting from San Jose State University.
While working at a Big 4 accounting firm and later as a consulting manager for a national firm, Raven achieved professional success, but her heart was drawn elsewhere. Real estate had always been a quiet passion, a calling she could no longer ignore. In the spring of 2021, she made the leap, leaving behind her corporate career and embracing the world of real estate full-time. “It was a bold move,” she says, but one that felt right. “I wanted to help everyday people—like Susie and Joe—achieve financial independence, and real estate gave me the opportunity to do that in a much more meaningful way.”
Photos by: Vanessa Corral Photography
Raven’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. In just four years, she has earned recognition as a top-performing REALTOR®, receiving awards like Rookie of the Year in the Dallas market and the prestigious 30 Under 30 Coldwell Banker Global Award that is chosen out of 96,000 agents worldwide. But her achievements go beyond accolades. For Raven, real estate is about empowerment— helping her clients navigate the complexities of the housing market and build lasting wealth. “I’m deeply passionate about educating my clients and network on the exciting growth happening in Dallas,” she shares.
“My goal is to empower them to build wealth and preserve their financial legacies for generations to come.”
Dallas, in particular, holds a special place in Raven’s heart. After relocating from California with her husband, she fell in love with the city’s potential. “I refer to Dallas as a ‘unicorn,’” she says. “It’s one of the few markets where home prices are still below $400,000, yet offer significant potential for appreciation, equity growth, and cash flow.” This belief in Dallas’ future has driven her to not only grow her business but also build her personal real estate portfolio. “Since moving to Dallas, we have successfully acquired at least one rental property each year,” she notes.
What sets Raven apart from other agents is her personal approach to her work. She’s not just in it for the transaction; she’s in it for the long haul. “One of my business mottos is ‘where clients become friends and family,’” she says. Raven is committed to forming lifelong relationships with her clients, offering guidance well beyond closing day. “I love sharing what I’ve learned to help my clients reach their next milestones and achieve greater success.”
Her passion for real estate extends beyond just buying and selling homes. Raven thrives in negotiations,
“I’ve never met someone with as much hustle and humility as Raven Mok. She makes zero excuses and is one of the hardestworking people I know. Her ability to navigate tough situations with such grace is an amazing thing to watch. She inspires me every day to be a better leader inside our Girls With Grit community. It’s agents like her that keep me hopeful for our industry’s future.”
— Lauren Rocco, Colleague
leveraging her consulting experience to secure the best deals for her clients. “Negotiating is where I truly shine,” she admits. Whether it’s building strong relationships with builders or applying her analytical skills to pre-owned home transactions, Raven knows how to create value for those she serves.
Success, to Raven, is more than just a career milestone. It’s about balance and making a difference. “Success is not quantifiable; rather, it is a state of mind,” she says. As a wife, mother, daughter, and REALTOR®, she strives to excel in all areas, believing that her roles have been divinely prepared for her. “It’s a beautiful experience to feel empowered and to empower others through my daily routine and mentality.”
Looking ahead, Raven has big goals. In addition to growing her own real estate portfolio, she aims to help 100 people achieve their real estate dreams this year. She also has a personal goal that speaks to her deep sense of family— purchasing a home for her parents so they can be closer to her growing family. Speaking of family, Raven beams when talking about her daughter, Adelyn, and her excitement about welcoming another baby girl in early 2025.
For Raven, real estate is more than a career; it’s a platform to give back, to build community, and to inspire others. She’s been through her share of challenges—moving over 13 times and even experiencing homelessness—but her journey has only made her stronger and more determined to help others. “I want to be remembered for the knowledge and support I’ve provided to my family, clients, and friends,” she says. Just as her host family helped her during her toughest times, Raven aspires to pay it forward, transforming lives through her work in real estate.
As Dallas continues to grow and evolve, Raven Mok is poised to make an even greater impact, both in her clients’ lives and in the community she now calls home.
Submitted by: Collin County Area REALTORS®
CONSUMER GUIDES PROVIDE CLARITY TO CLIENTS
Collin County Area Realtors (CCAR) introduced its members to a continuing series of National Association of REALTORS® consumer resources designed to help agents who are REALTORS® empower home buyers and sellers following recent practice changes. To date, NAR has published eight installments in the series and will continue to release new resources in the weeks ahead.
“Educating consumers on the home buying and selling process has always been job number one for REALTORS® across the county. Now, we have new resources on key topics that consumers can digest at their own pace,” said Jamuna Thill, CCAR President, “I hope the public finds these helpful, and if they still have questions, Collin County Realtors is here to help.”
The following guides are currently available—in English and Spanish—on facts.realtor: Why am I being asked to sign a written buyer agreement?: Covers recent practice changes when it comes to working with a real estate professional as a home buyer. Open houses and written agreements: Covers what buyers need to know about touring homes, attending open houses and when a written buyer agreement is needed.
REALTORS®’ duty to put client interests above their own:
Covers NAR’s Code of Ethics that all agents who are REALTORS® must follow and their ethical duties to act in their client’s best interests. What veterans need to know about buying a home: Covers what NAR is doing to promote access to financing for veterans and highlights the options
available to veteran buyers in their homebuying process.
Offers of compensation: Covers the process and options available for offering compensation to a buyer’s agent and the reasons why this may be a compelling option for sellers to consider when marketing their property.
Negotiating written buyer agreements: Covers what home buyers should expect when negotiating a written buyer agreement with an agent who is a REALTOR®. Seller concessions: Covers the process and options if home sellers choose to offer concessions to attract buyers or close a deal.
Multiple Listing Services: Covers what an MLS is and how it aids in the homebuying and home selling process.
NOTE: Check facts.realtor for the latest resources
“At the heart of what we do as REALTORS®—who abide by a strict code of ethics – is protect and promote the interests of our clients,” said Kevin Sears, President of the National Association of REALTORS®.
“We are committed to making the process of buying or selling a home as transparent and seamless as possible for clients, and this new series of guides provides an exceptionally clear roadmap for the process of working with an agent who is a REALTOR®.”
For more information and the latest consumer resources, please visit facts.realtor.
celebrating leaders
Written by: Katherine H. Fondrenn
Photos by: Scott Peek Photography, LLC
Deep Connections Tonja Demaret
For Tonja Demaret, real estate means more than transactions and sales— it’s about the connections made, the lives touched, and the growth she’s fostered over the years. As the Plano and Flower Mound sales manager for Coldwell Banker Apex Realtors, Tonja’s 21-year journey in the industry is a story of passion, perseverance, and love for both family and community.
Tonja’s life has been shaped by unique experiences, starting from her childhood as part of a military family. “My dad served and retired as a commander in the Navy,” she shares, describing the many different coasts she lived on and her time overseas. Among her most formative memories are the years spent in Subic Bay, in the Philippine Islands. “It was an amazing experience to live with a culture such as
that, one I will never forget. I know it shaped me,” Tonja reflects.
After spending her teenage years in Corpus Christi, Texas, Tonja’s life took a new turn when she met her husband, Charlie. Together, they started their family, raising their two children, Allie and Christian. Tonja’s first professional path was as a social worker, where she spent years helping adolescents and young adults through the challenges of addiction. Though deeply rewarding, the emotional toll of the work led her to take a step back after becoming a mother.
Her husband’s career with Cisco Systems eventually brought the family to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It was here, while raising her children and looking for homes, that Tonja found her new calling in real estate.
In 2003, she took the leap into what would become a lifelong passion.
As an agent and a leader Tonja’s success in the business has been driven by her deep connections with clients and colleagues. “Those relationships,” she says, “are what have made this career the most rewarding. “Being a small part of each other’s lives shapes us and makes differences. In real estate we have a unique opportunity to enter into people’s worlds and make a positive difference over and over. How amazing is that?
These relationships have become her passion and now lie in her role as a leader at Coldwell Banker Apex. “I love and respect this role and serving here for the past 7 years has been awe inspiring. That opportunity I mentioned earlier means helping our agents find their true level of success however that looks, mastering it and then finding that balance and consistency they need to either grow their business or personally. That often brings the reward, and I love helping them celebrate those.
The sense of fulfillment she gains from witnessing their achievements is palpable. Her dedication extends to the brokerage itself, and she speaks highly of the leadership and vision that drive Coldwell Banker Apex.
“This company creates passion, maybe that is why I feel it and project it so strongly here,” she adds.
Being in this profession for so many years, Tonja has navigated the ever-changing real estate market, from high-interest rates to housing crises—she has emerged stronger. “If you made it through those times, then you are a well-rounded, patient, loyal, and a much more confident REALTOR®,”
she shares. Her experiences have not only made her a seasoned professional but have also allowed her to guide others through the inevitable ups and downs of our industry.
Family and fun remains at the heart of everything Tonja does. Her husband, Charlie, has been her steadfast partner for over 32 years, he is the love of her life. Their children Allie and Christian, are her pride and joy.
Today, she and Charlie are “Lolli and PopPop” to their grandson, Lucas, and she lightheartedly jokes about “interviewing girlfriends” for her son, Christian. “Lolli needs more grand babies,” she laughs.
Outside of real estate, Tonja and Charlie love the outdoors. They enjoy hiking with their dog, traveling. They have traveled extensively, with plans for another trip to Hawaii this holiday season. A fun fact, Tonja loves shooting competitively and enjoys tactical training with her women’s shooting league. You can often catch her out on the range.
When asked about what she hopes to be remembered for, Tonja’s answer is simple yet profound: “That I was genuine, kind, and honest. I hope my memory makes them smile.” These qualities have been the foundation of her success, not just in real estate but in life. To Tonja, success is not measured by numbers or accolades but by contentment., “You have succeeded if you are completely satisfied with what you have and do not yearn for more or believe you could have done it better. “she states.
Looking forward, Tonja’s goals remain lofty. “I plan to continue pouring into my agents where I can. To grow my offices with those who are like-minded,” she says. For her, it’s all about fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and feel supported, just as she has been.
As the Dallas-Fort Worth area continues to grow, Tonja is confident in its future. “DFW always thrives. This is the place to work and to live. I see us continuing to grow despite the national market.” With her keen insight, unwavering dedication, and genuine passion for helping others, Tonja Demaret is not only successful but a model of leadership in the North Dallas real estate community.
“IN REAL ESTATE WE HAVE A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO ENTER INTO PEOPLE’S WORLDS AND MAKE A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE OVER AND OVER. HOW AMAZING IS THAT?”
