NORTH DFW
C O N N E C T I N G .
E L E VAT I N G .
LANCE & CHRISTIE
TAYLOR two-part harmony Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
I N S P I R I N G .
POWER COUPLE EDITION
FEBRUARY 2020
2 • February 2020
What does the PERFECT
credit repair company look like? High level of honesty and integrity Great communication Sets reasonable and realistic expectations Best results Clients only pay if and after they receive satisfying results Years of experience getting buyers qualified Unmatched knowledge of how credit actually works Resources to help you grow your business Burning passion for helping people
"I have worked with Dane with numerous clients. He is very knowledgeable, honest, and hard working. I can trust that when I send him a client, he will do everything in his power to produce the desire results. Dane is a shining star in his industry. I would highly recommend him and would never use anyone else.“ Richard Woodward - Service First Mortgage
Lendersccs.com | info@lendersccs.com | (866) 611-6560
www.realproducersmag.com • 3
TA BLE OF
CONTENTS 06
16
Index of Trusted Partners
Publisher’s Meet The Team Note
Publisher’s Note
20
26
30 10
Rising Rising Star Star: - Sakina Brian Ismaelbay and Tisha White
Question of the Month
Tips Power From Couple: the Top Chris and Stephanie Fetrow
38 24
42 16
24 48
Charity FAQ Spotlight: About Journey This Magazine to Dream
54
Celebrating Leaders: Tommy and Theresa Flood
4 • February 2020
09 11
Sponsor Partner Spotlight Spotlight:Photography Curbio By Spross
CCAR: FAQ In The About Know This Magazine
62
70
Cover Story: Lance and Christie Taylor
Notable Neighborhood: Huffines Communities
www.realproducersmag.com • 5
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! ARTIST Hope Harrison Artist Hope Harrison (469) 394-8664 hopeharrison.net
ENGRAVED CLOSING GIFTS VinoSay Engraving Ray Southwell (469) 396-6529 vinosay.com
BARBERSHOP & MEN’S GROOMING Hammer & Nails Grooming for Guys - Frisco (214) 794-6498 hammerandnails grooming.com
FLOORING The Design Quad (214) 647-1779 thedesignquad.com
BUILDER Taylor Morrison (469) 252-2272 taylormorrison.com BUSINESS COACHING Hero Nation Coaching Wayne Salmans (469) 500-3642 theheronation.com BUSINESS/EXECUTIVE COACH Elevate U (214) 551-1940 elevateuinc.com CREDIT REPAIR Lenders Choice Credit Solutions (214) 307-4946 lendersccs.com DEVELOPER Huffines Communites (972) 860-3133 huffinescommunities.com DIGITAL MARKETING & DIGITAL ADVERTISING Star Mobile Systems (469) 733-7270
6 • February 2020
FOUNDATION REPAIR Digg Foundation Repair Scott Winn (214) 307-4060 diggfoundationrepair.com GARAGE DOORS Pro Lift Doors (469) 251-7027 proliftdoors.com/garland HOME INSPECTION Amerispec Home Inspections (817) 329-5200 amerispectx.com Elite Inspection Group (469) 818-5500 eigdallas.com Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com Level Up Home Inspections (713) 235-0918 levelupinspect.com HOME RENOVATION Curbio (978) 888-3958 Curbio.com
HOME WARRANTY Home Warranty of America (888) 492-7359 hwahomewarranty.com Nations Home Warranty (888) 737-7070 home-warranty.com Super (202) 750-1618 HelloSuper.com INSURANCE Brandon Cooley Insurance Agency (940) 365-6174 agents.farmers.com/tx/ aubrey/brandon-cooley DFW Insurance Services Adrienne Baker (972) 781-1115 insurewithdfw.com Paine Insurance Group (972) 387-9217 whosyourinsuranceguy.com Presley Insurance Group (214) 888-0730 www.presleyins.com Rhyne Insurance Agency Kristian Rhyne (972) 400-1089 agents.farmers.com/krhyne The Pulaski Sukenik Insurance Agency (214) 673-7888 thepulaskisukenikagency.com Winemiller Insurance Agency Josiah Winemiller (817) 618-6514 gooseheadinsurance.com/ agents/josiah-winemiller/
INTERIOR DESIGN & HOME STAGING Decor Directions (469) 969-8819 decordirectionsUSA.com MORTGAGE BANKER Bank of England (469) 737-5733 boetexas.com MORTGAGE LENDER American Financial Network, Inc. Daniel Munoz (214) 473-5984 afncorp.com/danielmunoz First Rate Financial (214) 872-4442 iamfirstrate.com Legacy Group Service First Mortgage (214) 649-4908 petemontesino.servi cefirstmtg.com Team Wally Home Loan (469) 277-1249 teamwallyhomeloan.com The Mortgage Nerd (972) 447-6373 YourMortgageNerd.com The Tuttle Group Mid America Mortgage (469) 319-0660 thetuttlegroup.com Willow Bend Mortgage (214) 449-2334 wbm.com
MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR Farmers Bank and Trust (903) 255-1813 myfarmers.bank MOVING SERVICES All My Sons Moving & Storage (561) 578-3800 allmysons.com Element Moving and Storage (972) 805-0988 elementmoving.com Firehouse Movers Inc (972) 412-6033 firehousemovers.com Stonebriar Moving Services (469) 734-9000 stonebriarmoving.com NEIGHBORHOOD HANDYMAN Handy Hogan (469) 307-4690 PAINTING Splash Painting and Remodeling (214) 980-2669 splashpaintingandre modeling.com
Results Roofing (214) 301-5533 results-roofing.com
Fair Texas Title (602) 421-6417 fairtexastitle.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT American Real PM (469) 620-0114 americanrealpm.com
ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION High Performance Restoration Texas (214) 396-7772 hprtexas.com
Kensington Vanguard National Title of TX (214) 529-3840 kv-lonestar.com
Real Property Management Focus (469) 820-0088 realpmfocus.com
Red Dirt Roofing & Construction (817) 454-0608 reddirtroofing.net
PHOTOGRAPHY Scott Peek Photography (468) 587-2300 ScottPeekPhotography.com
REAL ESTATE VIRTUAL ASSISTANT Virtual Business Solutions Real Estate (469) 999-1559 vbsrealestate.com ROOFING Blue Ribbon Roofing (972) 464-1858 blueribbondfw.com Helsley Roofing Company (972) 578-8982 helsleyroofing.com New View Roofing (469) 232-7220 newviewroofing.com
Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com
Roofing Reformation (469) 321-5201 roofingreformation.com
TRAINING Need to Know (469) 396-6529 needtoknowtraining.com
ROOFING & ROOF WARRANTY Total Roof Protection (817) 210-6338 totalroofprotection.com
UTILITY CONCIERGE Utility Concierge (800) 587-3160 utilityconcierge.com
ROOFING / STORM RESTORATION 100% Construction (469) 999-6091 100percentconstructiontx.com
VIDEO PRODUCTION/ MARKETING/PHOTOGRAPHY Flux Media Productions (469) 955-5833 fluxmediaproductions.com
TITLE COMPANY Boston National Title of Texas (972) 584-9660 bostonnationaltitle.com
WEALTH MANAGEMENT Linder Legacy Group (214) 843-3835 linderlegacygroup.com
Since 1992, Helsley Roofing has specialized in residential roofing in the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex. Along with Dallas and Fort Worth homeowners, we have weathered many storms, and we have seen many advancements, improvements and new options in residential roofing products. Whether you are looking for a simple but durable roof or for a unique and customized roof, we offer many services and products that will add value and beauty to your home.
Serving Collin, Dallas, Denton, Grayson, Rockwall & Tarrant Counties
(972) 578-8982 | info@helsleyroofing.com | www.helsleyroofing.com www.realproducersmag.com • 7
joins forces with HomeServe USA,
the largest home warranty service provider in the U.S.
Improved customer service technology will better serve Dallas/Ft Worth Metroplex REALTORS® and their clients Dallas, Texas (Dec. 10, 2019) – HomeServe USA, the largest provider of home warranties in the U.S. by number of homeowners protected, recently joined forces with Nations Home Warranty (Nations), based in Dallas since 1996. Nations customers in Texas will now have access to HomeServe’s extensive contractor network and a mobile app that makes household management easier than ever. “HomeServe is the nation’s largest home warranty provider, so this partnership will allow Nations to bring heightened service to our customers in the Dallas Metroplex and adjacent territories. Customers will now have access to a great customer app and 100 more local, licensed contractors, which means we can provide service even faster than before,” said Sharon Harrison, Founder of Nations. “We have always gone above and beyond to offer an exceptional customer experience, adding HomeServe’s technology and contractor network will take us to the next level. Bigger, better, faster - yet still local.” 8 • February 2020
Nations, with one of the most comprehensive HVAC coverage available in the industry today, provides a great tool for real estate agents through its simple, easy to understand guide that agents can provide their clients. REALTORS® say that the coverage, limits and pricing all on one page is very helpful to first-time homeowners and is a great tool to help them sell a home. In addition, Nations’ 60-day guarantee on its repairs is two times longer than the industry average. “Nations has made a meaningful impact in the communities it serves, and we’re pleased to join with them to help advance their mission,” said HomeServe CEO John Kitzie. “Many things will stay the same for Nations realtor partners and homeowners, including the personal, local touch they are used to. Nations’ simple process and exclusive representatives will remain the same, but the partnership will offer an expanded contractor network and access to best in class service technology.”
HomeServe, which also has been in business for 16 plus years, maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company completed more than 625,000 repairs over the last year and received high customer satisfaction ratings from homeowners receiving service under the plans. The company also recently launched an easy-to-use app that allows homeowners to use their smart phone to take pictures of all their appliances and equipment bar codes in the home. Behind the scenes, the HomeServe App team finds and collates the owner manuals, troubleshooting guides and how-to videos for every item -- all accessible through the homeowners’ smart phone. This allows homeowners to get rid of their junk drawer full of all the home appliance product manuals. The app, which will send users maintenance reminders and recall alerts, can also be co-branded with real estate brokerages and individual agents. Nations and HomeServe will together provide even better
Canada under the HomeServe, Home Emergency Insurance Solutions, Service Line Warranties of America (SLWA) and Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC) names. Since 2003, HomeServe has been protecting homeowners against the expense and inconvenience of water, sewer, electrical, HVAC and other home repair emergencies by providing affordable repair coverage, installations and quality local service. As an A+ rated Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, HomeServe is dedicated to being a customer-focused company supplying best-in-class repair plans and other services to consumers directly and through over 750 leading municipal, utility and association partners.
service to Texas real estate agents and homeowners. To learn more about Nations and HomeServe please contact your local Nations representative or Sharon Harrison at sharon@home-warranty.com.
About HomeServe HomeServe USA Corp. (HomeServe) is a leading provider of home repair solutions serving more than 4.2 million customers across the US and
For more information about HomeServe, a Connecticut Top Workplace winner and recipient of thirty-three 2019 Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, or to learn more about HomeServe's affordable repair plans, please go to www.homeserve.com. To connect with HomeServe on Facebook and Twitter, please visit www.facebook.com/homeserveusa and www.twitter.com/homeserveusa.
Jamie started her career in Real Estate in 2001. After learning the title industry, she found that sales was her passion. The satisfaction of giving excellent customer service is her motivator. She is an active member of the Collin County Association of Realtors, Women's Council of Realtors Dallas Chapter and MetroTex Association of Realtors. She has served as a member of MetroTex Affiliate Committee for three years (2014, 2015 & 2016). Her work as Hospitality Chair for the Dallas Women's Council of Realtors covers two annual terms from 2016-2018. At the same time, she served as Registration Chair for the High Tea in 2017. While serving at the Collin County Association of Realtors her work included Vice Chair of Affiliate Committee and Vice Chair for the Realtors Holiday Auction both in 2016. She is currently an affiliate member. She is active in her community as well through the Chamber of Commerce and organizing events to benefit GRACE Grapevine.
Regional Sales Manager | Cell: 972.965.1885 | Toll Free Claim Number: 888.737.7070 jamie@home-warranty.com | www.home-warranty.com www.realproducersmag.com • 9
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from start to finish.
MEET THE
NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Jordan Espeseth Publisher
Geneva Eilertson Operations Manager
Missy Kremer Editor
Tiffany Haynes Ad Strategist
Zach Cohen Writer
Dave Danielson Writer
Scott Peek Photographer
Hope Harrison Photographer
Rick Davis Videographer
If you are interested in contributing or nominating realtors for certain stories, please email us at northdfw@realproducersmag.com DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The publication contains paid advertisements by local companies. These companies are not endorsed or specifically recommended by N2 Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing 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.
www.realproducersmag.com • 11
MEET THE CO MM UNI T Y Check Out Some of North DFW's Top 500 Producing Realtors
Nominate a top REALTOR® you’d like to see featured by emailing jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com. 12 • February 2020
www.realproducersmag.com • 13
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14 • February 2020
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WHICH REAL PRODUCERS TERRITORY ARE YOU APART OF? REAL PRODUCERS IN THE DFW METROPLEX
WHICH REAL PRODUCERS August 28, 2011 5051 New Centre Drive TERRITORYWilmington, ARE NCYOU A PART OF? 28403 A Quick Look at the Different DFW Real Producer Markets
Real Producers has 100 franchises nationwide and there are three in DFW alone. In each of these markets, we pull the top 500 agents based off the MLS production and depending on where your broker address is located will determine which publication you will be apart of. This map shows the territories for each of the 3 franchises. If you are a Top 500 agent in any of these markets, you will be receiving a publication every month and have the possibility of being featured at no cost to you!
T. 910.202.0917 E. info@n2pub.com www.realproducersmag.com
First Last Name Street Address City, State 00000
REAL PRODUCERS IN THE DFW METROPLEX North DFW Real Producers
A Quick Look at the Different DFW Real Producer Markets Real Producers has 100 franchises nationwide, and there are three in DFW alone. In each of these markets, we pull the top 500 agents based off the MLS production, and depending on where your broker address is located, will determine which publication you will be apart of. This map shows the territories for each of the three franchises. If you are a Top 500 agent in any of these markets, you will be receiving a publication every month and have the possibility of being featured at no cost to you!
Dear :
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Tarrant County Real Producers
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We Won't Hold Up Your Closing! Sincerely,
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LOVE &
THE FAST LANE publisher’s note
A year ago, when I wrote the February Publisher’s Note, I was single. Let me share with you an excerpt from that Publisher’s Note: “As I write this Publisher’s Note, it is December 6th, and if nothing changes in the next few months, I will have successfully been single for the past six years! Who knows, maybe by the time this issue hits mailboxes, I’ll have myself a lady! Stay tuned.” And guess what? I had myself a lady! A couple weeks after writing that note, Geneva came into my life… and she absolutely stole my heart. A six-year cold streak, I wrote that Publisher’s Note, and a couple weeks later, she walks into my life; oh, the serendipity! Not only that, but at the time I was also living in a sub-par apartment with zero decorations, a blow-up mattress for a bed, no set-up for
16 • February 2020
dining, and a cheap pop-up table as a desk. As of yesterday, December 7th, I moved into a FULLY FURNISHED, 2-bedroom apartment, and I even have my own office – with a real desk! I am so pumped. It is crazy how much can change in such a short amount of time. But isn’t that the case when you fall in love with someone or something? If you love what you do for work, you put more time and energy into it, and since you love what you are doing, you are more creative, effective, and efficient at the tasks at hand. This all results in an expedited journey to success.
love for each other, and an enormous amount of success that has come with it. There is no doubt love has brought success into their worlds. This Publisher’s Note wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t give a shout out to my Operations Manager/Girlfriend, Geneva Eilertson. Without her, Real Producers wouldn’t be where it is today. Because of her, we are a Real Producer’s Power Couple. Now, read on and learn from this issue’s Power Couples. Go fall in love with something, and put your life on the fasttrack to happiness and success! Happy February!
In this issue, we have featured four Power Couples – Lance and Christie Taylor, Brian and Tisha White, Tommy and Theresa Flood, and Chris and Stephanie Fetrow - all of these couples have a passion for real estate, a
Jordan Espeseth Owner/Publisher of North DFW Real Producers jordan.espeseth @realproducersmag.com
Andy and The Tuttle Group are top notch at what they do for me and my clients. He is the best in the business and his ability to follow up and keep everyone informed is priceless. The way Andy pumps up me and my team to our clients reinforces they made the right decision in choosing me. He sets the client up for a great experience, sets up the team for success and helps the client feel like a VIP.
• TOMMY PISTANA • Realtor | Team Lead The Pistana Group @ Compass
Let us help with your mortgage There's no bigger financial decision in life than how you will finance your home. The Tuttle Group understands that it can be overwhelming and intimidating. That's why we've created our convenient and hassle-free process... to provide you with an excellent financing experience. You'll also have peace of mind knowing you're being guided through the process by experts. Whether you’re a first time home buyer, self-employed, military veteran, or public servant- The Tuttle Group is here to help. We will help you find the loan program best for you.
The Tuttle Group 14900 Landmark Blvd., Suite 600, Dallas, TX 75254 TheTuttleGroup.com
MEET OUR LOAN EXPERT
ANDY TUTTLE BRANCH MANAGER NMLS# 184325 469.319.0660 Andy.Tuttle@MidAmericaMortgage.com
Apply in as little as 15 minutes! Visit www.TheTuttleGroup.com/Get-Started Mid America Mortgage, INC.| NMLS 150009 www.realproducersmag.com • 17
H O W D O Y O U S AY
“Thank You”?
VinoSay Engraving offers both wine and non-alcoholic engraved gifts, ranging from engraved golf ball cases to humidors! Sales@VinoSay.com 469-396-6529 www.VinoSay.com
Facebook.com/VinoSayEngraving
18 • February 2020
With a combined 30+ years of lending experience in Dallas/Fort Worth, Daniel & Jacob have mastered the closing process. With an average closing time frame of 12 days, they have proven to be
“THE BEST OF THE BEST”! Contact the Plano Branch of American Financial Network, Inc. Daniel Muñoz Jacob Emmel and watch your business grow with the piece of mind that Branch Manager Branch Manager YOU WILL CLOSE ON TIME EVERY TIME! D: 469.952.4343 D: 817.680.7521 F: 866-531-0402 F: 866-991-5844 dmunoz@afncorp.com | NMLS 216101 jemmel@afncorp.com | NMLS 716383 CORP NMLS #237341 | Branch NMLS# 1470568 | 2400 Dallas Parkway, #200, Plano, TX 75093 American Financial Network, Inc. is licensed by the Texas - SML Mortgage Banker Branch Registration under Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS), unique identifier of 1470568. Florida Mortgage Lender Servicer Branch License (MLDB5623). Oklahoma Mortgage Lender Branch License (MLB11145). South Carolina- BFI Branch Mortgage Lender/Servicer (MLB—1470568). Refer to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org and input NMLS #237341 to see where American Financial Network, Inc. is a licensed lender. In all states, the principal licensed office of American Financial Network, Inc. is 10 Pointe Drive, Suite 330, Brea, CA 92821; Phone: (714) 831-4000 (NMLS ID#237341). This information is intended to assist Real Estate Brokers, Agents, and other Industry Professionals, and is not an advertisement for consumer credit as defined in 12 CFR 1026.2(a)(2). This information is not intended for consumers and may not be duplicated or disseminated to the public.
www.realproducersmag.com • 19
rising stars Written By: Missy Kremer Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
Brian & Tisha
White From Blueprint to BlueFuse 20 • February 2020
www.realproducersmag.com • 21
L
Like houses, success is built. That is how Brian and Tisha White, with eXp Realty, have constructed their duo, uniquely named BlueFuse Group. In what seems like four short years, these two have proven there is strength in numbers, because as a team, and a power couple, they’re laying down brick and mortar for an increase in their success in the upcoming year and beyond. But, it is what they hammered away at in their previous years before real estate that really counts. Brian, a self-proclaimed analyst, worked as a direct sales acquisition head to Fortune 50 tech companies. Tisha, who is the people person, thrived as a stay-at-home mom of three, while also dabbling in interior design, a trade she still enjoys today. These beginnings laid the framework for the two to work together seamlessly to make their business soar. BlueFuse is the combination of their lives together. “Blue” because they have three boys, and “Fuse” to highlight the merging of their different gifts to serve their clients. In the last year alone, they estimate they sold 21-22 million dollars in volume, setting them up for a bountiful 2020. “You start,” Tisha giggles to husband Brian. He begins by saying he loved the work of his old career but laments it wasn’t easy once their three boys (18, 16, and 12) got a bit older. “Your corporate career kept you running hard,” chuckles Tisha. They had Brian traveling all over the world, averaging at least three days away from home each week. “It was fine when the boys were little,” states Tisha, but as they grew, so did their need for their dad to be around more
22 • February 2020
often. They needed to merge their work and home lives more. “This ended up being the perfect solution to that,” smiles Tisha.
ily, only helped Tisha and Brian to see how they could turn the darkness into light.
To resolve the busyness, and enjoy family more, Tisha and Brian paired her ability to connect with people and foster relationships, with his ability to grind hard and run a business. This mash-up of talent and skill was ready to take on the DFW market with open hearts and minds. First, Tisha started solo for a year, but Brian joined shortly thereafter, making them a power couple, showing power levels of growth, in three short years.
From Failure to Fostering Growth
Putting down their business blueprints for how they were going to operate wasn’t easy at first. “We had to learn each other’s lanes,” states Brian. What were they each individually good at? Where did they excel? And, from there, who should be in charge of what? In addition to figuring out how to run a business together, the pair had to overcome some personal obstacles regarding their family, as one of their teenage sons suffered from depression. The obstacles of a married couple starting a business together, and managing a fam-
“A lot of times we look at each other, and we feel like we’re the biggest failures,” Tisha sighs. “We have failed a lot in the last three years.” While many would give up, see the barrier, and run, Brian and Tisha use that as inspiration to redesign their approach. It’s an example they want to set for their family and a memo they preach with their peers in the business. “We pick ourselves up, we dust ourselves off, we get enough courage, and we do it again,” Tisha says she shares with their sons. “We are the biggest failures of anyone we know, and that’s why we’re so successful.” Tisha and Brian actively seek out opportunities to learn from others and drill down new habits, whether it is in the form of joining organizations, reading, networking, or attending seminars. For example, right now they’re working with a MasterMind group out of Phoenix to learn from
www.realproducersmag.com • 23
others about how to serve their clients better and hone their skills: “They are WOW. They’re an exceptional group of people, and I don’t know why we’re in that room,” Brian jokes. “They’re spectacular. I can’t write fast enough.” In addition to learning from their Phoenix group, the pair has been active in MasterMind DFW—events where top producing agents can brainstorm and network to think outside the box. Brian and Tisha share that collaborating with other top producers is a savvy way to excel in the industry. “If you want to get better, you need to get into a better room. So, you need to surround yourself with better people,” Brian expresses humbly. Paying It Forward From a personal standpoint, one way the couple gets involved in the community is through an organization that is near and dear to their hearts: Journey to Dream. “We got involved, because we got invited,” Brian states, and after seeing one of their children struggle in their teen years, the option to join was a simple “Yes.” Journey to Dream serves teens in crisis in the North Texas area. The program is in six different high schools, and it provides programs to help teens in crisis develop coping and life skills. “If you’ve got teens, they’re hard,” Brian exudes. “Teens get pushed aside,” Tisha states. So, the organization takes those facts and narrows in on them through peer counseling about destructive behaviors, providing housing for homeless teens, and putting on events to keep them focused on their goals and stay involved. One of their favorite events each year is Shop with a Cop through Lewisville Police Department as well as other
24 • February 2020
surrounding law enforcement agencies. “For many of these kids, cops have been the enemy,” says Brian. Unfortunately, many of the teens active in this program have negative stereotypes regarding law enforcement due to trauma in their own lives, like seeing a parent or sibling riding in the back of an enforcement vehicle. For Shop with a Cop, kids ride in the front of a squad car. They learn how police officers are normal citizens, too, while building relationships, and shopping for those less fortunate in the community. The two started serving the organization four years ago, with Brian joining the Board last year, and currently serving as Board President. One of their goals this year is to increase housing options for homeless teens. “There are 16,000 homeless teens in Texas.” Journey to Dream has built an amazing shelter for these kids and hopes to begin adding more homes this year. “If you give away everything you know, it comes back to you. You can’t out-give God,” Brian concretely states. All in all, Tisha and Brian are landscaping a future to be proud of. “I encourage others to be a part of what you do,” shares Brian. Because, it will come back to you. “We’re really loving on the people who have helped us be successful,” Tisha says with cer-
tainty. “Are you helping your clients outside of real estate?” Brian challenges. Whether it is painting a home, tax or investment advice, or just plain life support, Tisha and Brian want to be there to ensure others’ lives are structurally sound. Simply, Brian states, “If you need BLANK help,” they’ll be there. “Anything we can do to give them some comfort,” Tisha goes on. “We’re very blessed to have this business we’ve created. We want to use it to bless other people.” Beyond spending time with their children, Brian and Tisha plan to play some golf, drink some wine, and hit up some international travel in the new year. They’ll be putting on fun events, like wine and cheese nights, and will continue to stay active in the community. Their final message? “Get involved in Real Producers. Get involved with other agents. You need a lot of support in this business. It doesn’t happen overnight, and the more you fail at it, the better you’ll get it.”
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question of the month
What do you love most about your wife?
“What I love most about my wife, Colleen, is that she is a giving person who truly wants to help people. She has a really big heart, and it fills her cup to help people achieve their dreams and goals. I also love how great of a communicator she is. We can all see that publicly on social media, and other platforms, but more importantly we have a super open family, and it’s 100% because of Colleen. I am truly blessed to have her in my life, and I can’t wait to spend the next 40+ years growing old with her.” - TODD FROST, COLLEEN FROST REALTORS® “Kelli has been my best friend for over 36 years; she has been, and is, very loving and supportive in everything I do. She is full of life and not afraid to try new things. She is an awesome leader of our real estate team: advising, coaching, and teaching our team to higher levels year-after-year. I love everything about my wife!!!!!” - ANDRE’ KOCHER, KELLER WILLIAMS “Tisha’s magnetic personality literally draws people to her joyful love of life. She’s smart, powerful, and very talented. Somehow, she’s a great businesswoman, an awesome wife, and a fantastic mother. After almost 21 years of marriage, she continues to amaze and inspire me each and every day.” - BRIAN WHITE, EXP REALTY
26 • February 2020
“The best thing about working with my wife, Shana, is the clothing and shoe collection that top realtors collect over the years... Can I get a hell yeah for my wife being a sexy realtor on Valentine’s Day?” - MICHAEL ACQUISTO, ACQUISTO REAL ESTATE “MaryJane is one of the hardest working, and most dedicated, people I know. She can, and will, outwork anyone to give our clients the best experience and exceed their expectations. Then, she can come home and be the best mom to our kids and best wife to me, her lucky husband.” - PRAKASH MATHEW, TRUHOME REAL ESTATE “Heather is a very wise person. She has always spoken wisdom into our kids’ lives and mine. She’s very discerning and makes decisions with much thought and care, unlike her impulsive husband. I’m grateful and blessed to not only be her husband but also in business with her.” - JD TOMLIN, EXP REALTY
“The thing I love most about Lisa is that she’s a complete, and absolute, Rock Star. Everybody that meets her loves her and respects her. We owned and operated a few businesses in our marriage where she was in a supporting role. When she began her career in real estate, I followed, and our roles changed. It is amazing to watch her work and to be a part of her world!! She is the strongest, smartest, and most amazing woman I know. I’m lucky she keeps me along for the ride!!!” - DARRELL ROGERS, JP & ASSOCIATES REALTORS®
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“What I love most about my wife, Angela, is her caring heart and her endless love for her family. She would do anything for our children and is always there to help them out in any situation. She is also my best friend – someone I can share stories with and lean on when I need to…which, in Real Estate, is often!” - TOM MAY, RE/MAX
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power couple Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By: Hope Harrison
CH RIS & ST EPHANIE
F ETROW FET R OW
SHAR I N G T HEI R STR ENGTH 30 • February 2020
www.realproducersmag.com • 31
YO U ’ V E H E A RD A B O U T EX AMPLES OF PI ECES TH AT COME TOG E T H ER TO P R O D U C E A TOTAL TH AT’S G REATER TH AN TH E SU M OF I TS PA RTS . T H AT C E RTA I N LY H OLDS TRU E FOR CH RI S AN D STEPH AN I E FETR OW IN T H E WAY T H E Y A P PROACH BOTH LI FE AN D WORK TOG ETH ER.
You see, they’ve teamed up in both aspects: as husband and wife and as REALTORS® and leaders of their own team at Coldwell Banker Apex. A CHANCE MEETING Chris grew up in Salem, Oregon. As he came of age, he entered the military and served in the U.S. Air Force for a number of years, including serving abroad in Germany. That’s where Chris and Stephanie’s stories started to become one. “I was born in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, and my dad was also in the U.S. Air Force, so my family moved every three years. I was attending college in Germany when Chris and I met,” Stephanie says. “My mom had hired me to take care of a bunch of kids at church one evening, and my dad who was head of the personnel committee 32 • February 2020
hired Chris to care for the building. So, we credit our parents for our meeting.”
it.’ But the calling was still there, so that’s the path I took.”
As time and their relationship moved forward, they were married in Germany. “We spent our ‘free’ time attending the University of Maryland-European College on the Air Force Base in Germany, studying business.”
Stephanie had worked in a variety of roles, from government contracting and corporate assignments, to church ministry.
As Stephanie says, “Little did we know that those classes would prepare us to run a business someday together.” Eventually Answering the Call Chris remembers his roundabout start in real estate. “I left the Air Force a long time ago, and had considered real estate, but I chose not to enter at that time in the 1990s. Instead, I went into corporate work in finance, and, a while later, after doing corporate work and teaching, the calling was still there in 2006,” Chris recalls. “My mom had been a REALTOR decades earlier, and when I told her about my interest in real estate, she kept saying, ‘No, don’t do
So, less than a year after Chris entered real estate, Stephanie joined him. “I was homeschooling a child and had a toddler at home, and we decided what a great opportunity for me to step in to field the calls and answer questions. We didn’t want to do it halfway, so I became fully licensed.” From Transition to Triumph Like most entering the business, Chris and Stephanie experienced some challenges upon starting their real estate careers. But they worked through it.
Back row left to right: Amy O’Connor, Lety Suarez, Jose Perez, Alyson Lee, Leslie Terrell Front row left to right: Stephanie Fetrow, Chris Fetrow, Ashley Fetrow
www.realproducersmag.com • 33
“We came in at a time when the real estate world was being turned upside down. Prior to us coming in was when people had been very successful. During that time, it was very different, with a lot of foreclosures,” Chris remembers. “Each of us had been involved in the business world. We did it from a customer service aspect and taking care of our clients and knowing that they needed someone to take them through that process. With our contracts experience in the world before, and our ministry experience, we really knew how to come in and take care of people. That, coupled with our personal relationships with a lot of people, allowed it to be a natural fit for us.” Their teamwork is second to none. “We’ve been married for 28 years, and we love working together,” Stephanie emphasizes. “A lot of people wonder about us working together, but we complement each other so well. We have different strengths. But we’ve got a good system down together now.” Success has been a natural by-product of Chris and Stephanie teaming up. Their team typically finishes among the state’s most productive, based on size. They also rank among the top one percent of all REALTORS® in the nation. Chris and Stephanie have experienced opportunities and sadness. In 2019, the couple lost their oldest child, Taylor, to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The whole family worked together to care for Taylor, which has given them all a greater appreciation for what others go through in life. With their strong family bonds, their other children, Ashley, Caitlin, and Courtney, have moved forward together with them. In their free time, they are both very involved with various aspects 34 • February 2020
of their church. Chris enjoys boating, while Stephanie has a passion for scrapbooking. “In fact, when we sell a listing, we create a memory book for them of their home,” Stephanie says. Being Involved Giving back is vitally important to them, as well. “With the Fetrow Team Initiative, we give back to a few organizations out of the proceeds from our closings,” Chris explains. “It’s more than just money. It’s also giving back time and raising awareness. Money helps, but it also takes people. This year, we’ve been able to get manpower for them, as well.” One of the most enjoyable parts of what Chris and Stephanie do professionally is the fact they get to do it with their oldest daughter, Ashley, who has earned her license and joined the team.
Daughter and Team Member, Ashley Fetrow
“It has been really great to now become a third-generation real estate family, and have our daughter come in, learn the business, and work alongside us. She’s like a kindred spirit of my mother,” Chris says. “My mom passed away a couple years ago at 88, and, yet, here’s my daughter who, in a lot of ways, is like my mother.” “Ashley had said there would be no way she would work with us. She saw how much work we put into it, and then thought about what she wanted to do, and realized there were parts she liked, and being part of a team, and being able to specialize in certain areas.”
Chris and Stephanie, with their children Taylor, Caitlin, Ashley, and Courtney
Never-ending Spirit The passion Chris and Stephanie have is strong.
Chris agrees.
As Stephanie says, “I love finding just the right house for people. You won’t find what’s perfect. But
you will find the right house. It’s more than a paycheck. It’s getting clients to the closing table and helping them reach their home goals. A big part of what we do is to help take the stress away from them.”
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For upcoming events, and more information, check us out at:
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WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND: Mastermind DFW is an exclusive event for the Top 1% of Producers in the DFW area. When you attend a Mastermind DFW event, you are in the company of a prestigious group of local, high-performing DFW real estate professionals. This is the place to cultivate your network with the most notable names in DFW real estate.
“Todd and I love to be a part of the Mastermind DFW group. It is an honor to be in the presence of other top producing agents and to get great tips and tricks on how to leverage our business. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this exclusive group.” - Colleen Frost
"Mastermind DFW events are nothing short of amazing! I have always learned something tremendously valuable to my day-to-day business. I have truly enjoyed every single event! Best of all, it is a wonderful chance to mingle with friends I never get to see!!" - Laura Barnett www.realproducersmag.com • 37
charity spotlight
Dream Written By: Nesa Grider, CEO Journey to Dream
Journey to
Overcoming Adversity and Teen Homelessness in DFW The fight against at-risk, hurting, and homeless teens continues to be a growing epidemic. Experts disagree about the exact number of homeless teens, because they can be difficult to identify and count. High school students, in particular, often try to hide their homelessness, and stay under the radar, because they feel embarrassed. National statistics from the Institute for Children, Poverty and Homeless (9 ICPH) estimates there are 1.3 homeless million youth in the United States and that three-quarters of them are couch-surfing, with most between the ages of 13–17.
care, or other institutional settings, with no housing or income support.
There are many reasons why teens end up homeless. Some leave home after years of neglect, physical and sexual abuse, strained family relationships, the addiction of family members, and family economic problems. Teens can also become homeless when they are discharged from foster
With thousands of teens homeless on the streets struggling, founder Kim Hinkle Smith knew she had to be a part of the solution to halt this growing population. In 2004, Journey to Dream (JTD) set out on a mission dedicated to the support, and mentorship, of at-risk and homeless teens
38 • February 2020
James, a 16-year-old, hits the streets because his family is deep in poverty, which causes family conflict, leading to harsh and often unbearable abuse. James chooses couch surfing with friends, or sleeping in an abandoned building and developing asthma, a common issue for this homeless population. It goes untreated, and he starts missing school, and grades begin to drop, and he loses hope for a successful future. James needs a glimmer of hope!
The Butterfly is the symbol/logo for Journey to Dream.
to overcome adversity and homelessness through education, practical life skills, and experiences that enable them to function as self-sufficient, productive adults. With thousands of teens homeless on the streets struggling, our founder Kim Hinkle, knew she had to be a part of the solution to stop this. JTD is premised on the belief that substantive and supportive curriculum-based programs can be a powerful catalyst for homeless, and at-risk teens, to be positively motivated to pursue education and healthy living goals.
youth ministry, become advocates for teens in Our Transitional Living Programs support teens foster care, attend college, and join the military serwho left home prematurely due to conflict or vice. We’re proud of our teens and look forward to violence, or who have aged out of foster care with what they will continue to accomplish in the future. no place to live. These extremely vulnerable teens When they grow, we grow. are provided with stable housing, life skills, and participate in counselCEO, Nesa Grider ing. Journey to Dream shares, “Every day I am shelter and supportive inspired and motivated services offer shelter, Every day I am inspired and motivated by the teens that Jourbasic needs, life skills, by the teens that Journey to Dream ney to Dream serves counseling, and a trainserves through our outreach, advocacy through our outreach, ing program to an often advocacy school curforgotten population. school curriculum programs, and our riculum programs, and residential living facility. Their stories our residential living “Early Intervention and on what led them to our doors reflect facility. Their stories Prevention Programs strength, survival, and resilience. They on what led them to our are critical, as many keep my life in perspective. doors reflect strength, teens become homeless survival, and resilience. as a result of family They keep my life in perspective.” problems, abuse, neglect, and financial difficulties. Intervening with already-homeless youth falls For more information, visit their website – www. second to early intervention. Homeless youth need JourneyToDream.com. Check them out on Faceaccess to services that will help them regain stability in their lives, such as food, clothes, and housing. book, Instagram, and Twitter @journeytodream. Along with meeting the housing, health (physical and mental), spiritual, and educational needs of homeless youth, Journey to Dream provides a supportive environment in which the youth can work on coping with their trauma, empowering them to become self-sufficient and emotionally healthy young adults,” said CEO Nesa Grider. Our teens are not unlike most American youth. Each teen that is experiencing homelessness has a distinct history, personal challenges and triumphs, and a unique story to tell. Cindy, age 15, said that coming to Journey to Dream’s Kyle’s Place from another placement facility gave her the life skills, opportunities, and structure that was lacking in her previous program. “I know that I will go on to do great things,” Cindy exclaims. Since our doors opened, we’ve watched many teens learn, grow, and soar towards achieving goals they had only dreamed about. Our graduating residents have grown up to work closely within their church’s
www.realproducersmag.com • 39
40 • February 2020
www.realproducersmag.com • 41
Photo By: Scott Peek Norm Weissberg, James Bruno, Raymond Santibanez, Matt Siegal, Rikki Rogers, Rebecca Lombardo, Greg Manson, Rick Rudman
Curbio partner spotlight
Rick Rudman, CEO Helping Real Estate Agents Build Their Business Through Custom Pre-Sale Renovations 42 • February 2020
Specializing in pre-sale home improvement, Curbio is solidifying itself as a trusted resource for sellers and a respected partner for real estate agents. Curbio works with agents and sellers as one team, leveraging the local market expertise of the agent to deliver renovations that will drive up the sale price of the home.
According to Curbio, homeowners typically see a 201 percent return on their renovation investment. “Our unique business model means that our company, home sellers, and agents are all on the same team with the same goal: getting on the market quickly and selling for the best possible price,” Rick explains.
By partnering with Curbio, there is the potential to add value. Agents can help their clients make significantly more money on the sale of their home and, as a result, drive loyalty.
As with any good startup, the idea behind Curbio all began with one person’s frustration over a simple process that became convoluted. With a vision for a system that better supports both sellers and real estate agents, Curbio was born.
“We specialize in turnkey renovations for homeowners who want to sell their homes quickly for the best possible price, and we wait until settlement to get paid,” Curbio CEO Rick Rudman reveals.
“Thanks to developments in technology and communication, a company like ours can bring a level of quality, consistency, and timing
to residential renovations that was not possible at this scale before.” The condition of a home is one of the most critical drivers of its sale price. Most buyers are looking for move-in ready homes, hoping to avoid the stress and expense of fixing up a property after purchase. Homes that are outdated or in need of repair tend to sit on the market, attract low-ball offers from flippers, and eventually sell for well below fair market value. Most other home renovation businesses require money up front or offer to buy the home as-is. Curbio, on the other hand, allows the seller to realize the benefit of the renovations by performing the work before closing -- but not requiring payment until after the home has sold. “What makes us unique is our ability to defer payment and scale at the same time. This is not too good to be true. We are a venture-backed, tech
www.realproducersmag.com • 43
approach to real estate that will make pre-sale renovations better for everyone. Realtors already know that renovated homes sell much faster. What we want them to know is that we have an enormous network of vetted professionals, and we don’t over-invest in our projects. When you work with Curbio, you get the trustworthiness of a national brand with the expertise of a local contractor.” Real estate agents can add value for their clients by bringing Curbio’s offering to the table. The home renovation is truly a win-win. The seller realizes a great benefit, and so does the real estate agent. Curbio only uses local teams that know the area they are working in intimately. The risks of pre-sale home renovations for the seller -- the upfront cost and finding a trustworthy contractor -- are removed from the equation. “We want to do each project the right way and earn repeat business from all of the agents with whom we are working with,” Rick states. “We are 44 • February 2020
successful when the homeowners reap the benefits of getting a higher sales price and when they see the value their REALTOR® brought to the table by knowing about Curbio.” Before beginning a project, Curbio considers several factors. Since homes at different price points present differing challenges, Curbio treats every renovation as a custom project. They won’t recommend work that will force the sale price over market value. And since they don’t get paid until the home actually sells, they have a vested interest in doing right by their clients. “We want REALTORS® to remember how easy it is to work with us. From the estimate to a proposal to the sale, we want Curbio to leave REALTORS® with the feeling of trust and ease. We are transparent and reliable through every step of the process,” concludes Rick. To learn more about how a partnership with Curbio can add value to your real estate business, go to www.curbio.com.
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ccar: in the know Written By: Bri Westbury, Collin County Association of REALTORS® Content Specialist
TREPAC:
HEIST OR HERO? DOES YOUR POSTURE STRAIGHTEN AND HEART QUICKEN WITH EXCITEMENT AT THE MENTION OF TREPAC, OR DO YOU CUT AND RUN AT RECORD SPEED? If it provokes a reaction reminiscent of that time Uncle Frank brought up politics at Thanksgiving, I challenge you to read to the end of this article. Why? Because TREPAC exists, advocates, and battles for you, your clients, and your business.
Myth: TREPAC supports candidates from one political party. Truth: TREPAC is not affiliated with any political party.
Myth: TREPAC wants your money. Truth: TREPAC wants you to keep more of your hard-earned money. TREPAC has fought, and won, on numerous legislative battles since its formation in 1972. Five recent legislative victories have a direct impact on your commission check at every closing. See how much of your money TREPAC has protected at: https:// www.ccar.net/government-affairs/or follow the formula below. Savings Calculator**
TREPAC is the REALTOR® Party. Local REALTOR® boards and associations throughout the state interview candidates and make recommendations as to which candidate should receive campaign contributions from TREPAC. No single person can commit TREPAC money to a candidate. The Collin County Association of REALTORS® (CCAR) extends an invitation to all members to attend candidate interviews and publishes the date, time, and location of the interviews on its website, www.ccar.net. Myth: I need to invest a lot of money to make a difference. Truth: If every Texas REALTOR® invested his/her $35 “fair share investment” all TREPAC endeavors would be fully funded. While a large investment is always welcomed and comes with many benefits, TREPAC would be fully funded if each REALTOR® member complet-
48 • February 2020
ed his/her annual $35 fair share investment. Did you know a $35 movie ticket to a CCAR event benefitting TREPAC can make your fair share investment a joy? Bottom Line: REALTORS® and real estate professionals are passionate about supporting TREPAC, because TREPAC protects their business, private property rights, and promotes homeownership. *Commissions are negotiable, this example uses a 3% commission. **Savings Calculator content provided by Texas REALTORS®. Contributions are not deductible for Federal income tax purposes. Contributions to the Texas Association of REALTORS® Political Action Committee (TREPAC), the Texas Association of REALTORS® Federal Political Action Committee (TAR FedPAC), and the REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC) are voluntary and are used for political purposes. TREPAC initially receives each contribution, and a percentage is transmitted to RPAC via TAR FedPAC to meet TREPAC’s RPAC annual quota. The percentage forwarded to national RPAC each month may be obtained by contacting the TAR FedPAC administrator at 800-873-9155.
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DFW games
Get to Know Your
North DFW Real Producers February
Send a picture of your completed puzzle to geneva@realproducersmag.com for a chance to win a prize!
1
2
3 4 5 6
7 8
9
10
Prize provided by
ACROSS 2 Our Rising Stars, Brian and Tisha White, are the founders of ______ Realty Group. 4 Tommy and Theresa _____ are the Team Leaders at Keller Williams DPR. 6 Curbio specializes in pre-sale home ____________. 8 CCAR states, “TREPAC wants you to keep more of your hard-earned ______.” 9 Jordan writes that he and Geneva are a Real DOWN Producer’s Power _______. ACROSS 1. Inspiration is a ________ Signature Community (TM). 2. Our Rising Stars, Brian and Tisha White, are the founders of DOWN 3. Lance and Christie Taylor have a strong bond and special two______ Realty Group. 1 Inspiration is a ________ Signature Community™ _________. 4. _____ are the Team Leaders Tommy and 3Theresa Lance and Christie Taylor haveataKeller strong bond andpart special two-part _________. 4. atChris and Stephanie at Coldwell Williams DPR. 4 Chris and Stephanie _____ lead their own team Coldwell Banker _____ Apex. lead their own team Curbio specializes 5 This month’shome Charity Spotlight highlights a local organization, Banker Apex. _______ to Dream. 6. in pre-sale ____________. Our February issue features that areCharity ______ couples in Reala local organization, 5. teams This month’s Spotlight highlights 8. CCAR states,7 “TREPAC wants you to keep more offour yourhusband-wife hardEstate. _______ to Dream. earned ______.” 10 We asked top agent husbands what they ______ most about their wives in this issue’s 7. Our February issue features four husband-wife teams that are 9. Jordan writes that he and Geneva a Real Producer’s Power Question of the are Month. ______ couples in RealEstate. _______. 10. We asked top agent husbands what they ______ most about their wives in this issue’s Question of the Month.
January Crossword Answers: ACROSS: 3. Cadillac / 9. Innovative / 10. Truth / 11. First Time / 12. Online / 14. Customize
1 of 1
DOWN: 1. Noisy / 2. Marketing / 4. LED / 5. Quitting / 6. Faith / 7. Foreclosures / 8. Bartenders / 13. Markets
12/10/19, 3:58 PM
www.realproducersmag.com • 51
WHY IS IT SO
DIFFICULT TO DISCUSS
financial fitness By Shauna Osborne
MONEY? many Americans consider money to be the most difficult topic to broach with others, especially those with whom we’re in close relationships. But why?
ur finances are arguably one of, if not the most important, life-altering… and uncomfortable areas of our lives. Much like politics and religion, money can provoke a variety of emotions in us, from anger to fear to delight, in a split second. Yet, unlike other deeply personal topics, we don’t find ourselves chomping at the bit to bring up our finances with friends in conversation or to advertise our opinions on the topic on social media. In fact, though it seems to be omnipresent in our minds,
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Many theories have been proposed on this subject. For many, myself included, we were raised to believe money is an impolite topic, not for discussion outside of the most private of situations. For others, it’s what money symbolizes: power and control, security and independence. Undeniably, we live in a society driven by materialism, thus, despite our best efforts, our relationship with money entrenches us in the melee of influence and greed. The fact remains, money is an emotionally complex subject, grounded deeply in our ideas of self-worth and security. To lay bare our financial situation feels much too personal and too vulnerable, an unconscious metaphorical nudity. Still, all evidence points to the fact that not freely communicating with loved ones on this topic can lead to negative consequences for our emotional, physical, and social well-being. The good news is, though it may cause discomfort at first, only positives can come from opening ourselves up to dialogues around money. Where to begin? Family and Friends. It all starts at home. Researchers have found that growing up in a household where frank and open discussions around money occur results in adults with far less impulse spending and credit card debt. Further, by involving friends and family in your financial arena, you take advantage of the “village” of knowledge available to you and, consequently, are better prepared to tackle those important money decisions yourself. Not to mention, those closest to you are most likely to hold you accountable for the financial goals you set for yourself. Partner/Spouse. Recent studies show that more than 40% of
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American couples don’t discuss how their finances will be managed before tying the knot. Yet money is also cited as a top stressor in romantic relationships, right up there with sex, parenting, and careers. Yikes. We all want to rest assured we’re making sound financial decisions, and joint decision-making results in fewer financial risks. Enlisting your partner in financial decisions will lead to positive outcomes, such as more transparency in your relationship and fewer precarious economic behaviors. Sit down with your loved one for these hard conversations, making them an ally for your stronger joint fiscal future.
www.realproducersmag.com • 53
celebrating leaders Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
Tommy & Theresa
Flood Aligned with the Same Vision
54 • February 2020
www.realproducersmag.com • 55
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We all have an idea of what we’d like the future to look like. Success that one motivated person can achieve is impressive. The results of two people having the same vision for success, and achieving it, is even more remarkable. Those who know Tommy and Theresa Flood are witnesses to the ways those two have worked, in all facets of life, to realize their same vision together. Partners in Progress Tommy and Theresa have been on the same path through 20 years of marriage. “After we got married, we lived in East Texas, and my father-in-law owned a mortgage company, and Tommy was in youth ministry,” Theresa recalls. “Tommy’s dad opened an office in Longview, and I learned how to originate mortgages. That’s how I got started in the business. His dad was amazing and was a big mentor for me.” After a few years, the couple moved to Plano, where Tommy worked in ministry, while doing some mortgage work on the side. In 2005, Theresa got her real estate license and started with Keller Williams. Through the years, she steadily grew in her career. “In 2013, the owner of the Rockwall KW office called and asked if I had any interest in becoming the team leader of the Rockwall location,” Theresa remembers. “I said ‘No,’ because my twin girls were a year old. But I said he should talk with Tommy. Tommy was a pastor at the time.” The call was made, and Tommy accepted. His blend of experience in his family’s mortgage business and ministry, paired with his service skills, had him hitting the ground running.
“I had the opportunity to be in a leadership position with 90 people there. In four years, we grew it from 90 to 275 and made it one of the top 10 offices in units sold annually.” Several months later, Theresa accepted the assistant team leader role at KW Dallas Preston Road. In 2014, Tommy and Theresa faced a daunting challenge — Tommy was diagnosed with cancer. “After surgery and chemo, I had a new perspective on growing,” Tommy emphasizes. “I was really looking for the next opportunity.” It wasn’t long before it came …Tommy moved to the Dallas Preston Road market center and joined Theresa as Co-Team Leaders of that office. As Tommy says, “We have fun doing what we do. Running an office of almost 600 agents comes with some stress, but it also comes with a whole lot of joy. And now that we are doing this as a couple, it’s a great feeling knowing that all aspects of our life are going in the same direction.” Signs of Success Together, Theresa and Tommy have achieved remarkable success. In fact, in 2018, their team in the Dallas Preston Road location recorded a staggering $1.4 billion in volume, representing over 4,500 deals … in addition to over $600 million at the Frisco location. The passion they have for what they do with their team members is undeniable. “Ultimately, it’s about our people. Coming from ministry and leadership backgrounds, it’s about helping other people achieve what they want. What makes us feel successful is when our individual agents meet their goals,” Theresa points out. “It’s rewarding when you see someone who comes on
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board, and they have been successful before, and yet they come here and are able to double, triple, or quadruple their business. It’s also rewarding to see someone come in who’s struggling and, through being in our environment at Keller Williams and being exposed to training here, they’re able to break through and accomplish what they want.” In their time away from real estate, Theresa and Tommy cherish the time spent with their twin daughters, Jillian and Juliette, who are 8-years-old and in the second grade now. Together, they enjoy sharing experiences together, whether that means eating at a new restaurant, or traveling to Hawaii, or hosting friends and family at their home. They also have a strong drive and satisfaction in helping others and giving back by supporting a variety of causes, including St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, their church, local and foreign missions, and cancer research. Helping Those Around Them Achieve More It’s clear to see that Tommy and Theresa set out to raise the bar, and then help their team members, and in turn, help their clients to reach their goals. “I love being around big thinkers. We get to be in business with some of the biggest-producing agents around. That excites us,” Tommy explains. “My big ‘Why?’ in life applies in everything from how we run our business to how we raise our daughters… helping people think bigger, fear less, and do more. I get to do that several times a day in the role I’m in. I look at raising my daughters and think: ‘How do I help them think bigger, and fear less, so they can achieve more?’ I bring that same motivation into a oneon-one coaching experience, training, or sales meeting.” 58 • February 2020
Tommy and Theresa with their twin daughters, Jillian and Juliette.
As Tommy says, he doesn’t subscribe to the goal of work/life balance. Instead, he works toward work/life congruence.
given to us at the highest levels and doing it with joy,” she says. “It’s about living a big life all the way around.”
Theresa agrees.
Theresa and Tommy take pride in their achievements that allow them to boost how they give back.
“And that means congruency in all areas of our lives. Success in business, marriage, family, spirituality, and reaching our full potential that God has given to us. Success is being faithful to everything that’s been
“It really is our vision together. As long as there’s growth in how we think, there’s growth in what we earn, and there’s growth in what we give,” Tommy smiles. “Theresa and I are proud to be part of a community of leaders that live, think, earn, and give big.”
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cover story Photography By: Scott Peek Photography Written By: Dave Danielson
LANCE & CHRISTIE
TAYLOR two-part harmony 62 • February 2020
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Taking the Stage Lance grew up in northwest Arkansas. Christie is from Lexington, Kentucky. And the way they met was like the words from a song — literally.
That’s the way it is for Lance and Christie Taylor, as well. As partners in life and business, they produce results that are in perfect harmony with the needs of their team members and clients.
As Lance says, “I finished up school and was selling real estate, and Christie had come in to help her dad on a project for his company.
hen it comes to music, there have been amazing duos through the years who, together, produce a sound that is in perfect harmony.
64 • February 2020
The challenges have brought us closer. We look at things in an optimistic way. I think it just makes you stronger to go through things and challenges stairs in the basement to grab a guitar, and she wanted me to play something,” he recalls. “We found a couple songs. And everyone’s like, ‘Wow, she can really sing.’ So I was super impressed.” After a time, Christie followed up more directly. “He didn’t ask for my number that night, so I called his real estate office because I knew he was at Keller Williams in Fayetteville at the time. I knew his first name, and I knew he had a brother who worked there, but couldn’t remember his last. But this sweet older lady answered the phone and, and said, ‘Oh, you mean the Taylor Brothers.’” She got in touch with Lance and said she thought it would be a good idea for them to get together and play some music again. “We’ve been together ever since,” Lance smiles. Their status as a duo was locked in place when, during one sunset boat ride, Lance stopped the boat, got down on one knee, and asked the big question while his father shot off fireworks from the shore. The couple lived in northwest Arkansas for a short period, then came to Dallas in 2009. Christie can definitely sing. In fact, before meeting Lance, she pursued a music career in Nashville for several years, toured and performed with the likes of Wayne Newton, and even served as a national spokesperson for a line of karaoke equipment.
The first time we met out was at a piano bar, because we both have a passion for music and going to see music live. It was a brief meeting.” There would be another meeting. “It was at my brother’s house. There were 50 people there. My sister found out that Christie could sing. So, she rushed down-
In the meantime, Lance had a strong musical side, too. He played keyboards for a couple bands through school. He had grown up around real estate. In fact, he’s the third generation of his family in the business. He stepped away to try something else for a short time, traveling as part of an international LED lighting business. Teaming Up All the Way Around While Lance had stepped away from real estate, Christie had stepped in.
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The Taylor Team
“I started getting my license in 2011 when Kennedy, our first daughter, was a baby. I’ve always enjoyed real estate. I thought I need to get my license,” Christie recalls. “This would be so much fun. Lance pushed me into doing it, saying, ‘I think you would enjoy it.’” “When we moved here, she would drive neighborhoods during lunchtime at her previous job for an hour every day. That’s what she enjoys,” Lance says. “She remembers everything she sees in terms of neighborhoods, and so it became like a hobby initially. And yet it really served her very well in the early years of real estate.” After Christie had worked in the business for a time, another change would be coming. “She was doing real estate full time, and I was traveling, it became very challenging when she was pregnant with our second. 66 • February 2020
I was traveling, and she’s taking care of our two-year-old and clients,” Lance remembers. “So, I got my license in Texas to support her and to be home more.” Like two singers who hit each note in tandem, Christie and Lance appreciate their lives together at work, as well as at home — leading their team of 11 together. “Lance is my best friend. Like, we love working together, and his skill sets are very different than mine,” Christie explains. “Lance is definitely about the visionary and production. I really love marketing and all the other stuff that comes along with running and owning a team.” At the center of their world are their two daughters, including 8-year-old, Kennedy, and 6-year-old, Presley. Together, they like camping and spending time in nature, along with attending the girls’ soccer games, dance events, and other activities. They also
enjoy snow skiing in Colorado … and of course, they enjoy seeing the girls’ passion for music blossoming. Realizing Their Dreams While enjoying successes together is obviously rewarding, it can be just as meaningful to share challenges and overcome them together. That’s what Christie and Lance encountered during 2013, when Christie’s father was in a serious accident, and her grandmother passed away. Plus, Christie faced some health issues after Presley was born. “It was a very, very difficult time just to manage life. We learned a lot about ourselves at that time. She was extremely handson and took care of most of the things with Kennedy,” Lance recalls. “I was learning new things as a dad and really had to be hands-on, so that she could heal. I think it helped in some ways
to understand who we are to the core when we get stressed, and I think it also helped us to realize what our tendencies are as Christie bounced back amazingly.” Christie says the time made them even stronger. “It helps you to walk through the fire and know you’re going to be okay. Having our faith is a huge thing for us. The challenges have brought us closer. We look at things in an optimistic way. I think it just makes you stronger to go through things and challenges,” Christie emphasizes. “Also, starting a team can be challenging. But with our communication, our relationship, and understanding, it has helped in supporting one another, and realizing what it takes, and the sacrifices you have to make.” Whether working together, or living their lives with their daughters, it’s clear that Lance and Christie Taylor have a strong bond and a special two-part harmony. www.realproducersmag.com • 67
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divine development Written By: Chellie Meziere Photography Provided By: Huffines Communities
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NESTLED AMONG THE ROLLING TERRAIN AND SCENIC VIEWS OF LAKE LAVON, INSPIRATION IS A STUNNING 638-ACRE, MASTERPLANNED COMMUNITY ADJACENT TO THE HISTORIC TOWNS OF ST. PAUL AND WYLIE, TX.
Four sparkling pools, and a 350-foot lazy river, provide plenty of space for play and relaxation. An event lawn, outdoor amphitheater, playground, multiple cabanas, grill stations, outdoor games, and a snack bar make event opportunities abound at Club Inspiration. The active HOA takes advantage of endless opportunities by hosting year-round events for residents of all ages and interests. Homes range from the $290s-$800s and are from seven award-winning home builders: Bloomfield Homes, First Texas Homes, Gehan Homes, Highland Homes, Mercury Custom Homes, Pulte Homes and Shaddock Homes. They all offer a
plethora of plans and prices to suit any lifestyle. A select number of prestigious lake view lots are also for sale, on which buyers can bring their own builder and build a custom home. Inspiration is conveniently located nine miles east of Hwy 75 on Parker Road in St. Paul, TX, within the ETJ of three separate cities and towns: The Town of St. Paul, City of Wylie, and City of Lucas in Collin County, on the banks of Lake Lavon. The favorable location offers residents the tranquility of small-town living alongside convenient access to a wide variety of shopping, dining, employment districts, medical facilities, and entertainment venues in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Inspired by family, fitness, and fun, Club Inspiration is only one of many beautiful nature-oriented amenities in the community. Hope Harbor pool, playground, and event lawn offer another place for families to swim and play. Stocked fishing ponds at the front of the community enhance
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feelings of serenity upon entering, until the excitement hits of pulling in a big one! Sand volleyball, a putting green, a hammock park, and a dog park, as well as parks and playgrounds throughout the community mean there is no shortage of outdoor activities in Inspiration! Extra-wide hiking and biking trails meander throughout the community, providing a safe space for joggers, bikers, and students to walk to the on-site George W. Bush Elementary School. Part of the highly-acclaimed and A-Rated Wylie ISD, children in Inspiration are taught the Wylie Way, a nationally recognized value and character program.
72 • February 2020
Inspiration also provides pedestrian access to Trinity Trail, a 25.5-mile walking and equestrian trail along Lake Lavon, known for scenic views and natural wildlife. Inspiration is a Huffines Signature Community™, a first-class neighborhood combining quality housing with one-of-a-kind amenities and memorable lifestyle experiences. Attractive community features, educational opportunities, and inclusive social programming all come together to create lasting value and enhance the lives of residents. A Huffines Signature Community™ is about more than a house… it’s about a place to call home. Live an inspired life in Inspiration.
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ALBANY • ALBUQUERQUE • CHESAPEAKE • ATLANTA • AUSTIN • BALTIMORE • BOULDER CHARLOTTE • CHICAGO • CINCINNATI • CLEVELAND • COUR D’ ALENE • COLORADO SPRINGS COLUMBUS • DALLAS • DAVENPORT • DAYTONA BEACH • DENVER • FT. WAYNE • GRAND RAPIDS HOUSTON • INDIANAPOLIS • JACKSON • JACKSONVILLE • KANSAS CITY • LAS VEGAS • LINCOLN LITTLE ROCK • LUBBOCK • MILWAUKEE • MURRIETA MONTERREY BAY • NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS AMERICA'S BEST REAL• ESTATE AGENTS NEWPORT BEACH • NORTH DALLAS • NOVA • OAKLAND COUNTY • OKLAHOMA CITY • OMAHA ORLANDO • PHILADELPHIA • PHOENIX • PITTSBURGH • PORTLAND • RALEIGH • SALEM • SAN DIEGO SEATTLE • SILICON VALLEY • SPOKANE • ST. LOUIS • TAMPA BAY • TEMECULA • TRI-CITIES • TRIAD TUCSON • TWIN CITIES • VIRGINIA BEACH • WASHINGTON D.C • WAYNE COUNTY • WEST VALLEY WILMINGTON • YOUNGSTOWN • ALBANY • ALBUQUERQUE • CHESAPEAKE • ATLANTA • AUSTIN BALTIMORE • BOULDER • CHARLOTTE • CHICAGO • CINCINNATI • CLEVELAND • COUR D’ ALENE COLORADO SPRINGS • COLUMBUS • DALLAS • DAVENPORT • DAYTONA BEACH • DENVER • FT. WAYNE BE PART OF THE NATIONAL REAL PRODUCERS MOVEMENT GRAND RAPIDS • HOUSTON • INDIANAPOLIS • JACKSON • JACKSONVILLE • KANSAS CITY • LAS VEGAS FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM TODAY LINCOLN • LITTLE ROCK • LUBBOCK • MILWAUKEE • MURRIETA • MONTERREY BAY • NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS • NEWPORT BEACH • NORTH DALLAS • NOVA • OAKLAND COUNTY • OKLAHOMA CITY @realproducers
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FAQ ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE
Real Producers magazine started in Indianapolis in 2015 and is now in over 100 markets across the nation and spreading rapidly. North DFW Real Producers launched August 2018. Name a large city and we are there or will be soon! In every market, we take the Top 500 agents, based off of the MLS production, and we build an exclusive magazine around those agents. We share their stories, successes, market trends, upcoming events — really, anything that will connect, inform and inspire, we put in the monthly publication. We strive to inform and inspire the top producing real estate agents in the local market and connect them socially. The secondary focus is to provide an avenue for our affiliate partners to create relationships with these top performers on a level that they might not be able to achieve on their own. Q: WHO RECEIVES NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS MAGAZINE? A: The top 500 agents in North Dallas/Fort Worth. We pull the MLS numbers (by volume) from in the North DFW area: Collin County, Denton County and a few other locations in Dallas County that are North of I-635. Approximately 20,000 agents are licensed in this territory. We cut the list off at #500, and the distribution was born. The 2018 Top 500 cutoff is $8.5 million. The list will reset at the end of every year and will continue to update annually. Q: WHAT ABOUT THE DALLAS AND FORT WORTH TERRITORIES? A: Dallas Real Producers (Dallas County South of 635 — including Rockwall County) launched May 2019 and Fort Worth Real Producers (Tarrant County) launched February 2020! Yes, Real Producers is covering the entire Metroplex! Q: WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR BEING FEATURED IN THIS MAGAZINE? A: It’s really simple — every feature you see has first been nominated. You can nominate other REALTORS®, affiliates, brokers, owners, or even yourself! Office leaders can also nominate RE-
ALTORS®. We will consider anyone brought to our attention who is in the Top 500 because we don’t know everyone’s story, so we need your help to learn about them. A nomination currently looks like this: You email us at northdfw@realproducersmag.com with the subject line, “Nomination: (Name of Nominee).” Please explain why you are nominating them to be featured. It could be they have an amazing story that needs to be told — perhaps they overcame extreme obstacles, they are an exceptional leader, have the best customer service, or they give back to the community in a big way, etc. The next step is an interview with us to ensure it’s a good fit. If it all works out, then we put the wheels in motion for our writer to conduct an interview to write the article and for our photographers to schedule a photoshoot. Q: WHAT DOES IT COST A REALTOR®/TEAM TO BE FEATURED? A: Zero, zilch, zippo, nada, nil. It costs nothing, my friends, so nominate away! We are not a pay-to-play model. We share real stories of real producers. Q: WHO ARE THE PREFERRED PARTNERS? A: Anyone listed as a “preferred partner” in the front of the magazine is a part of this community. They will have an ad in every issue of the magazine, attend our quarterly events, and be a part of our online community. We don’t just find these businesses off the street, nor do we work with all businesses that approach us. One of many the top agents have recommended every single preferred partner you see in this publication. We won’t even meet with a business that has not been vetted by one of you and “stamped for approval,” in a sense. Our goal is to create a powerhouse network, not only for the best REALTORS® in the area but the best affiliates, as well, so we can grow stronger together. Q: HOW CAN I RECOMMEND A PREFERRED PARTNER? A: If you know and want to recommend a local business that works with top REALTORS®, please email us to let us know at northdfw@realproducersmag.com.
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