NORTH DFW
I N F O R M I N G
A N D
I N S P I R I N G
R E A L
E S TAT E
A G E N T S
WINCHESTER | STEITLE GROUP Synergy and Sales
REALTORS® ON THE RISE: Craig and Katherine Allen POWER COUPLE: Tom and Angela May PARTNER SPOTLIGHTS Fair Texas Title Paine Insurance Group
Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
JULY 2020
2 • July 2020
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What does the PERFECT
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North DFW Real Producers • 3
TA BLE OF
CONTENTS 06
12
Index of Trusted Partners
Publisher’s Meet The Team Note
Publisher’s Note
18
24 10
28
REALTORS® On The Rise Craig and Katherine Allen
Tips Charity From Spotlight: the Top DFW Angels
Partner Spotlight: Fair Texas Title
34 24
38 16
46 16
Question FAQ About of the Month This Magazine
Sponsor Power Spotlight Couple: Photography Tom and By Angela Spross May
CCAR: Sponsor In Spotlight The KnowPhotography By Spross
50 24
58
66
Partner FAQ Spotlight: About Paine This Insurance Magazine Group
4 • July 2020
09 11
Cover Story: Winchester| Steitle Group
Coach’s Corner: Breaking Biases
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North DFW Real Producers • 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!
BARBERSHOP & MEN’S GROOMING Hammer & Nails Grooming for Guys - Frisco (214) 794-6498 hammerandnailsgrooming.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
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
CREDIT REPAIR Lenders Choice Credit Solutions (214) 307-4946 lendersccs.com
HOME RENOVATION Curbio (978) 888-3958 Curbio.com
DEVELOPER Huffines Communites (972) 860-3133 huffinescommunities.com
HOME REPAIR fixdrepair (972) 742-3850 fixdrepair.com
DIGITAL MARKETING & DIGITAL ADVERTISING Star Mobile Systems (469) 733-7270
HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty (972) 965-7611 www.achosahw.com
6 • July 2020
Home Warranty of America hwahomewarranty.com Nations Home Warranty (888) 737-7070 home-warranty.com Super Jonathan Asfour (703) 254-9628 HelloSuper.com NSURANCE Brandon Cooley Insurance Agency (940) 365-6174 agents.farmers.com/ tx/aubrey/brandon-cooley DFW Insurance Services Adrienne Baker (972) 781-1115 insurewithdfw.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/
INSURANCE AUTO-HOME-BUSINESS Paine Insurance Group (972) 387-9217 whosyourinsuranceguy.com IINTERIOR DESIGN & HOME STAGING Decor Directions (469) 969-8819 decordirectionsUSA.com MEDIA PRODUCTIONS #TheDifference Radio,Livestream and Podcast (214) 883-1294 www.hashtag-thedifference. 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. servicefirstmtg.com
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The Mortgage Nerd (972) 447-6373 YourMortgageNerd.com The Tuttle Group Mid America Mortgage (469) 319-0660 thetuttlegroup.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Blackall Photography (972) 978-9958 blackallphotography.com Ilona Jade Photography (253) 632-5155 ilonajade.com
Willow Bend Mortgage (214) 449-2334 wbm.com
Scott Peek Photography (468) 587-2300 ScottPeekPhotography.com
MOVING SERVICES All My Sons Moving & Storage (561) 578-3800 allmysons.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT American Real PM (469) 620-0114 americanrealpm.com
Element Moving and Storage (972) 805-0988 elementmoving.com
Real Property Management Focus (469) 820-0088 realpmfocus.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 splashpaintingandremodeling.com
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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
Fair Texas Title (602) 421-6417 fairtexastitle.com
Results Roofing (214) 301-5533 results-roofing.com
Kensington Vanguard National Title of TX (214) 529-3840 kv-lonestar.com
ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION High Performance Restoration Texas (214) 396-7772 hprtexas.com Red Dirt Roofing & Construction (817) 454-0608 reddirtroofing.net Roofing Reformation (469) 321-5201 roofingreformation.com ROOFING & ROOF WARRANTY Total Roof Protection (817) 210-6338 totalroofprotection.com
Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com TRAINING Need to Know (469) 396-6529 needtoknowtraining.com UTILITY CONCIERGE Utility Concierge (800) 587-3160 utilityconcierge.com VIDEO PRODUCTION/ MARKETING/PHOTOGRAPHY Flux Media Productions (469) 955-5833 fluxmediaproductions.com
ROOFING / STORM RESTORATION 100% Construction (469) 999-6091 100percentconstructiontx.com
VIDEOGRAPHER Immersion Media Company (214) 929-6326 immersionmediacompany.com
TITLE COMPANY Boston National Title of Texas (972) 584-9660 bostonnationaltitle.com
WEALTH MANAGEMENT Linder Legacy Group (214) 843-3835 linderlegacygroup.com
North DFW Real Producers • 7
THE EASIEST WAY TO MANAGE YOUR HOME
Victoria Cantu
DFW Real Estate Rep. 972.971.0795 VCantu@fixdrepair.com
Over 20 years of professionally moving families across Texas.
Pac k i n g Un pac k i ng M ov i n g Sto r ag e Po r ta ble Sto r ag e 972.412.6033
www.firehousemovers.com 8 • July 2020
WITH REVIEWS LIKE THIS, REFER US WITH CONFIDENCE!
"They are professional and super clean keeping everyone at a distance allowing my client to relax about keeping their kids safe. I highly recommend them and will continue to all my clients as well." -Mark Bradford Coldwell Banker Realty
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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.
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DONATED THIS YEAR TO HELP BREAK THE CHAINS OF MODERN- DAY SLAVERY.
Did you know there are more victims held against their will today than ever before? That’s why N2 Publishing, the company behind this magazine, is financially committed to helping end human trafficking. And through their advertising partnerships, the businesses seen within these pages are helping us break these chains, too. Learn more about our cause by visiting n2gives.com.
DIGG REPAIR FOUNDATION
"Educating Customers Daily" DIGG installs steel and concrete pier systems for residential properties, and new construction. We specialize in educating realtors and homeowners on preventing foundation movement and unnecessary repair.
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Scott Winn
scott@diggfoundationrepair.com
inspection for home owners and homes under contract: North214-307-4060 DFW Real Producers • 9
LENDING THAT HAS YOU COVERED.
Your HERITAGE is looking back at the past… Your LEGACY is looking to the future!
Our dedicated team of mortgage experts
The Legacy Group is here to help you write YOUR Legacy when it comes to Real Estate!
has the ability to originate, underwrite and fund loans in-house to create a hassle-free lending experience from start to finish.
Apply today from your phone, just visit: Servicefirstmtg.com/legacy Pete Montesino Branch Manager NMLS: #233775 Phone: 972.608.7501
Roger Salazar Sr. Mortgage Professional NMLS: #375993 Phone: 214.298.8465
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Service First Mortgage | NMLS #166487 | 6800 Weiskopf Avenue, Suite 200 | McKinney, TX 75070 10 • July 2020
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MEET THE
NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Jordan Espeseth Publisher
Missy Kremer Editor
Amanda Thornburg Ad Strategist
Dave Danielson Writer
Rick Davis Videographer
Jeremy Patton Videographer
Scott Peek Photographer
Kelly Blackall Photographer
Ilona Gorokhovskiy Photographer
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.
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North DFW Real Producers • 11
publisher’s note
Pimple T H E
P R O P H E C Y
Well, I am not sure how, but we made it through the first half of 2020. So far, 2020 has been an interesting ride. First, COVID-19 and the economic shutdown that came with it, and then the tragic killing of George Floyd that ignited mass protests and riots around our nation. I am a firm believer that, in many cases, for things to get better, they need to get much worse. Even looking back at my own life, my greatest strides forward came after the darkest times in my life. Someone once described this process to me using a pimple as a metaphor. If you’re eating, you may want to come back later to read this next part. I had a lot of acne in college, so this is a subject I am familiar with. They said the pimple starts because there is, essentially, unwanted stuff clogging our pores. At first, it is not so bad. Often hardly noticeable to the naked eye with little pain. But under the surface, a little storm is brewing. And as the process of clearing the unwanted stuff continues, the pimple starts to grow. It turns red, it starts to swell as the inflammation ensues, and then that unattractive white head starts to show its face. Side note, that wasn’t subliminal. Just describing the process.
12 • July 2020
Finally, the pimple reaches its peak, where it is the worst it will get, and then it often ends with a bit of a mini-explosion where the unwanted stuff spews out. Over a short period of time, the pimple is gone. Hopefully, never to be seen again. It feels as though America is experiencing a pretty severe case of acne here in 2020. But I truly believe that as this massive, worldwide, pimple clears out, that something amazing will be on the other side. We are on the brink of a beautiful change in our world. Unfortunately, there will likely be some more ugly, painful times ahead. For things to change globally, it starts with us as individuals. We all need to look deep inside our hearts, and as Gandhi once said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” My heart hurts for all of the terrible things that are happening in our world right now, but I am optimistic that we will all, collectively, be better for it. I look forward to seeing you on the other side.
Jordan Espeseth Owner/Publisher of North DFW Real Producers jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com
@realproducers
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.
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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 North DFW Real Producers • 13
WE THINK SO. A thorough inspection can have a great impact on any deal, affecting the sale price, the closing date and even the reputation of the realtor. But at Inspect360, we go above and beyond a great inspection. We provide RealtorsŽ with thorough report information, exceptional communication, important industry insights, valuable resources and, through our affiliate company, convenient CE classes. Learn more about us at Inspect360.com or book an inspection at 817-754-0360 and see for yourself. Check out the Real Producers calendar for upcoming TREC approved, Inspect360 hosted, CE classes. 14 • July 2020
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North DFW Real Producers • 15
CRAIG & KATHERINE
ALLEN
16 • July 2020
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REALTORS® on the rise Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By: Ilona Jade Photography
I n T h i s To g e t h e r A great marriage combines the strengths of two partners, with all of the similar and complementary attributes that go with it. So why can those same qualities create success professionally? Of course, the answer is they can – and do – create success in many cases. And a perfect example of this truth is Craig and Katherine Allen, who are partners in life, and in work, as REALTORS® with TAG DFW Realty Group.
mates, and she saw me on Facebook, and we started talking again,” Craig smiles.
As time went on, Craig and Katherine were ready for a change. Real estate came to the surface for Katherine.
Katherine smiles with the recollection of their reconnection. They had a lot in common. Both had been raised with a strong, can-do work ethic.
“The longer I was in hotel sales, the more I watched corporate America not value their employees and underpay their sales organization. It was very frustrating to be given higher goals each year while the incentive plan changed in a downward direction,” Katherine recalls. “With real estate, I know my work ethic, and I know that I’m going to give it my all, and I really love the direct link between my efforts and compensation.”
“I grew up with an older brother and single-parent household. My mom worked a lot. I think I picked up a really strong work ethic from her and that attitude that you’re going to do something because you’ve got to do it, and you’re going to figure it out,” Katherine explains.
Right from the Start
Their remarkable story began near the start of life itself. “Katherine and I met in elementary school, when we were 7-years-old in Carrollton, Texas. We just ended up in the same class. Her last name started with a B, and mine with an A, and we were sitting next to each other,” Craig remembers. “And we found out we were also born in the same hospital in Baton Rouge, LA, nine days apart. As we grew up, she stayed in Carrollton, and I moved to Highland Village in sixth grade. My family had moved, so we lost contact.”
Growing up, Craig’s father traveled a lot for work. So, as the oldest of three children, he assumed a lot of leadership and responsibility that honed his ability to get things done, as well. As Craig and Katherine came of age, they both pursued and earned their master’s degrees at UTA. The two started dating, working full-time, and growing closer. In time, they married. Career Evolution
They lost contact until social media brought them together again.
Katherine took her degree in Mass Communications into the advertising world of corporate America. She soon realized it wasn’t for her and transitioned into hotel management and sales for ten years.
“I lived with somebody that she went to high school with. In college, he was one of my room-
In the meantime, Craig became a police officer with the City of Arlington for many years.
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As Craig recalls, another fortunate chapter opened for them when they were buying their house in 2012 and went through the process as part of a national TV show. “That’s when we met the team of Andre and Kelli Kocher, and they helped us find a house. We were auditioning for House Hunters and asked them if they wanted to do it with us. They had to audition with us.” They passed their auditions. “Recording the show takes five full days, ten hours a day. The Kochers were there for three of those days. During the process, there’s a lot of downtime to talk and get to know each other,” Craig says. “At the time, they said they thought our personalities would be really good in real estate and that they thought we could work together.” As Katherine says, “I think what we liked about them was, number one, they were a married couple working together, and, number two, they both came from high-paying corporate America jobs. So as I ended up working through my initial fears of doing this, I saw it could be done. It’s been done. They’ve done it. They’re right here. They work out of the same Keller Williams office we’re a part of.”
North DFW Real Producers • 17
“
The network stayed in touch with us over the years and just recently filmed us searching for our next primary residence. They’d never filmed a married couple who are both the buyers and agents, so we are very interested to see how this turns out.
”
They took their real estate classes together and passed. Katherine got her license and dove in during 2015. Craig would follow three years later. Soon, the Allens started their family. After some natural stops and starts that came with motherhood, Katherine gained traction, and in 2016, recorded 32 closings during eight months with no transaction coordinator. Joining Forces
By 2017, Katherine’s business had ballooned to a point where business was consuming her life. In the meantime, Craig had left law enforcement for corporate America and over three years had quickly built a six-figure income. But with increasing travel demands through work, Craig and Katherine knew it was time for a change. So, Craig got his license and officially teamed up in real estate with Katherine. The timing was perfect. They discovered their complementary work skills immediately. “We do business very differently from each other,” Craig says. “She’s great at negotiating and working a full transaction for sure. She’s quick, and she remembers everything, whereas I have to write everything down.” Craig used his IT skills and created a database. “By adding some systems, it helped me so that I could replicate some of what she was doing and also set the groundwork for bringing team members on so they could do the same thing going forward.” Today, Craig and Katherine have a team with an experienced buyer’s agent, as well as a transaction coordinator. The results have been tremendous. In fact, in 2019, the team recorded over $20 million in sales volume, and are on pace to better that in 2020. 18 • July 2020
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North DFW Real Producers • 19
are both the buyers and agents, so we are very interested to see how this turns out. It’s supposed to air in the summer of 2020. Success takes commitment, hard work, and teamwork. It’s clear to see why Craig and Katherine are successful, because they’re truly in this together. In addition to the personal accomplishments, they have landed on D Magazine’s list for Top Producers and Best Residential Real Estate Agents for the past several years in a row, due to their level of customer service they provide to their clients. Keller Williams Realty, their broker, has also recognized their yearly production as one of the top producing teams within the organization. “I’m proud we’ve been able to figure this out and make it work. A lot of couples out there could never work together. Not saying it is always easy, but I know there are many couples that would never even attempt working with their spouse,” Craig says. “We’ve done this while starting a family at the same time,” Katherine smiles. “We have goals for the business, but we’re both very adaptable and flexible. I’m really proud of that, and I think that’s led to us being able to work together.”
As they look to the future, Craig and Katherine want to avoid having a large team, maintaining the cohesive, streamlined approach they have in place. Life’s Priorities
With two young children, they’re planning for the coming years. As Craig says, “We do work crazy hours right now, and we want to be more present for our two daughters, who are 2 and 4. As they get older, we just want to have more time as there are more activities with them. So, some of that involves continuing to build our investment portfolio from four homes to ten homes, and also getting into flips at some point.” If you watch new episodes of House Hunters this summer, you’ll see Craig and Katherine on your TV. “In 2014, House Hunters returned to film Where are They Now, because we’d overhauled the home. That started our passion for renovation and investment properties. The network stayed in touch with us over the years and just recently filmed us searching for our next primary residence. They’d never filmed a married couple who
20 • July 2020
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North DFW Real Producers • 21
22 • July 2020
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M E E T T H E CO M M UN I 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. realproducersmag.com
North DFW Real Producers • 23
charity spotlight
DFW ANGELS Walking Alongside Children in Foster Care
Every year, over a quarter of a million children enter into the foster-care system in the United States. Children are removed from their homes due to neglect, abandonment, or because of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. When children are removed from their homes, they are confused and frightened, and need the temporary protection and nurturing that a foster family can provide. Reports say that 50 percent of foster homes close within the first year due to loneliness, lack of support, or parents being overwhelmed and ill-equipped. Founded just two short years ago, DFW Angels aims to change that statistic locally by bringing community, empowerment, and hope to these families.Â
THE REALITY Only 50% of children in foster care will graduate high school.
2X
Young women in foster care are more than twice as likely as their peers (not in foster care) to become pregnant by age 19.
Children in foster care move on average 7 times in 2 years.
50%
50%
7X
50% of the homeless population spend time in foster care.
James Hillstrom, Kristina Hillstrom, Brittany Nowakowski, Erin White, Embo Tshimanga, Amber Butcher, and Adam Butcher
24 • July 2020
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DARE TO DREAM PROGRAM LOGIC MODEL We provide
to youth in foster care or aged out of care
which builds
INTENTIONAL GIVING RELATIONSHIP BUILDING MENTORING
NORMALCY & RESILIENCE our society, over time, becomes more hopeful and sustainable.
our community can engage with and support foster youth.
DFW Angels’ mission is to walk alongside children in foster care, as well as their caretakers, by offering consistent support through intentional giving, relationship building, and mentorship. We accomplish this through our Love Box program, which matches foster families with dedicated volunteers, as well as our Dare to Dream program, which matches older foster youth and aged-out youth with a mentor. The Love Box program provides foster families with community and holistic support, so that they can continue to do the important and meaningful work of being a foster parent. As a Love Box group, you will be matched with a foster family based on location, compatibility, and scope of needs.
the youth can thrive as a young adult, pursue a career, and live independently..
so that
When families are matched with committed volunteers who show up monthly, parents feel supported, and children gain a greater sense of belonging and self-confidence. The Dare to Dream program is an opportunity to match a mentor with an aged-out or foster youth (ages ranging from 15-21). Mentors are advocates, guides, role models, valued friends, and available resources. They provide wisdom, advice, encouragement, and community. Mentors commit to meeting with their mentee every other week, set goals, and help provide youth with guidance through developmental milestones. Our goal is that youth will feel engaged, supported, and equipped to navigate life.
Call for free inspections (469) 232-7220
We Won't Hold Up Your Closing!
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North DFW Real Producers • 25
DFW Angels dream is to see every child in the foster-care system supported by a Love Box group and every youth supported by a Dare to Dream mentor. There are currently about 6,100 children in foster homes, or substitute care services, in DFW alone. We believe that not everyone is called to foster or adopt, but everyone can make a difference in a child’s life. We believe in the power of love and the value of friendship and positive role models for children in foster care. We want to be an organization that commissions others to change lives through the power of love. There is so much we cannot change about the foster care system, but we can certainly change the way children
Brandi Dosser, Vice President, and Erin White, President of DFW Angels
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and families experience the system. When children in foster care feel loved, and safe, and seen, they can begin to heal. We believe that with this support, they can grow up to become the person they were always meant to be. There are several ways to get involved with DFW Angels. For more information, check out their website or social media pages: www.dfwangels.org https://www.facebook.com/DFWAngels/
S
YOUR PARTNER FOR GROWTH Is your Title Company just a vendor or are they a growth partner? “I have loved working with Christy Blagg for over 10 years. Kensington Vanguard is a wonderful title company. They always keep me in formed and they are cooperative on all aspects. They always are available to answer my calls or questions. I am confident my clients are in good hands at Kensington Vanguard!” Tonya Peek | Coldwell Banker - Frisco
To learn more about our company, visit our websites at www.kv-lonestar.com and www.kvnational.com 26 • July 2020
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MORE THAN INSPECTED. AMERISPEC INSPECTED. Feel confident in knowing your clients are investing in the best service available in the inspection industry. "The entire process was seamless. The inspector was thorough and knowledgeable, and I came away feeling a great degree of comfort with the findings. I would enthusiastically recommend AmeriSpec and would be happy to use the service again!" - Peter K.
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North DFW Real Producers • 27
partner spotlight Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
Fair Texas T I T L E Fair Texas Collin County Escrow and Sales Team
Tr u e M a r k e t E x p e r t i s e 28 • July 2020
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Britt Fair, owner of Fair Texas Title
Working with a partner means a lot when you work with someone who knows your area. It’s the same dynamic you put to work through your dealings with your own clients.
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North DFW Real Producers • 29
Fair Texas Collin County Sales Team
That’s the powerful dynamic that Fair Texas Title brings to its partnership with you.
have peace of mind in knowing that their transactions will have the best chance to close, and their clients are going to have a delightful experience.”
You see, Fair Texas Title is truly a local presence.
Britt was born and raised in the DFW area. After graduating from Highland Park High School, he earned his degree from Princeton University in New Jersey. Britt earned his MBA from the University of Texas and gained experience as an investment banker on Wall Street.
In fact, its ten offices are located exclusively across the DFW area. So, all of its energies are focused on the places where you and your clients work and live. Building Something Special Britt Fair is the president and owner of Fair Texas Title. He formed the company several years ago with a simple, solid vision. As Britt says, the vision is “to create a title company that provides true client-focused market expertise paired with the talent to back it up. A company where our referring partners bring their deals, so that they 30 • July 2020
“I tried that for three months, and I just hated it,” Britt recalls. “Even though what I thought was my dream job was crushed, it was a valuable three months.” Realizing what he didn’t want out of work and life, Britt returned to Texas and took some advice from his father while working as a consultant. “My dad, David, who was in the title business for years, said, ‘Why don’t you come work for me for a little bit?’” Britt remembers. “I had avoided the title business my whole life, just thinking that it sounded even more boring than banking. But I thought I would give it a shot while I was thinking about what
else I wanted to be when I grew up. That was 17 years ago.” That led to Britt starting Fair Texas Title and recruiting some of the best talent in the DFW metroplex to help fulfill the vision of providing the best client experience possible. “The team at Fair Texas Title understands how to provide a high level of service to both our sellers and buyers,” shares Cory and John Bertrand, top producers in the McKinney area. “Our team is always impressed by their diligence, professionalism, and problem-solving approach. We love our team at Fair Texas Title. Always a five-star experience!” Teamwork and Family A couple of years later, Britt was looking to expand and prioritized @realproducers
adding a prior connection, Josiah McDaniel. Today, Josiah serves as sales manager and oversees all business development at Fair Texas Title. The teamwork between the two has been tremendous. “With Britt, you can trust what he tells you. You know where you stand and what’s expected. He’s very honest. And that’s the first rung on the ladder for me,” Josiah says. “I’m really proud to be a part of this organization and play a role in its success … to be part of something where you have the absolute best in the industry calling to come and work here. That’s a testament to the culture that’s in place here. Family is important. And that is a message that resonates throughout the company. And people want to be a part of it.
As Britt says, “Josiah and I are definitely aligned in a lot of the things we prioritize, with our faith and our families, which are important to both of us, and professionally, there’s that level of servant leadership. Josiah is a person who walks the walk, in addition to talking the talk. And it’s great to see how that is contagious. We have lots of people like that in the organization who share in that mindset.” Delivering Real Results Like many at Fair Texas Title, Josiah has experience working in real estate sales himself. Each day, the members of the team bring their experience and expertise to work for their partners. “Our sales team does a great job of collaborating with one another and then taking new ideas to their clients. They continue to change the industry
by coming up with great strategies and putting new found tools and resources in the hands of our agents. As a result, the agents who partner with Fair Texas Title see positive results in their own businesses.” “Because we have a lot of real estate sales experience on our team, we have the ability to empathize with our agents with how hard it is to go find the next deal. So, we ask ourselves: How can we help agents see the holes that may exist where they’re missing opportunities and how can we help fill those?” Josiah says. “They don’t have infinite dollars. So, we help them stretch their dollars with good data, good guidance, and good resources.” Inexpensive data resources are key. “We have data resources that are very inexpensive. So, we can help someone who isn’t doing $200 million a year in production, so that they can compete at those levels,” Josiah explains. “We have a lot of tools in place to help an agent find their next customer.”
Fair Texas Frisco Team
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We have data resources that are very inexpensive. So, we can help someone who isn’t doing $200 million a year in production, so that they can compete at those levels. We have a lot of tools in place to help an agent find their next customer.” The Fair Texas Title family grew last month when it added a Frisco location in June. The Frisco Team is led by Morgan Ashwander, a well-known Escrow Officer in the Collin County market.
Britt with his wife, Sue, and kids: Jackson, Olivia, and Tori
Britt sees his father as a vital mentor who taught him about the business – as well as how to run the business. “Our number-one secret sauce is the teammates we attract. It’s one of the main lessons I learned from my dad in the title business … that it’s not all about the owner or the name on the door, as much as it’s about the people that we have on our team,” Britt emphasizes. “That was the number-one goal I had when I started the company. I wanted to attract the best and the brightest title professionals in North Texas, and then keep them happy. Our people know what they’re doing and are problem solvers. They are fun people to be around, and they attract top customers, and then Josiah and our sales reps are also really big on delivering those value-add techniques to help our clients generate more business.” Away from work, both men have lives that revolve around faith and family. Britt and Josiah are proud 32 • July 2020
family men with wives who are the love of their lives, as well as growing children who are typically heavily involved in sports and school activities. Passion for People At the end of the day, that family atmosphere translates directly to the experience Fair Texas Title delivers to its team members, partners, and clients. “When I founded Fair Texas Title in January 2016, we had three people on board. Today, we’ve grown to where we’re getting close to 90 people,” he smiles. “These are outstanding people. It’s something we’re intentional about … looking at who’s really good at what they do and who you enjoy working with.”
Melanie Griffin feels the culture is what separates Fair Texas Title from other companies. “The best part of working for Fair Texas Title is the family culture that Britt has developed within the company. The ability to have a solid team like ours is to be able to lean on one another and know you can count on them, and at the end of the day that’s what family is!” That spirit translates directly into real market expertise. “We feel great about the fact that we are only focused on North Texas. We don’t have offices anywhere outside of the DFW area,” Britt explains. “For us, this is home. This is the community that we focus our entire time around. And as part of that, there’s nothing more important to us than the DFW real estate agents we partner with.” For more information about Fair Texas Title: Web: www.FairTexasTitle.com @realproducers
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question of the month
What Good Has Come From the COVID-19 Pandemic and Shutdown? “Realizing at some point is was going to be multiweek/month in portrait business, it allowed me to purchase a road bike and find my passion for cycling again. Riding nearly 100-150 miles per week to calm the mind and work the body.” SCOTT PEEK, SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY
“I love seeing all of the families spending more time together outside. I hope to see that continue after we return to normal.” KERI EMERY, COLDWELL BANKER, APEX
“Communities coming together to support one another. Whether it was supporting a local restaurant or boutique, drive-by birthday parties, neighborhood parades, or the whole community chalking the sidewalk. Everyone came together to get through the quarantine and make life as happy as possible. I loved seeing everyone come together as one.” ASHLEY SMITH, MONUMENT REALTY
“The innovation of technology to make showing homes more virtual and safe, plus seeing all sectors of businesses streamline their processes for ordering and fulfillment. We will see much more efficient business moving forward. And of course, families enjoying their dwellings as actual homes again.” CHRIS OHLIG, COMPASS
34 • July 2020
“Birthday parades!” KRISTI DRAYOVITCH, MONUMENT REALTY
“My daughter said to me one evening, ‘Everyone thinks this is bad, but it’s actually been really good. We’ve played games more. We’ve watched movies. We had time to be a family.’ I couldn’t agree more. I’ve learned new ways to conduct business without running 24/7. I’ve come back to what matters most.” SHARON CUMMINGS, KELLER WILLIAMS
“Companies now realize they don’t have to have a huge brick-and-mortar commercial space in order to operate. They realized production was the same or higher with their employees. This also goes for those in the real estate world. They realized they can truly work from, and train from, anywhere there is a connection. I can also see new home builders rethinking some of their design elements ... true office space and more cohesive living and family spaces. I would also add that we need to be able to shift when this happens. Never be rigid in what we do from day to day! This isn’t just shifting in business but also our family life and dynamics.” JASON NORTHCUTT, NORTH REALTY GROUP @realproducers
“Appreciation of things we often took for granted! We found creative ways to stay connected through technology, parents became more involved in children’s education and have a deeper appreciation for teachers, and there has been more cooking at home and eating dinner as a family around a table.”
“From a real-estate perspective, it has given homeowners time to focus on home improvements and create a better place to live. Or decide they want a different place to call home. For sellers, it has brought out only serious buyers and cut down on unfocused buyers. For buyers, the low mortgage rates are a great bonus! For family, it has given time to slow down and enjoy each other.”
AMY HOLT, MONUMENT REALTY
“I took a step back and focused on more time with my family. However, our business never slowed down. I was able to learn systems and invest more time into my team, thus making us more productive. I closed more deals and had more time off. I am thankful for this time I was given, and it showed me I can adjust and still be successful.” SHAWNA MARTINEZ, TEXAS REALTY EXCHANGE
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Photo taken at the Omni Frisco Hotel
38 • July 2020
@realproducers
power couple Written By: Missy Kremer Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
DIGGING INTO REAL ESTATE When a person thinks of the hospitality industry, hotels and restaurants come to mind. This imagery is correct. However, for Tom and Angela May with REMAX, their roots in those industries laid the groundwork for them to be successful in real estate. Tom and Angela met for the first time in 1994 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dallas, where they both were managing their employees in the hotel and teaching them the ins and outs of great customer service. Tom grew up in Miami and began working at restaurants when he was a teenager. That was followed by working, and managing, various facets of the hotel industry, restaurant chains, and even at Texas Stadium with the Dallas Cowboys Organization. Angela was born in western Pennsylvania, attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania, then went to work with the Hyatt Hotel chain for 12 years. A period of time after she met Tom, they relocated to the Grand Hyatt’s Washington, D.C. hotel. It was there they got engaged, married, and had their first child, Rachel. They realized, “If you want to advance your career, you have to be able to move around some.” And that mentality led to the pair moving back to North Texas and managing various departments within the hotel, before planting their roots.
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North DFW Real Producers • 39
as an unlicensed agent, we realized she would be able to provide better service to all our clients if she was licensed as well,” said Tom. Six years later, the team is still reaping the rewards of their consistent hardworking ethics and putting-others-first attitude. The pair was fortunate in that before the real estate market crashed in 2008, they had already built up a large client base with great relationships. It was also to their benefit that the entire North Texas area began to see exponential residential home sales. Steady Growth Since the year 2000, the North Texas area has been booming, and The Mays have grown right along with it. Through it all, their previous clients have come back to them time and time again. “We want to remain close friends of all of our clients, and also be a resource of real estate knowledge for them and their family members. We want them to know we are always available for their questions … and that truly means something to us,” says Angela.
Tom and Angela’s daughter, Rachel
With their average of 50 to 60 transactions per year, over the last ten years, they have always said, “We treat our clients with honesty and integrity.
Digging In While the pair took on these adventures in the early stages of their relationship, they realized they wanted to ultimately live in the North Texas area, and that meant opening new career doors. Tom passed his real estate license test in the spring of 2004 and the very next day began working on his marketing plan with REMAX. He was ready to bust that new door wide open. Due to their previous career backgrounds, the couple was already used to an unconventional work schedule. Transitioning into real estate was not much different, therefore Tom and Angela were able to be flexible when their clients needed them throughout the day, evenings, or on weekends. Once their two children, Rachel, now 21, and Gregory, now 19, got a little older, they decided to expand their real estate team, and Angela was the perfect fit. She gained licensure in 2014. “She was always helping me so much 40 • July 2020
Tom and Angela’s son, Gregory
@realproducers
And that isn’t just a tagline — they are all treated like our family. We are always here for them.” This mentality, paired with their hard work, has landed them in D Magazine for eight years running. Tom has earned the CRS designation, while concentrating on listing clients’ homes for sale, staging their homes, and assisting with necessary repairs. Angela focuses on the buyers who require attention, giving local knowledge, negotiations, and accurate detailed follow-up. Even though they are both very involved with each of their clients, The Mays have found their strengths within these parameters. The couple went from helping their friends in the area find homes in the early years, to gaining more corporate clients through relocations, investment homes, meeting their clients
realproducersmag.com
upsizing or downsizing needs, to now working with their past clients extended family and children – a path the team feels very proud of. “We absolutely love what we’re doing,” Angela says. “When you can educate a young first-time buyer about the real estate market and how to build equity for their future … that’s pretty exciting,” states Tom. “That’s the best compliment we can receive: letting us work with their family members. That makes it all worthwhile,” Angela adds. “Strong customer service has always been at the center of our client focus,” Tom says about making the connection between the hospitality industry and the real estate business. “It’s all about taking care of their needs, listening to them, and caring about their future and their family.” Planning for the Future Their daughter, Rachel, is currently a senior at the University of Texas in Austin. She’s been assisting the team by keeping their social media accounts relevant and up-to-date, organizing their real estate client events, marketing their homes for sale, and producing their flyers.
North DFW Real Producers • 41
Their son, Gregory, is studying Business at the University of Oklahoma, and he’s adding tools to his tool belt by installing their yard signs, delivering marketing flyers, and running numerous errands for the team. Each year, the OU vs. Texas football game becomes a heated weekend at the May household. When Angela and Tom gaze forward to their personal futures, they have a few other aspirations. First, to continue to be active members of the North Texas community as much as they can. “We have enjoyed many years, and a lot of fun hours on the baseball fields, football fields, and the swimming pool with our children,” Angela reflects. They highlight they are very active in their church and wish to continue to grow their skills in the ever-changing real estate industry. “We enjoy giving back to our local community and continuing to volunteer at our local church, St. Francis of Assisi.” 42 • July 2020
“We are constantly sharpening our skills for our clients “Angela states. “We’re always sharpening the saw and making ourselves better,” adds
“Strong customer service has always been at the center of our client focus. It’s all about taking care of their needs, listening to them, and caring about their future and their family.” Tom regarding continuing education and acquiring more knowledge about investing in real estate.
In addition, “The team has continually been with REMAX for 16 years straight,” says Tom. The couple claims it has always been a very good fit for them and their clients. REMAX is known for its extensive training and support of their agents. Paying it forward, the couple gives valid advice for new agents entering the market: “Try to surround yourself with some experienced agents and brokers, as well as a good team. And find yourself a mentor,” says Angela. As for their free time? The family likes to vacation and travel, visiting many unique sights around the world, while stopping in to see their extended family when they can. All in all, with hospitable roots planting them where they are today, Angela says it best: “We feel blessed to have been able to help so many great people who have now become our close friends.” @realproducers
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North DFW Real Producers • 45
T TO O PP
CCAR: in the know Written By: Bri Westbury, Collin County Association of REALTORS® Content Specialist
46 • July 2020
Welcome to the
@realproducers
“Welcome to the Top, the podcast that provides you with what you need to succeed in the real estate world,” chimes a familiar voice on the second and fourth Monday of every month. “Here comes the man who has toured Joint Chiefs of Staff, launched nuclear missiles, and reported to Ross Perot – CCAR’s 2020 President David Long. And, communications extraordinaire, Jonna Fernandez, CCAR Chief Operating Officer.”
If you have heard the catchy intro before, you have listened to CCAR’s podcast, Welcome to the Top. The podcast is produced by CCAR’s communications team and IT department, but it began with a simple but bold idea from CCAR’s 2020 President, David Long. “I wanted to provide information to our members and beyond that would be useful,” notes Long. “I thought about the idea for two or three months before I put it forth in my 2020 goals. The road from vision to reality moved quickly after a brainstorming meeting with the CCAR communications team, IT department, and myself.” Since the podcast launched in April, Welcome to the Top has discussed the future of artificial intelligence in real estate with Dr. Jennifer Golbeck; the Clear Cooperation Policy with Rodney Gansho from NAR and NTREIS CEO,
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John Holley; appraisals during lockdown; common communication mistakes made by REALTORS®; and more. As for topics, Long enjoys talking about new issues and ideas but confesses he does have a favorite. “I do like talking about technology ideas, but not just for the technology itself, but how it may change the way real estate is done.” Long goes on to say, “We hear a lot about the iBuyers today, but in my view, iBuyers are flippers with large sums of venture capital money behind them. I still think for the majority of homebuyers and sellers, working with an agent is a relationship business. Where I think technology will be most beneficial will be in automating the agents’ and brokers’ administrative activities.” What’s ahead for the podcast? “I hope we continue to find interesting people and subjects to talk about, ideas that REALTORS® will find interesting and informative, and that Welcome to the Top will grow its audience greatly, continuing well beyond my year as president,” enthuses Long. Indeed, the future is bright for the podcast, with over 200 downloads of the first episode and streaming across multiple platforms, allowing listeners to tune in wherever they prefer to get their podcast. If you have a topic you think the podcast should cover or a question for a past guest or host, email ask@welcometothetop.com. Then, listen for your name or topic to be covered on the podcast! Subscribe today to be the first to know when a new episode is released.
North DFW Real Producers • 47
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“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
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partner spotlight
PAINE
Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
50 • July 2020
PROTECTION IN ACTION People talk about the need for insurance to protect their lives and what is important to them. One of the best at putting that protection into action with a straightforward, clear-cut approach is Dustin Paine and his team at Paine Insurance Group. They are part of Farmers Insurance based in McKinney.
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North DFW Real Producers • 51
A Full Range of Results For the past ten years, people in the area have come to rely on Paine Insurance Group for a full range of vital coverage and exceptional hospitality. Most of our business has traditionally come from home and cars,” Dustin says. “When someone buys a house, we can help take care of all of their needs. That could include things like coverage for their auto, their motorcycle, and we’re also doing a lot of boat plans.” In addition to home, auto, and life insurance, Paine Insurance Group also handles commercial coverage and even medicare.
A Path of Possibilities Growing up, Dustin’s family moved quite a bit with his father’s job. “We moved all over the Midwest, including South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and then to Oklahoma when my dad decided to go back to veterinary medicine school. When he got out of school, we moved to McKinney when Dad bought into a practice during my sophomore year in high school.” After finishing high school in McKinney, Dustin had plenty of options.
“For a long time, I thought I wanted to coach and teach. That was my whole deal. I debated on going to the military and flying fighter jets for the Navy and decided that I’d go play college baseball instead.” In the meantime, Dustin got married and started his family. In the process, he decided to take a new path, and he entered the oil and gas industry – doing surveying for drill sites. Insuring the Future With a growing family, Dustin knew he was ready for a different challenge. He remembered his old high school baseball coach who had tried recruiting him into the insurance business for years. He and his coach talked. Plans were put in place not long after that. Then, Dustin created Paine Insurance Group. Over the past decade, Dustin’s team has grown to ten team members. Through time, Dustin has grown with a laser focus on finding the right fit for the right team member.
“ Dustin and his daughter, Lex
52 • July 2020
THIS IS FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, MILITARY VETERANS, AS WELL AS CRITICALLY AND TERMINALLY ILL CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES.” @realproducers
“We have really fashioned our agency out of specialties based on personality. We hire really around the DISC model, and KPIs, and some different things inside of your personality,” he explains. “We found out that if you have a certain personality, you’re typically going to be great in a given role. Whether or not you have insurance experience doesn’t matter so much to me as the fact that you’re hungry, coachable, and trustworthy.” Dream Team The results have been rewarding. In addition to building relationships with those he and his team serve, Dustin was also honored to learn they received the coveted President’s Council award from Farmers Insurance. It reflects the fact that Paine Insurance Group is among the top one percent of 50,000 Farmrealproducersmag.com
ers Insurance agents in the nation in terms of performance and growth. And to earn the award, an agency must be voted in by agents. “The things that make us successful are not about me. It’s about our people. I’ve got a phenomenal team that pushes hard and grows,” Dustin emphasizes. “They’re all coachable, they’re all hungry, and they all want to strive to the next goal. They’re constantly improving themselves. As a leader of whatever organization, you can’t go anywhere if you don’t have a team that’s helping.” Many of Dustin’s proudest achievements start with his team.
“I’m the proudest of our culture. It means a lot to be part of providing opportunities for other people. I love hearing about people setting and reaching new financial goals … and that they were able to buy their first home or that they were able to take their kids on a vacation that they had been dreaming about for five years,” he says. Life’s Priorities Away from work, Dustin’s world revolves around his family. His daughter is his “why.” Lex is 12-years-old and is involved in many activities, with equestrian sports being her favorite. North DFW Real Producers • 53
Dustin has a passion for riding mountain bikes, hunting, fishing, camping, and generally anything outdoors … even scuba diving! Dustin has a passion to give back and has supported a wide range of causes through time. Now, he’s building on his vision for creating a unique outdoor set of experiences with a new organization he is helping to put in place called Creek and Timber Legacy. “This is for first responders, military veterans, as well as critically and terminally ill children and their families,” Dustin explains. “We wanted to do something that would give people a positive outlet
54 • July 2020
outdoors with things like hunting, fishing, hiking, kayaking, fishing – and much more.” While he and his team put important protection in action, Dustin Paine takes the same approach to life … as a man of action with a plan to help others. As he says, “Build a team, build the dream, and continue to grow yourself. Continue to give back. At the end of the day, what we do is bigger than each of us.” For more information, contact Paine Insurance Group.
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cover story Written By: Missy Kremer
Winchester Steitle Group Synergy and Sa les Synergy is when two independent parts are more successful when they are combined. With Patti Winchester and Maureen Steitle, their synergism is what makes them true Real Producers.
The Winchester|Steitle Group partnership with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty has meant success, as a whole, spanning the North Dallas metro-plex. With accolades like D Best, 5-Star Realtor, Local Profile’s Top Producers of 2020, and Top Team of the Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s North Office, they have a stellar, consistent, and proven track record. “Maureen and I are most honored by achieving the Top Team for Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, because it means we’ve been successful in incorporating the best of our brand,” Winchester states.
58 • July 2020
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Photography By: Scott Peek Photography
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Early On Patti and Maureen have worked together for years. It was a collaborative camaraderie that they had immediately. They partnered with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty four years ago. “We wanted to say that we had the best tools available to market and sell our properties, and that was Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty,” says Steitle. Briggs Freeman was founded in 1976 and provided some of the finest marketing in the metroplex. Robbie Briggs grew the brand north to Collin County and had big expectations. Those aspirations, and Sotheby’s International Realty’s network of agents, has some of the best tools in the trade, which only benefits their clients. Most importantly, their buyers and sellers are receiving a full hands-on experience. 60 • July 2020
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“We have a partnership that we treasure. Our group has never lost sight of doing the right thing for our clients at all times. We are keenly aware that our clients have many choices when selecting real estate representation. Most importantly, we like working together,” says Winchester|Steitle.
agents across brokerages years ago,” they both agreed. From lenders to inspectors, partnerships remain a critical aspect of their success in sales … and their revolving synergy. “With years of experience, we continue to learn that no agent is smarter than the market,” acknowledges the duo.
Consistency Their clients come from all over, and they have a strong relocation and repeat-client base. “Maureen and I had the opportunity to be mentored by some of the brightest
Omandeno at The Gate North DFW Real Producers is excited to be the first to share one of Patti and Maureen’s biggest, and most exciting, endeavors to date: Omandeno at The Gate.
Omandeno at The Gate
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Omandeno is Frisco’s first residential rooftop sky terraces. Omandeno at The Gate brings cutting-edge design and vision to the North Dallas Metroplex, satisfying the modern-day consumer. Sleek, chic, and sexy, there will be 40 luxurious urban townhome living experiences where every detail is considered: private rooftop terraces, water views, soaring glass windows, elevated ceiling plates, glass elevators, and more. “It’s very sexy,” say Winchester|Steitle. Omandeno at The Gate is a short walk to The Star and other restaurants, shops, hotels, entertainment, and attractions, like the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters. Like most things, it’s location, location, location. And, Omandeno definitely has that.
WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, WE CONTINUE TO LEARN THAT NO AGENT IS SMARTER THAN THE MARKET. 62 • July 2020
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Evidence Based Appreciative Coaching founded on Cutting Edge Human Sciences. Real Estate for top producers is incredibly demanding. Managing some semblance of life balance while serving the demands of excellence in a seven-day-a-week industry can be a daunting challenge. But you can be the highest performing authentic you AND live a balanced life. Our clients achieve: • Increased Leadership Effectiveness and Influence • Professional/Personal Life Balance • Clarity of Life Goals and Professional Objectives • Discovery & optimization of Core Strengths and Motivations. • And much more.
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North DFW Real Producers • 65
coach’s corner Written By: Joe Cavanaugh, ElevateU
BREAKING
BIASES When I was asked to write an article for this month’s edition of Real Producers, I assumed that I would write a nice self-promoting article on the finer points of optimizing executive performance. However, I find myself drawn to share something I consider much more immediate considering where we are: on the heels of isolation and the riotous realities being experienced in so many places across our country. I do not believe it is appropriate to go political, although the reality of the lack of substantive change in this country over the last thirty plus years certainly contributes to the dissidence of so many young adults today.
66 • July 2020
They are the generation seeing little done in so many impactful areas of our world. They did not see the end of the cold war, the falling of the Berlin wall, the end of The Soviet Union. They did see friends die in the Middle East for wars with no clear outcome, recessions driven by greed in banking and Wall Street. They saw bailouts, lack of criminal accountability, polarized and ineffective political leadership, and the saddling of the young with trillions in student loan debt. And now when they have their jobs they saddled the debt to obtain encouraged by us, the media, and the government @realproducers
…it is now ripped away by a virus and political division. In addition, citizens are outraged and offended that they lash out in rage and violence.
exaggerated opinion of the ongoing efforts to end racism and police violence due to our inflated perception of individual cases that garnered dramatic media attention.
I am in no way defending violence of any kind. I find it offensive and completely unacceptable as a solution to any social problems, just as I am offended and saddened at the violence perpetrated by the few, but illuminated, bad-seed officers who commit the atrocities we have had to view.
Salience Bias – Using immediately available information
So, I am an executive coach. Who am I to speak to any of this? I respond with two points. First, we should all be speaking to this. We should all be sharing thoughts, opinions (even if contrary to others), debating solutions, and accounting failures and successes in society. Second, I am a coach, but I am also a citizen, a son, a father, and a husband. And this affects all of them. Those I am blessed to lead, love, and guide. For any of us to truly be an effective leader, or guide, we must first dispel with the biases that dilute and blur the truth of what is around us, in front of us, and behind us. We are all victims to our biases. We like things to be simple and wrapped up in nice little packages. We like order and consistency. This is why our biases hijack our ability to objectively process all information and see the greater, albeit messier, realities of the people and world around us. I will simply share a few of these and hopefully you will be inspired to learn more:
to alter or change our perception of a person, group, or event. Current examples would include deciding all police are racist and violent, when in actuality, most are good people and walked with the protestors. Or deciding black protestors are violent when the vast majority of protestors of all colors and ethnicities have been peaceful and many of the violent looters were actually young white men. In summation, whether we like it or not, many of our judgments and perceptions are authored and altered through these and other biases. Whether you are looking for clarity in your own life and career, or you want to clearly see who those around you truly are, and how they have come to where they are, we must learn to lose the biases. We must see all people and societies as much more like us than different and separate from us. We must realize that the most important investment we can make today for our future, and that of our society, is to identify and let go of our biases so that we may clearly see the beauty and the power that lies before and within all of us.
Actor/Observer bias – Simply stated, when others do bad things they are bad people. When we do bad things, we are good people who simply did something bad. The media feeds on our willingness to demonize minorities, majorities, ethnic groups, genders, etc. choosing to polarize humans instead of seeing them as decent but flawed. The reality is that most people aren’t evil. They are decent people who do stupid things. Anchoring bias – We tend to put more weight on the first information we hear. The worth of all additional information that follows is lessened. Think about when something “big” hits the news. It’s the intense, dramatic delivery that forms your first opinions. Inevitably, as time goes on and more information surfaces, the full reality is often much different than the first reporting, and yet, all too often most people will forego the more researched and validated information and only retain the dramatic and often incomplete first version of the event. Impact bias – This is a tendency to overestimate the future
impact of whatever is occurring in the present moment. This often creates an exaggerated emotional response to the event, as well as a reflective exaggeration of the positive effect of the response to the event. An example would be an realproducersmag.com
North DFW Real Producers • 67
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Were you, your broker, or the team featured in an issue of Real Producers? 70 • July 2020
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These reprints are a professional marketing tool that can help brand you, your team, and/or your business. Use: • on listing appointments • to send out to friends and family • to send to clients with your holiday greeting • as a recruiting tool • when farming your favorite neighborhoods WHAT IF I CHANGED COMPANIES OR NEED SOMETHING CORRECTED ON MY ARTICLE?
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