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THE NEED FOR CHANGE
Fall is upon us! 2024 is almost gone (hard to believe), and 2025 will be here before we know it. Fall is a season of considerable change. The temperatures drop (thank goodness), the grass and leaves change colors, and the aroma of pumpkin spiced lattes fills the cool, crisp air.
Over the years, one thing I have learned about success is that change is a necessity. I have also learned that life is much more enjoyable when you embrace that change. Welcome it with open arms! Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher, once said, “The only constant in life is change.” We might as well get used to it.
The interesting thing about humans is that many people, arguably most people, are unhappy with one or many areas of their lives, but they don’t truly pursue change. Even though one may be unhealthy, in a bad relationship, hating their career…the discomfort, and specifically, the unknown that comes with change, is more uncomfortable than the circumstances they find themselves in. At least they are familiar with being unhealthy, in that bad relationship, or in that career that they despise. In a weird way, we find a false sense of peace with the familiar, and we tend to stay stuck there.
Unfortunately, for most, it takes an immense amount of pain to change. Since we need change to move forward in this life, that means, in many ways, that trials and tribulations are also a necessity of life. Someone recently said to me that there are only two energies in the universe…love and fear. The only reason God created fear was that it would push us to choose and chase after love. On the other side of chaos and pain is positive change and immense joy.
As we go through this seasonal change, and as the world continues to get crazier and crazier, and as we go through our own personal struggles…I encourage you not to lose hope but to stay focused, keep moving forward, and have faith. Because on the other side of everything we are going through is a beauty that we have never known.
See you on the other side of change!
JORDAN ESPESETH DFW Real Producers Founder/Co-owner
HASHMI ZOHAIR
PATIENCE MAKES PERFECT
In the midst of a global pandemic, as uncertainty gripped the world and many were retreating into the safety of their existing careers, Zohair Hashmi made a decision that would change his life forever. “In March of 2020, as the pandemic hit and everything looked bleak, I decided there was a bright future for me in real estate,” Zohair recalls with a mix of determination and optimism. This decision marked the beginning of a journey filled with challenges, perseverance, and a strong drive to achieve his dreams.
Zohair’s story begins much earlier, far from the neighborhoods of Dallas. Originally from Pakistan, Zohair spent his formative years in Saudi Arabia, where life was a world apart from what he would later experience in the United States. “Growing up in Saudi Arabia was quite different. We had maids, folks that cooked, cleaned, drove us around—in other words, we lived the life,” he says, reflecting on a time when comfort and convenience were the norms.
But life took a drastic turn when, at the age of 14, Zohair’s family migrated to the United States. The transition was anything but smooth. “The United States gave us more than one culture shock to deal with,” he recalls. “We started here how most immigrants do—it was a struggle.” Settling first in Maryland, Zohair and his family soon realized
that the Texas heat was more bearable than the freezing winters of the Northeast, leading them to move to the Lone Star State. Here, Zohair would complete high school at Trinity High and go on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas.
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
rising star
Photos by: Jin Kim, URSPECIAL
Before becoming a REALTOR®, Zohair did all he could to try and meet his potential. “I began my career in the corporate world working at American Airlines right out of college in 2010,” he says. “While working at American, I did a bunch of other things, like repairing old devices and selling them on Facebook Marketplace. Once that slowed down, I did DoorDash for a year while studying for my real estate exam. The truth is, working for yourself, as cliche as it may be, beats everything else.”
Entering real estate at the height of the pandemic was no easy feat. Zohair quickly learned that the road to success was paved with challenges. “The first two years were absolutely brutal. I showed a ton of homes, made a ton of offers—zero results. No one told me I was stepping into the worst buyer’s market of my lifetime.” Yet, it was during these difficult times that Zohair’s true character emerged— his resilience and his steadfast commitment to his clients.
Zohair’s approach to real estate is deeply rooted in a genuine desire to make a positive impact. “I approach my clients with the utmost sincerity. Where a lot of agents would say ‘buy,’ I often tell my clients ‘Don’t buy, let’s keep looking.’” This philosophy has not only set him apart from other agents but has also earned him the trust and loyalty of his clients.
For Zohair, real estate is more than just a profession; it’s a means to fulfill his dreams and give back to the person who has been his greatest support—his wife. “My wife has always supported me even during my most difficult days. It’s time for me to pay her back with every ounce of energy I have. Giving my wife and my kids the ultimate life is my dream, and my profession will help me pave the road to achieving it.”
Despite the initial struggles, Zohair’s persistence began to pay off. Since 2022, he has sold over $24 million in real estate, with a total volume of $8.9 million in the last year alone. His success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the invaluable support of his family. “Patience is your friend,” Zohair advises up-and-coming real estate agents, a lesson he has learned firsthand.
Outside of his thriving career, Zohair is a family man who loves spending time with his wife and three children. He is also passionate about playing and watching cricket, a sport that has been a constant in his life since his days in Saudi Arabia.
In the two and a half years that Zohair has been with Ultima Real Estate, he has really come on strong as a top producer. He works well with clients who are looking for a traditional style of home with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a garage to clients who are looking to buy or sell luxury properties that also include a media room, a study, and a community clubhouse. Zohair is dedicated to meeting the needs of both buyers and sellers in the DFW area.
-CRAIG GANT, COMPANY MANAGER
goals are ambitious yet grounded. “I want to be one of the top 500 in the entire state of Texas. If not this year, the next for sure.” His vision for the Dallas-Fort Worth area is equally optimistic. “I’ve been in DFW for 20 years. I love the diversity here. DFW will probably surpass most metroplexes in the USA in the next 10 years. And as it does that, I’ll be here to help.”
Zohair Hashmi’s journey is one of patience, passion, and unwavering determination. From his early days of struggle as an immigrant to his current success as a real estate agent, Zohair has proven that with hard work, support, and a little patience, anything is possible. His story is a reminder that success is not just about achieving goals but about making a lasting impact on the lives of others—something Zohair strives to do every day.
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Photos by: Jin Kim, URSPECIAL
JOHNSON UNITED
MOVING ABOVE & BEYOND STORAGE & MOVING
In the demanding world of moving and storage, where the stakes are high and the demands even higher, one man has spent over three decades perfecting the art of moving. Kirk DeHaven, vice president of business development at Johnson United, is a name synonymous with top-tier service, meticulous planning, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.
Kirk’s journey in the moving industry began during his college years, a time when most students were more focused on textbooks and term papers. “I started in college working on trucks and enjoyed the people in the business,” he recalls. This early exposure sparked a passion that would eventually shape his career. After graduating from the University of Texas in Austin, Kirk transitioned from working on trucks to taking a position in the office, and soon after, he ventured into sales. It was here that he found his true calling.
At Johnson United, Kirk is at the helm of a full-service relocation company that offers a comprehensive range of services. From local moves to interstate and worldwide relocations, Johnson United prides itself on its ability to handle any type of goods. “We can pack, move, and store anything,” Kirk explains, underscoring the company’s versatility and commitment to meeting the unique needs of every client.
But what truly sets Johnson United apart in a competitive industry is its dedication to quality service. “We go above and beyond to provide top-quality service to all our clients,” Kirk says with conviction. This commitment is not just a company motto but a principle that drives every aspect of their operations. Whether it’s a simple move across the street or a complex international relocation, Johnson United’s focus remains the same: ensuring a stressfree, seamless experience for their clients.
Kirk’s experience of over 30 years in the industry allows him to craft custom move plans tailored to fit any budget. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of the industry make him an invaluable resource for clients looking for a mover they can trust. “Our standards for our movers are the highest in the industry,” he notes, emphasizing the rigorous selection process that ensures only the best represent Johnson United. This commitment to excellence has earned the company a reputation for reliability and superior service, setting them apart from their competitors.
In an industry where trust is paramount, Johnson United has built lasting relationships with clients by putting their needs first. “The customer always comes first, and we want to keep our clients for life,” Kirk affirms, highlighting a core value that has been instrumental in the company’s success. It’s this dedication to customer satisfaction that makes Johnson United a top choice for anyone seeking a quality mover, whether they’re moving across town or across the globe.
Kirk’s leadership at Johnson United is supported by a strong team that shares his vision for excellence. Angie, the relocation coordinator, ensures that everything is scheduled and runs on time, while Mitch, the general manager, keeps operations smooth and efficient. Luell leads the crews, instilling in them the importance of making the customer their number one priority. “Our team is the backbone of our success,” Kirk says proudly. It’s clear that Johnson United’s success is a team effort, with each member playing a crucial role in delivering outstanding service.
Balancing a demanding career with family life is no small feat, but Kirk has found a way to manage both effectively. “Work smarter, not harder, so you can have time at the end of the day to enjoy family,” he advises. When he’s not working, Kirk enjoys spending time with his wife, Darcie, and their three children—Rylee, Doak, and Nash. Family dinners and traveling together are cherished activities that help Kirk maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Looking ahead, Kirk is focused on continuing to grow the Johnson United name in the Dallas-Fort Worth market. He’s motivated by the opportunity to expand the company’s reach and reputation, all while staying true to the principles that have guided him throughout his career. For Kirk, success isn’t just about reaching professional milestones; it’s about finding happiness in the journey and achieving personal goals along the way. “Being happy while reaching your goals in life,” he says, is his definition of success.
Kirk’s favorite quote, “Hard work beats talent,” encapsulates his approach to both life and business. It’s a reminder that dedication, perseverance, and a strong work ethic are key to overcoming challenges and achieving greatness. This mindset has undoubtedly contributed to Kirk’s success and will continue to drive Johnson United forward in the years to come.
As a parting thought, Kirk encourages REALTORS® and top producers to consider Johnson United as a trusted partner for their clients’ moving needs. “We will treat your clients and their possessions with the utmost care and respect,” he assures. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, Johnson United stands out as a mover of choice for those who value quality and reliability.
When it comes to relocation, every detail matters, and Kirk DeHaven and his team at Johnson United are raising the bar, one move at a time.
Celebrating two decades of print excellence, now 800 niche magazines strong (and counting).
H O L L Y H I L L K
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
by: Jin Kim, URSPECIAL
Born and raised in the heart of Dallas, Holly Hill Krug is deeply rooted in her community. A proud alumna of private and public schools, graduating from Highland Park High School and Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia, she reflects on her education as a gift that shaped her journey, not just as a real estate agent but as a person.
“The saying goes, ‘Everything happens for a reason,’ and my experience at various schools has helped me as an agent
when clients are looking at schools for their own kids. My network is quite large!” she shares with a smile.
Holly’s journey into real estate wasn’t a sudden decision. It was the culmination of years of honing her client service skills in the corporate world. Before officially stepping into real estate in 2017, Holly had a fulfilling career at JPMorgan Private Bank, where she managed events for high-net-worth clients across the U.S. and globally. “The hours were long, the people were very talented, and it taught me the true art of client service,” she explains. Though her time at JPMorgan ended in 2010, the relationships built there have endured. Many of her colleagues from that time are still friends, raising families together in Dallas.
Holly is more than a real estate agent—she’s a community builder driven by a love for her hometown and the relationships she fosters.
“We are so fortunate to live in Dallas, and I enjoy sharing that. Seeing how much our city has grown over the past 10-15 years is incredible. I love introducing new people to the city I grew up in and showing them why so many people have decided to call this their new home,” she explains with enthusiasm. Her passion is personal, and each transaction is more than just business.
“Buying and selling a house is personal to me. It’s not just a transaction. A home is where you lay your head at night and kickstart the day of endless opportunities. I want to make sure my clients find what they are looking for.”
Photos
Holly Krug and fellow team member Becca Hayhurst
As a Global Real Estate Advisor with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, Holly emphasizes that while she operates as an individual agent, she’s never alone. “There’s a team behind you and your success here,” she says, crediting her fellow agents for offering mentorship and support. That guidance has been instrumental in her growth. “I’m surrounded by amazing agents who have paved their path and showed me the way. I am grateful for their mentorship and always try to pay it forward to the next agent.”
Though Holly’s real estate career is thriving, she admits that balancing it all hasn’t always been easy. One of her biggest challenges has been learning to say no and managing time. “The opportunities are endless in this business, and my weakness is making time for it all. I try to live in the moment and not in the future—easier said than done—but I always make time to celebrate life’s blessings.” Holly’s focus on living in the present is all for her family, where she dedicates herself to being a wife and mother. She’s quick to share that her family—her husband, Adam, and their three boys, Ashton, Tanner, and Hudson—are her world. “Life with boys
A GENEROUS HEART
is nonstop action that requires loads of sunscreen, a large sunhat, a good folding chair, and, of course, a stocked cooler!” she jokes. Holly’s upbringing as the eldest of five with four younger brothers taught her the patience and calm she brings into her life today. She continues to prioritize family, noting how close-knit they are. “My entire immediate family of 24 all live within a five-mile radius. We have family meals at least once a month to celebrate a birthday, watch a football game, or just get together and catch up on life, and we love going on vacations together in the summer.”
Holly’s commitment to her community goes beyond real estate. Since leaving JPMorgan, she has devoted herself to philanthropy work that has filled her cup for over a decade. She proudly served as president of the Hyer Elementary PTA and on the board of the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center before joining the board of The Family Place and chairing their Texas Trailblazers luncheon, where Brooke Shields was a guest speaker. Holly’s passion for giving back has led her to serve on the board of The
Family Place for almost five years. She also supports the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and currently co-chairs their Junior Symphony Ball with one of her sons. “I love that my boys participate, too— it’s something we can do together,” she says proudly. One of her most cherished recognitions is the “Rosemary and Ben Briggs Philanthropy Award,” named after Robbie Briggs’ parents. “This award recognized my philanthropic work in the community, and that means the world to me,” she reflects.”
As Holly continues to grow both personally and professionally, she remains grounded in her mission to provide unparalleled service to her clients. 2024 marks a year of growth for her, both as a mother and a real estate agent. With her eldest son leaving for college and new opportunities emerging in her business, she embraces this next chapter with enthusiasm. “Professionally, I wanted to add to my team and did. In early spring, Becca Hayhurst joined me, and she’s been amazing. She’s smart, energetic, articulate, and such a delight to be around,” Holly remarks.
In real estate, as in life, Holly’s focus remains on relationships. Whether it’s connecting clients with the perfect home or staying in her lane while celebrating her peers’ successes, she continues to embody a spirit of generosity. When asked what she wants to be remembered for, Holly’s answer is simple yet profound: “A generous heart.”
In her own words, Holly’s advice to anyone stepping
into the world of real estate is to stay focused on relationships. “The most important and rewarding part of this job is the relationships you have with your clients, agents, and businesses you work with. And when it’s slow, get organized!”
With her strong connections, heartfelt dedication, and love for her community, Holly Hill Krug continues to make a lasting impact on those lives she touches.
The Hill Family
The Krug and Hill Families • Photo courtesy of: Brian Zager/Phomo Media
from wings to closings
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Photos by: Jin Kim, URSPECIAL
EUGENE
GONZALEZ
THE STUFF OF DREAMS
Eugene Gonzalez’s journey into real estate isn’t just about property sales; it’s about a lifetime of perseverance, discipline, and a deep commitment to service. As the Team Lead of ALTA Realty Group with Dave PerryMiller Real Estate, Eugene’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a passion for helping others achieve their dreams.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Eugene’s life has been shaped by the values of hard work and determination. His family, immigrants from Nicaragua, fled the communist revolution in search of a better life. Reflecting on his upbringing, Eugene shares, “My parents worked tirelessly to ensure we had a loving home and emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and humble service. Their sacrifices instilled in me a sense of purpose, and those values have shaped who I am today.”
Before stepping into real estate, Eugene led a fascinating life. He graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in Political Science and later earned both an MBA and a Master’s in Accounting from Liberty University. His career began far from real estate, first as an Air Force pilot for 12 years, flying C-17 cargo planes and instructing new pilots. Afterward, he served as the Director of Finance for several public and private companies, managing revenues as large as $3 billion.
Despite this impressive resume, Eugene sought a new challenge.
In July 2019, Eugene made the leap into real estate, bringing with him a wealth of experience and skills from his previous roles. “The rigor, precision, and discipline I learned in the Air Force seamlessly transitioned into my real estate career,” Eugene explains. “Attention to detail and commitment to excellence are paramount. Every client deserves a personalized experience, and I strive to exceed their expectations, ensuring each transaction is smooth and remarkable.”
Eugene’s passion for redefining the standard of service in luxury real estate is palpable. With his financial acumen and collaborative spirit, he has created a dynamic team environment that fosters innovation and client-centric service. “Building a team that shares my vision of delivering exceptional service has been incredibly fulfilling,” he says. “Every successful transaction feels like a collective victory.”
One of the most rewarding parts of his business, Eugene notes, is transforming real estate transactions into captivating stories. He recalls a memorable sale: “I had a client ready to sell their elegant but slightly dated home. Instead of suggesting expensive renovations, we focused on
strategic staging and lighting updates. This approach attracted multiple high offers, and we sold the property well above asking price.” Moments like these exemplify the creative problem-solving that Eugene and his team bring to the table.
While the rewards are great, real estate hasn’t been without its challenges. Eugene has faced the ups and downs of the dynamic market head-on, learning to adapt and innovate along the way. “The biggest challenge I’ve faced is staying ahead of market fluctuations while consistently delivering value to my clients,” he admits. To overcome this, Eugene immersed himself in data, studying market trends and crafting personalized strategies for his clients. “Adaptability and continuous learning are essential in this business,” he says. “Real estate is ever-changing, and my goal is to be the steady hand that guides clients through uncertain waters.”
Eugene’s approach to real estate goes beyond transactions; it’s deeply personal. “Real estate is about people and their dreams,” he reflects. “Every client has a unique story, and being a part of their
journey is incredibly fulfilling.” Whether helping a family find their forever home or guiding an investor toward financial growth, Eugene treasures the connections he forms with his clients. “It’s this genuine connection, built on trust and loyalty, that makes my role as a realtor deeply rewarding.”
For Eugene, success is about more than financial achievements. “True success isn’t just measured by monetary gains,” he says. “It’s found in personal satisfaction, ongoing growth, and making a positive impact on others.” Eugene’s journey—from the challenges of his family’s immigration to his time in the Air Force, to navigating a new career in real estate—has taught him resilience and the importance of living a life aligned with one’s values.
Real estate has also become a cornerstone of Eugene’s personal dreams. As an investor in rental properties, he understands firsthand the power of homeownership in building generational wealth. “Real estate is more than a career for me— it’s a mission to empower others to secure their financial future and create lasting legacies.”
Outside of his career, Eugene’s personal life is a testament to his values. He and his partner, William, have built a life together over the past 18 years, rooted in love and mutual respect. Their shared values of hard
work and service are the foundation of their relationship, much like those Eugene’s parents instilled in him.
For Eugene Gonzalez, real estate is the perfect blend of passion, purpose, and personal connection. As he continues to grow ALTA Realty Group and redefine the standard of luxury service, one thing is clear: Eugene’s story is far from over. “Work your face off,” he advises up-and-coming real estate professionals. “This is one of the most challenging things I’ve done, but working hard and doing the right thing has paid off in ways I never imagined.”
With his military discipline, financial expertise, and deep commitment to his clients, Eugene Gonzalez is not only a top producer in Dallas real estate but a trusted advisor and partner in the journey to homeownership.
Eugene is a planner and a thinker. He does thorough research on a property to be fully invested in many aspects of the property. He sees the possibilities and is realistic in his approach to selling real estate. -Becky Connatser, Manager, Dave Perry-Miller - InTown
KRONSHAGE JAKE
A WIN-WIN
Jake Kronshage didn’t set out to become a real estate agent— at least not in the traditional sense. But his path to success was carved out long before he realized it. A natural entrepreneur from a young age, Jake’s passion for real estate sparked back in his college days at the University of Mississippi, where he’d already begun to invest in properties.
“I started my career without really knowing I started it in college,” Jake laughs. “Before I left school for summer break, I would find three or four potential flips in my hometown, and my family and I would buy one. My brothers and I would put sweat equity into the flip over the summer. The house would then go on the market and sell at the end of the season, and I’d use the profits for spending money for the next school year.”
Born and raised in The Woodlands, Texas, Jake’s early life was filled with sports and leadership roles. A four-year varsity lacrosse player, and later the captain of the team at Ole Miss, Jake’s competitive spirit was honed on the field. His time as a Kappa Sig and athlete taught him discipline, teamwork, and how to tackle challenges head-on— skills that would prove invaluable in the world of real estate.
him; instead, they’ve fueled his drive to succeed even more. “I want to help my clients get the house of their dreams or meet and exceed their expectations when selling their homes,” he says. For Jake, success is defined by creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved. “I always look for a win-win.”
A family man at heart, Jake has been married to his wife, Emily, for nearly six years, and last year, they welcomed their first child, a son named Otto. Family is at the core of everything Jake does, and he credits much of his success to the support of his loved ones. Outside of work, Jake enjoys spending time on the golf course and tennis court, where he finds a muchneeded break from the hustle of real estate. “The course is my relaxing space where I can get my mind off work for a few hours,” he says.
Looking ahead, Jake’s goals are simple but ambitious: continue to grow his business, help more families find their dream homes, and make a lasting impact in the Dallas real estate market. When asked what he loves about DFW, Jake lights up. “I love how Dallas is a small but big city,” he says. “We have everything here, but in a compact area. I’m from Houston, and that city is just too big.”
When reflecting on his career so far, Jake offers this advice to those just starting out: “Real estate is about relationships. If you focus on helping people and always do what’s right, success will follow.” That philosophy, combined with his relentless drive and passion for the business, is exactly what has made Jake Kronshage one of the rising stars in the Dallas real estate scene.
“Jake embodies the true meaning of success in real estate, which comes down to two key principles that are often overlooked: taking care of and valuing the customer. This is the foundation for which Jake has built his business and truly lives out each day.”
