NORTH DFW
C O N N E C T I N G .
AMY
DOWNS MAKING MOMENTS THAT MATTER
E L E VAT I N G .
I N S P I R I N G .
RISING STAR: ANDREA CHILDRESS INSPIRATIONAL AGENT: COURTNEY BENSON PARTNER SPOTLIGHTS: THE DESIGN QUAD DIGG FOUNDATION REPAIR
3
YEAR
ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
Photo by: Scott Peek Photography
JULY 2021
STRONG HISTORY, BOLD FUTURE.
Over 150 Five Star Reviews
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North DFW Real Producers • 3
GET YOUR LISTINGS SHOWROOM READY
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North DFW Real Producers • 5
TA BLE OF
CONTENTS
CH REAL PRODUCERS ORY ARE YOU APART OF?
08
Index of PLEX CERS IN THE DFW METRO Trusted Partners
Publisher’s Meet The Team Note
he Different DFW Real Producer Markets August 28, 2011 ive 03 ide and there are three in DFW alone. In each of these markets, we pull the on and depending on where your broker address is located will determine First Last Name his map shows the territories for each of the 3 franchises. If you are a Top will be receiving a publication every month and have the possibility of being Street Address featured at no cost to you! Rising FAQ City, mag.com About Star:State 00000
24 18
Andrea This Magazine Childress
North DFW Real Producers
09 11
26 24
Publisher’s Note: Three Years in Print in DFW!
36
Coach’s FAQ Corner About This Magazine
Partner Spotlight: The Design Quad
46 16
50 24
Dear :
45 10
14
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Partner FAQ Tips DFW From CCAR: Sponsor In Spotlight: About the Map Top Spotlight The Know-hendrerit vestibulum Aenean ut ipsum eget massa vel in v DIGG This Photography Foundation Magazine By Spross Donec pretium neque velit. Repair
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6 • July 2021
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Agent: Courtney Benson
About Story: Amy This Magazine Downs
Page
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North DFW Real Producers • 7
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! BUSINESS COACHING Hero Nation Coaching Wayne Salmans (469) 500-3642 theheronation.com CLIENT ENGAGEMENT LEADS by Mandi Jackson (801) 598-5767 LEADSbyMandi.com CLIENT GIFTS The Rustic Board, LLC (713) 376-2592 TheRusticBoard.com CREDIT REPAIR Lenders Choice Credit Solutions (214) 307-4946 lendersccs.com DEVELOPER Huffines Communities (972) 860-3133 huffinescommunities.com EDUCATION Champions School of Real Estate® Rita Santamaria (281) 893-4484 www.ChampionsSchool.com FLOORING The Design Quad (214) 647-1779 thedesignquad.com HANDYMAN & PAINTING Handy Hogan (469) 307-4690 HOME INSPECTION Elite Inspection Group (469) 818-5500 eigdallas.com
8 • July 2021
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com HOME RENOVATION Curbio (810) 300-9432 Curbio.com HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty (817) 933-8707 www.achosahw.com Home Warranty of America hwahomewarranty.com HomeServe Home Warranty (972) 965-1885 home-warranty.com Super Julie Altemus (214) 210-1106 HelloSuper.com INSURANCE Brandon Cooley Insurance Agency (940) 365-6174 agents.farmers.com/ tx/aubrey/brandon-cooley Paine Insurance Group (972) 387-9217 paineinsurancegroup.com DESIGN & STAGING Decor Directions (469) 969-8819 decordirectionsUSA.com Southlake Stage Coach (781) 223-5949 SouthlakeStageCoach.com
MEDIA PRODUCTIONS #TheDifference Radio,Livestream and Podcast (214) 883-1294 www.hashtagthedifference.com
Black Tie Moving Dustin Black (615) 900-2641 Element Moving and Storage (972) 805-0988 elementmoving.com
MORTGAGE LENDING Farmers Bank & Trust (903) 255-1813 MyFarmersBank.com
Firehouse Movers Inc (972) 412-6033 firehousemovers.com
First Rate Financial (214) 872-4442 iamfirstrate.com
Stonebriar Moving Services (469) 734-9000 stonebriarmoving.com
Movement Mortgage Mark Karetskiy (469) 202-4195 LoanOfficerMark.com
PERSONAL GROWTH & PERFORMANCE MENTOR Mastermind DFW (214) 529-3840
PBJ Mortgage, LLC (469) 766-4811 pbjteam.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Ilona Jade Photography (253) 632-5155 ilonajade.com
Stearns Home Loans (619) 378-3795 MichaelChiodo.com The Mortgage Nerd Denise Donoghue (972) 447-6373 TheMortgageNerd.com The Tuttle Group Mid America Mortgage (469) 319-0660 thetuttlegroup.com Willow Bend Mortgage (214) 449-2334 wbm.com MOVING SERVICES All My Sons Moving & Storage (561) 578-3800 allmysons.com
Scott Peek Photography (469) 587-2300 ScottPeekPhotography.com PROPERTY PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY TruPlace Colleen Smith (301) 972-3201 x824 TruPlace.com PROPERTY MANAGEMENT American Real PM (469) 620-0114 americanrealpm.com Real Property Management Focus (469) 820-0088 realpmfocus.com
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ROOFING New View Roofing (469) 232-7220 newviewroofing.com Results Roofing (214) 301-5533 results-roofing.com Tarrant Roofing (817) 987-1210 TarrantRoofing.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
Fair Texas Title (602) 421-6417 fairtexastitle.com
ROOFING & ROOF WARRANTY Total Roof Protection (817) 210-6338 totalroofprotection.com
Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com
ROOFING & STORM RESTORATION 100% Construction (469) 999-6091 100percentconstructiontx.com TECHNOLOGY Clear-Inspect (817) 360-7255 Clear-Inspect.com TITLE Boston National Title of Texas (704) 989-7267 bostonnationaltitle.com
VIDEO PRODUCTION/ MARKETING & PHOTOGRAPHY Flux Media Productions (469) 955-5833 fluxmediaproductions.com WINDOWS & SIDING Tarrant Windows & Siding (817) 987-1210 TarrantWindows.com
Republic Title (713) 502-8227 RepublicTitle.com Texas Excel Title LLC (817) 980-1018 TexasExcelTitle.com Texas Title (972) 733-3800 TexasTitle.com UTILITY CONCIERGE Utility Concierge (800) 587-3160 utilityconcierge.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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Call for a FREE inspection for home owners and homes under contract: 214-307-4060 realproducersmag.com
North DFW Real Producers • 9
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 Realtors® 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. 10 • July 2021
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MEET THE
NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Jordan Espeseth Owner/Publisher
Rachelle Marie Assistant Publisher
Jenica Hein Administrative Assistant
Mandi Jackson Event Assistant
Katherine Fondren Content Coordinator
Missy Kremer Editor
Amanda Thornburg Ad Strategist
Dave Danielson Writer
Rick Davis Videographer
Jason Van Sickel Photographer/Videographer
Scott Peek 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 The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers 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 The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.
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North DFW Real Producers • 11
www.wbm.com Drew Brenner
Caleb Buczek
Dianne Glenn
Kelsey Acosta
(214) 282-6387 drew@wbm.com
214-412-9118 caleb@wbm.com
(214) 334-2401 dglenn@wbm.com
(214) 803-7129 kacosta@wbm.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #298139
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Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #295232
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1774334
Willow Bend Mortgage Company, LLC. NMLS# 117371. 5800 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 105, Plano, TX 75093. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Not all applicants will qualify for all loan products offered. This is not an offer to enter into a rate lock agreement under any applicable law. Willow Bend Mortgage, LLC is licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. License #4130600. Further, Willow Bend Mortgage, LLC represents itself and conducts business only as a residential mortgage lender. Willow Bend Mortgage, LLC is not a mortgage broker.
12 • July 2021
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Sara Parker Jones Daniel Carson
David Betbadal
Chad Stansell
(972) 841-9010 sara@wbm.com
(214) 918-9957 david@wbm.com
(214)-449-2334 chad@wbm.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #966480
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Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1642355
(512)878-3047 dan@wbm.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #925520
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #375766
North DFW Real Producers • 13
publisher’s note
Three Years in Print in DFW! Wow. I am not going to lie…it is pretty crazy for me to think that we have been in print for three years already! In August of 2018, North DFW Real Producers hit the mailboxes of the highest producing agents in Collin and Denton county for the first time ever. I remember the first time I went to my mailbox and held that inaugural issue in my hand. My first thought was, “Man, this thing is thin! I need to beef it up.” And my second thought was, “How cool is this? I dreamt of this day and now it is here in my hands.” I was very proud. Now look at us! Three years later we have three different publications in print in DFW and an amazing Real Producers team behind us. When I moved here from northern Minnesota, I never would have guessed this is where we would be with Real Producers. When I look back at my life just three short years ago, I feel like I need a telescope because so much has changed. In May of 2019, Dallas Real Producers officially launched, and in March of 2021, Tarrant Real Producers first hit mailboxes. With the July 2021 issues, we have had 67 issues go to print between the three publications. We have hosted 12 large events, and countless smaller gatherings, all for the highest producing real estate agents and our Vetted Business Partners.
14 • July 2021
The first-ever Real Producers event in DFW was held on November 13th at Concrete Cowboy at The Star in Frisco. Five minutes before the event, I went to the bathroom and almost puked because I was so nervous. But, luckily for me, the event was a huge hit! I heard so many people say things like, “I have never seen so many top producing agents and high-level businesses at an event like this before!” and “How did this happen? Real Producers came out of nowhere!” If you were at that first event, you know it was a special one. I will certainly never forget it. On June 3rd of this year, we had the official Launch Party for Tarrant Real Producers at T&P Tavern in Fort Worth. It was a fantastic event – a perfect way to celebrate the launch of our third and final publication across DFW. What excites me the most is that this is only the beginning. The name “Real Producers” is spreading rapidly across the Metroplex and is synonymous with excellence. Our team at Real Producers is so thrilled and grateful to have the privilege to share the stories and to celebrate the most elite real estate agents and vetted businesses in our real estate market. None of this could have happened without you. Thank you all for three years! We can’t wait to see what the next three brings us. See you all soon, Jordan Espeseth Owner 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.
The Tuttle Group 14900 Landmark Blvd., Suite 600, Dallas, TX 75254 TheTuttleGroup.com realproducersmag.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 North DFW Real Producers • 15
16 • July 2021
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Current Real Producer Shows on #TheDifference REAL Producers Live w/ Jordan Espeseth (Publisher of North DFW RP)
THURSDAYS @ 11AM
Real Talk w/ Brian Poduska (Real Property Management Focus)
THURSDAYS @ 1PM
#THEDIFFERENCE is an internet media company that is focused on bringing attention to & spotlighting small business owners, entrepreneurs & Real Estate industry professionals.
We spotlight how they make #TheDifference in their communities, local industries and the lives of others! Lendon Wilson • 972-866-4596 info@hashtag-thedifference.com www.hashtag-thedifference.com SCAN ME
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North DFW Real Producers • 17
ANDREA CHILDRESS The Business of Building Bonds
Photo by: Stella Images
18 • July 2021
@realproducers
rising star Written by: Dave Danielson
There are a lot of positive, productive ways to express the valuable work you do each day.
That time formed the foundation for a big step forward.
One of those who brings that value home for clients each day is Andrea Childress.
“I saw the need and opportunity to provide a sort of fusion in real estate … with both the sales side as well as social media, video, and so on,” Andrea says. “I thought why not disrupt the industry and be good at both the real estate and digital marketing? I got my license, left the corporate world, and jumped into real estate.”
As a REALTOR® with Compass, Andrea is truly in the business of building bonds. “I see myself as a business owner and not just a real estate agent. I operate with a CEO mindset, and I’m constantly looking at how to scale my business,” Andrea says. “I love when I receive a referral from a past client … knowing I gave someone a great experience and I’m staying top of mind for them makes my day. It means I provided value and left an impact.”
Gaining Ground
One of her first deals was over $1 million. That set the tone for a career that has continued to blossom since she earned her license in 2018. Nothing is perfect, and Andrea had hurdles to pass, as well.
Made for This
In many ways, Andrea’s business-minded career may have been meant to be. “I come from a long line of entrepreneurs and business owners. I’ve always had that ‘hustle’ mentality in me … even when I was little and running my own lemonade stand. I remember trying to sell my sister’s toys to friends in kindergarten,” Andrea says with a laugh. “It’s just always been instilled in me.”
“Of course there are ups and downs with any business. There were challenges of being brand new… growing my sphere and getting leads. I tried everything under the sun … Facebook ads, online leads, and so on,” she says. “I failed at a lot of things, but I kept trying things and tweaking them for what worked well for me … when I saw an ROI, I continued to invest from there.” Signs of Success
Gaining Experience
Prior to her real estate career, Andrea was a Marketing Manager for a real estate brokerage in Dallas, handling the firm’s digital, video, social media, and graphic design projects. “Through that experience, I was able to see the marketing side of the business … a side not many agents have the opportunity to experience firsthand,” Andrea says.
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It has paid off in more ways than one. In fact, in 2021, Andrea is on track to surpass $20 million in sales volume, with nearly 30 deals. Now, she’s building a new kind of success by starting her own team. “That’s always been a goal of mine. I just hired my first assistant. She is my rock, and I honestly don’t know how I’ve managed so long without her,” she says.
North DFW Real Producers • 19
Photo by Tucker Ray Photography
A Fulfilling Life Purpose
Away from work, Andrea cherishes time with her family, including her sons — five-year-old Cason and sixmonth-old Barron.
20 • July 2021
As she says, “They are my why and the reason for everything I do. I’m growing my business into something that I can hopefully pass on to them. Leaving a legacy for them is very important to me.”
@realproducers
KNOWING I GAVE SOMEONE A GREAT EXPERIENCE AND I’M STAYING TOP OF MIND FOR THEM MAKES MY DAY. IT MEANS I PROVIDED VALUE AND LEFT AN IMPACT.
In her free time, Andrea is an avid fan of meditation and manifestation.
goal visualization,” Andrea says. “In my downtime, I focus on my mental and physical wellbeing.”
“I attribute the majority of my success to the fact that I do a lot of meditation and
Giving back is important in Andrea’s life, too. One organization that benefits from her support is Dress for Success.
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North DFW Real Producers • 21
“The organization helps women get out of poverty by providing them with business attire for interviews and helps them land jobs,” she explains. “Helping other women find their voice and empowering them to obtain a better future is a huge passion of mine.” There When it Matters Most
Those who know Andrea appreciate her go-getting style and straightforward knack for communication. “It means a lot to me when people say they feel connected with me and have a genuine sense of trust. Real Estate is a very personal and heavy financial decision that people are making,” she says. “You never get a second chance to make a first impression. So, being genuine and relatable and providing the best experience possible is always my top priority.”
Photo by Stella Images
22 • July 2021
@realproducers
THE KEY TO UNLOCKING THE AMERICAN DREAM
MARK KARETSKIY Loan Officer NMLS #1254891
469-202-4195
mark.karetskiy@movement.com www.loanofficermark.com 16000 Dallas Parkway • Suite 285 • Dallas, TX 75248 realproducersmag.com
North DFW Real Producers • 23
24 • July 2021
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North DFW Real Producers • 25
coach’s corner Written by: Wayne Salmans, HERO Nation
MY AGENTS ARE EXHAUSTED.
WHAT DO I DO? We are more than a quarter of the way through 2021, and a lot of people are struggling right now. Your people are struggling right now; we have an opportunity to take this intense time and make it work for us and our team. But how? Here are three things you, as a leader, can do to support and energize your team right now. Love on your people! Most relationships die because we stop taking care of our partner as we did in the beginning. Check-in with your relationships. Have you stopped dating your people? Show your agents and team they are appreciated by you. As the leader of your team, it’s your job to treat your agents like you did when you were trying to get them on your side. Bring that energy back by taking care of the 5 love languages in the workplace. Most leaders desire to take care of their people but they leave it up to memory and willpower. You need to create a process to maintain the relationships. So ask yourself: Are you taking care of your agents in a
26 • July 2021
meaningful way that speaks to them? Now, remember, words of affirmation don’t work for every person in your office- you need to come up with a detailed plan that caters to each person’s individual needs. As a leader implementing a systematic approach to loving your people in the way that speaks to them is an absolute must. It doesn’t sound very romantic, but it’s better to have a plan in place than realize you missed a team member. Another way to support your agents/team is to be clear on the team’s how, what, and why. There is nothing worse than someone running enthusiastically in the wrong direction. One of the best ways to clarify your goals and your team’s goals is to figure out the Key 3. The Key 3 is the three key actions needed every day to keep your team moving in the right direction. Make sure that every member of your team has their own Key 3 to build momentum in the office. If you need a tool kit to figure out your Key 3, Hero Nation is here to help!
@realproducers
FINALLY-THE ROOFER YOU CAN TRUST! Guaranteed Inspections Within 24 Hours Anywhere In The Metroplex
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North DFW Real Producers • 27
The third step in supporting your people is by making sure they are hungry, humble, and smart. Do they want this, are they coachable, and do they have the emotional intelligence? The truth is that many people are experiencing a resistance to reality and that is bringing them down. As the leaders of our team, we need to make sure our people are ready to put in the work, learn, and aren’t resisting reality. The truth of the matter is there is a huge opportunity right now to help your people through this time with some tough love. Make sure they are ready to put in the work and that they are taking this market into their own hands. As leaders it’s your job to love on your people, make sure they’re going in the right direction, and have some tough love; don’t pour your energy into people unwilling to do the work. Lean in. Want momentum? Download the 30-Day Momentum Toolbox at https://www.theheronation.com/30daymomentum The tools you need to gain momentum. WAYNE SALMANS is an author, speaker, and business coach. In the past decade, he has coached and trained over 6,000 entrepreneurs, awarded 30 under 30 by Realtor Magazine, and ranked one of the top coaches in the world. Wayne is the coach leaders call when they are done with one size fits all answers and know they deserve a custom tailored plan to help them get where they want to go faster and with fewer bruises. www.TheHeroNation.com Text 469-500-3642 to get a free discover coaching call.
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North DFW Real Producers • 29
30 • July 2021
@realproducers
It never gets
easier, you just get
better. - THE HERO NATION
“I would not be where I am today without the coaching of Hero Nation.” -Jordan Espeseth
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North DFW Real Producers • 31
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2020 TOP PRODUCERS! DEDICATED PARTNERSHIP
INNOVATIVE RESOURCES
PROVEN STRENGTH
972-789-8401 • DFW.LTIC.COM 32 • July 2021
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YOUR
North DFW Real Producers
BADGES CONGRATS on being one of the TOP 500 PRODUCING real estate agents in North DFW! You now have your own badge to use however you’d like to show that you’ve made it a part of this exclusive community of the top 1-2% in real estate! Missing your badge? Email jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com Using your badge? We’d love to see how! Show us how you are using your badge and you may just find a picture of what you shared in the magazine! Social media, email signatures, web, listings, marketing material... nothing’s off limits! Our RP vetted businesses have been carefully selected to be a part of this community and have their own badge as well! They have been recommended by your peers in the top 500 and are some of Dallas’ most elite businesses. Look for this badge to know that you are working with one of the best recommended by the best!
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North DFW Real Producers • 33
INTIMATE
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Portrait Photographer for families, couples, business people, and brands.
WWW.ILONA JAD E . CO M Find me on facebook.com/ilonajadephoto ilonagorok@outlook.com 34 • July 2021
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North DFW Real Producers • 35
T H E
QUAD T R A N S F O R M I N G S PAC E S
36 • July 2021
@realproducers
partner spotlight Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: Scott Peek Photography
As you work each day to help people move forward in life, it’s great to know you have a partner who is there at your side supporting you in that effort. That’s the spirit of creativity and service that’s at work each day with Nikki Watson and The Design Quad … adding real value and transforming spaces. Nikki is the Owner of The Design Quad. When you talk with her, it’s clear to see that she has a real passion for delivering a dynamic difference.
realproducersmag.com
“When I think about what we do each day, I think one of the things I love the most is seeing the finished product of our work,” Nikki emphasizes. “That’s the most amazing thing to me, especially if it’s a house where someone has lived for 20 years. That’s the best part to me … seeing the transformation that happens and seeing the reaction that clients have … knowing that they are very happy with what we’ve done.”
North DFW Real Producers • 37
Nikki Giovanni Watson
Focused Expertise and Care
Nikki and her talented team of ten professionals focus primarily on flooring and staging. You’ve seen the “before” with empty houses that are a shell of the lifefilled homes they can be. With Nikki and The Design Quad, you and your clients will enjoy seeing the “after” — a warm space that comes to life as the property comes to market. “Staging makes a huge difference, especially for a vacant house that goes on the market. When you walk into a vacant house, you really can’t picture what it would be like to live there.” Nikki explains. “Staging gives those who visit something tangible, 38 • July 2021
so that they can picture themselves in that space and have that set of surroundings they can feel warm about.”
REALTORS® and clients who work with The Design Quad experience true value.
A Rewarding Process
“Replacing flooring or staging a property doesn’t cost as much as some agents may think,” Nikki points out. “We are a flat-rate staging company. We only charge one up-front fee, and that’s the only cost that’s incurred until the property sells.”
The process of reaching results is seamless. “When our REALTOR® partners and clients contact us, they get a smooth process. We really listen to what they need and what they want with our team who does a great job of providing a really high level of service,” Nikki says. “For both our flooring and staging projects, we go to the property, we take measurements, and we bring samples and ideas with us so that it’s a very convenient, in-home shopping experience.”
Getting the process started is convenient, too. Nikki’s team has blue-box access, which frees up REALTOR® partners from needing to drive across town to open up the property. The Design Quad team is able to access the home, then produce and deliver estimates within 24 hours. @realproducers
A Life of Giving and Fulfillment
FOR ME, IT’S IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE TO KNOW THAT, IF THEY HAVE AN ISSUE OR PROBLEM, THEY CAN COME TO ME AND WE’LL BE THERE TO TRY TO HELP THEM OUT AND TO DO OUR BEST TO GIVE THEM SOME HOPE IN THEIR SITUATION.”
Away from work, Nikki’s world revolves around her family, including her twin daughters — Danielle and D’Arika, and her mother, Marilyn Thomas. “My mom was always very supportive of my dream to start this business,” Nikki says. “She was there from the very beginning.” Away from work, you’re likely to find Nikki pouring positivity into the people and the world around her. A prime example came to light a few years ago on a CNN newscast. That’s when Nikki was interviewed for efforts she had spearheaded to help those in need in the community. At the time, August temperatures soared well above 100 degrees. She had rallied people she knew and pulled them together to raise money to buy air conditioners and get them delivered for seniors in the community — an effort that put about 30 lifesaving units in place.
The Design Team
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North DFW Real Producers • 39
That was just the start. On an ongoing basis, Nikki works to support a wide range of community needs. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find her scrolling through local websites searching for the next need to try to meet. That spirit of true caring and helpfulness translates directly to the experience that clients get with The Design Quad each day.
As Nikki says with a smile, “For me, it’s important for people to know that, if they have an issue or problem, they can come to me and we’ll be there to try to help them out and to do our best to give them some hope in their situation.” If you’re looking for a resource that delivers real impact, look to Nikki Watson and The Design Quad … transforming spaces — and lives.
Profession of Purpose
As she considers the work she and her team do, Nikki feels a deep sense of purpose.
For more information, contact The Design Quad today! Website: www.TheDesignQuad.com The Staging Team
40 • July 2021
@realproducers
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North DFW Real Producers • 41
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WHICH REAL REAL PRODUCERS WHICH PRODUCERS TERRITORY YOUAPART A PART OF? TERRITORYARE ARE YOU OF? REAL PRODUCERS IN THE DFW METROPLEX REAL PRODUCERS IN THE DFW METROPLEX A Quick Look at the Different DFW Real Producer Markets A Quick Look at the Different DFW Real Producer Markets
August 28, 2011 5051 New Centre Drive Real Producers has 100 franchises nationwide, and there are three in DFW alone. In each of these markets, we100 pullfranchises the NC top 500 agents based off the MLS production, and onmarkets, where your Wilmington, 28403 Real Producers has nationwide and there are three in DFW alone. In depending each of these we pull the is the located, will determine publication youyour will broker be apart of. This map shows the top 500broker agentsaddress based off MLS production and which depending on where address is located will determine First Last Name T. 910.202.0917 which publication you will be apart This map If shows theaterritories each theof3these franchises. If you arewill a Top territories for each of the threeof. franchises. you are Top 500 for agent in of any markets, you 500 agent in either of these markets, you will be receiving a publication every month and have the possibility of be receiving a publication every month and have the possibility ofStreet being featured at no cost to you! being Address E. info@n2pub.com featured at no cost to you! City, State 00000 www.realproducersmag.com North DFW Real Producers
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Morbi imperdiet neque vehi Vestibulum iaculis pretium p amet facilisis eleifend, nibh dui non purus. Pellentesque sapien, dictum vitae condim etDallas molestie nibh. Vestibulum Real Producers porta sit amet interdum elit. volutpat congue. North DFW Real Producers • 45 Etiam pellentesque, velit id
HEY TEXAS, YOUR (2020 CENSUS) RESULTS ARE IN
CCAR: in the know By Bri Westbury, Content Specialist at the Collin County Association of REALTORS® (CCAR)
The 2020 Census showed what Texas REALTORS® already knew: Texas has, and continues to grow, at an extraordinary rate. In fact, Texas grew faster than any other state in the last decade, attracting just over four million new residents[1], while the nation grew at the second-lowest rate of growth since 1902.[2]Newcomers have 46 • July 2021
cited friendliness, job opportunities, affordable cost of living, and lack of state income tax for their move to Texas.[3] “I hope our hospitality shines as we welcome our new neighbors, and I am thrilled our Census results were able to capture the data to bring the increased funding and representation our residents deserve,” said CCAR President Ron Leach. The population surge means more than bragging rights for the state of Texas, something the Collin County Association of REALTORS® was aware of when they launched an initiative @realproducers
that resulted in 26 videos in 26 different languages encouraging Census participation.
states will require redistricting to ensure equal populations between districts, a process that happens every ten years.[4]
“You don’t need to be an inventor, or a scientist, or a member of Congress to shape the future of your community…you just need to be someone who cares. Learn more about the importance of your participation in the 2020 Census, in a language you can understand—yours,” said CCAR CEO Mary Leidy at the launch of the CCAR Census initiative.
Additionally, Texas will now receive more federal funding as the 2020 Census informs how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year. Increased federal funding to Texas can mean a new school to ease overcrowded classrooms, new roads to ease overcrowded commutes, more access to federal programs for at-risk communities, more fire stations to serve communities, and appropriate disaster relief should the need occur.
Those words have proven true as Census results deliver two more congressional seats, as well as more federal funding to Texas.
This is good news for Texas, and it would not have been possible without the REALTOR® community coming together to advocate that every man, woman, and child be counted once, and only once, and in the right place. Thank you for helping us shape our future.
While six states gained a congressional seat, Texas was the only state to gain more than one, a big win for the REALTOR® Party. “The REALTOR® Party is a purple party. We don’t care how people vote, we just want them to be able to vote and to be properly represented. These additional congressional seats will allow that,” said Leach. Other states to gain a single congressional seat include Colorado, Florida, Montana, North Carolina, and Oregon. All 50
https://www.texasrealestate.com/members/posts/ what-census-results-mean-for-texas/ [2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ census-2020-congressional-districts-states/ [3] https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/ research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2020/01/13/ texas-south-face-political-changes-as-movers-arrive [4] https://ballotpedia.org/ Redistricting_in_Texas_after_the_2020_census [1]
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partner spotlight Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: Scott Peek Photography
DIGG FOUNDAT IO N REPAIR
50 • July 2021
@realproducers
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North DFW Real Producers • 51
Making a Fundamental Difference Each industry carries its own set of fundamentals … the things that, if you do them right, add up to success and results for those around you.
serves them with a rare brand of analytical know-how, education, and customer service. In addition to working with foundation issues, Scott is also a licensed home inspector.
That’s what Scott Winn puts to work in business and life. And the beneficiaries are those who get to know him and work with him.
“One of my favorite parts of what I get to do each day is working with REALTORS® and their clients,” Scott says. “I really like to help them understand the dynamics of a house.”
Scott is the head of Digg Foundation Repair who specializes in helping people and organizations solve their foundational issues with a true sense of trust and integrity.
By 2014, Scott had gained significant experience and had formed Digg Foundation Repair. It’s more than a career. It’s his passion. Just like during his prior work as a corporate analyst, Scott applies his expertise in helping people literally get to the bottom of their issues.
Preferred Vendor
“I’m a root cause analyst by nature,” he explains. “I love real estate, houses, and helping people.” A primary cause of foundation repair issues in the Dallas-Fort Worth area is the landscape itself.
As a preferred vendor for the area’s top-producing REALTORS®, Scott
Scott and his wife, Alina, with their children, Olivia and Gilbert
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@realproducers
“
IT MAKES ME FEEL REALLY GOOD WHEN PEOPLE SAY, ‘I WANT TO CALL THIS GUY. I LIKE HIS INTEGRITY.’ FOR ME, THAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING.”
“We have an insane expansive soil type here in this area. If you go west of Fort Worth, the soil completely changes. It’s unique to our area,” Scott points out. “It swells and shrinks with rainfall and can rise like a loaf of bread. And if it happens under your concrete structure, the movement causes things to crack, homeowners see issues, and eventually that slab will break.” When rainfall and the local soil mix, issues happen. “Common advice friends give each other in this area is a reminder to water the soil around their foundations. But most people don’t understand why they’re doing it,” Scott explains. “About 80% of the foundation issues we have in this area are due to water getting under the foundation. So it’s imperative for the homeowner to take care of the landscaping around the perimeter to prevent water from creeping under the house. If you let your soil around your foundation dry out, it shrinks and cracks. Then, the next time it rains, water will go into those cracks and go under your house.” Those who work with Scott count on his straightforward honesty and integrity, knowing he doesn’t recommend work that isn’t needed. Building with Family Strength
Family is at the heart of life for Scott … with his wife, Alina, and their children — 18-year-old daughter, Olivia, and 10-year-old son, Gilbert. Before getting married, Scott lived in Florida and worked for major newspapers in the Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, and Chicago Tribune. He received multiple degrees going to school at GA Southwestern, FAU, Broward College, and the University of South Florida. One of highlights of college was becoming President of Intervarsity Christian Fellowship at FAU and Counselor member at USF. As he says, “I was very into helping college students grow and helping them get ready for the real world, while God helped me grow personally.” It was a time of change — and need. “At the time when I was in Tampa, all of my sister’s children went to foster care,” Scott recalls. He went into action.
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North DFW Real Producers • 53
“I relocated with a career opportunity in Miami and got the kids out of foster care and raised them as a single guy,” Scott remembers. He moved to Philadelphia, where he raised the children. At the time, Mark was nine years old, Scott was eight years old, and Ashley was six years old. The impact was a very positive one on the lives of his two nephews and his niece, as well as on Scott.
Pride and Purpose
As he considers the work with his REALTOR® partners and clients, he feels a deep sense of purpose. As Scott says, “It makes me feel really good when people say, ‘I want to call this guy. I like his integrity.’ For me, that’s the most important thing.”
In time, Scott relocated to south Florida where he met and married Alina, and they started their own family.
With Scott Winn and Digg Foundation Repair, you have a trusted partner who will make a fundamental difference in the lives of your clients.
The newspaper company filed for bankruptcy which brought Scott and family to Dallas. Within a year of moving to Plano, Scott realized the newspaper industry was ending, and made up his mind to permanently settle his family here in a new career.
For more information, contact Digg Foundation Repair today! Website: DIGGFoundationRepair.com Call 214-307-4060, or Email Scott@diggfoundationrepair.com
54 • July 2021
Scott with his state-of-the-art inspection robot to get in the tough crawl spaces.
@realproducers
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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
"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 56 • July 2021
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COURTNEY 58 • July 2021
@realproducers
Inspirational Agent Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: Marina Dekhtyar Photography
Undeniable The winds will blow. The storms will come. The unexpected will happen. Challenges are out there. Sooner or later, we all encounter them. The question is, when that happens, what will you do to rise above? Courtney Benson has been there. As Team Lead and REALTOR® with Courtney Benson Property Group with Coldwell Banker, Courtney and her family have experienced the dramatic switches of fate that test the strongest hearts. Through it all, though, Courtney and her family have proven without a doubt that they have something special — a strength and resilience that’s undeniable. Building from Strength
Courtney was born and raised in California. As she came of age, she started her path in life by heading east. “I went to college in Las Vegas and then accepted a job in Texas 18 years ago,” Courtney recalls. “I worked in luxury cosmetics for 14 years, working in product development for Estee Lauder and was also a professional makeup artist.” In fact, she even did celebrity makeup artistry. In time, Courtney met and married her husband, Gabriel. Pivotal Times
Eventually, her company had a new opportunity for Courtney. It involved her moving to Texas. She accepted. “My role was to cover the Southern Region as a Regional Sales Manager,” she says. “So, I moved to Dallas. When the economy turned in 2008, I had my first child, and our second not long after in 2010.” realproducersmag.com
North DFW Real Producers • 59
The time seemed right for change. “I had been traveling a lot for work,” she remembers. “I was really missing time with my family, so I decided to quit my job.” More change was on the way. “Two weeks later, Gabriel got laid off from his job as a writer,” she says. “Here we were with no jobs and two babies. And, with the market being what it was then, we couldn’t find any jobs.”
“
“I had a $60-a-week food budget for a family of four. It was awful. We thought we had been doing everything right and then this happened.”
”
The forces that Courtney and her family faced were tough. But, they were tougher. They expanded their presence.
They came up with a plan. “We decided to buy our own jobs. We bought two dry cleaners in Frisco,” Courtney explains. “We spent all of our money and savings.” The going was tough. Business at the dry cleaners wasn’t keeping pace. So, the tough got going. “In an effort to continue supporting our family, I decided to start a house-cleaning business,” she recalls. “Our neighbor watched our kids for free. I had a $60-a-week food budget for a family of four. It was awful. We thought we had been doing everything right and then this happened.” Finding a Way
Day-by-day and week-by-week, Courtney and Gabriel made cash by cleaning houses. “We were able to hold on for a while. We opened up the stores. In the process, we sold the house and moved in with my mother-in-law. It was a miserable experience,” she remembers. “The one store was a little boutique where we carried organic dry cleaning and local hand-made goods from Texas. We had a ton of businessmen who came in. Everyone was so impressed with the concept. People would ask if we had a chain.”
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“We dove in and became part of the community. We had the kids with us at the stores, and I was doing anything and everything I could. I even made vintage art poster boards and sold them out of the stores. I’m very scrappy and entrepreneurial,” she smiles. “I did pretty well with those. I’m not an artist, so it makes me feel weird to know people have my ‘art’ in their homes.” A Momentous Message
On one such day, Courtney was working away in the back of the store. She happened to see an email pop up. “It was a Groupon offer for $199 real estate classes. I clicked on it and before I knew it, I had purchased it. It wasn’t an intentional purchase. I read it and purchased it and started crying right away, regretting it, and wondering about how I could return it. We had $237 in our account, and I had spent $199 of it.” She remembers the conversation with Gabriel that came next. “I was crying and told him what I had done. He said, ‘You will be great at real estate,’” Courtney remembers with a smile. “I said, ‘Okay, I will keep it then.’” She dove in, earned her license, and started working with customers from the laundry service. “After three years, we were able to sell the stores. We contacted everyone who had come into the store, and people started calling me. It was that way in cosmetics,” Courtney says. “I appreciate that people trust me and know my tenacity and my will to get it done, no matter what. They trusted that I would make it happen. I started getting clients and went from there.”
@realproducers
The Courtney Benson Property Group: Darice Bolton, Courtney and her husband, Gabriel Benson
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That was seven years ago. The results, successes, and accolades have come in a steady line since then. Three years ago, Gabriel joined Courtney in real estate.
In response, Courtney and Gabriel tried everything — except cutting corners. “My dad always said, ‘Kid, if you can look yourself in the mirror and not feel ashamed about the decisions you make, you’re okay.’ I believe in doing the
right thing, because at the end of the day, my integrity is what’s most important.” That’s integrity. That’s undeniable success.
“We love doing this together, and we work really well together. Plus, we have another great team member with us — Darice Bolden. She is so fun and an awesome person to be able to team up with.” What Matters Most
Family fuels their success. Courtney and Gabriel look forward to time spent with their children — 12-year-old son, Sawyer, and 11-year-old daughter, Finley. In their free time, they like spending time with their two golden retrievers and traveling together. In fact, they bought an RV they named Trixie. “It’s all modern and updated. The kids have their own Star Warsthemed bunk room in the back,” she says. “We like to get in the car or the RV and go somewhere. We love history and adventure … checking out different towns and vibes.” The storms came. The winds roared. And the unexpected happened.
62 • July 2021
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Amy
Downs cover story
Written by: Dave Danielson Photos by: Scott Peek Photography
Making Moments that Matter
People change houses as they grow through time, but the one thing that should remain constant through that growth is the relationship between the homeowner and a top-notch REALTOR®. It’s the human element that means the most. One who gives her all to ease this growth is Amy Downs.
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@realproducers
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As Team Leader of the Amy Downs Team, powered by Place, Inc., with Keller Williams Central, Amy is making moments that matter for those around her every day. “For me, this is about building longterm relationships,” she says. “That’s the best feeling in the world.” Far-Reaching Effects
Amy’s impact has been felt by people in all walks of life throughout her career — first, as a REALTOR® working directly with clients, and most recently, as a leader of a growing team.
“
We never want one of our clients to ask us about something. Hopefully we have answered their questions before they ask.
She grew up in the small Texas town of Kaufman. It prepared her to move full-force into the world. “When I turned 18, I moved to Dallas,” she remembers. “One of my first jobs was at a property management company. The owners talked with me about getting my real estate license. I didn’t really know anything about the business, but I said sure. Part of the reason I got into the business was on a dare when my boss said he didn’t think I would ever make $100,000 in real estate.” It turns out that she made $74,000 from July to December that first year.
she built her own team and she discovered a new, rewarding side of the business. “I’ve shifted. It was all about me and growing myself at first,” she says. “Now my focus is on the people on my team. I don’t call them agents. I call them my partners. We sit down and build their business plan. That’s my whole goal … to help them build their business as big as they want to go. I don’t really go on appointments with clients very often any more. I focus on those people. I want everyone on the team to have a huge growth in their business.”
New Steps
In 1996, Amy moved to a small brokerage and took more steps forward in her career. “At that time, all we had was newspapers for advertising. I went out and knocked doors and killed it, and it just grew from there,” Amy says. “I have grown over the years and have built small teams, partnered with others, and then went back as an individual to learn every element of the business.” In 2004, Amy moved to Keller Williams where she’s been ever since. In time,
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Powerful Returns
The results have been remarkable. Her team recorded an impressive $44 million in sales volume in 2020. Amy has become the only millionaire real estate agent in the market center. Away from work, Amy cherishes time with her family, including her husband, her son, and two stepchildren. Amy and her husband also own a very successful steel fabrication construction business — Zaza Construction, LLC that they started in 2015.
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North DFW Real Producers • 69
The Amy Downs Team: (l to r) Emily Downes, Jennifer Spinnabella, Amy Downs, Matt Hilton, Summer Dentler, and Sheila Nalls
Free time is an active endeavor for them. Amy and her family look forward to visiting their lake house and traveling to get away from the routine. In fact, they travel every two to three months.
those who are thinking about starting their own real estate careers.
“That’s really our thing. We love to travel. I always try to have my vacation plans booked a year in advance,” she smiles. “One of our favorites is Isla Mujeres in Mexico.” Supporting Growth
“I would advise them that if they’re team players, they should join a top-producing team to learn and plug into proven tools, systems, and models … and partner with someone on a top-producing team. I think that’s one of the fastest ways to grow their business.”
As Amy reflects on her tremendous success helping clients and team members achieve their next steps in life, she offers advice for
Those who get to know Amy rely on her loyalty, trustworthiness, and relationship-focused flair.
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“I think it’s very important for new people in the business to have really great training and coaching,” Amy says.
“That’s something I think our clients experience with all of the folks on our team … building new relationships, staying in touch with them, and really caring. Communication is huge for us,” Amy says. “We never want one of our clients to ask us about something. Hopefully we have answered their questions before they ask.” Since starting in this business, Amy Downs has continued learning and growing — and helping a wide range of people along the way. She proves that she has a remarkable knack for making moments that matter. @realproducers
PBJ TEAM Michael Backes | Managing Partner
“Since I was young I wanted to be a Marine. My service to my country was the greatest joy in my life and when I was medically discharged, I wanted to put that passion and honor into still serving others. After my personal mortgage process went poorly, I decided my next way to serve was become an expert at mortgage. I have spent the last 17 years putting that honor and service into my work for my customers.”
Jacqueline Crider | Managing Partner
“My passion has always been helping people since I was a little girl. While achieving my bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M, almost 20 years ago, I started working in mortgage and continued while pursuing my law degree also from Texas A&M. Mortgage gave me an opportunity to use my unique blend of skills and education to help people with something considered the most difficult financial transaction of their life. There is no greater joy than that!”
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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 in 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 2020 Top 500 cutoff is $9.4 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 Tarrant Real Producers launched in March of 2021. 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 realproducersmag.com
REALTORS®. 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 of the top agents has 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 jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com. North DFW Real Producers • 75
76 • July 2021
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realproducersmag.com
North DFW Real Producers • 77