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ACCOUNTING/ TAX SERVICES
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BUILDER
Perry Homes, LLC (972) 629-3900 perryhomes.com; brittonhomestexas.com
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Vetted Business: Built to Last
Spotlight: Cyndi Reep
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. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.
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publisher’s note
This Was Written by
ChatGPT
The following article was written by ChatGPT. The only prompt I gave was this: “Write a 300-400 word Publisher’s Note article for Real Producers magazine on how real estate agents should embrace artificial intelligence in their business.”
Here is what came out…
“Title: Embracing Artificial Intelligence for Real
Estate Success
Dear Readers,
Artificial intelligence has made significant strides in recent years, revolutionizing var ious sectors, and real estate is no exception. The integration of AI tools and platforms offers unparalleled opportunities for agents to enhance their business practices, improve efficiency, and provide exceptional value to their clients.
One of the key advantages of AI in the real estate industry is its ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately. With AI-powered algorithms, agents can streamline their property search process, identify relevant listings based on client preferences, and even predict market trends and pricing fluctuations. This empowers agents to offer tailored recommendations, saving valuable time for both themselves and their clients.
Moreover, AI can automate mundane tasks such as paperwork, scheduling appointments, and responding to inquiries, enabling agents to focus on high-value activities requiring expertise and personal touch. This increased efficiency not only boosts produc tivity but also enhances the overall client experience, leading to higher satisfaction and increased referrals.
AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are also transforming the way real estate agents interact with their clients. These intel ligent bots can engage in natural language conversations, answer common queries, and provide 24/7 support. By leveraging AI in
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REALTOR® on the rise
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Photos by: Katharine Gann, DayDream Photography
DANIELLE ADAMA is more than just a top real estate agent; she is a person driven by a deep-seated passion for service and an unwavering love for her country. Her journey into real estate, marked by a blend of personal and professional experiences, reveals a woman dedicated to connecting people with their dreams and homes.
A JOURNEY ROOTED IN SERVICE
Danielle was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but it was in the DFW area where she found her calling. Growing up, she was a model of support and advocacy for her younger brother, who struggled with a learning disability. “We spent evenings working together to get through his homework. He was so smart but struggled in the traditional learning environment,” she recalls. Their bond grew during those times spent together and ultimately ignited her passion for education and helping others. She was determined to pursue a degree in special education at the University of North Texas and help others while becoming an advocate for the underdog.
Danielle’s servant’s heart didn’t stop there. She spent 15 years teaching students with special needs, a role that brought her immense joy and fulfillment. “I absolutely loved working with students with special needs. I learned so much from them, and my students brought me so much joy!” she shares. However, with changes in the education field creating barriers to effectively reach and
teach students she felt it was time for a change—one that would allow her to continue serving others while balancing her personal life and goals.
A LEAP OF FAITH
In 2018, Danielle made a bold decision to step away from teaching and step into the world of real estate. “Real estate had been in the back of my mind for a while, as we had worked with an amazing agent in the past in selling and buying our personal homes. I reached out to her to find out more about her profession. Shortly after that, I signed up for classes to take over the summer and hit the ground running with my license by August!” she explains. This leap of faith was not without its challenges, but Danielle’s innate ability to connect with people and her dedication to service quickly set her apart in the industry. She found that she could apply many of the same skills in teaching to this new role.
Starting her real estate career as a buyer agent, Danielle gained invaluable experience through her mentor. Three years later, she transitioned to working independently, a move driven by her desire to grow and create her own legacy: “I knew the time had come for me to go out on my own as an individual agent. I was ready to grow into the next level of owning my own business and serving others with my personal touch,” Danielle says.
A HEART TO SERVE AND A LOVE FOR COUNTRY
Danielle’s approach to real estate is deeply personal and service-oriented. “The thing I am most passionate about is educating buyers and sellers in this changing market and empowering them to make great decisions based on their goals,” she states. Her dedication to her clients is evident in her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to ensuring they make informed decisions. “A client’s trust is important to me, and I hold that with great honor! Educating and partnering with them is what brings me joy and satisfaction!”
Beyond her professional achievements, Danielle’s patriotism and love for her country shine brightly. Her family has a long line of serving in the military. Both of her children currently attend military academies—a source of immense pride and inspiration for her. “My daughter attends the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and my son is in Colorado Springs at the United States Air Force Academy,” she proudly notes. Their dedication to serving the nation mirrors Danielle’s own values of service and commitment. Service before self is lived out in her family’s lives.
BALANCING LIFE AND WORK
One of the biggest challenges Danielle faces as a REALTOR® is maintaining a healthy work-life balance like most. “This job will keep you busy 18 hours a day if you let it. It is important I am available when my clients are available, which is often before and after traditional workday hours,” she explains. However, Danielle strives
to ensure she spends quality time with her family, as faith and family are her rocks. Her husband of 28 years, Jason, has been a steadfast supporter, encouraging her to step out of her comfort zone and to dream BIG!
When she’s not helping clients find their dream homes, Danielle enjoys traveling, reading, and working towards her fitness goals. “Since becoming empty nesters, we have enjoyed travel opportunities to explore the world. Some of our favorite trips have been to visit our children in Annapolis and Colorado Springs and traveling internationally to Greece, Italy, and Portugal!” she shares.
A LEGACY OF LOVE AND SERVICE
Danielle Adama’s story is one of love, dedication, and service. Volunteering in her community and serving others brings her great fulfillment! “When I fill other’s cups, I find that mine is never empty!” Danielle’s servant’s heart and patriotic spirit remain at the core of everything she does. She desires to be remembered as someone who loves people and shines the light on others.
“For me, success is evident when I am growing, learning from mistakes, and staying true to myself.” Danielle reflects. Her journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion, stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and always striving to lift others up. As she continues to help families find their perfect fit home in Fort Worth, Danielle Adama remains a shining example of what it means to lead with love and integrity.
KIZNER Diane
WWhen it comes to outdoor furniture, trends come and go, but some things are meant to endure. President of Built To Last, Diane Kinzer embodies this timeless spirit through her commitment to crafting high-quality outdoor furniture. With over 35 years in the manufacturing and retail industry, Diane’s story is a testament to the power of faith, family, and a positive attitude.
“I work for a great company with a great product, and it makes it easy to be so passionate and happy at my job,” Diane shares, her enthusiasm evident. Built To Last, renowned for its robust, 100% recycled plastic outdoor furniture, has carved a niche in the market by delivering products that stand the test of time. Their motto, “Buy the Best----Built To Last,” encapsulates their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.
Diane’s journey began in Denver, but her path has led her through nine different states, ultimately rooting her in Texas since 1990. “I was transferred to DFW in 1990 and have been a Texan ever since. I went to high school in Roanoke, VA, and college at Virginia Tech. GO HOKIES!” she exclaims, her pride in her alma mater showing. This varied background has shaped her resilient and adaptable nature, which are crucial traits for her role at Built To Last.
furniture but also their exceptional customer service. “Our customers are our biggest promoters, and we go the extra mile to make sure they are always happy,” Diane emphasizes. Their products are designed to withstand even the harshest conditions, a significant selling point in regions like Texas. “The exceptional comfort of our products, along with our heavy and sturdy frames that won’t blow away in the Texas wind, sets us apart,” she adds.
Diane’s passion for her work is palpable. “We work hard to always keep our standards high. We build long-lasting relationships with our customers,” she says. This dedication to excellence is mirrored in the company’s extensive range of 85 different styles of outdoor furniture, suitable for various settings, from patios and porches to parks and schools. “Our ideal client is someone who appreciates quality and is interested in buying a product that won’t be replaced,” Diane explains.
BUY THE BEST, BUILT TO LAST
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
by: Katharine Gann, DayDream Photography
The company started in North Carolina in 1999 and recently expanded with a new manufacturing plant in Granbury and a showroom opened in the fall of 2023. Diane’s team, a mix of skilled craftsmen, sales personnel, and an accounting specialist, is the backbone of their operations. “I have a great team here in Texas and North Carolina, and we all share the same commitment to quality and customer service,” Diane notes.
What sets Built To Last apart is not just the superior quality of their
Her personal life is as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. Diane’s family plays a pivotal role in her life. “I come from an amazing and very close family that I try to see as often as possible. I lost my husband and best friend of 23 years just four years ago, but we had an incredible and very special marriage. I have an amazing son who is a Marine,” she shares, her voice tinged with both pride and nostalgia. Golfing, fishing, watersports, and horseback riding are among the activities that the family enjoys together.
Diane’s work-life balance is a constant endeavor, especially given her deep passion for her work. “That’s hard because I enjoy my work and tend to spend too much time at it. Also, doing a start-up is tough in the beginning,” she admits. Nevertheless, her goals for the year are clear: “My business goal for this year is to
Photos
see our business excel in Texas and expand our production here. To continue to work and support local charities and help make a difference where we can. To personally keep myself in good spiritual and physical health.”
Beyond her professional and family life, Diane is also a firm believer in the power of relationships. “I believe everything is built through relationships, and I look forward to getting to know new people and building new relationships for myself and my business,” she asserts.
As Diane continues to lead Built To Last, her vision remains rooted in the values that have driven her success: faith, family, and a positive attitude. “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference,” she says, quoting her favorite saying. This belief, coupled with her relentless pursuit of excellence, ensures that Built To Last will continue to thrive, creating products that are truly built to endure.
For more information or to connect with Diane, you can reach her at dianek@built-to-last.com.
THE JOY OF THE CLOSING TABLE
Adriana Blanco’s journey from a modest upbringing in Fort Worth, Texas, to becoming one of the top real estate agents in the area is a tale of dedication, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to her clients. With seven years in the industry and recognition as a top producer, Adriana’s path has been shaped by her life experiences and the sacrifices of her immigrant parents.
Growing up in Fort Worth, Adriana was deeply influenced by her parents’ determination to achieve the American dream. “My parents always instilled the ‘American dream’ into our daily lives,” Adriana reflects. “Their sacrifices are my ‘why.’ They moved here with nothing, and watching them build a life from scratch has always been my inspiration.” This instilled a strong work ethic in Adriana from an early age. Her father, a home builder, would involve her and her siblings in remodeling projects, teaching them to value the process as much as the outcome. “Those early mornings, helping with staining cabinets and laying down laminate flooring, taught me to appreciate every hurdle and milestone,” she recalls.
Adriana’s academic journey took her to Texas Tech University, where she became a first-generation college graduate with a degree in finance. Upon graduation, she briefly ventured into corporate finance but soon realized her true calling lay elsewhere. “I always knew I desired that one-on-one connection with individuals,” Adriana explains. This realization led her back
to Fort Worth in 2017, where she embarked on her real estate career.
Her initial years in real estate were marked by challenges, particularly in differentiating herself in a com petitive market. Adriana faced these challenges head-on, emphasizing edu cation and client service. “Real estate is always a learning curve, and you truly do not know what each year will bring. You have to remain moldable,” she says. This adaptability and com mitment to learning have been crucial to her success.
Adriana’s passion for real estate is driven by a desire to help others achieve homeownership, a milestone she holds in high regard. “The most rewarding part of my business is the gratitude my clients reflect when they reach a goal like homeownership, especially when they never thought it possible,” she shares. Many of her clients are first-generation home buy ers, and Adriana takes immense pride in helping them set new standards for their future generations. “When you see your clients with so much joy and gratitude. Not all home buying/ selling journeys are made equal, so it’s incredible to see their excitement when they finally make it to the clos ing table,” she says with pride.
Her dedication to her clients is what sets her apart from other agents. “I truly strive to be as knowledgeable and available at all times. I can relate to a lot of my clientele, knowing that I, too, am a first-generation in many
ADRIANA
BLANCO
aspects of life,” Adriana notes. This relatability and her commitment to providing a delightful and dignified experience for all clients have earned her a loyal client base and numerous accolades.
Adriana’s success has not come without its share of challenges. She emphasizes the importance of consistency and sticking to the basics, lessons she learned during her time at Texas Tech, balancing 50-hour work weeks with full-time studies. “It was such a challenging period, but it allowed me to value time, money, and each milestone,” she recalls.
Her hard work has not gone unnoticed. Since 2019, Adriana has been honored with the Top 500 REALTOR® recognition and has been featured as a top producer in Fort Worth Magazine. Her achievements are a testament to her dedication and the support of her resilient family. “My family’s journey has taught me to appreciate every single hurdle, every award given, and every new career milestone achieved,” she says.
Looking ahead, Adriana is most passionate about starting her own brokerage. “It’s been an honor to help clients in all walks of life, from first-time buyers to buyers on their third or fourth sale. I am so excited to extend that into a
STAY CONSISTENT, STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF, AND KEEP GOING.
brokerage and help many more families,” she enthuses. Her goal is to continue guiding her clients with respect and integrity, ensuring they have a trusted partner in their real estate journey.
Outside of her professional life, Adriana finds joy in traveling, often with her parents. “I love experiencing life like the locals when I travel. It’s such an enriching experience to see how many different ways of life exist,” she shares.
Adriana’s advice to aspiring real estate professionals is simple yet profound: “Stay consistent, stay true to yourself, and keep going. Real estate isn’t an overnight process; it requires a lot of discipline and dedication. It will pay off; just keep swimming and learn from others!”
As she continues to make her mark in the real estate industry, Adriana hopes to be remembered for her willingness to serve and give back. “There have been so many behind-thescenes moments where I have had the opportunity to give back to those who have given so much to me and also to give to those who couldn’t give back,” she reflects.
Adriana Blanco’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact of hard work, dedication, and the support of a loving family. Her story inspires not only those in the real estate industry but anyone striving to achieve their dreams against all odds.
Submitted by: Justin Landon, CEO, MetroTex
INTRODUCING METROTEX’S NEW CEO
JUSTIN LANDON
Forty years ago, I attended my first real estate event when my grandmother was installed as President of her REALTOR® association. My dad, her son-in-law, followed in her footsteps, becoming President of that same association ten years later. Both dedicated their careers not only to running successful real estate brokerages but to volunteering for the REALTOR® association.
When I began working for the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® ten years ago, I assumed that every REALTOR® was as connected to the association as my family had been. It didn’t take long for me to realize that wasn’t the case. Many of our members, busy with the daily grind of closing deals, feel disconnected from the association. It can often seem like an impersonal institution, more of a governing body than a supportive partner. That’s not acceptable to me, and it’s certainly not what we strive for at MetroTex.
In the coming months, our industry will face significant challenges with new forms, policies, and heightened client
expectations. At MetroTex, we want to help you navigate these hurdles and emerge stronger. You might be asking, how? It’s a long answer—longer than I have time for here. But it all boils down to this—we must connect. We need to reach out. We need to listen. We need to understand. And when all that’s done, we need to deliver the programming and services that help you be more successful.
Reflecting on that first event forty years ago, I never imagined I would one day lead MetroTex, the 5th largest REALTOR® association in the nation. Yet, here we are, and I couldn’t be more excited to contribute to an industry that has given me so much. We have an opportunity in front of us to help redefine real estate for the next generation. You impact your clients’ lives daily, and our commitment at MetroTex is to make a significant difference in yours.
Thank you for your dedication to the real estate profession and for being a part of our community. Together, we will continue to make Dallas/Fort Worth the best place in the country to buy and sell real estate.
Meetrah Amini
Making Them Proud
Written
by: Katherine H. Fondren
Photos by: Katharine Gann, DayDream Photography cover story
Sometimes in our lives, we encounter someone whose journey is as unique as it is inspiring. Meet Meetrah Amini, a woman of perseverance, humility, and relentless motivation to do and be better, whose journey is as inspiring as the homes she sells.
INDUSTRY.
I AM HUMBLE ENOUGH TO KNOW; I WILL NEVER STOP LEARNING IN THIS
LOOKING BACK, THAT PART OF MY LIFE WILL ALWAYS BE ABOUT OVERCOMING. I WAS TRULY FIGHTING FOR MY LIFE.
agent spotlight
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Photos by: Katharine Gann, DayDream Photography
CYNDI REEP
FRAMING UP FOR SUCCESS
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. It tells a story and provides a memento of a time that is past but not forgotten. But surrounding every picture is a frame designed to not only enhance the beauty of the image but to hold it up and preserve it for years and years to come. The same can be true when describ ing a real estate agent— the person who holds up the deal and helps to preserve good memories for sellers while facilitating the beginning of a new story for each buyer that they serve. In Fort Worth, Texas, Cyndi Reep’s infectious passion and unique blend of creativity provide the framework for successful real estate transactions, becoming part of the story, one transaction at a time. As a REALTOR® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) Premier Properties, her journey into real estate is as vibrant and multifaceted as the art she so loves.
Born in Corpus Christi and raised in Fort Worth, Cyndi’s early years were spent in Ridglea Hills and later in the Wedgwood area, eventually returning to live in Ridglea Hills for most of her adult life. Reflecting on her childhood, she fondly remembers weekends at Eagle Mountain Lake, a place she now calls home. “About ten years ago, I moved to the lake where I live now,” she shares, highlighting her deep connection to the area. “We enjoy the lake every single day with the beautiful views and the peace and tranquility that comes with lake life.”
Cyndi’s career in real estate officially began in 2016, but her experience with buying and selling properties dates back to 1996 when she bought some investment properties for herself. Before becoming a REALTOR®, however, Cyndi spent 20 years in the art and framing industry. She cherished her time as a picture framer at Deck the Walls in Ridgmar Mall, where she balanced the artistic and mathematical aspects of framing design. “I loved the art and colors but also loved all the complex numbers in framing design,” she says. She eventually became an outside sales rep for
a picture frame manufacturer; this background provided her with the time management and goal-setting skills that have been invaluable in her real estate career. “Traveling across four states with as many as 700 frame shops and art galleries taught me to be organized and a self-starter.”
Cyndi’s passion for real estate is driven by her desire to help people understand the value of homeownership. “I’m most passionate about helping
people see that renting is throwing their money away. Homeownership is the most sure way of building personal wealth,” she explains. This dedication has earned her a loyal clientele who often refer to her as their “family REALTOR®.”
The relationships she builds are the most rewarding part of her job. “My clients are for life! I stay in touch and love watching families grow and individuals move through different life phases,” Cyndi
says. She thrives on these connections, finding joy in being a part of her client’s lives and seeing them achieve their dreams.
However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The year 2020 tested Cyndi’s adaptability as she navigated the constraints of the pandemic. “I don’t sit still very well! I had to get creative with video and FaceTime to help clients move safely,” she recounts. To occupy her time, she immersed herself in online education, expanding her knowledge while staying safe at home.
Cyndi’s approach to real estate is deeply rooted in helping others. “All of my goals and dreams revolve around helping others. Being a REALTOR® allows me to guide people through one of the most important processes of their lives,” she says. This philosophy echoes the wisdom her mother imparted: “Eventually, all material things crumble, even large skyscrapers. But the impact we make in others’ lives is forever and can change history.”
Grief is love with nowhere to go, so I bake with love and share it. The love always comes back.
One of her proudest achievements was receiving the Rookie of the Year award in her first year as a REALTOR®. Her dedication and hard work have been consistently recognized every year she has been in real estate, culminating in her recent accolade as the #1 Sales Agent for her BHHS office in 2023. “I learned early in my career that you must wait for them to call you. When I got the call from Real Producers, I knew I had finally succeeded,” she beams.
Cyndi’s love for Fort Worth is palpable. “The culture, climate, history, and personality of the city, and the ART! The Kimbell Art Museum is a masterpiece,” she gushes. Her passion for the city extends to her work, as she promotes the beauty of Eagle Mountain Lake and the advantages of living there. “I think it is the greatest lake in North Texas to own property and live on.”
Looking ahead, Cyndi is excited about the future of Fort Worth. “It’s expanding exponentially beyond my wildest dreams already. I can’t wait to see and love being a part of it in real estate!” she exclaims.
In her free time, Cyndi enjoys the simplicity of home life at the lake with her husband and three beloved pups, spending quality time with her son and enjoying live music every chance she gets. Baking has also become a therapeutic outlet, which first helped her cope with the loss of her parents. “Grief is love with nowhere to go, so I bake with love and share it. The love always comes back,” she reflects.
Cyndi advises up-and-coming REALTORS® to embrace the cooperative nature of real estate. “We work together to help the two parties reach a common goal. Foster those relationships early on,” she says.
For Cyndi Reep, real estate is more than a career; it’s a story waiting to be told, and she loves being part of the journey. Her blend of creativity, analytical skills, and heartfelt dedication to helping others has made her a standout agent in Fort Worth. As she continues to navigate the ever-evolving market, one thing remains constant: her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.
Photo provided by: Cyndi Reep
Photo provided by: Cyndi Reep
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.
Les McGehee has presented thousands of events across the U.S. and 15 other countries. He is the President and founder of Rialto Academy, which provides education services to 360,000+ REALTOR®, and produces nearly 3000 real estate business courses per year. Les is the author of the best-selling book Plays Well With Others, and has written for, performed for, or consulted, many of the Fortune 500 and most of the major real estate companies in America.
Thursday, August 8th from 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Timarron Country Club | 1400 Byron Nelson Pkwy, Southlake
