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
Missy Kremer Editor
Vanessa Corral Photographer
Julie Altemus Dallas Executive Director
Katherine Fondren Content Coordinator
Rick Davis Videographer Scott Peek Photographer
Jessica Espeseth Social Media Director
Lance Dunahoe Co-Owner
Lanie Schaber Ad Strategist
Beth Graeme Photographer
YOUR NORTH DALLAS REAL PRODUCERS BADGES
It’s a new year, and at Real Producers, that means we are welcoming the 2025 Top 500 to our RP community! Whether you have made the list each year or if this is your first time, congratulations! You will now have your own badge to use however you’d like to show that you’ve made it a part of this exclusive community of the top 1-2% in real estate! Check your email inbox and texts in late January to find out if you made the list and to find out how to get the most out of earning your spot as a Real Producers Top Agent!
Our RP-vetted businesses 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 in the Top 500 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!
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!
Town & Country Roofing (972) 377-8188 townandcountry roofingdfw.com
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS
REAL ESTATE/ COMMERCIAL PORTRAITS
PICTURE-PERFECT POSSIBILITIES!
240.504.5091
BethGraeme.Photography
Austin Moothart | District Manager
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
Langley
Leading with Heart Thomas
WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS
BY:
VANESSA CORRAL PHOTOGRAPHY
For Thomas Langley, becoming a real estate agent wasn’t just a career change; it was a leap of faith fueled by hard work and a love for people. “I started my career in real estate in 2022 after a conversation with my friend, Bret Bauer,” says Thomas. “He told me I’d be perfect for this industry, and I trusted him.” That decision would spark a new chapter for Thomas, who, after years of working in big companies, found his calling in the intimate, relationship-driven world of real estate.
Growing up in Arlington, TX, with his parents and older sister, Thomas had always been active, particularly on the baseball field, a passion that still holds strong today. “I played baseball at Grace Preparatory Academy, and it’s a sport I’ve loved since I was young,” says Thomas. “Even now, it’s something I’m passionate about.” After high school, he attended Tarrant County College (TCC) and the University of Texas at Arlington, where he continued to develop his sense of community—a trait that would become central to his success in real estate.
Before diving into the real estate world, Thomas worked at UPS (United Parcel Service), where he met Bret, the man who would later guide him into his new career. He also held a senior role at Lockheed Martin and even ran a sports company for two years. However, nothing has compared to the satisfaction he gets from his work as a REALTOR®. “Helping others
with their biggest investment in life—finding a home to create memories with their families—that’s what drives me. It’s incredibly rewarding,” shares Thomas. Though relatively new to the industry, Thomas has quickly made a name for himself. In just over two years, he’s already amassed a career volume of $20.6 million, including an impressive $9.3 million in sales last year alone. But Thomas doesn’t measure his success purely by numbers. “Success is being happy,” he proclaims. “It’s about enjoying life and spending time with the people you love.”
A family man at heart, Thomas credits much of his motivation to his loved ones. He and his wife, Valerie, have been together since they were 17. A chance meeting in Fort Worth during their senior year of high school led to a lifelong partnership. “We married when we were 23, and our kids are the biggest source of pride for us.”
Their son, Jakob, plays high school baseball and excels in his honors classes, while their daughter, Brenna, juggles volleyball, soccer, and cheerleading with her studies. “They both work so hard, and I couldn’t be more proud.” The Langleys are also a very faith-based family who love their church.
Real estate has also given Thomas the flexibility to spend more time with his family—a balance that wasn’t always possible in his previous jobs. “I love that I can take my kids to school and be there for them during the day. Showing them that they can achieve their dreams by working hard is a big goal for me,” Thomas beams.
Still, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Adjusting to the demands of running his own business was a learning curve, as was the 24/7 availability required in the real estate industry. “Coming from big companies, I had to learn
a whole new way of doing business. Communicating with people was the easy part, but learning to manage everything on my own was tough.”
The toughest challenge, though, was personal. Thomas lost his father at the age of 20, a life-altering event that shaped his drive to succeed and make his
family proud. “My family is my motivation to work hard. Losing my dad was really tough, but it gave me the determination to keep pushing forward.”
This determination hasn’t gone unnoticed. Thomas has already earned recognition, including being named “Top Real Estate Producer” by D Magazine
Photo by: Stephanie Villareal Photography
“Thomas is very passionate in life. From his local sports teams to his clients, he fights hard in every situation. This passion has produced a proven track record in real estate. Put him in your corner, and you’ll find success!”
—Bret Bauer, Broker/Owner, The Bauer Group Real Estate
Thomas shares. “It’s an amazing feeling to know you’ve made a difference in someone’s life.”
What sets Thomas apart in the real estate industry isn’t just his work ethic; it’s the relationships he builds along the way. “Many of my clients become good friends. We’ve gone to sporting events together, played golf, and had lunches and dinners. It’s not just about
doing business—it’s about adding more friends,” he says. This genuine connection is what drives his success and ensures that every client feels cared for from start to finish.
Looking ahead, Thomas has ambitious goals for the future. Beyond a milestone in his sales numbers, he wants to be remembered as a “friendly, honest, and hardworking
great husband and dad.”
For those just starting out in the real estate industry, Thomas offers simple yet powerful advice: “Work hard. There will be sacrifices and days when it feels like it’s not worth it, but stay focused. Talk to other REALTORS®, get as much advice as you can, and never give up.”
helping clients find their dream homes, spending time with his family, or pushing himself to new heights in his career. Through hard work, authenticity, and genuine connections, Thomas has built a legacy that will continue to grow in the years to come.
Ready Move In
MOVING MADE SIMPLE
WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY:
VANESSA CORRAL PHOTOGRAPHY
When you’re moving, there’s no shortage of things to juggle—boxes to pack, homes to find, and services to set up. Enter Move In Ready, a company whose mission is to ease the burden of transitioning into a new home by handling all the setup of utilities and home services. Julianne Zamora, the CEO of Move In Ready, and Skyler Gardner, the CFO, lead with passion and purpose, focusing not only on simplifying the moving process but also on creating lasting relationships with real estate agents.
“We are very passionate about building strong relationships with agents and industry professionals,” Julianne begins. “We know how crucial it is for agents to trust the companies they recommend because it reflects directly on their own business. That’s a responsibility we take very seriously.” This sense of accountability is woven into everything their company does, which is why Move In Ready has become a trusted partner to agents throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, and beyond.
A Seamless Transition for Clients
Moving into a new home is exciting, but setting up services can be a
process, updating them on which services have been set
This commitment to the client’s best interests is one of the reasons agents choose to work with Move In Ready repeatedly. For agents, knowing that their clients are in capable, caring hands is invaluable. “We take every referral very seriously. Whether or not it’s profitable for us, we’re committed to ensuring that every
client is treated with the same level of care,” Skyler adds. “That’s what makes us stand out.”
The Heart Behind the Business
Julianne’s dedication stems from her own personal values—faith, family, and a deep commitment to helping others. Born and raised in Austin, she frequently travels to Dallas for business, and her husband’s military career has introduced her family to the joys of moving firsthand. It’s no surprise, then, that she’s passionate about making the process easier for others.
“I attribute my success to my faith and the people who support me,” Julianne reflects. “At the end of the day, my commitment to helping others drives every decision we make as a company. It’s about creating an experience that not only benefits our clients but also enhances the trust agents have in us.”
Beyond the business, Julianne is a devoted wife and mother to two daughters. When she’s not at the helm of Move In Ready, she treasures spending time with her family, often seeking out new activities that engage and challenge her girls. “We’re always looking for things that entertain and enrich their lives,” she says, adding with a smile, “We especially love anything involving water and climbing.”
Skyler was born and raised in Texas and currently lives in the Austin area, but travels to Dallas frequently to visit her family. She has an energetic Husky/German Shepherd mix named Butter and takes him on frequent hikes on all the trails Austin has to offer. She loves reading, traveling, and spending time with friends.
A Team That Delivers
Behind every successful company is a dedicated team, and Move In Ready is no exception. Julianne and Skyler are quick to highlight the people who help
bring her vision to life. “Our team is incredible,” Julianne says proudly. “Skyler, our CFO and co-founder, manages our operations with precision. Emyli Thrasher and Stephanie Rodriguez, two of our top sales consultants, deliver exceptional care to clients, while Ryan Albert oversees the accurate setup of services. And then there’s Tristan Elliott, who ensures that every client has an outstanding experience by handling lastminute requests through our quality assurance department.”
Together, this team embodies the values of trust, transparency, and client care that are at the core of Move In Ready’s mission.
Why Agents Should Take Notice
For real estate agents, partnering with Move In Ready offers more than just a convenience—it’s an opportunity to elevate the service they provide to clients. “We’ve streamlined the process to make it as easy as possible for agents and their clients,” says Julianne. “By working with us, agents get to shine. We make sure their clients save time, money, and stress while the agents receive the credit for going above and beyond.”
Julianne and her team are eager to continue building on their success, expanding their network, and showing more agents just how beneficial their services can be. “Our goal is to introduce as many agents as possible to what we do,” Julianne says. “Once they experience the value we bring, they realize the difference it makes for their clients.”
As Move In Ready continues to grow, one thing remains clear: the company is built on a foundation of strong relationships, unwavering trust, and a deep care for those it serves. “For us, it’s not just about the business,” Julianne concludes. “It’s about the people, and that’s what matters most.”
The worst of the housing inventory shortage is coming to an end, mortgage rates are stabilizing, and job additions are continuing, according to NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun.
Yun analyzed the current state of the U.S. residential real estate market and shared his 20252026 outlook today during the Residential Economic Issues and Trends Forum at 2024 NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience, in Boston, Massachusetts.
“Over the years, you see your past clients doing well because they’re homeowners,” explained Yun. “There’s an intangible value that [REALTORS®] provide.
“2024 has been a very difficult year on many fronts. We did not get the home sales recovery this year after an awful 2023,” he continued.
However, Yun explained that household equity in real estate is at a record high. This means there has been a huge increase in wealth for REALTORS®’ past clients, to the tune of $35 trillion. Yun highlighted the glaring difference in estimated median net worth between homeowners ($415,000) and renters ($10,000) in 2024.
“Homeowners’ wealth steadily rises while renters’ wealth does not,” said Yun. “If you don’t enter the
housing market, you are in the renter class where wealth is not being accumulated. If you want to participate in the housing market, the sooner you get in, the sooner you accumulate wealth.”
Yun also highlighted that the homeownership rate is much lower among younger Americans, and first-time home buyers are having trouble entering the market.
Yun pointed out that US job gains since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) have led to record-high payroll employment as of September 2024.
“When more people work, they have the capacity or they’re in a better position to buy a home,” stated Yun.
Yun explained to the room of REALTORS® that, “Home sales depend mainly on jobs and mortgage rates.”
Regarding whether we are going to see an acceleration of job growth, Yun stated, “The stock market is very optimistic.”
Yun addressed mortgage rates during a second Donald Trump presidency, saying, “Mortgage rates in his first term (at 4%) were the good old days. Are we going to go back to 4%? Per my forecast, unfortunately, we will not. It’s more likely that we’ll go back to 6%. That will be the new normal, bouncing around 5.5%-6.5%.”
Yun said we can expect six to eight more interest rate cuts. He also gave advice to the chair of the Federal Reserve on when to make these cuts: “My advice to Jerome Powell: do it in January, rather than December.”
Yun expects there will be four different rounds of rate cuts in 2025. He also addressed the budget deficit.
“Today, we have a massive budget deficit at a time when we are not in an economic recession,” explained Yun. “Clearly, president-elect Trump will not stop tax cuts—he will extend or expand them.”
Yun added, “There will be less mortgage money available because the government is borrowing so much money. However, if the Trump administration can lay out a credible plan to reduce the budget deficit, then mortgage rates can move downward.”
He also explained that another way to address the budget deficit is to bring down the price of housing.
“We have to have more supply,” said Yun. “Per our advocacy efforts, we’re trying everything we can to boost supply.”
Yun noted that 2023 was difficult for existing home sales, and 2024 looks to be the same. However, he flagged that we did get an increase in pending home sales in September and provided his forecast for existing home sales.
“Maybe the worst is coming to an end,” added Yun. “Directionally, I think there’s going to be roughly a 10% boost of existing-home sales in 2025 and 2026.”
Yun projects new home sales to be 11% higher in 2025 and 8% higher in 2026. Yun forecasts the median home price to be 2% higher in both 2025 and 2026.
& First Rate Financial TawnaCox
MORTGAGES WITH STYLE
In the already crowded mortgage industry in North Dallas, where every loan seems like just another transaction, Tawna Cox stands as a breath of fresh air. As a loan originator with First Rate Financial, Tawna’s approach is anything but routine. When asked to name the top qualities that make her stand out as a loan originator, Tawna jokes, “Oh my goodness, only two?! It’s truly hard to choose, but I’d say what means most to my clients is the time and attention I give them, quality over quantity, and my strong relationships with REALTORS®.”
For nearly nine years, Tawna has dedicated herself to helping clients navigate the complexities of mortgage lending with the same meticulous attention she honed during her years in high-end fashion. Her journey from fashion buyer to mortgage specialist may seem unconventional, but Tawna sees it as part of a bigger plan. “I always thought fashion was where I was meant to be,” she reflects. “But after years of making myself sick with stress over selling an expensive dress, I was determined to find a career that gave me fulfillment in a real way—something I could be
“It’s all about taking the time to listen and hear what clients need,” Tawna explains. “I don’t want them to feel like they’re just a number in the system. The one thing I constantly hear from my borrowers, whether they’re first-time buyers or seasoned homeowners, is that no one has ever taken the time to explain the process like I do. For many lenders, volume and numbers seem to matter more than the borrower’s experience, but I believe in a different approach.”
This unique approach has earned Tawna a reputation as “the mortgage girl with style,” a title she wears proudly. Her commitment to “helping with all your mortgage needs with white gloves and a little bit of style” speaks to her dedication to personalized service. She even attends all her clients’ closings whenever possible, bringing a level of hands-on care that’s increasingly rare in her field. “Yep, I’m a hugger!” she laughs. “After working so closely with clients, sometimes for months or even years, I want to be there to celebrate with them, answer last-minute questions, and make sure they feel confident as they sign those papers.”
Tawna’s dedication extends to her partnerships with real estate agents. Understanding their need for responsive, trustworthy lenders, she has crafted her role around their unique challenges.
“Obviously, it goes without saying that being accessible is SO important in this business,” she says. “Our agents know they can reach us evenings and weekends because, at the end of the day, it’s about creating an experience where both our agents and clients feel like family and know they are being taken care of.”
Beyond the transactions, Tawna thrives on the educational aspect of her role, especially when it comes to first-time homebuyers.
“I absolutely love educating my borrowers about mortgages and the process so that, when they get to the closing table, they understand the numbers,” she says. “They aren’t
My aim is to continue delivering impeccable service to all my agents and clients, no matter the market changes. I want to grow my brand and build a reputation in this industry that people trust and respect.”
stressed about signing all the documents—they’re excited and confident. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.”
Reflecting on her success, Tawna credits her faith, her husband’s support, and a relentless drive instilled by her family’s story. “My mom got pregnant at fifteen, and every person in her life encouraged her to not go through with the pregnancy,” she shares with evident emotion. “But she was determined to keep me, and that’s always been my motivation. I knew I couldn’t waste any opportunity that came my way. I wanted to make her proud and show my kids what hard work, honesty, and helping others can achieve.”
Her family, including her husband Matt and their three children, is central to her sense of purpose. Living in Prosper, Texas, the Cox family enjoys simple joys: family vacations,
movie and game nights, and the occasional living room dance party. “I am blessed that this career has given me the flexibility to work from home, so I can be more present for my family,” she adds, acknowledging how her husband, also a business professional, has been her rock in balancing work and life.
As for her future, Tawna’s goals are rooted in consistency and growth. “My aim is to continue delivering impeccable service to all my agents and clients, no matter the market changes. I want to grow my brand and build a reputation in this industry that people trust and respect.”
It’s clear that Tawna’s journey in the mortgage industry isn’t merely a career; it’s a calling. And as she puts it, quoting Maya Angelou, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”
Linda Gary
THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS
WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY: BEAU BUMPAS PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC
&Bale
When Linda and Gary Bale decided to join forces in real estate, it was a culmination of lives deeply rooted in family, professional accomplishment, and a shared value that has guided them every step of the way: building relationships. For these North Dallas agents, working together at Bale Real Estate Group under eXp Realty isn’t just about closing deals; it’s about building meaningful connections. “Everything in life is driven by relationships,” Gary reflects. “From our marriage to our careers, it’s the relationships that make each experience meaningful.”
The Bales’ journey began nearly four decades ago when Gary was a retail executive, working his way up from stockboy to running billion-dollar businesses. “I enjoyed every aspect of working with people,” Gary explains. “From forming connections to negotiating deals, it all came down to understanding people.” For Linda, this people-first mindset is something she embraced while managing clothing stores, raising their two children, and even volunteering in their local PTA. “Being involved in our community and understanding what others need has always been at the heart of what I do,” she shares.
Their path to real estate, however, was not a straightforward one. After years of working separately, both took the leap to get licensed in 2018. For Gary, it was Linda’s experience that inspired him. “I saw how passionate she was about helping people through such an important time in their lives,” he says. They initially built their careers as individual agents but soon realized that their unique skills could make for a powerhouse team. “We used to joke that if we could put our strengths together, we’d be perfect,” Linda laughs. “Now, we’re doing just that.”
In 2022, the Bales faced a major setback. Linda was involved in a serious accident,
putting her ability to work in jeopardy. “It was an uncertain time for us,” Gary recalls. “But we knew we needed to support each other, both personally and professionally.” This moment of vulnerability strengthened their resolve to work together, officially forming Bale Real Estate Group. In just their first year as a team, they became top producers, receiving recognition from Real Producers and D Magazine, and the accolades have continued to roll in. But for Linda and Gary, the real measure of their success isn’t awards; it’s the relationships they’ve built along the way.
“Exceeding our clients’ expectations, whether they’re buying or selling a home, is what drives us,” Linda explains. “We’re not just here to help people find a house; we want them to find a home.” With their combined backgrounds, the Bales bring a unique empathy to each transaction. Having moved across eight states and lived in 17 homes, Linda describes herself as a “professional mover.” “I know what it’s like to pack up your life and start fresh,” she says. “Each move taught me something new about what families need, and I carry those lessons with me into every client relationship.”
There’s a lot of misinformation out there,” Gary notes. “It’s our job to cut through the noise and provide our clients with the full picture.”
– Gary
My mother used to say that having your health was everything,” Linda reflects. “With time, I’ve come to see just how right she was. Success is about the memories we create with family and friends, not just the career milestones.”
– Linda
The couple’s approach to real estate is defined by a commitment to integrity and trust. As Gary puts it, “It’s about doing the right thing every single time.” Their data-driven approach and attention to detail set them apart, but it’s their commitment to listening that truly builds trust with their clients. “Listening is everything,” Linda says, recalling her mother’s advice to “listen more, talk less.” For the Bales, understanding a client’s unique needs and concerns allows them to provide a level of service that goes beyond the transaction.
This personal approach has fostered connections that last long after the ink on a contract dries. “Some of our clients have become lifelong friends,” Gary shares. “We get to be a part of some of the most exciting and sometimes challenging moments in their lives. Knowing that they trust us to guide them through that means everything.” This focus on relationships also shapes their view of success. “My mother used to say that having your health was everything,” Linda reflects. “With time, I’ve come to see just how right she was. Success is about the memories we create with family and friends, not just the career milestones.”
The real estate market itself has changed in recent years, and the Bales are keenly aware of the challenges their clients face. They’ve seen how headlines about rising interest rates and fluctuating housing markets can create uncertainty. “There’s a lot of misinformation out there,” Gary notes. “It’s our job to cut through the noise and provide our clients with the full picture.” Through open and honest communication, the Bales strive to be a steadying force for their clients. “We don’t just want to be their agents for one sale; we want to be their REALTORS® for life,” Linda adds.
As they look to the future, Linda and Gary are excited about the growth opportunities in Dallas-Fort Worth. The area’s appeal, with its strong economy, cultural richness, and expanding development, offers an ideal environment for real estate. “The quality of life here is outstanding,” Gary says. “As the area continues to grow, there will be more opportunities to help families find their perfect home in this thriving community.”
The Bales’ goal is to expand their business further while maintaining the personal touch that has defined their careers.
Outside of real estate, the Bales are passionate about spending time with family. Their two adult children have achieved remarkable success: their daughter, an attorney in Dallas, and their son, a doctor in Illinois. The couple also treasures their time with Beckham, their eight-year-old golden retriever, who has been a beloved part of their journey. They love skiing vacations, trying new restaurants, and
hosting gatherings with friends—a reflection of their love for connection and community. Linda and Gary’s partnership is more than just a business arrangement; it’s a shared commitment to service, family, and community. “At the end of the day, it’s all about the people,” Linda emphasizes. For the Bales, real estate isn’t just a career; it’s a calling to make a difference, one relationship at a time.
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.
SPECIALIZING IN INSURANCE CLAIMS • VAST KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE IN THE ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY OUR COMPANY IS LOCAL • WE ARE PARTNERS & WORK WITH THE LOCAL BUSINESSES & COMMUNITY LEADERS LIFETIME LABOR WARRANTY • ARCHITECT & G.C. LICENSE • ALWAYS AVAILABLE
We speak English, Arabic, and Spanish
Jill
Lee
FINDING HER PURPOSE
WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY: BETH GRAEME PHOTOGRAPHY
In North Dallas, Jill Lee stands as more than just a REALTOR®—she’s a local fixture, a trusted guide, and a genuine partner in the homebuying journey. Born and raised in the Dallas area, Jill’s Texas roots run deep, stretching from her childhood in Lake Highlands to her established presence in McKinney, where she has lived for the past 28 years. Real estate for Jill is more than just a job— it is about forging connections and becoming part of people’s lives in one of their most significant milestones.
“I started my real estate career in 2014,” Jill shares, recounting her journey from a buyer’s agent to eventually building her own team, JJL Realty Group, three years ago. “My brother, Jeff Harrell, joined me, so now it’s the two of us.” For Jill, the real estate business has been an organic evolution from her previous career as the co-owner of Cat and the Fiddle, a children’s boutique she ran for sixteen years. Partnering with her best friend since seventh grade, she learned early on that genuine service and community connection were the keys to building something meaningful.
“Transitioning to real estate felt natural because I was already in the habit of helping people find things that truly brought joy into their lives,” Jill explains.
Jill’s approach to real estate is grounded in her belief that every client’s journey is unique. “I LOVE that every client, every family, and every home comes with its own story,” she says passionately. From helping young couples find their first home to assisting long-time residents as they downsize after decades, Jill is there through it all. “There’s nothing like the joy on someone’s face when they step into their new home for the first time, knowing we helped make that moment happen.” And her dedication shows:
“I AM SO PROUD
OF HOW FAR
JILL LEE
HAS COME IN HER CAREER. SHE STARTED WITH OUR BROKERAGE AS A BUYER’S AGENT AND HAS JUST BLOSSOMED INTO THE DYNAMO SHE IS NOW.”
— CHRIS HARDEN, BROKER/OWNER, RE/MAX FOUR CORNERS
Jill has received multiple accolades, including being recognized as a Real Producer three years in a row, as well as receiving the Platinum Club Award from REMAX for the last three years and being listed among D Magazine’s Best for seven consecutive years.
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, though. The North Dallas real estate market presents unique challenges, especially with fluctuating interest rates and market dynamics. “One of the biggest challenges as a REALTOR®,” Jill explains, “is balancing the emotional side of real estate with the practical side. Buying or selling a home is already a huge decision, but add in rising interest rates, and emotions can really run high.” For Jill, this means wearing many hats—therapist, problem solver, and sometimes, even “part magician,” she jokes, finding
ways to make deals work in tough conditions. Yet, she embraces each challenge as a chance to grow, to hone her craft, and to provide her clients with the best experience possible.
The past year has also brought a personal hardship for Jill, with the loss of her beloved husband, Jeff, to a rare terminal illness. “We were married for 32 wonderful years,” Jill reflects, her voice filled with both
love and remembrance. “I started dating him when I was 17, and we had a very blessed life together.” She shares that her career in real estate has been a lifeline during this time. “Being a REALTOR® got me up in the mornings, even when I didn’t want to, and gave me a distraction I sometimes needed,” she says. Her gratitude for her clients and career shines through, underscoring the depth of connection
she feels with those she serves. “I thank God for the marriage I had, and I thank God for my career,” Jill says.
Jill’s work isn’t just a job; it’s a career filled with purpose. She knows her clients can feel the authenticity she brings to each transaction. “Be REAL with your clients,” her broker, Chris Harden, once advised, and Jill took it to heart. She approaches each client relationship with sincerity, building trust by putting their needs above everything else. “It’s not about the deal, it’s about the client,” she says, a guiding principle that has not only led to her success but also sustained meaningful, lasting relationships with clients who reach out years later with holiday cards or family updates.
Outside of work, Jill is happiest surrounded by her family. Her two sons, Griffin and Carson, and her daughterin-law, Camryn, are her anchors. With her father, her in-laws, and siblings all living nearby, she has a close-knit support system in McKinney, a town that holds her heart. “My family is my rock,” she shares warmly. “I’m so grateful to have them close.”
When she’s not busy helping clients or spending time with family, Jill loves to relive memories from an earlier chapter of her life when she traveled with her husband on his professional golf tour. “I was his caddy for the first five of those ten years,” she recalls with a laugh. “We traveled all over the U.S. and even went to South Africa. But I don’t play golf myself—I’ve never even hit a golf ball!” These cherished memories, along with the friendships and connections she’s made in her community, contribute to her grounded, joyful approach to life and work.
For Jill Lee, success isn’t about the volume of homes sold or the awards on her shelf, though she’s achieved plenty of both. Rather, success is about finding purpose and passion in what she does. “I think success is finding the thing you are passionate about and, if you can make that your career, that’s success!” she says. And as long as she’s helping others, one meaningful connection at a time, Jill Lee will continue to be a beloved figure in North Dallas real estate, making a real difference in her clients’ lives.
Jill Lee with her brother and team member, Jeff Harrell
Locally Grown, Nationally Strong.
Hook onto Success with Texas’ Premier Title & Escrow Company
We take pride in standing apart from our competitors by keeping jobs local, believing that the best way to provide our customers with comprehensive information on property is by standing side-by-side with them on the ground in Texas. Headquartered in Central Texas, with over 70 branch locations to serve you. We can handle transactions on property in any county in Texas. We look forward to seeing you at the closing table!
