PHOTOS
IN TRUST.
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!
ACCOUNTING/TAX SERVICES
DASG, LLC
Jeff Foust (214) 945-2488 dasgdfw.com
ATTORNEY
Silvas Law, PC (817) 264-7447 silvaslaw.com
BUILDER
Perry Homes, LLC (972) 629-3900 perryhomes.com; brittonhomestexas.com
BUSINESS COACHING
Igniteyou90.com
Business Coaching MIchelle Ozymy (214) 534-8758 igniteyou90.com
FOUNDATION REPAIR
Structured Foundation Repairs (972) 484-1200 structuredfoundation.com
HOME INSPECTION
Endeavor Real Estate Inspections
Chris Carathers (817) 726-5333 endeavorinspect.com
Greenworks Inspections and Engineering (832) 209-7199 greenworksinspections.com
HomeTeam Inspection Service (972) 400-7034 HomeTeam-DFW.com
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com
Semper Fi Home Inspections, Inc. (682) 351-2267
SemperFiHomeInspections.com
HOME STAGING
Dream Haus Staging (214) 997-4664 dreamhausstaging.com
HOME WARRANTY
Achosa Home Warranty (817) 933-8707 www.achosahw.com
HVAC
GC Legacy (214) 954-7851 gclegacyconstruction.com
INSURANCE
Century Insurance Agency (972) 539-4300 ciaauto.com
Jason Ridley Agency (817) 281-4500 jasonridleyagency.com
MORTGAGE LENDING
All Western Mortgage Lori Kolbye (817) 980-2228 apply.awmtoday.com/#? signup?referrerId=lkolbye %40allwestern.com
Cherry Creek Mortgage (817) 709-4683 NunisLending.com
Edge Home Finance (972) 333-7360 NicktheBroker.com
MPA Home Loans -
Drew Ramsey (817) 269-4030 ramseyhomeloans.com
NEXA Mortgage (817) 201-1147 Nouri-mortgage.com
VIP Mortgage
Brian Shatto (817) 479-2808 vipmtg.com/brian
MOVING COMPANY
Black Tie Moving Tyler Coleman (512) 605-7328 blacktiemoving.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Desiree Roberts Photography (972) 998-3133 DesireeRoberts.com
Premier Property Media (972) 533-5079 premierpropertymedia.com
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
HomeSmiles, Northeast Tarrant County (817) 395-9795 netc.homesmiles.com
RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL LENDER Hometown Lending (972) 322-4472 hometownlend.com
ROOFING
CLC Roofing Inc. (817) 416-7663 clcroofing.com
Deluxe Roofing & Construction (817) 247-8628 deluxeroofingdfw.com
K&M Services, Roofing & Construction (817) 918-3940 kmservicepro.com
PROCO Roofing
Megan Valentine (817) 975-1403 procoroof.com
ROOFING & SOLAR
Rankin Roofing & Solar LLC (469) 952-9151 rankinroofingandsolar.com
Structured Foundation Repairs (972) 484-1200 structuredfoundation.com
TITLE COMPANY
Independence TitleSchultz & Kellar
Matt Schultz (817) 308-3606 IndependenceDFW.com
McKnight Title (817) 500-4146 www.mcknighttitle.com
Texas Secure Title (817) 519-8800 texassecuretitle.com
VIDEOGRAPHY/ PHOTOGRAPHY
studioUSA (469) 955-5833 studiousa.live
WINDOWS
Glass Guru Southlake (817) 424-3500 theglassguru.com/southlake
•
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DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.
Jordan Espeseth Co-Owner
Reece Gentry Partner Liaison
Rick Davis Videographer
Ashley Gentry Agent Liaison
Desiree Roberts Photographer
Beth Graeme Photographer
Lance Dunahoe Co-Owner
Katherine Fondren Editor Lanie Schaber Ad Strategist
Jessica Espeseth Social Media Director
RP Elevate + DFW Real Producers
As many of you know, Real Producers is hosting a historic national event for the very first time—RP Elevate 2025, happening September 29–30 at the stunning Loews Arlington Hotel.
While this two-day conference is not hosted by our local DFW RP team, something exciting just happened…
Each year, we host a major DFW Real Producers event—either our ESPE Awards Gala or the Super Social—bringing together all four DFW RP markets for one big blowout.
Well, here’s the big news: On the final night of RP Elevate (Sept 30), there’s going to be a social event for all conference attendees. And now—we’re combining that event with our 2025 DFW Super Social!
That’s right: Whether or not you attend RP Elevate, if you’re a DFW RP Top Agent or Preferred Partner, you’ll get access to this exclusive, one-of-a-kind Super Social. You’ll be networking
and celebrating not just with local leaders—but with top agents from all over the country. How awesome is that?
Huge thanks to Perry Homes for stepping up again this year as our Host Sponsor —we couldn’t do this without them.
If you’re planning to attend RP Elevate, register at rpelevate. com and use promo code DFW100 for $100 off your tickets. This gives you access to the full conference and the Super Social celebration to close it out.
If you won’t be at the conference but want to attend the Super Social, stay tuned—invites will go out in the coming months.
We couldn’t be more excited about this event and all that’s ahead in the second half of 2025.
Cheers, Jordan Espeseth Founder/Owner, DFW Real Producers
YOUR NORTH FORT WORTH REAL PRODUCERS BADGES
Congrats on being one of the top 500 and top 1000 real estate agents in North Fort Worth!
Congrats on earning your Real Producers Top Agent Badge!
Because of your 2024 MLS production you earned your spot as a 2025 North Fort Worth Real Producers Top Agent and can represent your badge proudly! Depending on your production will determine if you received the Top 500 or Top 1000. Regardless, that is the top 6% in North Fort Worth!
Missing your badge? Email team@dfwrealproducers.com.
Using your badge? We’d love to see how! Show us how you are using your badge, and you may just find a picture of what you shared in the magazine! Social media, email signatures, web listings, marketing material... nothing’s off limits!
Our RP-vetted businesses have been carefully selected to be a part of this community and have their own badge as well! They have been recommended by your peers and are some of North Fort Worth’s most elite businesses. Look for this badge to know that you are working with one of the best, recommended by the best!
In the world of real estate, success is often measured in numbers— sales volume, closed deals, and market share. But for Deanna Hill, a top-producing real estate agent with Phelps Realty Group in North Fort Worth, success is something far more personal. It’s about relationships and a relentless commitment to the people she serves.
Deanna’s journey to real estate wasn’t a straight path, but rather a winding trail shaped by her passions and life experiences. Born in Burleson and raised in Euless, Texas, Deanna grew up as a twin with an energetic spirit, spending her childhood as a cheerleader and developing a love for running. That love turned into a lifelong passion, leading her to complete over 25 half-marathons and five full marathons. “Running isn’t just a hobby for me,” she says. “It’s a reflection of my work ethic—pushing through the hard miles, staying disciplined, and never quitting.”
Before stepping into real estate, Deanna carved out a successful career in pharmaceutical management. But a life-changing moment redirected her path. She won a “Biggest Loser” weightloss contest at her company, shedding over 100 pounds through sheer determination and discipline. That experience ignited a passion for fitness, and in 2014, she became a licensed personal trainer, opening her own Camp Gladiator location in Justin, Texas. “Helping others reach their goals, whether in fitness or real estate, has always been at the heart of what I do,” Deanna explains.
HillDeanna
Going the Distance
But real estate was in her blood. Her mother, a seasoned agent for over 18 years, had long encouraged Deanna to pursue the profession. In 2019, Deanna took the leap, launching a new career that quickly became a perfect blend of her entrepreneurial spirit and love for helping people. “My background in fitness taught me discipline, accountability, and perseverance,” she says. “Those same principles drive me in real estate—showing up for my clients, being their advocate, and always going the extra mile.”
That dedication has paid off. Deanna was named Rookie of the Year in 2020 and has been the top producer for
It’s about consistency, discipline, and always putting your clients first. When you lead with service, the success follows.”
helping a first-time buyer navigate the complexities of the market or advising a seller on maximizing their property’s value, her approach remains the same—personal, thoughtful, and driven by service.
“I treat every client like family,” she says. “Their wins are my wins.”
Deanna’s heart for giving back extends beyond real estate. She actively supports local animal rescue organizations, including Saving Hope Rescue and Apollo Support & Rescue, and she’s often found participating in charity runs that benefit various causes. “Community involvement is a huge part of who I am,” she says. “It’s not just about business—it’s about making a positive impact.”
her brokerage for the past three years. Her success isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about the relationships she builds along the way. “Real estate isn’t just about selling houses—it’s about people, their dreams, and their futures,” she shares. “My clients trust me because they know I genuinely care about them. I listen, I guide, and I make sure they feel confident every step of the way.”
Her commitment to excellence has made her a trusted resource in the competitive North Fort Worth market. Deanna takes the time to understand her clients’ needs, ensuring that they find not just a house, but a home. Whether she’s
Balancing a thriving real estate career with her personal life isn’t always easy, but Deanna has mastered the art of juggling multiple passions. She and her husband, John, are celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary this month, and together they have two sons—Dylan, a senior at Texas Tech University, and Tyler, a high school senior at Northwest High School. The family shares a love for rescue dogs, with three beloved pets— Hank, Wally, and Oli—who keep their home lively.
As a mentor to up-andcoming agents, Deanna encourages them to build their business on authenticity and perseverance. “Success in real estate isn’t about quick wins,” she advises. “It’s about consistency, discipline, and always putting your clients first. When you lead with service, the success follows.”
Despite the challenges of a demanding industry, Deanna remains steadfast in her belief that real estate is more than a career—it’s her calling. “I love what I do because it allows me to combine my passions for people, discipline, and community,” she reflects. “At the end of the day, seeing my clients happy and knowing I played a part in their journey is the most rewarding feeling in the world.”
For Deanna Hill, real estate isn’t just about closing deals—it’s about opening doors to new beginnings, one relationship at a time. And just like in running, she’s committed to going the distance—mile after mile, client after client, always striving for the finish line of excellence.
LORI KOLBYE
& ALL WESTERN MORTGAGE
LEADING WITH VALUE
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY DESIREE ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Lori Kolbye has built a career spanning four decades on a simple yet powerful principle: Whatever you do, do with all your heart as unto God. With 38 years in the title industry and four in mortgage lending, she has cemented herself as a trusted expert in North Texas real estate. But for Lori, success isn’t measured in transactions—it’s found in the lives she helps transform.
A Legacy of Expertise
Born in Chicago to a homemaker and a police officer, Lori’s family moved to Fort Worth before she turned one. Texas became home, and North Fort Worth became the foundation of her career. “I started in the title industry as an examiner, going through dusty records dating back to the 1800s when Texas first began land grants,” she recalls. This hands-on experience built a deep knowledge of real estate from the
ground up. Over the years, Lori worked with some of the biggest names in Texas real estate, continually refining her skills and expanding her impact.
Then, four years ago, she made a pivotal career shift. “After decades in title, I transitioned to mortgage origination fulltime,” she explains. “I had been taking mortgage classes along the way, and I knew I wanted to take my experience and apply it to helping families build wealth through homeownership.”
The Servant’s Heart Approach
Lori has always believed in leading with value. “I don’t just process loans—I educate, strategize, and create solutions that others may overlook,” she says. Her clients range from first-time homebuyers to luxury clients, but her philosophy remains the same: Leave No Buyer Behind.
Her commitment to education and support extends beyond her clients to the real estate agents she partners with. “I equip agents with industry knowledge, trends, graphs, and shareable content to help them scale their businesses,” she explains. “It’s a win-win. When agents have the tools to pivot in the market, we all succeed.”
A Team Built for Success
Success is never a solo endeavor, and Lori is the first to acknowledge the team behind her. “We have five loan originators, a preapproval specialist, and a business development officer, plus an incredible processing and closing team,” she shares. “And, of course, our favorite underwriters.”
Her leadership is grounded in experience and faith. “Every opportunity I’ve had has come from
“WE ARE NOT TOO BUSY FOR YOUR REFERRALS. WE’RE HERE TO MAKE SURE EVERY FAMILY FINDS A CLEAR PATH TO HOMEOWNERSHIP.”
hard work and God opening doors for me,” she says. “I’ve always had a hardcharging demeanor in business, and people have noticed. That’s led to new opportunities at every turn.”
A Commitment to Excellence
Lori’s approach is both personal and results-driven. “Our eyes are on the bottom line: getting transactions to the closing table early. Every time,” she states. It’s a commitment her clients and agent partners rely on, knowing that when Lori is on the team, the deal is in expert hands.
Work-life balance, however, is a different challenge. “In the spring and summer, it’s almost impossible,” she
admits. “Our REALTORS® work 24/7, and they need to know they can count on us. We are always on call.” Yet, she cherishes the moments she can steal away with her husband, Jeff, whether it’s traveling, enjoying local hot spots, or simply unwinding with their two spoiled dogs—Mollipop, a retired show dog, and IvyRose, a trained duck dog.
The Bigger Picture
Lori’s success isn’t just about professional milestones. “Success is about accomplishing goals—not just mine, but helping others meet theirs, too,” she says. It’s about impact, legacy, and making a difference in the lives of the families she serves.
Her favorite quote sums it up perfectly: If I have seen further, it’s by standing on the shoulders of giants. And now, after decades of experience, Lori Kolbye is the giant that others can stand upon, leading with knowledge, faith, and a commitment to service.
For agents looking to give their clients a competitive edge so their families can take the next step in their homeownership journey, Lori is clear: “We are not too busy for your referrals. We’re here to make sure every family finds a clear path to homeownership.”
In an industry where trust is everything, Lori Kolbye has spent a lifetime earning it.
Letta
Burger Burger
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY DESIREE ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Little Fireball. Big Heart.
If you were to ask those closest to Letta Burger to describe her, there’s a good chance they would offer up the same answer with a laugh: “She’s a little fireball.” But the story behind that spark—a life full of pivots, purpose, and a whole lot of heart—is what truly makes her shine.
Letta grew up in Paris, Texas, a small town that offered just enough entertainment to keep kids busy before the days of smartphones. “We had Cinema One and Two and spent most weekends at Skateland,” she recalls with a nostalgic grin. “As a 16-yearold, I begged my parents for a truck since we spent time driving on dirt roads and in pastures.” She got her wish—her first vehicle was a blue Z71 with oversized mud tires. “I am very thankful to have grown up without phones and in a small town with small town values.” Those values have helped shape her into the person she is today.
In the top 10% of her graduating class, Letta had her eye on several colleges but cheerleading was her first passion, and it launched her into the next chapter of her life. Offered several scholarships, Letta chose Sam Houston State, then ranked second in the nation for cheer. The commitment was intense—three to four practices a week, weightlifting, and cheering at different games. “It was a full-time job, but I loved it.”
After graduating in three years with a degree in
education, Letta began teaching and quickly pursued her master’s degree to become a counselor. A move back home to Paris, the birth of her second daughter, and years of balancing motherhood with work as a school counselor and cheer coach followed. Then life brought other changes— moving to Colorado for her husband’s job and then another move to Tyler, and eventually a medical diagnosis that would force her to rethink everything.
Letta had been diagnosed with Sjögren’s, an autoimmune disorder that made the demands of a traditional 8-to-4 job increasingly difficult. So, in 2014, she took a leap of faith—one that would change everything. “I decided to be a stay-at-home mom to be able to focus more on my health,” she says, “but that lasted about three months before
I wanted to pursue my real estate license.”
With three young kids at home—Kason in pre-K, and Kate and Klaire in elementary school—Letta claimed she was only doing real estate “part time.” She laughs now at the memory: “That was almost a joke. I was on the PTA board and already so busy with real estate that by the second year, it was definitely a full-time job.”
Since planting roots in Roanoke in 2014, Letta has grown a thriving business that reflects her love for community and commitment to connection. Her family can often be seen on local Oak Street enjoying a local restaurant or live music.
“I feel like you have to build trust with your clients before anything else,” she says, crediting her counseling background for
teaching her the value of deep listening. “Real estate is all about life changes—my goal is to make that change as easy as possible.”
Whether helping a family upsize, guiding someone through a divorce, or welcoming a newcomer to the area, Letta brings an unmatched level of empathy to her work. “Real estate doesn’t turn off at 5 PM,” she acknowledges. “And with three kids in every sport imaginable, juggling family and work has definitely been a challenge.”
Her clients often become friends, and many stay in touch long after the transaction is done. “To some people, real estate is a job, but it has never felt like that to me,” she says. “It’s more like a hobby that I genuinely love.”
Over the years, Letta has won numerous awards
Photo by Pamela Qualls Photography
including Real Producers top 500, D Magazine Top Real Estate Producer, 360 West Best Real Estate Agents, and Top Producer on her current and former real estate teams. Letta is also a member of Mensa, Eastern Star, National Charity League and Byron Nelson PTA and Byron Nelson Baseball Booster Club. As part of The Pistana Group at Compass, she’s now closed over $100 million in career sales, including $20 million last year alone. But for Letta, numbers are just one part of the story.
Despite her petite 4’11” stature (a fun fact that always surprises new clients), Letta has a powerful presence. “It’s always funny when people meet me in person and say, ‘Wow, you’re much smaller than you look on your signs.’” What she lacks in height, she more than makes up for in energy and heart.
Letta credits her grandmother, Jackie, with her fireball spirit. Jackie was a pioneer in the fashion industry when women often didn’t get much of a leadership role. Letta looked to her as a role model. She had a small frame and also had a “fireball” personality that could light up a room. Letta’s servant heart is a family trait as well. Her grandfather, a successful car dealer and owner of Lowry Chevrolet in Paris, set a powerful example by generously giving back to the community—donating snacks to the local cheer and band teams, supporting fishing tournaments, and serving faithfully in the Masons and Shriners. “He had plenty to give and always made sure to
share it,” she says. “I joined the Eastern Star at a young age and always wanted to give back to community.”
Her children are her biggest joy. Kate is currently applying to nursing programs in DFW, Klaire is preparing to head to Texas Tech, and Kason—her youngest—is a standout baseball player already playing at Byron Nelson High School and on a travel team. “Our biggest pastime right now is watching the Byron Nelson baseball team, especially our favorite player—Kason,” she smiles.
Though life threw her some curveballs, Letta has made a habit of turning each one into an opportunity. “The biggest challenge was accepting my limitations,” she admits. “I’ve always done things 110%, but I’ve had to learn to relax and work from home when my body needs rest.”
That resilience is also what she wants to pass on to the next generation of agents. Her advice? “Get out there. Learn from those around you. Real estate is not a job where you can wait for people to knock on your door. You have to show up.”
Letta still dreams big. Her goals this year are to continue growing her business and give back even more to her local community. She credits Compass CEO Robert Reffkin’s “Back to the Basics” challenge as a grounding reminder: “None of the extras matter if you don’t have the fundamentals to truly serve your clients.”
I’ve always done things 110%, but I’ve had to learn to relax and work from home when my body needs rest.”
In a fast-paced, everchanging industry, Letta Burger remains a steady force—one who brings light, laughter, and an infectious spirit everywhere she goes. “I hope that I make people’s day a little brighter—or in
times of stress, a little easier,” she says.
And if that’s not the definition of success, then we don’t know what is.
DAVID
NEALY
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN
PHOTOS BY DESIREE ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY
DRIVEN BY FAITH
There are few things in life as significant as faith, family, and the determination to serve others. For David Nealy, these pillars have shaped not only his personal journey but also his career in real estate. A born and raised Texan, David’s path to success was never about quick wins or fleeting achievements—it was about building something lasting, something rooted in purpose.
Growing up on a 180-acre farm in Waxahachie, Texas, David learned early on the value of hard work. His childhood was filled with adventure—riding four-wheelers, hunting, playing sports, and staying active in church. “My parents instilled in me a deep sense of faith and family,” he shares. “We were always involved in church, and that foundation has carried me through every stage of my life.”
That strong foundation led him to Texas A&M, where he graduated in 2017. After working at Southwest Airlines in customer relations, handling escalated service issues, David found himself at a crossroads. He had been praying for a career change when COVID-19 presented an unexpected opportunity. “The company froze all internal moves and hiring. Then, they offered separation packages. It was a clear sign—God was giving me a window to step into something new.” And with that, David took a leap of faith into real estate in November 2020.
Now, as the team leader of the North Texas Select Realty Group under Bray Real Estate Group, David’s business is driven by
relationships, not transactions. “A deal means nothing if my client isn’t happy. I want them to feel valued, to know that I truly care about their future.” This genuine approach has led to lasting friendships. “I’ve been invited to weddings, birthdays, and even just casual dinners. That kind of connection is why I love this job.”
But real estate, like any profession, comes with challenges. For David, adapting to the digital landscape has been a hurdle. “Social media isn’t my strong suit. I’m old school—I’d rather pick up the phone and check in on my clients or grab dinner with them.” He also acknowledges the financial uncertainties that come with being self-employed. “You have to want it and work for it. There’s no guaranteed paycheck. But when you’re doing what you love and serving people with integrity, the rewards always follow.”
Beyond business, David’s dreams extend to providing quality housing. “I want to own three to five rental properties that are well-maintained and truly serve their tenants. Too often, I see renters paying too much for homes in poor condition. I want to change that.” But at the heart of his success, his true measure of accomplishment is deeply personal. “Success isn’t just about business. It’s leading my family in a God-fearing manner, raising my daughters to know the Lord, loving my wife, and being able to give back. If I do that, everything else falls into place.”
Family remains his greatest treasure. In 2019, David met his beautiful wife, Jamie, and knew she was the woman he had been praying for. They were married 10 months later. “She is my rock. She supports me through the long hours and the unpredictable nature of this business. I couldn’t ask for a better partner and mother for my children.” Together, they are raising two daughters—Everly, who just turned three, and Emma, a nine-month-old bundle of joy. “Everly is my partner in crime and social butterfly, and Emma is the happiest little baby you’ll ever meet. God has blessed us beyond anything I could have imagined.”
When he’s not helping clients or spending time with his family, David is an assistant coach at CrossFit Max Level, a passion that blends his love for fitness and community. He’s also an avid sports enthusiast, playing sand volleyball, basketball, and football whenever he can. “Fitness is a great way to stay disciplined, and it allows me to connect with people outside of real estate.”
David’s faith is the compass that guides his every decision. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Lord. He has opened doors I never expected and has surrounded me with an
“If I can be remembered as a Godfearing man who put others first, then I’ve done something right.”
incredible support system of family and friends.” This faithdriven mindset shapes his business philosophy. “I will never push a client into a deal that isn’t right for them. My goal is to put their needs above my own, always.”
As for what’s next? David has big goals for 2025. “I want to be more active in my community, not just as a REALTOR® but as a resource for people. Whether it’s helping with tax protests, finding the right contractor, or just being someone they can trust—I want to be that guy.”
At the end of the day, David Nealy isn’t just selling homes— he’s building relationships, strengthening communities, and living out his faith through his work. “If I can be remembered as a God-fearing man who put others first, then I’ve done something right.”
And by all accounts, he is doing just that.
Photo by Brittany Partain Photography LLC
Lori partners with experienced REALTORS to create clear solu�ons for homebuyers, even in challenging market condi�ons.
Her vast lending por�olio of products offers unparalleled flexibility to buyers that other lenders must decline.
· Maximizing Buyers op�ons so they can pivot in today’s market
· High touch communica�on from Contract to Close
· Trusted, referral-worthy experience your clients will remember
· Residen�al
· Commercial
· Reverse Mortgages
· Hard Money
Fort Worth & North Fort Worth Real Producers
MASTERCLASS
PHOTOS BY SCOTT PEEK PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC
Our First Masterclass was an AMAZING success! Everyone raved about this event. There was so much powerful information being shared and priceless networking.
Thank you to our rockstar Panelists:
• Les McGhee: Chief Education Strategist, Rialto Academy
• Britt Fair: Retired Title Industry Executive
• Dustin Wright: Principle at Portfolio Commercial
What we learned:
• THREE major shifts are happening in the real estate industry right now (usually only one shift at a time)
• What are they, and what does it mean for me?
• How do we navigate and process these monumental shifts?
• Walk away with strategies, insights, and tools to not just survive these shifts, but to thrive because of them.
Huge thank you to ALL of our RP Vetted Businesses and especially our event sponsors:
• Nick Drescher, Nick the TX Broker
• Shaddock Homes
• HomeSmiles
• Still Waters Lending
• Black Tie Moving
• Deluxe Roofing
See you at the next Masterclass on August 7th!
SIGNS
WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY BETH GRAEME PHOTOGRAPHY
There’s something magnetic about CJ Sutherland—an undeniable energy rooted in grit, gratitude, and a competitive fire that refuses to dim. Maybe it’s the Scottish accent. Maybe it’s the years spent on soccer fields across Europe. Or maybe it’s the unshakable belief that anything is possible if you work hard enough and ask the right questions.
Born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, CJ spent years playing professional soccer throughout Europe. His last contract landed him in Finland, but an untimely injury brought his career to a halt. For many, that would’ve marked the end of a dream. For CJ, it was the beginning of a new one.
“I always look for signs,” he says. And the signs? They were loud and clear. “Everywhere I went, people told me I needed to be in real estate. I followed the signs and never looked back.” CJ was coaching at the time, running his soccer academy—DFW United Soccer Club—and mentoring the children of some of DFW’s top agents. “One day, I met with one of them and registered for Champions Real Estate School that night. I coached during the day and studied at night. I passed my test just after Christmas. I wanted something stable.”
Now, as the Principal and Team Lead of The Sutherland Group at Compass, CJ is turning hustle into legacy. “Your downtime is your prep time,” his father always said—and CJ took that to heart. Whether he’s guiding first-time buyers, supporting move-up families, or navigating complex deals, he shows up with the mindset that failure isn’t an option. “Coming from overseas, you have a different mindset. There’s no room for failure. This is the best country for opportunity—second to none.”
That mindset has carried him through the valleys of rejection and the highs of hard-won success. “To be at the top, you have to go through the weeds of rejection. You’ve got to be like an onion—you need thick skin. Losing soccer could’ve taken me down a dark path, but I refused to give up.”
His dedication shows in the numbers— over $100 million in career volume, with
$12 million closed just last year. But ask CJ how he defines success, and the answer has nothing to do with dollars. “Success is about how much you impact others. Not financial milestones. It’s about being a good person, showing loyalty and respect, and being someone people can trust.”
Those values stem from family. CJ is close with his parents and younger
brother and cherishes time with his loved ones. He’s also still deeply involved in soccer—coaching, mentoring, and dreaming bigger. His ultimate goal? “I want real estate and soccer to align. One day, I want to open a multi-purpose indoor sports facility. A place where kids feel safe. If I were back home in the UK, I wouldn’t have half the opportunities I’ve had here.”
He credits his achievements to relentless effort and an open mind. “People don’t realize what they’re capable of until they push themselves. You have to be ready to overcome objections and rejection every single day. If you can’t come up with a solution, you shouldn’t be in the business.”
For CJ, every day is a new challenge—one he’s eager to face. “How badly do you want it? Do you want to take that phone call? Do you want to drive to that far area? This business is about more than selling houses. It’s about growing your brand and leaving a legacy behind.”
Legacy matters to CJ. He wants to be remembered as someone who was humble, trustworthy, and genuinely invested in others’ success. “I raised myself by lifting up others with me. I want people to be happy, and I want to see them do well.”
His advice for new agents is simple but powerful: “Don’t get too high, don’t get too low. Don’t be scared to ask questions. No one will judge you. And most importantly, don’t change who you are. Be approachable. Be humble.”
That humility has earned him recognition in publications like D Magazine, 360 West, Real Producers, and Best in DFW —but it’s not the awards that fuel him. It’s the journey. The people. The grind. “I’m not scared of anything. I’ll put myself on the line. That’s what sets me apart.”
When CJ isn’t helping families navigate the biggest transactions of their lives, you’ll find him coaching soccer, spending
time with family, playing golf, or vibing to disco and house music. A fun fact? “I play the saxophone—just picked it back up recently. I love 70s and 80s music.”
As for what’s next for CJ? Professionally, he is focused on doubling his production, investing in his first indoor facility, growing his team, and earning his Broker’s license. Big goals—but for a guy who’s faced down injury, reinvention, and the competitive grind of real estate with relentless optimism, they’re right on brand. Personally, CJ is focusing on nurturing the relationships that matter most, such as those with his family, his girlfriend, Meredith, and her daughter, Ember.
“This country gives you the opportunity to make a name for yourself,” CJ says. “Don’t give up on what you want to achieve. You never know what’s around the corner.”
And if you ask him, that corner might just lead to something extraordinary. Just follow the signs.
