PHOTO BY SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
PROVEN EXPERIENCE. DEDICATED SERVICE. L ASTING REL ATIONSHIPS.
erving our communities with 11 headquartered right here at home.
Ryan Phillips
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!
BUILDER
K. Hovnanian Homes
Mike Tufariello (214) 995-3959 build.khov.com/sales/ miketufariello
Pacesetter Homes (972) 743-2432 pacesetterhomestexas.com
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
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS
Partners in Building (214) 235-6814 partnersinbuilding.com
FOUNDATION REPAIR
Structured Foundation Repairs (972) 484-1200 structuredfoundation.com
HOME CLEANING
Tidy Maids of Frisco (469) 731-0360 tidymaidsoffrisco.com
HOME INSPECTION
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com
Property Inspection Group LLC (214) 728-5789 propertyconditionconsulting.com
Semper Fi Home
Inspections, Inc. (682) 351-2267
SemperFiHomeInspections.com
Viking Inspections (469) 209-8130 vikinginspections.com
HOME RENOVATION & REPAIR
Prep To Close
Taylor McKinney (469) 771-6613 preptoclose.com
Renovation Sells (214) 888-4376 RenovationSells.com/ North-Dallas
HOME WARRANTY
Achosa Home Warranty, LLC
Robyn DiPasquale (888) 509-2916 AchosaHW.com
American Home Shield
Meredith Martin (972) 742-3995 PRO.AHS.com
HVAC
GC Legacy (214) 954-7851 gclegacyconstruction.com
INSURANCE
C1 Insurance Group (214) 420-0841 c1ig.com
Jenny Weidner State Farm (972) 727-3969 HeyJenny.com
JUNK REMOVAL
Haul Good & Well (469) 394-4116 haulgoodandwell.com
MORTGAGE LENDING
Anthony DiTomaSupreme Lending (972) 447-5694 supremelendingdallas.com/ anthonyditoma
Barrett Financial Group LLC (318) 840-1221 barrettfinancial.com/gbourgeois
First Rate Financial (214) 872-4442 iamfirstrate.com
Modern Home Mortgage (469) 767-4937
The Tuttle Group Cross Country Mortgage (469) 319-0660 thetuttlegroup.com
Victory MTG (214) 542-8550 victorymtg.com
MOVING SERVICES
Black Tie Moving
Tyler Coleman (822) 920-2966 blacktiemoving.com
Finesse Movers (469) 657-5975 finessemovers.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Beth Graeme Photography, LLC (240) 504-5091 bethgraeme.photography
Scott Peek Photography (469) 587-2300 ScottPeekPhotography.com
RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL LENDER
Hometown Lending (972) 322-4472 hometownlend.com
ROOFING
Blue Hammer Roofing bluehammerroofing.com/
Deluxe Roofing & Construction (817) 247-8628 deluxeroofingdfw.com
PROCO (817) 975-1403 procoroof.com
Results Roofing
Quinton Hill (817) 808-3218 popl.co/card/KsiKVliN/1/preview
T-Rock Roofing & Contracting (469) 931-9867 dallasroofer.com
Town & Country Roofing (972) 377-8188 townandcountryroofingdfw.com
ROOFING & SOLAR
Structured Foundation Repairs (972) 484-1200 structuredfoundation.com
TITLE COMPANY
Chicago Title DFW (972) 931-1552 ChicagoTitleDFW.com
Independence Title (682) 478-0005 independencetitle.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
WINDOWS
Town & Country Windows (972) 377-8188 townandcountrywindows.com
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
Reece Gentry Partner Liaison
Vanessa Corral Photographer
Ashley Gentry Agent Liaison
Katherine Fondren Editor
Rick Davis Videographer
Scott Peek Photographer
Lance Dunahoe Co-Owner
Sarah Consentino Ad Strategist
Beth Graeme Photographer
Jessica Espeseth Social Media Director
More Than Just Numbers
But Seriously…The Numbers are Kind Of Insane
If you were to look at this community on paper, it would be easy to focus on the numbers. And to be fair, the numbers are pretty wild.
Across our four DFW Real Producers communities, the top 4,000 agents collectively closed over 91,000 homes in 2025, representing more than $57 billion in total sales volume. Let that sink in for a second.
In North Dallas alone, our top 1,000 agents closed over 28,000 homes. Dallas over 22,000. North Fort Worth over 22,000. Fort Worth nearly 19,000. These are not normal numbers. This is uncommon air.
And when you consider that each of these groups represents roughly the top 1,000 agents out of an estimated 15,000 in each market, it becomes even more significant. We do not get too caught up in whether that number is exactly 12,000 or 15,000 or 18,000 agents in a given area. The reality is, no matter how you look at it, you are seeing the top tier of the top tier. And if you are receiving this magazine, that includes you.
But here is the important part. It is not about the numbers. It is about what those numbers represent.
Behind every transaction is a conversation. A relationship. A client
trusting someone with one of the biggest decisions of their life. Behind every one of those 91,000 homes are long days, tough conversations, deals that almost fell apart, and moments where you had to show up at a high level when it mattered most. That is what we are actually recognizing.
It is also what makes this community so powerful. Last month, we talked about being one conversation away. This is the room those conversations are happening in. This is a room full of people who are not only producing at a high level, but who are consistently solving problems, building relationships, and finding ways to move things forward.
That is rare. And it is easy to get used to it. But do not.
Because the truth is, most rooms do not look like this. Most rooms do not have this level of consistency, this level of production, or this level of people showing up and doing the work at a high level year after year.
So whether you are an agent or a partner, take a moment to recognize what you are a part of. Be proud of it. Be grateful for it. And do not overlook the opportunity that comes with being in a room like this.
Jordan Espeseth & Lance Dunahoe Proud Owners, DFW Real Producers
Megan Tierney
Keith Williams
/ Attorney
Phoebe Toombs
Christine McLean
Kelsey Berry
Kelly Berry
Tracey McCann
Jason Ramsey
Tamera Gaede
Trey Mccann
Real Producers FAQ FAQ
Real Producers Magazine is a national franchise that started in Indianapolis in 2015 and is now in over 130 markets across the nation and continues to spread rapidly. DFW has four Real Producers Communities: North Dallas, Dallas, North Fort Worth, and Fort Worth Real Producers
Q: What is the goal of Real Producers?
A: We believe that we are better together. When we surround ourselves with other successful, like-minded people, we grow to new heights. Real Producers is a platform that brings together the most elite individuals in DFW real estate. We take the highest producing real estate agents, and RP-vetted businesses in every market, and build an exclusive community around that group. We share their stories, successes, upcoming events, and educate – really anything that will connect, inform and inspire, we put in our monthly publication.
At Real Producers, we believe we are one person, one conversation, or one idea away from everything in our business and life changing. With this powerhouse community, it happens all the time.
Q: How do you become a Real Producers Top Agent?
A: In all of DFW, there are roughly 60,000 licensed agents, meaning there are ~15,000 agents in each of our four communities. We
rank all those agents based off their yearly MLS sales volume. In years past, we congratulated the Top 500 Agents, and we still are, but in 2026, we are adding a other groups to our community… all in the RP Top 1000! These agents are in the top 6%.
Q: Who receives Real Producers Magazine?
A: The Top 1000 agents in each community will receive the digital magazine for the year. The Top 500 agents will also receive the magazine physically to their mailbox. Our RP Vetted Businesses also receive the magazine physically and digitally.
Q: Can I be featured?
A: If you are in the Top 1000, you have the opportunity to be featured! We love nominations and take them seriously. If you’d like to be considered for a feature, or if you would like to nominate someone, you can email team@ dfwrealproducers.com.
Q: What does it cost to be featured as an RP Top Agent?
A: Zero, zilch, zippo, nada, nil. How, you ask? Because
of the businesses that your peers have recommended, who partner with Real Producers, and invest in this community to support you. These companies have all been recommended by top agents and have been vetted by us to ensure they are of the highest quality. So instead of you paying $5k - $10k for this feature… they cover all those costs for you! Pretty incredible, right?
Q: Does Real Producers host events?
A: Yes, we host many different events throughout the year! Some large 400-800 people, some 75-250 people, and other more intimate events that are 30-50 people. We do Social Events, Magazine Celebration Events, an Awards Gala, and Masterclass Events. You can see quick recaps of some of our events under the “Events” tab on our website.
For our events, we invite the top 1000 real estate agents and our RP-vetted businesses. The Top 1000 agents are allowed to invite agents on their team, as well. These events are an incredible opportunity to connect with the best in DFW real estate. It is amazing
events. Be on the lookout for your exclusive invites!
Q: Who are the RP Vetted Businesses?
A: They are some of the best businesses in DFW in their category! You can find them listed in our index and their ad in the magazine. We don’t just find these businesses off the street, nor do we work with all businesses that approach us. Each business has come recommended by your peers, the top producing real estate agents in the market. Our team will further vet every business to make sure they are a good fit and bring value to our community. Our goal is to create a powerhouse network, not only for the best real estate agents in the area but the best businesses, as well, so we can grow stronger together.
Q: Can I nominate an agent or recommend a business?
A: Absolutely! Email your nominations and recommendations to team@ dfwrealproducers.com.
YOUR NORTH DALLAS REAL PRODUCERS
BADGES
Congrats on earning your Real Producers Top Agent Badge!
Because of your 2026 MLS production, you earned your spot as a 2026 North Dallas Real Producers Top Agent and can represent your badge proudly! This year, we have added NEW badges to the top 500 and top 1000 – top 10, top 25, top 100, top 250, and top 750 —the badge you will receive is determined by your production. Regardless, that is the top 6% in North Dallas!
Missing your badge? Email team@ 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 preferred partners 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 North Dallas’ most elite businesses. Look for this badge to know that you are working with one of the best, recommended by the best!
Here’s What North Dallas Top 500 Agents Sold...
38.44
19,216 SALES VOLUME TOTAL TRANSACTIONS AVERAGE TRANSACTIONS PER AGENT
$12,924,816,765
AVERAGE SALES VOLUME PER AGENT $25.85 Million
Ryan PHILLIPS
After midnight, most phones are on silent. The day is done. Lights are off.
But for Ryan Phillips, a real estate agent with The Great Home Team at Local Realty Agency, service doesn’t punch a clock.
“I literally had a client last summer text me at 12:30am asking to see a list of homes the next day,” Ryan recalls. “I was still awake and scheduled all the showings before 1:00 am and we went out the next morning.”
It’s a small glimpse into a much bigger story; one marked by discipline, devotion, and a steady commitment to go above and beyond for every client he serves across DFW.
Ryan’s work ethic was forged long before he ever negotiated a contract.
Originally from Fresno, California, he was raised by a father who was a truck driver and a mother who was a radiological
technologist. “Growing up, my parents instilled discipline and responsibility in my brother and I,” he says. “I learned from a very early age that it takes a lot of hard work to achieve things in life and that things are not just handed to you.”
That mindset carried him from Clovis High School to Fresno State University, and eventually into the U.S. Army in 2008. He shipped out to basic training on January 4th of that year, graduating as a tanker that May. What followed was a career that would shape not just his leadership, but his perspective on service.
Stationed in Korea, then at Joint Base LewisMcChord, Ryan deployed to Afghanistan in 2012. Later, he transitioned into recruiting, a role that required him to step into a version of himself he hadn’t always known.
“When I was younger I was always the quiet kid – an introvert,” he admits. “While I was in the Army, I had to learn to be a leader and take
control of situations. When I became a recruiter, I had to stand in front of hundreds of people and talk.”
That transformation—from introvert to confident communicator—became foundational for the career that followed.
Real estate wasn’t an impulsive decision. It was planted as a seed years earlier.
“Sometime in 2018, my mother-in-law, who was a lender in California, told me she thought I would love real estate and would be great at it,” Ryan says. The idea lingered.
In 2020, when the Army moved him to Texas, a place he’d hoped to call home since enlisting, he connected with real estate agent Will Harris while purchasing his own house. “Will did a great job helping me and my wife find a home, and he told me that he wanted to build a team one day and that really stuck with me.”
By December 2022, Ryan was licensed. In January 2023,
Above & Beyond
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY VANESSA CORRAL PHOTOGRAPHY
I DON’T HAVE SET DAYS OFF AND TELL MY CLIENTS THEY CAN CALL OR TEXT ME ANY DAY OR ANY TIME.”
while transitioning out of the Army on terminal leave, he officially stepped into real estate full time and joined The Great Home Team under Will’s mentorship.
Three years later, his career volume stands at $25,608,565, with $12,000,312 closed last year alone. In his second year, he surpassed $10 million in production.
“That moment set a standard for me that I feel is the bare minimum that I have to achieve each year,” he says. “To me, $10 mil means that I got to help a ton of individuals and families and that is what really pushes me to do this job. I love helping people.”
And that’s the heartbeat of it all.
Ask Ryan what excites him most, and he won’t mention his awards—though he has plenty. He’s received the Real Producers badge twice, earned recognition in D Magazine’s Best D 2025, and was named #1 Agent in GCI, Units Sold, and Volume Sold within his brokerage in 2025. Instead, he talks about keys handed across closing tables.
“My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is getting to help people achieve the dream of being homeowners,” he says. “My favorite thing is when my clients have been told by lenders or other agents that they can’t buy a home and I then turn around and get them into a home.”
For Ryan, success is about taking care of people, achieving your goals, and being one of the best at what you do. “Success to me is
being able to get the best terms of a deal for my clients and getting things done for them that I think most other REALTORS® couldn’t get done,” he adds.
If you ask him the best advice he’s ever received, Ryan circles back to the influence of a teacher who changed his life, and mindset, forever. “One experience that changed my life was meeting my sixth grade teacher, Mr. Charlie Ford,” recalls Ryan. “He really changed me with his teaching methods and his standards. He really turned me into a straight A student, when I had never been, and it followed me all through the rest of my school years.” This set a standard of discipline in Ryan that motivated him to never quit or give up and to always achieve what you have set out for yourself. That willingness to stretch farther—to drive farther, to negotiate harder, to answer the late-night text—is what sets him apart in his business today. He has closed deals all over the metroplex, from Mount Pleasant to Waco to Galveston. There are no “off” days. No rigid office hours.
“I don’t have set days off and tell my clients they can call or text me any day or any time.”
It’s not about availability for the sake of it. It’s about reliability.
“I want to be remembered as a good man and someone who can always be counted on,” Ryan says. “I want people to know that I will always put their needs above my own and will always do
everything in my power to make sure they get the best opportunities in life.”
Behind the drive is something even deeper: family.
“My wife and daughter motivate me,” he shares. “I work like I do to provide for them and make sure my wife doesn’t have to work and that I can build generational wealth for them so I can fully retire in my 50s.”
I WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW THAT I WILL ALWAYS PUT THEIR NEEDS ABOVE MY OWN AND WILL ALWAYS DO EVERYTHING IN MY POWER TO MAKE SURE THEY GET THE BEST OPPORTUNITIES IN LIFE.”
That clarity fuels ambitious goals: over $10 million in production again this year, earning his 2027 Real Producers badge, and completing at least 52 transactions so he can average one per week.
In an industry often driven by numbers, Ryan Phillips is driven by people.
Contracts will close. Markets will shift. Production goals will evolve.
But long after the ink dries, what remains is how someone made you feel and whether they showed up when it mattered most.
For Ryan, that’s not negotiable.
Eli Howard General Manager
Convenient Inspection Packages that Include:
• New Construction Phase Inspections
• Pre-Listing Inspections
• Commercial Inspections
• Termite/ WDI
• Thermal Imaging
• Pool Inspections
• Sewer Line Inspections • Drones
• Water Quality Testing
• Inspection Repair Amendment Builder Tool
• Level 2 Foundation Inspection Report
• Thermal Imaging & Zip Level Measurement
Included with Every Inspection
• Virtual Report Review Available
HAUL GOOD & WELL
MOVING PROJECTS FORWARD
In real estate, momentum matters. A delayed clean-out can push back a listing. A cluttered property can stall a renovation. And a project that sits too long can cost valuable time and opportunity. That’s where Christopher Galindez steps in, not just to remove junk, but to help move projects forward.
As Owner/Operator of Haul Good & Well, Christopher has built his business around speed, reliability, and understanding the fast-paced demands of real estate. What started as a leap of faith has quickly grown into a trusted service for homeowners, REALTORS®, and investors alike.
“Haul Good & Well is a full-service junk removal and light demolition company serving homeowners, REALTORS®, and investors,” Christopher explains. “We specialize in property clean-outs, including estate, eviction, and makeready jobs, helping clients quickly prepare spaces for sale or renovation.”
But for Christopher, the work goes beyond hauling away debris. It’s about transformation.
“Our services include hauling away furniture, appliances, construction debris, yard waste, and general clutter, as well as selective interior demolition such as kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and built-ins,” he says. “Our demolition services really help keep things moving fast by having everything ready for other trades to come in and get straight to work.”
That focus on efficiency and transition is what truly sets Haul Good & Well apart.
“What sets Haul Good & Well apart is our focus on speed, reliability, and understanding the real estate timeline,” Christopher shares. “We don’t just haul junk — we help move deals forward.”
Whether it’s a last-minute clean-out before listing, an eviction situation, or a full make-ready project, Christopher and his team arrive ready to work. They combine hauling and light demolition into one seamless service, allowing clients to avoid juggling multiple vendors.
“We’re detail-oriented and propertyconscious, protecting what stays while efficiently removing what goes,” he adds. “Our team communicates clearly, shows up on time, and gets the job done right the first time, no surprises.”
That level of consistency didn’t happen overnight. Christopher’s journey into entrepreneurship came after a decade of public service and a willingness to take a risk.
Born in Dallas and raised in Plano, Christopher attended Plano schools and graduated from Plano East Senior High. After college and earning his firefighter and EMT certifications, he spent 10 years working for the City of Plano. But eventually, he felt called to build something of his own.
“I decided to start my junk removal and demolition business since I wanted something different after working for the City of Plano for 10 years,” he explains. “I decided I wanted something of my own.”
To make that dream possible, Christopher made a bold move. He left his job and traveled to Salt
Lake City, Utah, where he worked in oil refineries to save enough money to launch his business.
“It’s been two years since then, and I haven’t looked back,” he says.
Since then, Haul Good & Well has grown steadily, fueled by Christopher’s commitment to service and relationships.
“What we are most passionate about is helping people move forward,” he says. “Whether it’s a homeowner overwhelmed by clutter, a REALTOR® preparing a listing, or an investor starting a rehab, we take pride in turning stressful situations into clean, manageable spaces.”
He also enjoys the variety each day brings.
“Seeing a property go from chaotic to clean and ready for its next chapter is something we genuinely enjoy,”
Christopher says. “Also getting to know new and interesting people along the way is a plus. Always something different day in, day out.”
Christopher runs the business alongside someone who has been part of his life for decades — his best friend, Jonathan Chavarria.
“We are a small family-owned and operated micro business,” Christopher shares. “My partner in crime is my best friend Jonathan Chavarria. I consider him family and like my brother since we’ve been friends since second grade.”
Together, the two have built a company grounded in reliability and trust.
“The biggest reason for our success has been consistency and reliability,” Christopher says. “We do what we say we’re going to do, show up on time, communicate clearly, and deliver results every single time.”
That dependability has made Haul Good & Well an ideal partner for REALTORS®, investors, contractors, and property managers.
“I define success by the impact we make and the trust we build. It’s not just about revenue; it’s about being the company people can rely on when it matters most.”
“We are a growing family,” he shares.
“My lovely wife and I have been together for 10 years. We have two precious daughters, 3 and 10, and one on the way.”
Despite a busy schedule, Christopher prioritizes quality time with loved ones.
“When I’m not working, I like to give them my undivided attention,” he says.
“We enjoy small day trips, exploring what our great state of Texas has to offer, and family barbecues with great food and laughs.”
Faith also plays an important role in their lives, with the family attending church regularly and staying grounded in their values.
Looking ahead, Christopher’s goals center around growth and continued service.
“Some of my goals for this year and the future focus on growth, service excellence, and building stronger relationships in the real estate community,” he says. “Expand our reach and capacity. Continue refining our services and invest in my team and family business.”
“Top-producing REALTORS® should have Haul Good & Well in their network because we help protect their time, reputation, and deals,” he explains. “When a property needs to be cleaned out, cleared up, or prepped quickly, we step in and handle it without hand-holding.”
Christopher understands that presentation and timing are critical in real estate.
“A cluttered or damaged space can delay listings and hurt first impressions,” he says. “We move fast, show up when we say we will, and leave properties clean, safe, and ready to hit the market or start rehab immediately.”
While Christopher is focused on growing his business, his motivation begins at home. Family is at the center of everything he does.
When asked how he defines success, Christopher keeps it simple and meaningful.
“I define success by the impact we make and the trust we build,” he says. “It’s not just about revenue; it’s about being the company people can rely on when it matters most.”
It’s a mindset reflected in his favorite quote: “Be like water.”
“It helps remind me that not everything goes as planned,” he explains. “And we need to be good at adapting to any situation life throws at us.”
And in a fast-moving industry where adaptability is everything, Christopher Galindez and Haul Good & Well are doing exactly that—flowing with the needs of their clients, clearing obstacles, and helping every project move forward.
Jonathan Chavarria
Christopher Galindez
Steve Cook, Teresa Cook, Greg House & Dean Freeman OWNERS
home feels like
There’s a quiet confidence about Lorena Locke that doesn’t demand attention; it earns it. It’s the kind that comes from experience, from life lived fully, and from a deep understanding that real estate isn’t just about properties. It’s about people, their stories, and the moments that shape them.
For Lorena, that understanding began long before she ever stepped into the world of real estate.
Raised in Rockland County, New York, in a large Italian family, Lorena’s foundation was built on something far more enduring than ambition; it was built on values. “My parents immigrated to the United States from Sicily and built a life here through hard work, determination, and a deep commitment to family,” she shares. “Family was always at the center of everything.” That upbringing instilled in her a sense of responsibility and care for others that would later define her career.
At 13, Lorena’s world shifted when her family moved to Texas. The transition was significant, but it gave her something invaluable: perspective. She understands what it feels like to start over, to adapt, and to find your place in a new community, an experience that
now allows her to guide her clients with empathy and insight.
Before real estate, Lorena found her footing in the hospitality industry at the Harvey Hotel, where she spent years honing her natural ability to connect with people. “I truly loved that industry and thrived in it,” she says. It was also where she met her husband—an unexpected but meaningful chapter in her story.
Her path into real estate, however, was shaped by a moment she never forgot.
At just 19 years old, Lorena sat beside her parents as they prepared to close on their first home in The Colony. What should have been a celebratory milestone quickly turned stressful when they were asked to bring a significant additional amount of money— something they hadn’t been prepared for. “I remember sitting there with them feeling completely helpless,” she recalls.
That moment left a lasting impression. “It stirred something in my heart and made me realize how important it is for buyers and sellers to be fully informed and guided throughout the process.”
That realization became her purpose.
Lorena officially entered the real estate industry in 2006, but life called her to step away not long after when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. Without hesitation, she chose family. “I stepped away from my career to care for both my mother and father during that difficult time,” she says. It’s a decision that speaks volumes about who she is—not just as a professional, but as a person.
When she eventually returned to real estate, it wasn’t just a career she came back to—it was a calling.
Like many agents, Lorena remembers the weight of her early days in the business. “What stands out most is the immense responsibility of helping someone sell one of the most personal and significant investments of their life,” she says. That responsibility didn’t intimidate her—it grounded her. Over time, the trust her clients placed in her became the reassurance she needed. Referrals from friends and past clients followed, each one a testament to the relationships she had built.
And for Lorena, those relationships are everything.
She recalls one story in particular: a moment that perfectly captures the heart behind her work. In 2016, she met a couple at an open house in Stonebriar. The wife had walked in with a firm resolution: “Don’t give the agent any of our information because they’re going to hound us.” But Lorena approached them differently. She offered space, conversation, and genuine interest with no pressure.
“By the end of the conversation, she jokes that she had given me her phone number, address, ‘just about
everything!’” Lorena says with a smile. What started as a simple meeting turned into something far more meaningful. Over the years, that relationship grew into a friendship— one that includes shared holidays, church, and even vacations. “Today we consider each other family.”
It’s those moments that define her career.
Another unforgettable experience came after she returned to real estate in 2015. At her first listing appointment, she was met with skepticism. As she reached out to greet the homeowner, he responded bluntly: “I don’t like REALTORS®.” Instead of taking offense, Lorena leaned in. “Well then, it’s my job to change your mind,” she told him.
And she did.
Through transparency, preparation, and a commitment to doing things the right way, Lorena guided the transaction to a smooth close. At the end, the same client who had doubted her shook her hand and said, “You changed my mind.” For Lorena, that moment wasn’t just a win— it was confirmation that she was exactly where she was meant to be.
Over the years, her dedication has not gone unnoticed. From being named a D Magazine Best Real Estate Agent year after year, a Top Real Estate Professional in Frisco Style Magazine, and named among the Plano Extraordinary Women in Business, her accolades reflect both consistency and care. She has also earned recognition as a Multi-Million Dollar Top Producer and has received the Excellence in Client Service Award, but if you ask Lorena what matters most, her answer remains unchanged.
“It’s not about the homes; it’s about the people.”
Today, what motivates her goes far beyond transactions. “These are not just homes being sold—there’s a family and a story behind every one,” she says. “It’s truly an honor to be
part of that journey.” Whether she’s advocating for her clients, offering guidance through difficult transitions, or celebrating milestones at the closing table, Lorena approaches each experience with intention.
“We counsel, support, advocate, and sometimes hold babies at closing,” she adds. It’s a line that perfectly captures the depth of her role—and the heart she brings to it.
Outside of real estate, Lorena finds joy in the simple things: traveling with her husband and family,
It’s truly an honor to be part of that journey.”
spending time with her children and grandchildren, and staying active in her church community at Bent Tree Bible Fellowship. Italy, she says, is their happy place—a reflection of her roots and the traditions that continue to shape her life.
Lorena Locke’s career stands as a reminder that success is built differently. It’s built on trust, on relationships, and on showing up for people when it matters most. And for those who have had the opportunity to work with her, the impact is lasting, long after the keys have been handed over.
Photo provided by Lorena Locke
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!
UNDERSTANDING TODAY’S MARKET: CONTEXT, NOT CRISIS
BY JUSTIN LANDON, CEO, METROTEX
If you spend any time scrolling headlines or listening to national real estate commentary, you’d be forgiven for thinking our industry is in trouble. Depending on the day, we’re told the market is “frozen,” or real estate is on the brink of some existential reckoning.
And yet, when I look at the data, and more importantly, when I look at North Texas, I see something very different.
So how did we get here, and where are we actually going?
To answer that, we have to start by acknowledging that the past five years have been anything but normal.
THE PAST
The DFW market experienced an unprecedented run from 2020 through 2022. Record-low interest rates, accelerated household formation, corporate relocations, and lifestyle shifts collided all at once. We sold a massive number of homes in a very short period of time.
That success created today’s first major dynamic: the lock-in effect.
Millions of homeowners bought or refinanced at historically low interest rates. When you’re sitting on a mortgage that starts with a “2” or a “3,” there’s very little incentive to move. The result is fewer resale transactions, not because people don’t want to move, but because financially, it doesn’t make sense.
At the same time, prices increased dramatically. Even with modest price
softening in some segments over the last year, values across DFW remain far above pre-pandemic levels. Homeowners are sitting on record equity, which has insulated the market from distress and helped keep foreclosures and forced sales historically low.
There’s an important distinction that often gets lost in the conversation: a slowdown in transactions is not the same thing as a broken market.
Transaction volume is down from peak years, but those peak years were never sustainable to begin with.
Another factor shaping today’s environment for agents is competition. We have more licensed agents now than we did a decade ago, yet fewer transactions than during the pandemic surge. That imbalance is what many agents are feeling day-to-day. The business hasn’t disappeared, it’s just more competitive.
This isn’t new. It’s a reversion to a more normalized market where skill, value, and differentiation matter more than ever.
THE PRESENT
Despite the narrative, DFW remains one of the strongest housing markets in the country. Population growth continues. Job growth continues. Business relocations continue. We are still building homes, still absorbing inventory, and still closing tens of billions of dollars in sales annually.
Consumers are using REALTORS® more, not less. They’re navigating affordability challenges, complex financing conversations, and uncertain headlines. That complexity increases the value of professional guidance.
At the same time, buyer and seller sentiment has lagged behind reality. Fear travels faster than facts, and in many cases national news doesn’t reflect the truth of a local market. That disconnect creates hesitation, but it also creates opportunity for agents who know the data and can communicate it clearly.
THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, the future of the DFW market is not about returning to 2021, it’s about moving forward smarter.
We should expect moderate, sustainable growth, not explosive surges. Inventory will gradually improve as life events, not rates, drive mobility. New construction will continue to play a larger role, particularly for first-time
and price-sensitive buyers. Rates will fluctuate, but buyers and sellers will adapt, just as they always have.
For agents, the path forward is clear, even if it isn’t easy.
The next phase of this market will reward professionals who:
Know more about their local data, it’s more important than national data
Can clearly articulate their value and services
Understand financing options, new construction, and negotiation strategy
Communicate confidence grounded in facts of the local market and in many cases that can be a hyperlocal market
This is a relationship business. Always has been. And in times of uncertainty, trust becomes the most valuable currency we have.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Real estate has always been cyclical, but opportunity is constant. Every shift creates winners, not by accident, but by preparation.
DFW remains a place people want to live, work, and invest. We’re attracting global attention, new employers, and long-term demand drivers that didn’t exist here a generation ago. That foundation matters far more than any single year’s transaction count.
Our responsibility as professionals, and as an industry, is to tell the real story of this market. Not the most dramatic one. Not the one that generates clicks. But the one grounded in data, context, and longterm perspective.
Because when we do that, we don’t just serve our clients better, we strengthen the future of our profession.
And from where I sit, that future in DFW remains incredibly strong.
Heather Stevens Opening Doors
For Heather Stevens, real estate has never been just about properties. It has always been about the people, their stories, their goals, and the relationships that grow long after the closing papers are signed.
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY SCOTT PEEK
Today, as the owner and broker of The Agency Frisco as well as The Agency Rockwall in the North Dallas area, Stevens has built a thriving career with more than $400 million in career sales and over $57 million in production last year alone. But when she reflects on the foundation of her success, her focus quickly shifts away from numbers.
“The relationships,” she says simply. “Over time, so many of my clients become long-term relationships and even friends.”
That belief—that relationships and integrity are the true currency of the business—has shaped the way Stevens approaches every transaction, every client, and every opportunity to lead.
A Small-Town Beginning Stevens grew up in West Monroe, Louisiana, and later attended University of Louisiana at Monroe. Her first career path wasn’t real estate at all; she worked as a dental hygienist before discovering
the profession that would ultimately define her future.
Ironically, the turning point came during a home purchase of her own.
“When I first purchased a home myself, the experience wasn’t the best,” she recalls. “Going through that process made me realize how important guidance, communication, and care truly are.”
Instead of feeling supported during one of life’s biggest investments, she found herself wishing someone had taken a more thoughtful approach.
“That experience inspired me to want to change the process for others,” Stevens explains. “Buying a home should feel exciting, supported, and personalized— not stressful or overwhelming.”
With that motivation, she stepped into real estate with a clear vision: to create a client experience built on trust, transparency, and attention to detail.
A Defining Early Moment
Success to me now means building something that helps other people grow—whether that’s agents, clients, or the communities we serve. It’s about creating opportunities and building something lasting.”
Like many agents, Stevens’ early days were filled with uncertainty and long hours. But one opportunity early in her career would change everything.“In the first year of my career, I was entrusted with listing one of the most expensive homes in Prosper,” she says.
The homeowners had previously worked with several experienced agents without success. Still, they decided to take a chance on Stevens.
“Together, we sold the property in record time,” she says. The moment proved pivotal. Not only did it establish her credibility, it also opened doors into the luxury market.
“That moment became a turning point in my career,” Stevens says. “It gave me the confidence to step into opportunities that might have felt intimidating before.”
Redefining What Success Means Over the past decade, Stevens’ career has continued to grow, earning her recognition, including DFW Top 1%,
the Top 500 Real Producers Award, The Agency Chairman Award, and RealTrends Verified Agent.
“Success to me now means building something that helps other people grow—whether that’s agents, clients, or the communities we serve,” Stevens says. “It’s about creating opportunities and building something lasting.”
That focus on growth—both personal and professional—has become one of the central themes of her leadership.
“As your business grows, the responsibility grows with it,” she explains. “You’re constantly learning, adapting, and making decisions that affect more people than just yourself.”
That journey has taught her valuable lessons about resilience and humility.
“It also teaches you the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people,” she adds.
One Call That Changed Everything
Sometimes, the biggest moments arrive when you least expect them.
For Stevens, one of those moments came during what initially felt like an ordinary phone call. “I received a call from The Agency about the opportunity to open an office in Frisco,” she remembers. “At first, I truly thought it was a spam call and almost didn’t hear them out.”
Fortunately, she did. “That conversation ended up changing everything,” Stevens says.
The opportunity led to her joining The Agency, opening three offices, and mentoring agents who are now building successful careers of their own.“It was a reminder that one unexpected moment can completely transform the direction of your career,” she says.
A Commitment to Raising the Standard
One of the qualities that sets Stevens apart is her unwavering commitment to professionalism. “I’m very intentional
about protecting my reputation and never compromising my standards,” she explains. “How I present myself and my business is incredibly important to me.”
That same philosophy carries into every transaction and every agent she works with.
“I also pride myself on having an unmatched attention to detail,” she says. “It ensures every transaction and client
experience is handled with the highest level of care.”
It’s a mindset that reflects a broader philosophy about growth—one rooted in collaboration and leadership.
For Stevens, success isn’t about building something alone. It’s about helping others rise alongside you.
A Purpose That Drives Everything
Much of Stevens’ determination can be traced back to a defining personal experience: becoming a parent at a young age.
“I want to be remembered as someone who was not just successful, but someone who shared that success with others.”
“That had a profound impact on both my life and my career,” she says. “It gave me a strong sense of purpose and a clear ‘why’ behind everything I do.”
That responsibility fueled her drive to pursue opportunities without hesitation and to continually push for growth.
Today, family remains a central motivation in her life.
“They ground me and remind me why I
