FORT WORTH
Joseph Berkes COMMITTED
SEAN HASSARD: Thriving EMILY PRESTON: #OpenHouseQueen JEREMY HOFFMAN: True Grit WILLIAM ADAMS WITH ADAMS MORTGAGE GROUP & GUILD MORTGAGE: Building Futures For Families
PHOTO BY: KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
JANUARY 2025
2 • January 2025
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Contents IN THIS ISSUE 6 8 10 12 16
Meet The Team Preferred Partners Publisher’s Note: Welcome to 2025! Rising Star: Sean Hassard Vetted Business Spotlight: Adams Mortgage Group 22 Cover Story: Joseph Berkes 26 Agent Spotlight: Emily Preston 30 Broker Spotlight: Jeremy Hoffman
22 Joseph Berkes
COVER STORY
If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at lance.dunahoe@realproducersmag.com.
Fort Worth Real Producers • 5
Meet The Team
Have an Idea?
Jordan Espeseth Co-Owner/Founder
Lance Dunahoe Co-Owner
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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.
6 • January 2025
Fort Worth Real Producers • 7
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!
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Fort Worth Real Producers • 9
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Welcome to
2025! The calendars have flipped, the confetti has been swept away, and here we are, standing at the starting line of a brand-new year. There’s something undeniably magical about January. It’s the month where optimism runs high, where planners are filled with fresh goals, and where we truly believe—if only for a moment—that this is the year we’re going to crush it. I love the energy that comes with the new year. Everyone seems to walk a little taller, talk a little bigger, and dream a little bolder. Gym memberships spike, “eat better” Pinterest boards light up, and words like “hustle” and “focus” seem to pepper every conversation. But as inspiring as this season is, there’s one thing I’ve learned time and again: optimism alone won’t move the needle. Resolutions, no matter how wellmeaning, won’t mean much without action. The truth is that change only happens when we get intentional—when we decide that this year will be different and commit to the steps that make it so. Whether it’s waking up earlier, showing up for that 6 a.m. workout, or saying “no” to distractions so you can say “yes” to your dreams, the results won’t come without the work. It’s not always glamorous, and it rarely feels Instagram-worthy, but it’s in those small, consistent actions where real transformation begins. For me, 2025 is undoubtedly going to be a year of growth and transformation! I am writing this note on December 9th, 2024, but by the time the January issue hits mailboxes, I will officially be stepping into my newest and most important lifetime role: fatherhood. She isn’t here quite yet, but she has already stolen my heart! (and soon my sleep, too, I hear). So, as we dive into January, I encourage you to embrace both the excitement of a new year and the responsibility it brings. Dream big, but don’t stop there. Make a plan. Take the steps. Trust the process. The life you want in December 2025 will be shaped by what you do today, tomorrow, and every ordinary day that follows. Let’s make this the year we turn optimism into action, resolutions into realities, and dreams into destinations. Here’s to a year of progress, persistence, and maybe a little more caffeine (because I know I’ll need it). PS: The updated 2025 RP Top Agents (based on 2024 MLS production) will be announced any day now! Keep your eyes on your email and text inboxes. We are rooting for you! Cheers to a bold and beautiful 2025!
Jordan Espeseth DFW Real Producers Founder/Co-owner
10 • January 2025
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RISING STAR
Sean Hassard THRIVING WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY: KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
S
tepping into the fast-paced world of Fort Worth real estate wasn’t the easiest transition for Sean Hassard, but it’s one he made with conviction. At just 28, Sean may be considered young by industry standards, yet his journey is anything but conventional. Growing up on a farm in Nemo, Texas, Sean cultivated an early sense of responsibility and a work ethic that would later set him apart. “From the beginning, I’ve had to work hard to be where I am, and I enjoy every bit of it,” he says, reflecting on his path.
From Farm Life to the City In 2003, Sean’s family moved from their rural hometown to the DFW area. Sean graduated from Trinity High School in Euless and quickly immersed himself in the working world, taking up roles that challenged and pushed him. “I managed a sleep apnea medical facility, ran the inventory for 17 locations across Texas, and even started my own business—a tool store called I’m Working on It - Tool Store and More!,” he recalls. These experiences taught him the 12 • January 2025
importance of versatility and provided him with a foundation of skills that would later prove invaluable in his real estate career. But even as he pursued these varied interests, Sean always knew that he was meant for more. He went on to earn a pilot’s license, flirting with the idea of a career in aviation. Yet it was real estate that ultimately won his heart. “I got my license in 2019, and since then, it’s been full throttle,” he says with a grin.
Building a Career with Purpose In an industry that often demands more than it gives, Sean has found deep satisfaction in the relationships he’s built with clients. “Hearing stories from past clients and forming friendships along the way—that’s what makes this job worthwhile,” he explains. His clients often mention his accessibility and his willingness to go above and beyond. “I’m available at all hours, and I’ll pick up the phone at just about any time,” he adds, underscoring the dedication he brings to his role.
Though his commitment to clients is unwavering, staying organized has been one of the toughest aspects of real estate. “Keeping everything in order is challenging, but it has the biggest benefit,” Sean shares. His determination to overcome these organizational challenges and deliver for his clients speaks to his philosophy on success. “To me, success isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving,” he says. For Sean, success is feeling fulfilled in all areas: “It’s about health, happiness, and constantly learning.”
Thriving Through Hardship Despite his ambition and work ethic, Sean has faced his share of obstacles.
One of his most significant challenges has been proving himself in a field where experience often trumps youth. “Looking young has its drawbacks in real estate,” Sean admits. “But I always tell clients, I may look young, but I absolutely know what I’m doing in this world.” His persistence has paid off: as a Master Diamond Agent and the number three agent in Fort Worth at Century 21 Judge Fite, Sean’s record speaks volumes. This year, Sean set his sights on surpassing his achievements from 2023. Although interest rate hikes and market challenges have presented hurdles, he’s determined to adapt and continue growing his production. Sean attributes
much of his resilience to the best advice he’s ever received: “Always be learning,” a piece of wisdom from Jim Fite, a mentor who helped shape his approach to real estate.
“Always be learning.”
Life Beyond the Business Outside of work, Sean’s life is rich with interests that reflect his hands-on spirit. He spends his free time on DIY remodeling projects, often welding or crafting cabinets around his own home. His love for working with his hands extends to caring for his two dogs, Charlie and Annabelle, and participating in a local bowling league. “I love learning new skills,” he says, “it keeps life interesting.” Sean’s close connection to his family is also central to his life. A deeply personal aspect of his journey is the care he provides for his father, who lives with dementia, early-onset Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. “He moved in with me, and I’ve been taking care of him,” Sean shares. For Sean, family is both a driving force and a grounding presence, motivating him to build a strong legacy and secure a future that offers him the freedom to be there for those he loves.
A Vision for the Future As he looks ahead, Sean’s dreams aren’t limited to immediate gains. He has a long-term vision of building a retirement through investment properties. “Every rental property I buy becomes another piece of my retirement puzzle,” he explains, viewing real estate not only as a career but as a pathway to financial freedom. Sean also envisions a bright future for DFW, Fort Worth Real Producers • 13
which he sees as a hub of growth and opportunity over the next decade. “DFW is growing at an exponential rate,” he says with enthusiasm. “I see the trend continuing with businesses moving here and urban sprawl pushing outward.” For Sean, DFW represents a land of opportunity, a place where he can grow his business, meet new people, and achieve his goals. “My advice to anyone coming up in this field is to stay teachable,” he says. “The lifeblood of this business is people, and if you treat them properly, your business will continue to prosper.”
Leaving a Legacy When asked what he wants to be remembered for, Sean’s answer is simple yet profound: integrity. He hopes to be known as someone who values honesty, respects his clients, and remains committed to lifelong learning. “Real estate is a journey, and I want to leave a mark not just in numbers but in the lives I’ve touched,” he reflects. As a young man who started his career on the farm and now navigates the busy market of Fort Worth, Sean Hassard embodies ambition, persistence, and heart. From long hours spent with clients to evenings welding in his workshop, Sean’s story is one of grit, passion, and a steadfast belief in the power of hard work. “Real estate isn’t just my career,” he says with conviction. “It’s my calling, and I’m grateful every day to be a part of it.”
14 • January 2025
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RP VETTED BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
“WE’RE HERE TO ENSURE THAT OUR CLIENTS DON’T JUST BUY A HOUSE—THEY BUILD A FUTURE AND ACHIEVE THEIR LONG-TERM FINANCIAL GOALS.”
16 • January 2025
futures Building
for
FAMILIES
William Adams with Adams Mortgage Group & Guild Mortgage WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY: KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
W
illiam Adams didn’t set out to become a mortgage advisor, but life has a way of illuminating the perfect path when you’re ready to see it. Born and raised in Tyler, Texas, William grew up learning the value of integrity and service from his parents. His early years instilled a sense of purpose that would become the cornerstone of his career, though he never imagined how this foundation would influence his journey in the mortgage industry. After earning a finance degree from the University of Georgia - Terry College of Business (Go Dawgs!), William cut his teeth in roles that honed his leadership skills–teaching teams to serve others. He completed the Aldi Grocery Management Leadership Program and later became the chief operating officer of a manufacturing business. Yet something still felt like it was missing. William wanted to use his leadership skills in a role that was local, finance-based, where he could truly make an impact in other’s personal lives. It wasn’t until he and his wife, Shannon, were
buying a home in Fort Worth that inspiration struck. “We realized how monumental real estate can be—not just as a place to create home and memories, but as a tool for building long-term wealth and stability,” William shares. That epiphany, combined with his love for finance and serving others, ignited a passion for mortgage advising. In 2016, William took a leap of faith into mortgage lending, starting his career with the resolve to make an impact in each client’s life and treat every client like family. “When done correctly, mortgage lending is so much more than a transaction—it’s about transforming lives and helping create legacies,” he explains. His approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique vision and financial goals, aiming to guide them beyond just buying a home to strategically building wealth for the long term. This ethos would later become a defining characteristic of the brand he would build. In 2024, after almost a decade in the mortgage industry and establishing himself as a top 1% loan Fort Worth Real Producers • 17
originator nationally, William took the next step in his career by founding Adams Mortgage Group. Backed by the power of Guild Mortgage, a leader in real estate financing since 1960, William set out to offer something rare in the industry: a bespoke blend of white glove service, deep local market expertise, and the products and technology of a national powerhouse. “We approach every mortgage like a fun strategic puzzle,” William notes. “Our goal is to tailor home financing to each client’s evolving needs, helping them succeed and create a legacy.” Authenticity, integrity and a commitment to one-of-a-kind mortgage service form the backbone of Adams Mortgage Group. It’s a philosophy that isn’t just talked about but actively perfected. “We don’t just care about your loan; we care about your life,” William emphasizes, echoing the company’s tagline. This mantra has guided the company’s approach to client relationships and partnerships with real estate agents. The team’s dedication to exceeding each and every expectation is evident in the referrals that continue to drive their business. “Referrals are our lifeblood,” he admits. “It’s a testament to
18 • January 2025
the trust we’ve earned, and that trust is sacred to us.” William’s leadership is also marked by radical accountability. “We do what we say we’ll do, without fail,” he asserts. It’s not just about honoring commitments; it’s about making things happen and, when needed, making things right. This level of responsibility has built a reputation for being servanthearted, accountable, and honest, traits that are sorely needed in the mortgage industry. For William, it’s about more than closing a deal; it’s about empowering people to make the best financial decisions for their future. “We’re lifelong advisors,” he explains. “The relationship doesn’t end at the closing table. We’re here to support our clients as they grow and change. We are demonstrating that with our financial education and client appreciation programs.” The ethos of Adams Mortgage Group extends to the team itself. William works alongside a close-knit group of very experienced professionals who share his values. His wife, Shannon, serves as the marketing director, while Kasha Parenteau and Thomas Farmer provide expert loan assistance and processing–alongside their local underwriting, product, closing, and servicing team leads. “Our team is our family,” William says with pride. “And just like we show up for each other, we’re showing up in our clients’ corner for life.” Outside of work, William is a devoted husband and “boy dad” to Bear, age 6, and twins Walter and Pierson, age 3. The Adams family loves sports, travel, and
Photo by: Jason Kindig for The Scout Guide
community involvement. “Our family is our inspiration,” William reflects. “It’s why we’re so committed to helping others achieve their real estate goals.” This personal connection to his clients’ experiences adds a layer of authenticity to everything William and his team do. “We are a local family business obsessed with serving local families well,” he adds. For REALTORS® and real estate businesses, Adams Mortgage Group offers much more than just financing. They provide a partnership that elevates their partners’ businesses and the home-buying experience. “Our REALTOR® partners know that their success is deeply important to us and an indicator of our own success—we’re in this together,” William shares. “We’re invested in their clients’ outcomes and offer customized resources such as co-marketing, technology, and education to help them become market authorities and achieve THEIR goals.”
The competitive edge of Adams Mortgage Group lies not only in their whiteglove service, on-time/ on-budget closings, and all 5-star ratings, but also in their ability to adapt to clients’ long-term needs. This forward-thinking approach, paired with an unwavering sense of responsibility, sets them apart. “Buying a home should be an empowering experience,” William says. “We’re here to ensure that our clients don’t just buy a house—they build a future and achieve their long-term financial goals.” William Adams’ journey from Tyler, Texas, to the top of the mortgage world in DFW is one of passion, integrity, and service. It’s a story about the power of aligning one’s work with deeper values and passion. As he puts it, “At the end of the day, it’s about making an impact— one home, one family, one legacy at a time.” And with Adams Mortgage Group, that impact is poised to grow, transforming not just homes but entire communities.
Arlington Burleson Ft. Worth
Fort Worth Real Producers • 19
20 • January 2025
Fort Worth Real Producers • 21
COVER STORY
JOSEPH B E R K E S
Committed WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY: KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
22 • January 2025
T
here’s a REALTOR® in Fort Worth who embodies where heritage and growth meet. Joseph Berkes, a name synonymous with excellence in the city’s real estate scene, is not just a real estate agent; he’s a proud Fort Worth native with a lifelong passion for his hometown. As a REALTOR® with Williams Trew Real Estate and the head of the Joseph Berkes Group, a sevenperson team, Joseph’s story intertwines the threads of family, commitment, and an undeniable love for his community. Growing up in Fort Worth, Joseph’s roots run deep. He graduated from Arlington Heights High School, and it was during those formative years that he discovered his calling in real estate. “My mom was a REALTOR®, and I started working for her in high school,” Joseph shared, his voice carrying a touch of nostalgia. The path he started as a teenager, helping his mom and Martha Williams deliver for sale and sold yard signs, laid the foundation for a career that has now spanned over 26 years. Joseph officially got his license in 2001, and since then, his connection to Fort Worth has only deepened. Ask him about his favorite part of being a REALTOR®, and he doesn’t hesitate: “I love the connections I make with clients, many of whom become lifelong friends.” It’s not just about buying and selling houses for Joseph; it’s about the relationships he builds and the stories he becomes a part of. With a career volume that’s still growing, last year alone saw his team achieving an impressive $107 million in total volume, 40% of which came from off-market transactions. This success is
indicative of the strategic and collaborative approach his team and Williams Trew takes. “Our team stands out for our strong emphasis on off-market opportunities and our collaborative approach. We leverage our extensive local network and a commitment to excellence in every transaction,” he explained. It’s this dedication that has earned the Joseph Berkes Group the title of the number two medium real estate team in Fort Worth. But for all his accomplishments, Joseph is quick to point out that his work is not without its challenges. Balancing a booming career with family life remains one of his greatest hurdles. “Balancing career and family life has been challenging, but it’s also a priority. Claire and I work hard to be present parents while growing our real estate business,” he said. Claire, his wife and partner, plays a crucial role in their real estate endeavor, managing the marketing side of their business. Together, they’re raising three wonderful children: Annie, 11; Elizabeth, 9; and Joseph, 7, in the Crestwood neighborhood. Their family’s connection to Fort Worth is undeniable, extending even to Fort Worth Country Day, where their children attend school and where Joseph serves on the Board of Trustees. Joseph’s life outside real estate is just as rich. His community involvement is extensive, with roles like founding member of the Blue Peaks Giving Circle at Cook Children’s Medical Center and participation in the Jewel Charity Ball. He also plays an active part in the Advancement Committee and The Lower School Campaign Committee at Fort Worth Country Day. These roles
Fort Worth Real Producers • 23
aren’t just titles; they’re a reflection of his belief in giving back to the community that has given so much to him. One of Joseph’s guiding principles in business is to never stop learning and to always value genuine relationships. “Stay committed to your clients, always keep learning, and never underestimate the value of building genuine relationships. Consistency and dedication go a long way,” he advises upand-coming real estate professionals. His commitment to excellence is evident in his daily routine; if he’s not out showing properties, you’ll find him at the office from 9 to 5, Monday through Friday. When asked how he defines success, Joseph’s answer is simple yet profound. “Success is about delivering exceptional service and leaving a positive impact on people’s lives, both in business and through community involvement,” he said. This philosophy isn’t just a tagline; it’s a way of life for him, one that drives him to continually strive for excellence. For all his professional achievements, Joseph is remarkably down-to-earth. He describes himself as “very laid-back,” and despite his busy schedule, he always makes time for what matters most: family and community. His dreams and goals for the future remain ambitious, but they are firmly rooted in the belief that Fort Worth’s best days are still ahead. “Fort Worth still has a small-town feel with big city vibes,” he said, reflecting his excitement for the city’s continued growth over the next 5 to 10 years. From the teenager who helped his mom with yard signs to the respected REALTOR® leading one of Fort Worth’s top teams, Joseph’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and deep community ties. It’s a narrative that continues to evolve, always with an eye toward making Fort Worth not just a place to live but a place to call home.
SUCCESS is
about delivering exceptional service and leaving a positive impact on people’s lives.”
24 • January 2025
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Emily AGENT SPOTLIGHT
Preston
#OpenHouseQueen WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY: KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
26 • January 2025
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mily Preston’s story is marked by perseverance, passion, and the power of doing what others won’t. A Fort Worth native with deep roots in her community, Emily has built a thriving career in real estate over the past seven years, transforming challenges into stepping stones and creating a legacy defined by hard work and success. “I’ve always been blessed,” Emily shares, reflecting on her childhood in Crowley, Texas, where she graduated high school in 1993. “I had wonderful, loving parents and grandparents who shaped me into who I am today.” Her tight-knit circle of lifelong friends
remains a cornerstone of her life, illustrating the value she places on relationships—a quality that has carried over into her real estate career.
Building a Career from Scratch Emily launched her career in real estate in 2018, but her entrepreneurial spirit was evident long before. For over a decade, she ran her own promotional products business, honing skills in client relations and selfdiscipline. These skills became the foundation of her real estate approach. “When I started, I knew I had to do what most REALTORS® don’t—or won’t—do,” Emily explains. “That meant open houses, and lots of them. For seven years now, I’ve done two to three open houses every weekend without fail.” Her commitment to this grassroots strategy has earned her the title of #OpenHouseQueen, a badge she wears with pride. Emily’s success has been fueled by her refusal to rely on shortcuts. “I’ve never paid for a single lead,” she emphasizes. “It’s about building relationships and putting in the work—weekends, evenings, holidays. That’s how you rise to the top.”
Overcoming Fear and Defining Success Despite her achievements, Emily admits that fear of failure was her biggest obstacle. “Starting something new is terrifying, especially when you’re a single mom trying to provide for your family,” she shares. But her determination outweighed her fears, and real estate has become more than just a career— it’s a vehicle for her dreams. “Real estate has allowed me and my girls to travel multiple times a year,” she says with a smile. “We’re huge Disney fans. Every year, we make it a priority to go to Disney World and take a Disney cruise. Those moments together are priceless.” For Emily, success is multifaceted. “It’s helping others achieve their dreams, like firsttime homebuyers or veterans finally owning a home. It’s being financially independent and giving my daughters, Maddie and Kinlee, a life full of opportunities. It’s traveling the globe with my boyfriend, Brent, and creating memories that last a lifetime.”
Fort Worth Real Producers • 27
it all worth it,” she says. “Seeing someone’s dream come true because of your efforts is incredibly rewarding.” Emily’s work ethic hasn’t gone unnoticed. She’s been recognized as a top producer by Stryve Realty and featured among the top 1% of REALTORS® in the Fort Worth area. In 2023 alone, she achieved $18 million in career volume, exemplifying her relentless drive.
Lessons for Aspiring Agents When asked what advice she would give to aspiring REALTORS®, Emily is straightforward: “Don’t ever stop working. Good old-fashioned work ethic trumps everything.” She credits her first broker, Alexander Chandler, for one piece of advice that has stuck with her: “Most agents stop working between Halloween and January 1. Keep working during that time, and you’ll set yourself apart.” This mindset is one of the reasons Emily stands out in a competitive field. “Anyone can be successful in real estate,” she says. “But you have to be willing to do the hard things, the things most people shy away from. That’s what makes the difference.”
Looking Ahead
“Seeing someone’s dream come true because of your efforts is
incredibly rewarding.”
28 • January 2025
Passion and Purpose Emily’s passion for real estate is evident in every aspect of her work. She thrives on meeting people from all walks of life and helping them achieve the American Dream. “There’s no better feeling than handing someone the keys to their new home,” she says. Her dedication extends to working with single parents, veterans, and first-time buyers. “These are the moments that make
As Emily looks to the future, her goals remain ambitious yet grounded. She aims to surpass $10 million in sales this year while continuing to build meaningful relationships with her clients. She also sees a bright future for the Fort Worth area. “It’s laid-back and still has that good ol’ boy network charm,” she says. “In the next 5–10 years, I see Fort Worth remaining one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.” Emily’s journey is a shining example of what’s possible with hard work, authenticity, and a refusal to give up. Whether she’s hosting an open house, guiding first-time buyers, or taking her daughters on their next Disney adventure, Emily Preston is making her mark. “I want to be remembered for my dedication and impact,” she says. “At the end of the day, it’s about helping others and leaving a legacy my girls can be proud of.”
Fort Worth Real Producers • 29
JeremyHoffman BROKER SPOTLIGHT
True Grit
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WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY: KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
rowing up in rural Northeast Texas, Jeremy Hoffman’s life was centered around horses and sports. His parents—a farrier and a daycare teacher—instilled a work ethic in him that guided him through a journey many would call unconventional. He graduated from Daingerfield High School in a class of just over 100 students, and in those early days, he couldn’t have predicted the path that awaited him. “I became a father at an early age,” Jeremy recalls. The responsibility of fatherhood prompted him to leave college and dive headfirst into the workforce. He’s candid about his past, calling himself “a man of 100 careers.” His journey spanned maintenance and operations, with roles like operations manager of Hulen and Ridmar Mall,
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and branched into entrepreneurial ventures like landscaping and construction. “I had to make it work,” he says. This relentless drive laid the foundation for his eventual success. Real estate wasn’t initially on his radar. Thirteen years ago, he entered the field with the modest intent of supplementing his income. But what started as a part-time gig ignited a passion that would become his life’s work. “It quickly became my passion and life’s work,” Jeremy says. His energy and commitment to the profession radiate in every conversation, especially when he speaks of the changes he believes the industry desperately needs. One of Jeremy’s core missions is to challenge the conventional norms of real estate and combat the negative stigmas that plague the field. “My
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passion now is building REALTORS® with a new outlook and mindset,” he shares. Jeremy is devoted to pushing agents to embrace change as an opportunity, rather than a hurdle. “The time is now,” he declares, emphasizing the need to move beyond outdated methods. This vision is evident in his brokerage, Peak Realty and Associates, which he built on the creed, “What is best for your family is best for mine.” To Jeremy, real estate is more than transactions; it’s a platform for transformative impact. The early days of his real estate career were anything but easy. Jeremy didn’t have an established network of homebuyers or sellers, nor did he enjoy the connections many new agents possess. “My immediate network were not homebuyers or sellers when I started, and the people that were saw me as a bluecollar landscape/construction guy,” he explains. His journey required grit and an unwavering commitment to earning trust in a field where reputation is everything. He credits his success to humility, authenticity, and listening. “I didn’t have the prom king/queen popular start a lot of REALTORS® do. I had to grind.” What makes Jeremy different from other agents is his focus on his clients. “I truly do not think about the commission until I’ve achieved the clients’ goals,” he says. His business approach is rooted in selflessness, ensuring that clients are presented with every option available. This perspective has not only fueled his career but also earned him lasting relationships. “Hundreds of clients are now family or friends. That is the number that matters to me.” Jeremy’s love for helping others isn’t limited to transactions. He relishes the moment when a first-time homebuyer, full of nerves and excitement, gets the keys to their new home. But what stands out to him even more are the stories that come full circle. “Helping someone purchase a home that three to five years later leverages them into their dream home is better,” he reflects. His proudest moment came when he assisted a firsttime homebuyer who was the first in his entire family to own a home. “Now, we have three generations of homeowners within that family,” Jeremy says, beaming with pride. 32 • January 2025
“Success is waking up & truly loving what you do.”
Balancing a bustling career and a vibrant family life isn’t simple, but Jeremy makes it work. He and his partner, Jennifer, have built a modernday Brady Bunch with their six children, daughter and son-in-law, and four grandsons. “Jennifer and I combined families eight years ago,” he shares, noting how they wrap their lives around their children’s events, family dinners, and shared moments. When he’s not working, you might find Jeremy bow hunting, working out, or jumping off cliffs into water—yes, really. “I love jumping off rocks, cliffs, anything high into water,” he admits with a laugh. Jeremy’s journey is full of lessons, but one stands out. Early in his real estate career, a top new home sales representative shared the strengths and weaknesses of her most successful agents. “I took a piece of all of them and built my business,” he says. That representative would later become his
partner in life, a twist in his story that feels destined. Looking ahead, Jeremy has no plans of slowing down. His goals include growing his brokerage and adapting to the evolving landscape of real estate. “We need to find innovative and productive solutions to the legal changes,” he emphasizes. His focus on pushing the industry forward remains strong, and he dreams of seeing 20 more REALTORS® from his brokerage excel and grow. Jeremy Hoffman’s story is one of resilience, heart, and a relentless commitment to serving others. “Success,” he says, “is waking up and truly loving what you do, who you do it with, and how you do it.” In an industry that often faces skepticism, Jeremy is a prime example of passion and authenticity. He’s not just in real estate; he’s in the business of changing lives, one home— and one relationship—at a time.
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