Rhoni Golden From Caretaker to Connector
Shamil Shalwani
Rooted in Purpose
Diyanna Ahuja Leading with Authenticity

Perry Homes Building a Tradition of Excellence
























Rhoni Golden From Caretaker to Connector
Shamil Shalwani
Rooted in Purpose
Diyanna Ahuja Leading with Authenticity
Perry Homes Building a Tradition of Excellence
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!
ACCOUNTING/TAX SERVICES
DASG, LLC
Jeff Foust (214) 945-2488 dasgdfw.com
BUILDER
Perry Homes, LLC (972) 629-3900 perryhomes.com; brittonhomestexas.com
Shaddock Homes (972) 526-7700 ShaddockHomes.com
CLIENT AND REFERRAL GIFTS
Gifts of Graze
Eileen Torres (214) 814-1216 giftsofgraze.com
FOUNDATION REPAIR
Elite Foundation Repairs (214) 856-9634 EliteFoundationRepairs.com
HOME INSPECTION
HomeTeam Inspection Service (972) 400-7034 HomeTeam-DFW.com
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com
HOME SERVICES
Casa Verde Home Services (469) 645-8347 stainlessrefinishing.com
HOME WARRANTY
Achosa Home Warranty, LLC
Robyn DiPasquale (888) 509-2916 AchosaHW.com
INSURANCE
Smith Allen Insurance (214) 691-7655 smithallen.com
MORTGAGE LENDING
Benchmark Mortgage
Sara Parker Jones (972) 841-9010 homeloansbysara.com
MPA Home Loans
Michael Proctor (214) 499-4233 mpahomeloans.com
The Edmondson Team (214) 516-2401 thetattooedlender.com
Victory MTG (214) 542-8550 victorymtg.com
MOVING SERVICES
Black Tie Moving
Tyler Coleman (512) 605-7328 blacktiemoving.com
Bolt Movers Dallas LLC (214) 774-2822 www.boltmovers.com
Johnson Storage & Moving (800) 289-6683 johnsonstorage.com
Stonebriar Moving Services (469) 734-9000 stonebriarmoving.com
PAINTING AND HOME SERVICES
HOMEstretch (214) 838-7520 home-stretch.com/north-dallas
PHOTOGRAPHER
URSPECIALS by Jin Kim Studio (972) 375-1266 urspecials.com
ROOFING PROCO
Sara Lemley (817) 705-1501 procoroof.com
STAINLESS REFINISHING
Casa Verde Home Services (469) 645-8347 stainlessrefinishing.com
TITLE COMPANY
Acrisure Title of Texas
Julie Jones (214) 971-0668 jjones@acrisuretitle.com acrisuretitle.com
Alamo Title - Park Cities (214) 373-7653 alamotitleoftexas.com
Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com
Republic Title Ken Callahan (214) 793-5979 RepublicTitle.com
VIDEOGRAPHY/ PHOTOGRAPHY studioUSA (469) 955-5833 studiousa.live
WOOD/WINDOW/ROT/REPAIR
Preservan Dallas (469) 415-1631 preservan.com/locations/dallas
DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.
Congrats on earning your Dallas Real Producers Top Agent Badge!
Because of your 2024 MLS production, you earned your spot as a 2025 Dallas Real Producers can represent your badge proudly! Depending on your production will determine if you received the Top 500 or Top 1000. Regardless, that is the top 6% in Dallas!
Missing your badge? dfwrealproducers.com.
Using your badge? We’d love to see how! Show us how you are using your badge, and you may just find a picture of what you shared in the magazine! Social media, email signatures, web listings, marketing material... nothing’s off limits!
Our 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 and are some of Dallas’ most elite businesses.
know that you are working with one of the best, recommended by the best!
As many of you know, Real Producers is hosting a historic national event for the very first time—RP Elevate 2025, happening September 29–30 at the stunning Loews Arlington Hotel.
While this two-day conference is not hosted by our local DFW RP team, something exciting just happened…
Each year, we host a major DFW Real Producers event—either our ESPE Awards Gala or the Super Social—bringing together all four DFW RP markets for one big blowout.
Well, here’s the big news:
On the final night of RP Elevate (Sept 30), there’s going to be a social event for all conference attendees. And now—we’re combining that event with our 2025 DFW Super Social!
That’s right: Whether or not you attend RP Elevate, if you’re a DFW RP Top Agent or Preferred Partner, you’ll get access to this exclusive, one-of-a-kind Super Social. You’ll be networking
and celebrating not just with local leaders—but with top agents from all over the country. How awesome is that?
Huge thanks to Perry Homes for stepping up again this year as our Host Sponsor —we couldn’t do this without them.
If you’re planning to attend RP Elevate, register at rpelevate. com and use promo code DFW100 for $100 off your tickets. This gives you access to the full conference and the Super Social celebration to close it out.
If you won’t be at the conference but want to attend the Super Social, stay tuned—invites will go out in the coming months.
We couldn’t be more excited about this event and all that’s ahead in the second half of 2025.
Cheers, Jordan Espeseth Founder/Owner, DFW Real Producers
Minimum down payment requirements apply. Self-employed borrowers are not eligible. Not all borrowers will be approved. Borrower’s interest rate will depend upon the specific characteristics of borrower’s loan transaction, credit profile and other criteria. Not available in all states. Restrictions apply. Visit rate.com/same-day-mortgage for terms and conditions.
**Eligible borrowers must qualify for a “Clear to Close Loan Commitment” (“CTC”). Rate cannoy guarantee that a loan will be approved or that a closing will occur within a specific timeframe. CTC is subject to certain underwriting conditions, including clear title and no loss of appraisal waiver, amongst others. Not eligible for loan types or residence types. Minimum down payment requirements apply. Property must be eligible for an Appraisal Waiver and borrower must opt in to AccountChek for automated income and asset verification. Self-employed borrowers and co-borrowers are not eligible. Not all borrowers will be approved. Restrictions apply.
***Rate Intelligence refers to automated documentation verification. Underwriting experts will provide final mortgage approvals.
When Rhoni Golden stepped into the world of real estate, she wasn’t just starting a new career—she was answering a calling that perfectly blended her lifelong skills of empathy, advocacy, and education. With a background rooted in healthcare and a heart trained in caretaking, Rhoni brings a rare combination of emotional intelligence and strategic guidance to every client experience. “I take the responsibility of helping my clients very seriously,” she says. “The sale or purchase of a home is often the most important thing going on in their life at that time, and I’m honored to help play such a meaningful role in that moment.”
Born and raised in Plano, Rhoni graduated from Plano Senior High School before heading to Vanderbilt to study psychology. She later earned her master’s in physical therapy from Drexel University, which led to nearly a decade working at Baylor Rehabilitation Institute with patients who had sustained spinal cord and brain injuries. “I ran the wheelchair seating clinic, prescribing custom chairs for patients with complex positioning needs,” she shares.
But Rhoni’s experience as a caretaker didn’t stop at her career. After marrying in 2001, she had three children, including her son, Gray, who has a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disability and profound autism symptoms. “He is non-verbal and uses an app on his iPad to communicate his basic needs,” she explains. Gray requires around-the-clock care, and Rhoni has embraced that responsibility with fierce love and determination. “After working
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY JIN KIM, URSPECIAL
in the disability community for so many years, I felt grateful to know which services to access for him. I was able to navigate the complicated healthcare system with ease, and I wanted to help others do the same.”
That desire to advocate and guide others never left her. When she was ready to return to work after stepping back to care for Gray, she found herself at a crossroads. “I realized I didn’t have the ability to return to a career with severe disabilities when it was now my reality 24 hours a day at home,” Rhoni explains.
That’s when real estate became her new path—a way to help people navigate a different kind of system and milestone.
Since becoming an agent with Dave Perry Miller in 2019, and now leading the Golden Hays Group, Rhoni has built her business around trust, education, and empowerment. “Real estate can be complicated and mysterious,” she says. “It can be intimidating knowing where to start as a buyer or seller. I enjoy educating and empowering my clients so they know their options and have the right experts to guide them.”
“I LOVE EXPLAINING, IN REAL TIME, HOW THEY WOULD GO ABOUT BUYING THAT HOME IF THEY WANTED TO. THAT WAY, THEY CAN BE THOUGHTFUL AND DECISIVE WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT.”
Rhoni’s passion for demystifying the process is evident in how she walks her clients through every detail. “For new buyers, I always sprinkle in Real Estate 101 lessons during showings,” she says. “I love explaining, in real time, how they would go about buying that home if they wanted to. That way, they can be thoughtful and decisive when the time is right.”
Sellers benefit from her guidance, too. “Most people haven’t sold a home in years,” she notes. “I arm them with the information they need to make confident decisions—about timelines,
prepping their home, and everything in between. And I LOVE connecting buyers and sellers with expert vendors so they’re not overwhelmed sifting through a million options.”
Her clients consistently feel the care behind every decision and conversation. “It feels amazing when people tell me they feel certain and secure about their decisions because they understood their options along the way,” Rhoni says. That’s the success she’s most proud of. But building trust hasn’t always been easy. “In healthcare, my degrees earned people’s trust. In real estate, you have to
earn that respect with every client,” she explains. “It can be hard when people start the relationship with skepticism. I make it my mission to win them over— and dazzle them.”
Her professional accomplishments reflect the trust she’s earned: top 1% of producers with Ebby Halliday Companies, featured in Real Producers, and recognized by D Magazine and The Advocate as one of the best in Lake Highlands and Lakewood. Last year alone, she closed $20 million in sales, with $63 million in career volume so far.
But beyond the numbers, Rhoni’s “why” remains rooted in her family, especially her hopes for Gray. “Caring for a child with special needs is expensive, especially as he transitions into adulthood,” she says. “Real estate allows me to build a nest egg that will provide for his care long after I’m gone. My daughters love their brother fiercely, but making sure his financial needs are covered means they can live their lives fully without having to sacrifice for him.”
That deep sense of purpose infuses how she serves her clients. “My background as a caretaker makes me an excellent steward of my clients’ financial and lifestyle needs,” she says. “I want to be remembered for enriching people’s lives.”
And she does, one transaction, one lesson, and one connection at a time. Whether it’s walking the trails at White Rock Lake, cooking with her family, or guiding a first-time buyer through their very first offer, Rhoni brings the same warmth and thoughtfulness to every part of her life.
“Success, for me, is when my clients say they loved the process—and that they trusted me,” she says.
With every showing, every listing, and every phone call, Rhoni Golden continues to prove that when real estate is done with heart, it becomes about so much more than just a house. It becomes a home.
BUILDING A TRADITION OF
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PERRY HOMES
Texas is a land built by pioneers and known for bold beginnings, and Perry Homes has carved out its own legacy as a trailblazer in the homebuilding industry. Since 1967, Perry Homes has delivered over 65,000 residences across more than 90 communities with quality at its core and innovation at every turn. Their team continues to lead the way—and people like Kim Swanner are making sure that legacy only grows stronger.
Serving as Vice President of Operational Marketing & Creative at Perry Homes, Kim carries more than a job title—she carries a story. “There’s a certain magic to homes, don’t you think?” she says with a smile. “A home is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a place where dreams come to life. And at Perry Homes, that’s precisely what we do. We build dreams.”
With over two decades in the homebuilding industry, Kim has witnessed first-hand the evolution of design, innovation, and buyer expectations. Yet through all the change, one thing has remained constant: Perry Homes’ commitment to its core values—Design, Quality, Innovation, Customer Service, Warranty, and Giving Back. “Each of these pillars defines who we are and what we offer to our customers,” Kim explains. “But above all, it’s our commitment to helping people find their dream homes that truly sets us apart.”
Founded by Bob J. Perry, a former teacher turned visionary builder, Perry Homes began with a simple yet powerful mission: to provide high-quality homes for Texas families. That mission has only grown stronger under the leadership of his daughter, CEO Kathy Britton, who established the Perry Homes Foundation in 2017 to honor her father’s legacy. The foundation has since donated nearly $4 million to charitable causes throughout Texas, further embedding community impact into the company’s DNA.
For Kim, this culture of giving back is just as important as the homes they build. “Community welfare isn’t an afterthought—it’s part of our identity,” she shares. “It’s amazing to work for a company where purpose goes beyond the product.”
So, what exactly makes Perry Homes such a valuable partner for real estate agents? Kim is quick to answer: “We offer a seamless and elevated homebuying experience that agents can feel confident recommending to their clients. Our homes are located in some of the most desirable communities in Texas,
and they’re designed to suit a wide range of lifestyles.” From the signature wall of windows that flood rooms with natural light, to open-concept layouts and over 350 customizable floor plans, Perry Homes delivers thoughtful design at every price point. And thanks to partnerships with leading smart home technology brands, every home comes equipped with modern conveniences at no extra cost—thermostats, lighting, and security systems all accessible from your smartphone.
“We also take pride in our warranty— it’s one of the best in the business,” Kim says. “When agents refer their clients to us, they know they’re getting not just a house, but peace of mind and long-term value.”
Customer satisfaction is no accident at Perry Homes—it’s a deliberate result of their process, which includes rigorous quality assurance, third-party inspections, and an empathetic sales and service team that walks buyers through every step. That attention to detail has earned them a remarkable 95% customer satisfaction rating.
For luxury buyers, Perry Homes’ Britton Homes division brings an elevated experience to the Dallas-Fort Worth market. “Britton is our answer for those looking for distinct architecture, energy efficiency, and personalized luxury,” Kim explains. “It’s backed by the same 58-year reputation for quality, but with added design flexibility and white-glove customer care.”
As the company celebrates over five decades of building in Texas and expands into Florida, Perry Homes remains rooted in the principles that got them here. “Whether you’re a first-time buyer or searching for your forever home, we believe everyone deserves a space that fits their lifestyle,” Kim says.
For real estate agents, that belief creates a powerful opportunity. “We see agents as our partners,” Kim says. “They’re the ones who guide families through the most important purchase of their lives. And we’re here to make that process as
smooth and rewarding as possible—for both the client and the agent.”
One of the ways Kim and her team build those bridges is through local agent networks like Real Producers. “It’s such a fantastic way to connect directly with the people helping families every day,” she shares. “We want agents to know that when they recommend Perry Homes and Britton Homes, they’re delivering more than a great house—they’re delivering on a tradition of excellence.”
To get a more in-depth look into Perry Homes’ vision and values, please visit their website: https://www.perryhomes. com/experience-perry-homes/traditionof-excellence/. Add Britton Homes website Britton Homes
“WE ALSO TAKE PRIDE IN OUR WARRANTY—IT’S ONE OF THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS. WHEN AGENTS REFER THEIR CLIENTS TO US, THEY KNOW THEY’RE GETTING NOT JUST A HOUSE, BUT PEACE OF MIND AND LONG-TERM VALUE.”
Perry Homes doesn’t just build houses—they have redefined what it means to build a home. And thanks to people like Kim Swanner, they are filled with heart, legacy, and a tradition that continues to inspire.
By the time Erika Orbin greets you— whether with a cheerful call, a perfectly timed check-in, or a reassuring “we’ve got this”—you already feel like part of her world. That’s because when Erika steps into a room or a conversation, she brings her whole self: a seasoned real estate professional, a trusted advisor, a proud mom, a devoted wife, and above all, someone who genuinely cares.
“I have a lot to say,” Erika laughs. And thank goodness she does. Because woven into her story are 18 years of industry wisdom, a heart built for connection, and a life that has never been about surface-level success.
From Townhomes to Timeless Truths Erika’s journey in real estate began in 2007, just before the market crash—a trial by fire if ever there was one. “We were 27, newly married, and both establishing our careers in real estate,” she recalls. “I’d left a stable job with benefits, and the crash happened... but we just figured it out—with some creative planning and the help of my mom.” Her mother, Kim McAuliffe, was more than family. She became Erika’s first mentor and business partner, offering not just a financial lifeline but a crash course in the realities of the industry.
“I’m an only child, and my mom is my best friend. She taught me everything I know—things you can’t learn in a classroom. She has always given me the world and encouraged me to go for it.” That kind of encouragement paid off. Inspired by her Mimi, a successful real estate Broker and founder of House
H. FONDREN
Hunters (currently known as Heritage Properties in Houston), Erika is carrying on the family legacy. She earned her Broker’s license by the age of 30 and eventually rose to vice president status at Briggs Freeman before joining Compass, where she continues to thrive as a Broker associate.
So, what sets Erika apart in a market full of agents? According to Bryan Pacholski, managing partner at Compass Dallas, it’s her remarkable consistency and heart. “Erika is one of the most clientfocused professionals I’ve ever worked with,” he says. “She is always two steps
ahead, balancing details, emotion, and logistics in a way that makes clients feel empowered and at ease. She makes people feel like they are her only client—and it’s completely genuine.”
For Erika, real estate isn’t just business— it’s deeply personal. “This career allows me to combine my passions: design, architecture, helping people, and the business side,” she explains. “Every transaction is different, which means I’m constantly learning. And I love that.” Her love for design shows at home, too—she and her husband, Nathan, are serial remodelers, busy wrapping up a remodel on their home near Hockaday while putting their finishing touches on their lake home at Lake Cypress Springs, a retreat that Erika calls her “happy place.”
She’s not afraid to say the hard things either. “I’ll tell a client if a house isn’t right for them. I consult, I don’t sell. My reputation and integrity come first—always.”
Juggling Hats and Holding Hearts
Being a real estate agent is one thing. Doing it while being fully present for your family is another. Erika’s biggest challenge? “Always being available. This career doesn’t turn off, so managing my business while putting my family first requires a lot of multitasking, juggling, and hat-switching.”
That balance is a work of the heart—and a reflection of how deeply Erika values the life she and Nathan have built. The two met as teenagers at the University of Texas, began dating at 19, and married at 25. Nearly 20 years later, they remain best friends. “Nathan is the yin to my yang,” Erika says with a smile. “He’s laid-back, even-keeled, and still very Type A in his own way. Everyone loves Nathan—my mom even calls him Nate the Great.”
Together, they’re raising two spirited, big-hearted kids: Jackson, 13, a social butterfly with a love for sports, cooking, and “always making every day the best day,” and Molly, 10, a confident and creative soul who dances competitively, sings, draws, and keeps Erika up to date on every trend. “She has a presence,”
I’LL TELL A CLIENT IF A HOUSE ISN’T RIGHT FOR THEM.
I CONSULT, I DON’T SELL. MY REPUTATION AND INTEGRITY
Erika says proudly. “And she’s already a better dresser than me.” Their home is full—of laughter, ping pong tournaments, dance routines, and a revolving door of neighborhood kids. “We love to host. Our door is always open.”
When asked how she defines success, Erika doesn’t hesitate. “It’s not about money. It’s about loving what you do. You can make a lot of money and still be miserable. I’ve stayed in this business for 18 years because it brings me joy. It’s about creating balance—between work, family, friendships, and fun.”
That balance extends into her hobbies— traveling, playing piano (a passion she recently revisited), and spending time
with loved ones at the lake. “I’m finally getting to the stage where I can have hobbies again,” she laughs. “My number one hobby, of course, is my kids.”
To those just starting in real estate, Erika’s message is simple but wise: “Work hard and smart. Ask questions. Learn from others. Always do the right thing. Be patient—your career will fall into place.”
It’s the kind of advice you’d expect from someone who has walked the walk—and stayed true to who she is, every step of the way. Real estate may be her business, but Erika Orbin’s real gift is her ability to connect, uplift, and lead with heart. And that’s a legacy that extends far beyond any transaction.
When you meet Shamil Shalwani, there’s something magnetic about his energy—part quiet confidence, part warm charisma. The Dallas native has made a name for himself as one of the area’s top-performing real estate professionals, but it’s the way he carries his success—with humility, humor, and heart—that truly sets him apart.
“I’m Dallas born and raised,” Shamil says proudly. “I’ve lived all over—from Carrollton to Oak Cliff, Richardson to Frisco. Growing up here gave me an understanding of the market that goes far beyond just numbers or trends. This city raised me, and now I get to serve it every day in a way that feels incredibly personal.”
With over eight years in real estate and accolades that include D Magazine’s Top Producer for 2024 and 2025 and a spot in the prestigious Real Producers Top 500, Shamil has clearly made an impact. But his path to real estate wasn’t linear. After graduating with a finance degree, despite initially studying architecture and interior design, he ventured into technology sales in the hospitality industry and private aviation.
“I got into tech sales right out of college, after attempts to land a finance gig post-’08 crash,” he recalls. “Then I spent some time at a private airline startup that’s now JSX before managing my own sales team. But real estate was always in the back of my mind. I’ve always loved homes—the design, development, and the bones behind the walls—and I’m grateful that I now get to engage with all of it, as an agent and investor.”
For Shamil, real estate is more than a career—it’s a calling that touches nearly every part of his life. “It doesn’t feel like work,” he says. “I love helping people turn dreams into reality—whether it’s their first home or their next chapter. That’s incredibly fulfilling.”
His enthusiasm is contagious, but it’s his depth of knowledge that builds trust with clients. Having grown up watching DFW transform from a collection of suburbs into a booming metroplex,
Shamil stays informed about new developments, trends, and opportunities across the region. “The growth we’re seeing in DFW is strategic, not chaotic,” he says. “It’s positioning the city to be one of the most desirable places to live in the country over the next decade.” That insight translates into action. In 2024 alone, Shamil closed over $18 million in production, contributing to a career volume exceeding $60 million.
“I LOVE HELPING PEOPLE TURN DREAMS INTO REALITY—WHETHER IT’S THEIR FIRST HOME OR THEIR NEXT CHAPTER. THAT’S INCREDIBLY FULFILLING.”
His clients describe him as steady and dependable—a true professional who makes even the most stressful transactions feel manageable. “In a business filled with high stakes and emotion, I bring calm, clarity, and confidence,” he explains. “I’m there every step of the way.”
The drive to serve others is rooted in his upbringing. As a first-generation
Photo by Michael Lam, ML Studios
American, Shamil watched his parents build and lose successful businesses, and through those hardships, he learned resilience. “My parents came here from Pakistan in the late ’80s with nothing but a dream. When the going got tough and tested our family, the way we overcame it truly shaped me. I started working in high school and college to help support where I could. That experience taught me how to persevere—how to keep showing up.”
It’s that same mindset that fuels his success—and guides his goals. “Success, to me, is about growth,” Shamil shares. “Personally, professionally, emotionally. One of my mantras is, ‘Evolve or evaporate.’ I want to keep learning, stay true to my values, and live with humility knowing that even though I don’t know everything, I will always put my best foot forward.”
Whether he’s helping a client close on a home, on a stroll with his schnauzer Ray, spinning vinyl records in his downtime, or dominating a local pickleball match, Shamil brings his whole self to everything he does. “I love cars, sports, architecture, traveling, music—especially music. I call it my healthy drug,” he laughs. “I want to do everything to the fullest—with passion, humility, and my heart on my sleeve.”
This year, Shamil has set his sights on breaking the $20 million production mark, reaching intermediate level in pickleball, and reading over ten books. “I’m always pushing myself,” he says. “But I also want to inspire others— especially my siblings. I’m the eldest of four, and I try to be someone they can look up to every day.”
When asked what he wants to be remembered for, Shamil doesn’t hesitate. “I want people to remember me as someone who brought others together—who created strong connections, built trust, and made others feel seen. I want to leave a legacy of growth, resilience, and selflessness.”
His advice to new agents reflects that heart-forward approach: “Focus on
relationships, not transactions. Treat every client with the same level of effort and care. The results will come if you stay true to yourself.”
That combination of knowledge, drive, and authenticity is what makes Shamil Shalwani more than just a topproducing agent—it’s what makes him a trusted guide, a connector, and someone
you want in your corner, whether you’re buying, selling, or just grabbing coffee and talking about life.
At the end of the day, Shamil doesn’t just sell real estate—he builds relationships, uplifts his community, and lives each moment with purpose. And in doing so, he’s redefining what it means to be a real estate professional in Dallas.
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
At the heart of Dallas real estate, Diyanna Ahuja is helping shape something bigger than just transactions and property sales—she’s cultivating a culture rooted in authenticity, service, and heart. As Vice President of Operations at Rogers Healy and Associates (RHA), Diyanna embodies the spirit of the brokerage’s mantra: hustle with heart. For her, real estate is less about closing deals and more about opening doors—to opportunity, to belonging, and to meaningful relationships.
“There really is no secret sauce in real estate,” she says, echoing the words of RHA’s founder, Rogers Healy. “Most brokerages offer similar services, but what differentiates RHA is that we’re privately owned. That gives us the flexibility to truly respond to the needs of our agents and create a space where people feel supported and empowered.”
Diyanna’s journey into real estate began in 2018, following a 17-year career in the luxury fashion industry with HUGO BOSS. “Working in the luxury retail space helped to develop my servant mindset,” she explains. “It taught me how to build trust, establish lasting relationships, and consistently exceed expectations.” Those values naturally carried over into real estate, where she saw an opportunity to support agents in their growth and help clients find their perfect place to call home.
Originally born in Calgary, Canada, Diyanna’s path has taken her from San Francisco to Texas—where she has proudly planted her roots. “I consider myself a true Texan,” she says with a smile. “I’ve called Austin, Houston, and Dallas home, and each city has added to my love for this state.” Her connection to Texas runs deep, especially when it comes to her alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin. “Being a Longhorn is a huge part of my identity,” she shares. “I’ll never forget attending the 2005 National Championship game at the Rose Bowl—it was one of the best days of my life.”
That same level of passion and pride shows up in how she leads today at RHA. “I’m incredibly passionate about fostering a culture of collaboration and emotional intelligence within our business,” she says. “When integrity, empathy, and self-awareness are at the core of your leadership, you create an environment where people can thrive.”
Her appreciation for the hard work it takes to succeed in real estate is evident. “This career has no downtime,” she admits. “It requires grit, adaptability, and an incredible amount of perseverance. I have so much respect
When integrity, empathy, and self-awareness are at the core of your leadership, you create an environment where people can thrive.”
for the agents who show up every day with that level of dedication.”
That respect isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal. Diyanna’s approach to leadership is shaped by her own experiences navigating change, especially during her time helping grow the U.S. retail division at HUGO BOSS. “One of the biggest lessons I learned was the importance of embracing fresh perspectives,” she recalls. “Welcoming new ideas and new people is essential to growth. That mindset has stayed with me, and I bring it into everything I do at RHA.”
And that growth mindset is central to the culture she’s helping build. “Our culture is inclusive, warm, and rooted in values that would make our grandparents proud,” she says, again quoting Healy’s guiding vision. “We seek out authentic, approachable people who
care about making a difference. That’s the heart of RHA.”
For Diyanna, real estate aligns beautifully with her personal mission. “It’s about home and community—two things I care deeply about,” she says. “Helping
We seek out authentic, approachable people who care about making a difference. That’s the heart of RHA.”
someone find a place they can truly call home, whether it’s their first or their forever, gives me a sense of purpose.”
Her favorite part of being in this business? “It’s the chance to serve others while upholding the standards of our profession. I don’t take the responsibility of being a REALTOR® lightly. It’s about building trust and creating positive change in people’s lives.”
That impact extends beyond clients. Whether she’s mentoring a new agent or improving operational systems to serve the team better, Diyanna finds fulfillment in seeing others succeed. “The most rewarding part of my work is knowing I’ve played a role in someone else’s growth. That’s what drives me.”
Even amid the fast-paced, ever-evolving landscape of Dallas real estate, Diyanna remains grounded in her definition of success: “It’s not about money or recognition. It’s about how you make people feel and the legacy you leave behind. Success is being your authentic self and showing up with integrity— every single day.”
At RHA, that authenticity isn’t just encouraged—it’s expected. “We’re building something real here,” she says. “A place where people can be themselves, support one another, and do great things together. That’s what makes RHA more than a brokerage—it’s a community.”
And under Diyanna’s leadership, it’s a community that’s thriving. With every conversation, every initiative, and every moment of mentorship, she’s not just doing her job—she’s helping redefine what it means to lead with both hustle and heart.
PHOTOS BY SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC
Our first Masterclass was an AMAZING success! Everyone raved about this event. There was so much powerful information being shared and priceless networking.
Thank you to our rockstar panelists:
• Les McGehee, Chief Education Strategist, Rialto Academy
• Britt Fair, Retired Title Industry Executive
• Dustin Wright, Principal at Portfolio Commercial
What we learned:
• THREE major shifts are happening in the real estate industry right now (usually only one shift at a time).
• What are they, and what does it mean for me?
• How do we navigate and process these monumental shifts?
• Walk away with strategies, insights, and tools to not just survive these shifts, but to thrive because of them.
Huge thank you to ALL of our Preferred Partners and especially our event sponsors:
• Black Tie Moving
• Read Design Window Fashions
• HomeStretch
• Lawyers Title
• Deluxe Roofing
See you at the next Masterclass on August 7th!
SEPTEMBER 29 & 30, 2025
Join real estate leaders and the top 5% of agents from across the country for a two-day experience packed with industry insights, cutting-edge strategies, and powerful networking opportunities designed to help you succeed in the ever-evolving real estate market. SPONSORSHIP
Oscar-nominated for “Molly’s Game,” the movie tells Bloom’s journey from US skier to waitress to high-stakes poker game fame
New York Times bestselling author of "Take the Stairs"
Creator of Real Producers, host of Real Producers Podcast
•
•