North DFW Real Producers - November 2019

NORTH DFW

C O N N E C T I N G .

E L E VAT I N G .

I N S P I R I N G .

Lisa Birdsong Focused Intentions Photography By: Scott Peek Photography

NOVEMBER 2019

With a combined 30+ years of lending experience in Dallas/Fort Worth, Daniel & Jacob have mastered the closing process. With an average closing time frame of 12 days, they have proven to be

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Contact the Plano Branch of American Financial Network, Inc. Daniel Muñoz Jacob Emmel and watch your business grow with the piece of mind that Branch Manager Branch Manager YOU WILL CLOSE ON TIME EVERY TIME! D: 469.952.4343 D: 817.680.7521 F: 866-531-0402 F: 866-991-5844 dmunoz@afncorp.com | NMLS 216101 jemmel@afncorp.com | NMLS 716383 CORP NMLS #237341 | Branch NMLS# 1470568 | 2400 Dallas Parkway, #200, Plano, TX 75093 American Financial Network, Inc. is licensed by the Texas - SML Mortgage Banker Branch Registration under Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS), unique identifier of 1470568. Florida Mortgage Lender Servicer Branch License (MLDB5623). Oklahoma Mortgage Lender Branch License (MLB11145). South Carolina- BFI Branch Mortgage Lender/Servicer (MLB—1470568). Refer to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org and input NMLS #237341 to see where American Financial Network, Inc. is a licensed lender. In all states, the principal licensed office of American Financial Network, Inc. is 10 Pointe Drive, Suite 330, Brea, CA 92821; Phone: (714) 831-4000 (NMLS ID#237341).

This information is intended to assist Real Estate Brokers, Agents, and other Industry Professionals, and is not an advertisement for consumer credit as defined in 12 CFR 1026.2(a)(2). This information is not intended for consumers and may not be duplicated or disseminated to the public.

2 • November 2019

www.realproducersmag.com • 3

TA BLE OF

CONTENTS 06

10

Index of Trusted Partners

Publisher’s Meet The Team Note

Publisher’s Note

20 18

26

28 10

Rising Partner Star Spotlight: - Sakina The Ismaelbay Pulaski Sukenik Insurance Agency

Charity Spotlight: Frisco Gold Star Family Monument

Tips SaveFrom The the Date Top

32 24

40 16

24 45

Rising FAQ About Star: Travis This Magazine Hitt

48 10

Tips Partner From Spotlight: the Top Nations Home Warranty

4 • November 2019

09

CCAR: Sponsor In Spotlight The KnowPhotography

By Spross

56

Featured Agent: Noè De Leon

Games: FAQ CrossAbout word This Magazine Puzzle

64

Cover Story: Lisa Birdsong

www.realproducersmag.com • 5

PREFERRED PARTNERS

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!

ARTIST Hope Harrison Artist Hope Harrison (469) 394-8664 hopeharrison.net BARBERSHOP & MEN’S GROOMING Hammer & Nails Grooming for Guys - Frisco (214) 794-6498 hammerandnails grooming.com BRANDING/MARKETING/ WEB DESIGN Prime the Mind (682) 777-8104 ptmmarketing.com BUILDER Perry Homes (972) 629-3900 perryhomes.com Taylor Morrison (469) 252-2272 taylormorrison.com BUSINESS COACHING Hero Nation Coaching Wayne Salmans (469) 500-3642 theheronation.com BUSINESS/EXECUTIVE COACH Elevate U (214) 551-1940 elevateuinc.com DEVELOPER Huffines Communites (972) 860-3133 huffinescommunities.com

6 • November 2019

DIGITAL MARKETING & DIGITAL ADVERTISING Star Mobile Systems (469) 733-7270

HOME WARRANTY Home Warranty of America (888) 492-7359 hwahomewarranty.com

MORTGAGE BANKER Bank of England (469) 737-5733 boetexas.com

ENGRAVED CLOSING GIFTS VinoSay Engraving Ray Southwell (469) 396-6529 vinosay.com

Nations Home Warranty (888) 737-7070 home-warranty.com

MORTGAGE LENDER American Financial Network, Inc. Daniel Munoz (214) 473-5984 afncorp.com/danielmunoz

FOUNDATION REPAIR Digg Foundation Repair Scott Winn (214) 307-4060 diggfoundationrepair.com GARAGE DOORS Pro Lift Doors (469) 251-7027 proliftdoors.com/garland HOME INSPECTION Amerispec Home Inspections (817) 329-5200 amerispectx.com Elite Inspection Group (469) 818-5500 eigdallas.com Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com The Inspection House (512) 686-0097 theinspectionhouse.com HOME RENOVATION Curbio (978) 888-3958 curbio.com

Super Dilyana Lupanova (202) 750-1618 HelloSuper.com INSURANCE DFW Insurance Services Adrienne Baker (972) 781-1115 insurewithdfw.com Paine Insurance Group (972) 387-9217 whosyourinsuranceguy.com Presley Insurance Group (214) 888-0730 www.presleyins.com Rhyne Insurance Agency Kristian Rhyne (972) 400-1089 agents.farmers.com/krhyne The Pulaski Sukenik Insurance Agency (214) 673-7888 thepulaskisukenikagency. com Winemiller Insurance Agency Josiah Winemiller (817) 618-6514 gooseheadinsurance.com/ agents/josiah-winemiller/

First Rate Financial (214) 872-4442 iamfirstrate.com Legacy Group - Service First Mortgage (214) 649-4908 petemontesino. servicefirstmtg.com Team Wally Home Loan (469) 277-1249 teamwallyhomeloan.com The Mortgage Nerd (972) 447-6373 YourMortgageNerd.com The Tuttle Group Mid America Mortgage (469) 319-0660 thetuttlegroup.com Wallick & Volk Bob Mortgage (214) 631-5626 bobmortgage.com Willow Bend Mortgage (214) 449-2334 wbm.com

MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR Farmers Bank and Trust Debbie Bloyd (979) 220-3018 myfarmers.bank MOVING SERVICES All My Sons Moving & Storage (561) 578-3800 allmysons.com Element Moving and Storage (972) 805-0988 elementmoving.com Firehouse Movers Inc (972) 412-6033 firehousemovers.com Stonebriar Moving Services (469) 734-9000 stonebriarmoving.com NEIGHBORHOOD HANDYMAN Handy Hogan (903) 815-3192

PHOTOGRAPHY Scott Peek Photography (468) 587-2300 ScottPeekPhotography.com PROPERTY MANAGEMENT American Real PM (469) 620-0114 americanrealpm.com Real Property Management Focus (469) 820-0088 realpmfocus.com REAL ESTATE VIRTUAL ASSISTANT Virtual Business Solutions Real Estate (469) 999-1559 vbsrealestate.com ROOFING Blue Ribbon Roofing (972) 464-1858 blueribbondfw.com Helsley Roofing Company (972) 578-8982 helsleyroofing.com

ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION High Performance Restoration Texas (214) 396-7772 hprtexas.com Red Dirt Roofing & Construction (817) 454-0608 reddirtroofing.net ROOFING & ROOF WARRANTY Total Roof Protection (817) 210-6338 totalroofprotection.com ROOFING / STORM RESTORATION 100% Construction (469) 999-6091 100percentconstructiontx.com TITLE COMPANY Boston National Title of Texas (972) 584-9660 bostonnationaltitle.com Fair Texas Title (602) 421-6417 fairtexastitle.com

Kensington Vanguard National Title of TX (214) 529-3840 kv-lonestar.com Lawyers Title (469) 247-8281 dfw.ltic.com TRAINING Need to Know (469) 396-6529 needtoknowtraining.com UTILITY CONCIERGE Utility Concierge (800) 587-3160 utilityconcierge.com VIDEOGRAPHY/ PHOTOGRAPHY Petty Films Gary Petty (817) 271-1256 pettyfilms.com WEALTH MANAGEMENT Linder Legacy Group (214) 843-3835 linderlegacygroup.com

The highest standard of Property Management in America We combine the best of our skills and ideas to help provide Texas with the best property management services available.

469-620-0400 | americanrealpm.com | 6600 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy Suite 175, Dallas, TX 75240 www.realproducersmag.com • 7

LENDING THAT HAS YOU COVERED.

Your HERITAGE is looking back at the past…

Your LEGACY is looking to the future!

Our dedicated team of mortgage experts

The Legacy Group is here to help you write YOUR Legacy when it comes to Real Estate!

has the ability to originate, underwrite and fund loans in-house to create a hassle-free lending experience

Apply today from your phone, just visit: Servicefirstmtg.com/legacy Pete Montesino Branch Manager NMLS: #233775 Phone: 972.608.7501

Roger Salazar Sr. Mortgage Professional NMLS: #375993 Phone: 214.298.8465

Marcus Rush Sr. Mortgage Professional NMLS: #133711 Phone: 972.333.0292

Service First Mortgage | NMLS #166487 | 6800 Weiskopf Avenue, Suite 200 | McKinney, TX 75070 8 • November 2019

from start to finish.

MEET THE

NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Jordan Espeseth Publisher

Geneva Eilertson Operations Manager

Missy Kremer Editor

Tiffany Haynes Ads Manager

Zach Cohen Writer

Dave Danielson Writer

Gary Petty Videographer

Scott Peek Photographer

Hope Harrison Photographer

If you are interested in contributing or nominating realtors for certain stories, please email us at northdfw@realproducersmag.com DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The publication contains paid advertisements by local companies. These companies are not endorsed or specifically recommended by N2 Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.

NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

www.realproducersmag.com • 9

COURAGE is not the absence OF FEAR publisher’s note A few years back my brother got a shirt for Christmas that said, “Top 10 Reasons I Procrastinate: #1…” and the rest of the shirt was blank. Classic.

Have you ever noticed what happens to your mind and body when you don’t do something you know you should do? We are entrepreneurs here; we have all had this happen. Monday morning comes, and you need to get prospecting. However, when you sit down at your desk you decide you need some coffee. On your way back, you run into a colleague, so you strike up a short 45-minute conversation. After that, you get back to your desk and remember the stack of emails you need to go through. It’s now 10:30a.m., and there is a team meeting that obviously you can’t miss. Then it’s lunchtime, and even though you packed a lunch, your colleagues asked you to go out. It would be rude to say no, right?

When you get back it’s 2p.m., and you ate so much that you are having a tough time keeping your eyes open, so you decide you need to get some more coffee. You bump into another colleague at the coffee station. Thirty minutes later, you are back at your desk. You make two calls in an hour-and-a-half, and it’s now a little after 4p.m.. Another colleague informs you of a happy hour with free drinks! It’s 30-minutes away, and you don’t like to be late, so you pack up and call it a day. Nice work.

Okay, maybe that hasn’t happened to you in a while, but you have definitely had some days like this earlier in your career, and possibly even now from time-to-time. As you continue to put things off, isn’t it interesting how your mind and body become more restless? It’s harder and harder to enjoy your day, and fear starts to fester. Someone once told me that fear grows with a lack of activity – it is so true.

It takes courage to take action. Nelson Mandela once said, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

10 • November 2019

To be an entrepreneur means putting procrastination aside and being courageous; there is no doubt about it. However, those who have risked their lives to fight for our country… that takes a whole new level of courage. In this issue we feature two top agents, Noè De Leon and Travis Hitt, and one business partner, Brett Pulaski, who were all brave enough to serve our country.

These three do not procrastinate in life, or let fear fester; they have great courage and have seized many opportunities. I’d like to take this moment to thank those three, all of our veterans, and everyone who is actively serving to keep us safe.

Without them, we wouldn’t have the opportunities we all have in front of us. And so today as we go to work, let’s remember the courage of our troops who risk their lives so that we may have the opportunity to overcome our fears and chase after our dreams.

Jordan Espeseth Publisher of North DFW Real Producers jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com

Andy and The Tuttle Group are top notch at what they do for me and my clients. He is the best in the business and his ability to follow up and keep everyone informed is priceless.

The way Andy pumps up me and my team to our clients reinforces they made the right decision in choosing me. He sets the client up for a great experience, sets up the team for success and helps the client feel like a VIP.

• TOMMY PISTANA • Realtor | Team Lead The Pistana Group @ Compass

Let us help with your mortgage There's no bigger financial decision in life than how you will finance your home. The Tuttle Group understands that it can be overwhelming and intimidating. That's why we've created our convenient and hassle-free process... to provide you with an excellent financing experience. You'll also have peace of mind knowing you're being guided through the process by experts.

Whether you’re a first time home buyer, self-employed, military veteran, or public servant- The Tuttle Group is here to help. We will help you find the loan program best for you.

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Apply in as little as 15 minutes!

Visit www.TheTuttleGroup.com/Get-Started Mid America Mortgage, INC.| NMLS 150009 www.realproducersmag.com • 11

12 • November 2019

WHICH REAL PRODUCERS WHICH REAL PRODUCERS TERRITORY ARE YOU APART OF?

TERRITORY ARE YOU A PART OF? PLEX METRO DFW REAL PRODUCERS IN THE REAL PRODUCERS IN THE DFW METROPLEX

A Quick Look at the Different DFW Real Producer Markets August 28, 2011 5051 NewA Quick Centre LookDrive at the Different DFW Real Producer Markets Wilmington, NC 28403 Real Producers has 100 franchises nationwide and there are three in DFW alone.

InIneach markets,we we pull the Real Producers has 100 franchises nationwide and there are three in DFW alone. eachof of these these markets, top 500 agents offagents the MLS production and depending where your broker is located will determine thebased top 500 based off the MLS production and on depending on where youraddress broker address is located First Last Name T. pull 910.202.0917 which publication youwhich will be apart of.you This shows of the franchises.

If you are a Top will determine publication willmap be apart of. the Thisterritories map showsfor theeach territories for3each of the 3 franchisIf you are a Top markets, 500 agentyou in either of these markets, you will be receiving a publication every and of being 500 agent either of these will be receiving a publication every month and have themonth possibility Street Address E. ines. info@n2pub.com have the possibility of at being featured at no cost to you! featured no cost to you!

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North DFW Real Producers

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MEET THE CO MM UNI T Y Check Out Some Of North DFW's Top 500 Producing Realtors

Nominate a top realtor you'd like to see featured by emailing jordan.espeseth@realproducersmag.com 14 • November 2019

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16 • November 2019

For upcoming events, and more information, check us out at:

www.masterminddfw.com

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND: Mastermind DFW is an exclusive event for the Top 1% of Producers in the DFW area. When you attend a Mastermind DFW event, you are in the company of a prestigious group of local, high-performing DFW real estate professionals. This is the place to cultivate your network with the most notable names in DFW real estate.

“Todd and I love to be a part of the Mastermind DFW group. It is an honor to be in the presence of other top producing agents and to get great tips and tricks on how to leverage our business. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this exclusive group.”

- Colleen Frost

"Mastermind DFW events are nothing short of amazing! I have always learned something tremendously valuable to my day-to-day business. I have truly enjoyed every single event! Best of all, it is a wonderful chance to mingle with friends I never get to see!!"

- Laura Barnett www.realproducersmag.com • 17

partner spotlight Written By: Zach Cohen Photography By Hope Harrison

THE

PULASKI AND SUKENIK INSURANCE AGENCY

BRINGING PERSONALIZED SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO INSURANCE

18 • November 2019

www.realproducersmag.com • 19

“When I was in new home sales, I had an insurance person come and make his spiel at an event we were doing. His claim was, ‘We’re not just a local shop.’

But here, we are a local shop. With that, you get us.

Brett answers his phone 24/7, and so do I. You get us. You get personal service.”

-- Deena Sukenik In 2019, Brett Pulaski and Deena Sukenik have come together to form The Pulaski-Sukenik Insurance Agency. While their agency name is new, the pair are anything but new to insurance and real estate.

After growing up watching his father run a State Farm Insurance agency, Brett got his start in the business in 1990 -- almost three decades ago. Deena has been in the real estate world for nearly a decade; she worked for home builders for nine years before joining forces with her partner, Brett.

Brett and Deena set themselves apart through the quality of the service they provide. As an independent agency, they are able to offer their clients more options than a captive agency can. Most often, that results in lower rates and improved coverage.

Their biggest advantage, however, lies in their dedication to their work and their clients.

“Of course, it comes down to insuring the house properly,” Brett says. “And people want responsiveness when working with insurance. We are extremely responsive.”

“Brett has his computer with him 24/7,” Deena adds. “We both answer our phones 24/7.”

Brett Pulaski: Bringing Home Value After graduating high school in Richardson, TX, Brett began college at Ole Miss. Two years later, as his younger brother, Danny, graduated high school, world events took center stage -- and captured the heart of both Brett and Danny.

During his four years in the Marines, Brett and Danny stayed side-by-side.

They got to see the world, protect the country they so deeply love, and learn a great deal about life.

Brett Pulaski, United States Marine Corps - San Deigo, California 1984

“It was 1983,” Brett recalls, “and the US embassy in Beruit was bombed by a suicide bomber. They killed a few military folks and CIA people. It upset us.

[My brother] said, ‘I’m going to go into the Marine 20 • November 2019

Corps for a few years,’ and I said, ‘I might go with you.’ So, we went in together on the buddy plan.”

“I grew up,” Brett reflects. “I learned responsibility. I got out four years, and went back to Ole Miss, and finished out in a year-and-a-half. I was on The Dean’s List. School became simple after going through four years in the Marine Corps.”

As Brett began to look towards his own professional future, his attention turned towards insurance.

“My dad was a State Farm agent. He started out late in life with that career, too. He moved out here to Dallas and started an agency in his 40’s with State Farm, and it took off. That’s what led me towards insurance,” Brett explains.

Brett started as an adjuster with State Farm, but after only six months on the job, he knew he wanted to be on the sales side of the business. That was in 1990. He’s been selling insurance ever since.

Deena Sukenik: Finding her Way Home A decade ago, Deena Sukenik went through a life-changing shift. She was living in Knoxville, TN with her family, running an award-winning bou-

And people want responsiveness when working with insurance. We are extremely responsive. www.realproducersmag.com • 21

tique clothing store. “I was selected as Entrepreneur of the Year,” Deena recalls. “It was fun, but I wasn’t going to make enough money to send two kids to college.”

After getting divorced, she returned to Texas with her eyes set on building a new career. That’s when she first dove into new home sales, latching on with a home builder.

But after eight-plus years, Deena was in need of a change. “I was sitting in a model [home] on weekends,” she says. “I couldn’t do it anymore.

I missed a lot of time with family.

So, I resigned in January of 2018 and got my real estate license. I was going to do real estate but was given an opportunity with another home builder, so I gave it another shot. I was there for eight months and knew why I left the first time. New home sales were very, very good to me.

I loved my job in new home sales and loved both companies, but I just needed a change.”

22 • November 2019

“When I left the second company, Brett said, ‘Why don’t we do insurance together?’”

So, in 2019, Deena and Brett joined forces. As a highly decorated new home salesperson, Deena brings her skills in marketing, relationship building, and real estate to The Pulaski-Sukenik Insurance Agency. She was the winner of the 2016 Dallas Builders Associations MCSAM Award, a finalist for the same award in 2015 and 2017, and was recognized as the 2015 and 2016 Net Volume Sales Consultant of the Year with David Weekly Homes for Dallas/Fort Worth.

Beyond the Office Walls Brett and Deena each work hard to balance family life with their work insurance. They understand the value of being present, in keeping themselves available, and in being responsive, regardless of where they are in the world.

Brett has three children: Kaylee (22), Kendall (19), and Cole (12). Deena has two children: Rachel (25)

and Alec (21). Together, the couple has a love for travel and college football. “We’re huge college football fans,” Deena says ecstatically.

“Maybe I’m not normal for a girl.”

Whether they are working for their clients and partners, or with their families, Brett and Deena’s joy and dedication to what they are doing remains steady. With Brett’s background in the Marines, and Deena’s experience in home sales, the two are able to offer their clients a well-rounded experience.

“We have the discipline to see things through, to hang in there when things aren’t going just right,” Brett says. “[It’s about] hard work. Integrity in business. Responsiveness.”

“And caring,” he adds. “We truly care.”

www.realproducersmag.com • 23

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24 • November 2019

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Frisco Gold Star FAMILY M O NU M E NT P ROJE C T

charity spotlight The purpose of the Frisco Gold Star Families Project is to honor Gold Star Families, preserve the memory of the fallen, and stand as a stark reminder that Freedom is not free. We as citizens have an opportunity with this monument to show these families that their loved ones won’t be forgotten, that their community remembers them.

26 • November 2019

The Gold Star program was a tribute created after World War I to honor the families of those who lost a loved one on military duty. It is the honor no family wants and carries the heaviest of burdens: the loss of a family member.

Most are familiar with the rectangular flags, which hang in homes.

They feature a red border with a star in the center. A blue star indicates a family member is deployed, and a gold star represents a family member who has given their last full measure of devotion to their nation. Herschel “Woody” Williams earned the Medal of Honor on Iwo Jima and is the last surviving Marine World War II veteran to earn that distinction.

Herschel “Woody” Williams

Mr. Williams’ devotion to duty, service members, veterans, and their families began long before that battle, and before he entered the Corps. As World War II began, Woody came into direct contact with families in his own community when he delivered Western Union telegrams informing the Gold Star families of the death of their loved one. Woody says those experiences gave him a “greater appreciation for life and an understanding of a difference in death in the normal world, as expected in life, and those lost serving in the military for their country.”

To aid those families, Woody created the Herschel “Woody” Williams Foundation whose goal is to bring at least one Gold Star Family monument to every state in the nation. This stunning black granite monument features two sides. One side bears the words “Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, a tribute to Gold Star Families and Relatives who have sacrificed a Loved One for our Freedom.”

The other side tells a story through the four granite panels: Homeland, Family, Patriot, and Sacrifice.

The scenes on each panel are a reflection of each community’s Gold Star Families and their Fallen Heroes. At the center Let us NEVER of this tribute is the FORGET the most distinct feature of sacrifices of the monument: the cut out which represents our men and Loved One who paid women serving the the ultimate sacrifice in and the heavy the name of Freedom.

burden carried by their families.

In 2018, Woody was the keynote speaker at the Collin County Marine Corps Birthday Ball.

That morning, Woody met with several local residents at breakfast and discussed bringing a Gold Star Family Monument to Frisco. A committee was quickly formed and began working to identify Gold Star families, coordinating with the city, and raising funds. While the monument will be in Frisco, it is not solely for Frisco residents, but open to all Gold Star families, as well as those who want to honor, and who understand, the heavy burden that comes from being the family of our military. Working with the City, and the Parks & Rec department, a location was found overlooking Frisco’s Veteran Memorial in Frisco Commons Park, often referred to as Frisco’s Veteran Park. For donations and more information, please see their website, http://hwwmohf.org/frisco-tx or see their Facebook page: Frisco Gold Star Family Monument Project.

Additional info: The FGSFM committee welcomes assistance particularly in identifying Frisco area Gold Star families.

They also welcome the opportunity to make their presentation to civic groups, businesses, and organizations. For more information go to: www.hwwmohf.org

www.realproducersmag.com • 27

save the date

NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS

END OF THE

When: November 13th, 10:45am – 2pm Where: Club Inspiration, 1715 Inspiration Blvd., St. Paul, TX 75098

YEAR EVENT!

The purpose of the Frisco Gold Star Families Project is to honor Gold Star Families, preserve the memory of the fallen, and stand as a stark reminder that Freedom is not free. We as citizens have an opportunity with this monument to show these families that their loved ones won’t be forgotten and that their community remembers them.

28 • November 2019

Club Inspiration is a $9.5 million community center built by Huffines Communities

TWO PART EVENT! PART ONE: Marketing Masters Panel 10:45am – 12pm Tickets $25 Proceeds go to Frisco Gold Star Family Monument Project You Will Learn: Client Attraction Strategies of Social Media Influencers The Perfect Social Media Schedule And MUCH More!

PART TWO: Real Producers Networking Event 12pm – 2pm High-Level Networking No Cost You Are Invited If You Are: A Real Producers Top 500 Agent An Agent on a Top-Producing Team An Approved Business Partner of North DFW Real Producers

Your Host:

Jordan Espeseth, Owner/Publisher of North DFW Real Producers

Your Panel:

Wayne Salmans, Owner of Hero Nation Coaching

Nick Good, eXp Realty

Nicole Espinosa, Keller Williams, The Short Sale Queen

Mike Mazyck, Mike Mazyck Realty

www.realproducersmag.com • 29

For a custom priced proposal and to book now call 469-587-2300

30 • November 2019

www.realproducersmag.com • 31

TRAVIS HI TT 32 • November 2019

rising star Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By Hope Harrison

BR E AK I NG THROU GH W ITH FOC U S www.realproducersmag.com • 33

T

ravis Hitt has been a lifelong learner. Like all of us, each step of his life, he’s worked hard, he’s made mistakes, and he’s made good things happen for others.

But Travis Hitt clearly remembers what happened on June 11, 2017.

That’s the day he embarked on what he calls “a really big shift” in his life.

The day he decided to walk fully as a Christian man.

Since then, Travis has gained a sharpened sense of focus, and he’s shifted his real estate career into an entirely new gear. Today, the result is Travis is one of the region’s Rising Stars, closing more transactions and helping more people as a REALTOR® with Rogers Healy & Associates.

Life’s Early Travels Tyler, Texas has a lot to be proud of, including the place where Travis Hitt grew up. There, he learned the lessons that formed the foundation for his life and future success.

Before Travis fought for his clients, he fought for our freedom.

“I was definitely a Texas country boy. I grew up playing football, and I wasn’t really too much into schooling, so I knew I wasn’t going to be taking the corporate route. I wanted to do my own thing,” Travis recalls.

“My dad was a horseshoer and blacksmith. I also had a lot of family

34 • November 2019

members who were military. And that’s what I had my eyes on. I didn’t know what that would look like, but I knew that’s what I wanted.”

who were turning 26 and 27. Some friends were starting to get married and have kids,” he says. “So, that’s where I started. My friends started buying houses. And at the same time, their parents were downsizing.”

As he made his way through high school, and prepared for the future, Travis had a conversation he still remembers to this day.

“One of my best friends had a dad who everyone called ‘Big Guy.’ He had been a navy pilot. I remember that he was doing well, and he always seemed to be around for his family. So, one day I asked him, ‘What do you do?’ That’s when he told me he was a broker. After that talk, I went into the army, knowing that real estate is what I wanted to do. I knew I was going to get my license.”

As he served in the military, Travis continued his schooling. But he found it was difficult to chip away toward a degree, as he had to move pretty often. Some credits didn’t even transfer between schools. “At that point, I thought this is pointless, and I made up my mind that I was going to get my license,” he recalls.

The Next Chapter In 2012, Travis came home. As he transitioned back to civilian life, he moved back to live with his parents for six months while he got his feet under him working with New Western Acquisitions, learning the world of investment brokering. He worked by day, and then studied by night, to earn his real estate license. At one point he was working four jobs. He had his eye on the prize and would do whatever it took to get there.

“The transition into real estate was tough. I was still pretty young and had other interests,” he says.

“But when I turned 26, that’s when things changed.

I left the bar industry, and I realized this was my passion, and I went right into residential real estate and started building a portfolio.”

Travis with his wife, Kimberly.

For a time, Travis thought about moving to Fort Worth. But then he remembered all the advantages he had without moving. He is glad he did not move, because he met the woman he knew would become his wife in September of 2016.

“I grew up in the area where I worked. I decided to stay here and began working leases with friends

June 11, 2017, came during this time, too. While he was moving in the direction he wanted in life, he made a pivotal decision that day to change his focus and elevate his game — all the way around.

“At that point, I got into the church, and became very clear about doing the right things. It was a really big shift at that point. By diving into Christ, into my business, and into my

www.realproducersmag.com • 35

relationship, I knew there was no straying off the path.”

Achieving All-Around Happiness His new focus has taken his efforts and results to a new level. For the last three years, he’s been a Top 10 Producer at Rogers Healy & Associates — doubling his sales volume numbers each year along the way. In 2016, he finished the year with $4 million in volume. And in 2019, Travis is on pace to reach an astounding $19 million.

“I grew up with nothing, so the money doesn’t drive me,” he smiles. “Happiness is what does. It’s helping people in difficult situations. That’s the biggest thing I love ... taking on a difficult buyer or difficult sale. Then helping them getting there and overcoming that difficulty.”

The biggest part of his life’s focus is on his wife, Kimberly. The two were married in March 2019 and enjoy time with their collection of pets at home that includes four dogs and a cat. They also share time riding their bikes around the neighborhood and contributing their time and talents to their church.

The road to growth through focus is something Travis enjoys sharing with other newer real estate agents. “I always recommend that you focus on what you want, rather than tiptoeing,” he emphasizes. “Dive in, whether it works or not... and then keep diving in rather than staying in the shallow. Even if I fall short of my goals, I never see it as me failing. It just wasn’t the right move.” By building on his past successes, and looking for opportunities to help other people, Travis found a new way to break through and reach his goals at a higher level than ever before.

“The main thing is, not only did I dive in, but that happened during a turning point in my life when things really changed.”

36 • November 2019

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Getting to Know

David Long

2020 CCAR President ccar: in the know Written By: Bri Westbury, CCAR Content Specialist

“Don’t make me sound stuffy,” was CCAR’s 2020 President David Long’s only request when sitting down for an interview to discuss his 2020 vision.

As an avid ice hockey player until the age of 62, a happily married man for 50 years, a dedicated father, and an energetic grandfather, “stuffy” is not a word one would apply to David Long.

The Wild West When asked what he would like to accomplish in 2020 as CCAR’s President, Long focuses on the connection between CCAR and its members.

David Long, 2020 CCAR President.

In 2020, Long wants CCAR members to know, “Your association has your back.”

“The real estate industry would be like a wild west shoot-out without CCAR and other associations at

40 • November 2019

the local, state, and national level,” Long explains. “However, people don’t know that. They are unaware of CCAR’s tireless work behind the scenes, their successful advocacy for members’ professional success, as well as homeowner’s private properties rights.”

Long is quick yet contemplative when he says, “CCAR is an association of excellence, in a city of excellence.” A statement said in such a way, one has no choice but to classify it as truth. Perhaps this is due to his biological relationship to Abraham Lincoln, aka “Honest Abe”, himself.

Or, more likely, the years of experience achieving high-levels of success in multiple industries.

Rocket Launches, Ross Perot, and Real Estate At 24 years-old, Long was a Lieutenant and rocket scientist in the United States Air Force, working on the Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)—a U.S. Land-Based Nuclear Deterrent. This was a project that cost $8 million in 1970 and approximately $32 million today. “That warhead could destroy all of Plano. I could be 7,000 miles away and land the missile right here in this room,” Long explained while sitting in the CCAR conference room.

graduate and graduate-level courses, as well as co-authored a book*, and presented to audiences of 5–200 in England, Holland, France, Brazil, Canada and almost every major city in the U.S. While most would be considering what hobbies they would embark upon in retirement, Long decided it was time to pursue another interest of his—real estate.

To those who know Long, the decision to learn something new is not surprising. Both Long and his wife, Dr. Mary Long, EdD, strive to be lifelong learners, and amid his professional accomplishments, Long earned both an MBA and Masters in Accounting.

With proven character and ability, Long briefed the Head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff prior to the 1972 test launch and took Gerald Ford on a tour of the missile launch site.

Long’s success in real estate was not instant, but after 11 years of rising to the challenge, he has earned the title of CCAR President.

After being honorably discharged from David Long, sitting second to the left of George W. Bush in 1995. the Air Force, Long completed a grueling 13-week long training for Ross Perot’s Electronic Data Systems __________ (EDS), earning him the spot as Ross Perot’s employee number When not working or learning, Long can be found enjoying time 700+ and beginning his career in computer software. His new posi- with his two grandchildren or overseeing the remodel of their tion also brought him and his family to the Dallas Metroplex. family home of many years.

Long completed a highly accomplished computer software career.

He worked at both CA Technologies and IBM, he taught under-

*”Websphere MQ Integrator for z/OS V2.1 Implementation Guide.” ISBN 0-7384-2430-7, 2002.

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question of the month

What is your spookiest (or craziest) real estate story?

“I had a ‘cash buyer’ on one of my listings who owned the 13,000 square foot mansion across the street from my listing. He said he wanted to buy the house for his family members to visit (as if 13,000 sq. ft. wasn’t enough). Long story short, he provided a fake proof of funds but never deposited earnest money. We ended up terminating the contract and found out shortly after that he was a convicted felon who had recently gotten out of jail after serving several years in prison for mortgage fraud. After we terminated, he would sit out on his driveway and text me pictures of the families that visited the house across the street saying they were looking at ‘his house’. Needless to say, I blocked his number. A few months later he was found to be defrauding those who lent him money for the mansion and was kicked out of that home, never to be seen again!”

- Ryan Enos, Compass

“I was showing an older house in Flower Mound.

The house itself was in pretty good shape, just older on a big lot that needed some work. We ventured out to the Large Garage, which had an attached pool house. This part of the house was not in as good of shape. We toured around the little guesthouse, and we went to open the door to the garage. When I opened the door, I screamed! There was a huge pig that we had stirred awake. Standing next to the pig was a small duck. Really? The pig grunted. I screamed and slammed the door. We walked out the back of the guest house not realizing the garage doors were open and the pig started jogging out 42 • November 2019

towards us. When you see a 1,000lb. pig coming at you, you are not really sure what the DUCK is happening, but one thing for sure is you’re totally freaked out! Luckily the pig turned and went out to the yard. We were able to finish the tour.

The scariest part… I went home empty handed, not getting write on the offer on this home!”

- Tisha White, eXp Realty “1. My buyers were so excited to find the home of their dreams in Texas and even had a fairly clean inspection report. We asked that the attic be checked and that any rodents be removed as advised by inspector. Receipts were provided that this was done and a clean rodent-free report was provided! You can imagine our surprise at the final walkthrough when mama and daddy squirrel ran past us in the attic!

2. As a new agent, I unfortunately learned the hard way that a screening process is definitely necessary when meeting an unfamiliar client.

After driving around for a week with my client who was looking for a perfect lease home, I was shocked to find his application denied. Why the denial? I had been driving around with a convicted, violent felon… with not one, not two, but numerous convictions including a warrant for his arrest. He just didn’t seem to understand what the problem was!”

- Elyse Guthrie, Keller Williams Realty Frisco “I had a repeat client ask me to find him some land for recreational / hunting use. We found the perfect place, successfully executed a con-

tract, and the lending was a slam dunk approval. We were about ten from closing, and the lender called me and asked if my client’s wife would be signing the documents needed at closing. I was confused, as my client was divorced – or so I thought. After a lengthy chat with my buyer, I learned divorce was filed, but not yet finalized. Not to worry though, the soon to be ex-wife is a REALTOR® – she is fine with signing. Lender spoke with the wife. Title spoke with the wife. All is good! She will come to closing first and sign. Day of closing arrives. Soon to be exwife is a no show. Many phone calls later, we learn

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she has had a change of heart and the contract is terminated. The sellers were amazing and refunded my clients’ earnest money.

My client was devastated, of course. Two weeks later, the divorce is final. I contact the listing agent, as the property is now under contract with another buyer. The planets must have aligned, because he told me he had literally just gotten of the phone with the buyer, and they were terminating during their option period due to a job change. We contracted yet again and closed two weeks later. All’s well that ends well. Moral of the story for agents – when your clients, even repeat clients, tell you they are divorced – ask for the date it’s finalized!”

- Magan Anderson, Colleen Frost, REALTORS®

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North DFW Real Producers November crossword

Send a picture of your completed puzzle to geneva@realproducersmag.com for a chance to win a prize!

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DOWN ACROSS: ACROSS so the money 3. Success, for our cover story Lisa Birdsong, is a _____ target. 1. Travis Hitt states, “I grew up with nothing,

3 Success, for our cover story Lisa Birdsong, is a _________ target.

doesn’t drive me. ________ is what 7. Woody created Herschel “Woody” Williams "Woody" Foundation 7 the Woody created the Herschel Williams Foundation whose goal is to bring at does.”

2. _______ Nations in Home Warranty is unique as they are a _______ whose goal is to bring least oneStar GoldFamily Star Family monu-to every leastat one Gold monument the nation. ment to every8_______ North DFW Real ProducersÕ End of the Year Event will be that heldonly at HufÞnes area. company servicesCommunitiesÕ the North Texas in the nation. ______________.

3. During Brett Pulaski’s four years in the ________, he got 8. North DFW Real Club Producers’ End of the Year Event will be

10 The Gold Star program was a __________ created after World War I to honor the

see the world, protect the country he so deeply loves, and held at Huffines Communities’ Clubwho ______________. families of those lost a loved one on military to duty. learn a great deal about 10. The Gold Star12 program was a __________ created after ___________ after high school graduation, Noè De Leon shipped out tolife. boot camp in San the Diego for the Corps 4. Brett and Deena set themselves apart through the quality of World War I to honor families ofMarine those who lostReserves. a loved one on military 13duty.

Travis Hitt served in the _______, but he knew real whatprovide. he wanted doextremely after. ________. theestate serviceisthey Theytoare

14 At 24 years-old, David Long, 2020 CCAR President, was a Lieutenant and rocket

5. Nations Home Warranty has concierge-level service to get 12. ___________ after high school graduation, Noè De Leon scientist in the United States _________. clients set up on their ___________ at no fee. shipped out to boot camp in San Diego for the Marine Corps 6. The strength of the Birdsong Group can be easily identified Reserves. DOWN 1 Travis states, “Ibut grew up with doesn’t drive me. ________ is by the focus of its ______________.

13. Travis Hitt served in theHitt _______, he knew realnothing, estate so the money what does.”

9. In 2020, David Long wants CCAR members to know, “Your is what he wanted to do after. ___________ has your back.”

14. At 24 years-old, David Long, 2020 CCAR President, was 11. Noè De Leon says, “Volunteering in the ________ space is a Lieutenant and rocket scientist in the United States my free time.” _________.

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N ATI O N S HOM E WAR R ANT Y

P OWER FU L P EAC E OF M IND W I T H E AC H R E A L E STAT E D E AL, YO U H E LP B UYE R S A N D S E L LE R S N AVIGAT E M A N Y H UR D LE S . W H E N T H E D E AL I S D ON E , I T ’ S I M P ORTAN T TO H AVE POW E R F UL P E AC E OF M IN D F O R AL L OF T H OS E I N VOLV E D.

From Left to Right: Sharon Harrison, Julie Jones, Bernice Moore, and Jamie Flynn

www.realproducersmag.com • 49

T

That’s where Nations Home Warranty comes in with a blend of service, individual care, and offerings that provide invaluable protection when it’s needed most.

The passion she feels for protecting the investment clients make in their homes comes from her own experience.

Sharon Harrison is President and Majority Stock Holder at Nations Home Warranty, the company she founded 23 years ago in 1996.

“For a time, I was divorced and had three kids in college. The cost of repairing things can be overwhelming,” she recalls. “The home warranty product is for people who need assistance with the expense of repairs.” She created the monthly product in 1995 to help homeowners when they can’t afford the yearly contract fee.

Local Leader As Sharon says, Nations Home Warranty delivers a distinctive local difference.

Beyond the coverage itself, Sharon and her team connect homeowners with proven contractor professionals, many that have worked for her for 10-20 years, to deliver help when it’s needed most.

“We are unique. While our competitors are regional and national companies, we’re a boutique company that only services the North Texas area,” Sharon explains. “The money we receive goes right back into the Dallas/Fort Worth community, rather than to somewhere else. So, we help to drive the good business practices of North Texas.”

“We thoroughly vet all of the contractors we work with. And we have relationships that stretch over long periods of time. In fact, one of our appliance repair partners has worked with me for 30 years. The people we work with understand how vital it is to bring service to people night or day.”

Sharon has been involved with real estate throughout her career. Before starting in the home warranty business, she served as a real estate agent in the Dallas area. She knows the business and the needs that exist.

The service ethic Sharon instills in her team is clear to see — beginning with her hands-on approach.

“I’m in the office every day. If you have an issue as a REALTOR®, you can get in touch with me, and I will help you in any way I can to keep your homeowner happy,” she emphasizes. “I have team members who have been with me for over 20 years.

We’re dedicated and committed to providing the best service that we can to our REALTOR® friends and to our homeowners, who are usually in an emotional state, just moving to a new home in Texas.”

Value a t Ev er y Turn Nations Home Warranty prides itself on coming through with real value, offering unique, free listing coverage, along with free first service calls for clients. In addition, the company offers a free app for service orders. And homeowners can also take advantage of important home ownership tips on the company’s website at www.home-warranty.com (don’t forget the dash) in a newsletter Sharon has written for 16 years.

50 • November 2019

Exc e e di n g t h e Ne e d When home warranty coverage is needed, her team moves quickly to connect clients with the help they need. But that’s just the beginning.

“When homeowners call us, they’re directly connected with a customer care rep, so they’ll never have to wait in a phone queue.

After the work is done, we make a follow-up call. When a call for a claim is received, we send the homeowner information to a contractor in their area, and then we call back to see when the appointment was set. Then, after the day of service, we call to make sure they are happy and that the problem was resolved.

By having that program in place, we immediately know if things don’t work the way they’re supposed to, and we have the ability to switch that client to another contractor.”

Nations Home Warranty has a spirit of resourcefulness to serve homeowners, as well.

“While the home warranty covers all the systems and appliances in a home, we also offer other services, such as carpet cleaning, door locks, pest treatments for your home and yard, and other resources,” Sharon points out. “Because when someone buys a home and moves to the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex, they may not know who to call. We’re here to help them. We have concierge-level service to get clients set up on their utilities at no fee, also.”

Le a di n g by Ex a mpl e One of the most important steps in home warranty coverage can be setting proper expectations and helping homeowners understand the coverage they have. When it comes to talking with homeowners, Nations Home Warranty is ready to serve.

WE’R E HER E TO H EL P T HEM. WE H AV E CO N CI ER GE- L EV EL S ERV I CE TO GET CL I EN TS S ET U P O N T H EI R U T I L I T I ES AT N O FEE, A L S O. Sharon Harrison, Nations Home Warranty President

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“Rather than REALTORS® explaining complex home warranty coverage to homeowners, our Regional Sales Managers enjoy talking with the new buyer to go over what is, and what isn’t, covered,” Sharon says. “Their phones are always on to provide quotes and explanations for homeowners. We also have Spanish-speaking representatives and contracts, and we have a really in-depth call center to help people who are buying homes.”

ical Pack Action Committee Hall of Fame in 2010 at the $25,000 level and in May of 2019 at the $50,000 level.

In addition, she has been a Big Sister in the Big Sister/Big Brothers organization, was a CASA volunteer, has had active involvement in Girls, Inc., the Dallas Museum of Art League, and the Dallas Women’s Forum, as well as Texas REALTORS state Political Pack Committee (TREPAC).

Se r vi n g Su c c e ss

Away from work, Sharon enjoys time with her husband, Rick, three children (Aaryn, Rick, and Michelle) and three grandsons. She is active, as well, with a passion for world travel, art, theater, literature, and pickleball.

She gives back, as someone who has been widely recognized for her contributions to the industry and the community. Sharon has served as President of the Texas Home Warranty Association and President of the Dallas Chapter of the Women’s Council of REALTORS®. Sharon received the 2006 Dallas Board of Realtors MetroTex Affiliate of the Year.

She also earned the 2010 Ebby Halliday Leadership Award and was inducted into the REALTORS Polit52 • November 2019

She looks ahead to more growth and the opportunity to help more area residents. Sharon is proud of the difference she has had the opportunity to make — delivering powerful peace of mind.

“I love Texas and the real estate industry,” she says. “In a lot of ways, success is about longevity. I think one of the reasons we’ve been in business as long as we have is because we are taskmasters. We put our nose to the grindstone. We go and go and put in the hard work to serve.”

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56 • November 2019

Here to Serve with Honor and Pride honoring veterans Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By Scott Peek Photography

You’ve met veterans of the United States military in all walks of life.

And even if they weren’t wearing a uniform when you met them, you no doubt saw the sense of honor and pride they have for our country and in putting others first.

One of those is Noè De Leon, a REALTOR® with Keller Williams — a leader who lives to support others. In fact, his team tagline is Here to Serve.

www.realproducersmag.com • 57

Growing Experiences After his service, he began building an extensive sales resume, working for Fossil, launching their new sunglasses division, calling on companies like Macy’s, Dillard’s, and many other specialty stores. Years later, he expanded his expertise in representing leading fashion sunglasses brands including launching the new luxury brand, Tom Ford. As his success grew, so did his travel requirements. As his children entered their teen years, Noè and his wife, Kelly, talked. She had an idea.

Noè is a man of action.

And that started young.

“I was involved in a lot of different activities throughout high school.

My parents made sure I always studied and that I made good grades,” he remembers. “My sophomore year in high school was my turning point. I wanted to do more and be better. I really made a conscious effort to hang out with a more diverse group of people, and I got into competing on the debate team.”

Marine Boot Camp - 1987

Answering the Call As Noè took pride in his achievements, he also took pride in the red, white, and blue. In fact, Noè and a friend on the debate team decided they wanted to join the Marine Corps Reserves after high school.

Two days after high school graduation, he shipped out to boot camp in San Diego. A week after graduating one of the toughest trainings in the military, he started his college career as a Baylor Bear, where he had earned a scholarship.

“I loved Baylor and was involved in several leadership roles there,” he says. “When you get in the reserves, you endorse a blank check for the government ‘to cash’ for them to activate you in time of need. And that happened my junior year right after Thanksgiving weekend.”

Noè was attached to an active-duty unit that was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. So, Sergeant De Leon headed to the Middle East.

“I grew up very quickly there. Being a Sergeant was a huge responsibility. You had your squad that you were responsible for,” he explains. “I’m happy to have done it. It’s nothing compared to what my brothers are doing now in Iraq and Afghanistan.

I did my part, and I would do it again. That’s a big part of me.”

58 • November 2019

As he remembers, “My wife said, ‘You’re really good at sales. You should really get into real estate.’ So, I did and was able to get my license in a little over a month.”

Noè started with CEDA Realty, a boutique agency, as the seventh agent at the time. His first full year he recorded over $3 million in sales.

“I learned very quickly and enjoyed helping all kinds of people. I did 42 units my first year, selling homes ranging mostly from $35,000 to $85,000. I didn’t break the average sales price, which was the $100,000 mark, until my second year,” he recalls. “I speak Spanish, and I tended to help a lot of Spanish-speaking folks, because they weren’t getting the service they deserved.”

Five years ago, Noè moved to Keller Williams, and his success continues to grow.

Priorities in Life At the center of Noè’s world are his family, including Kelly, who also works in real estate at Perry Homes, and their daughters — Alta, who’s a senior sports management major at NYU, and Ava, a marine affairs major, just starting at the University of Miami.

And for his favorite pastimes when he isn’t working?

As Noè says, “Volunteering in the veteran space is my free time. I appreciate the brotherhood and helping veterans find their purpose. There are a

I did my part, and I would do it again.

That’s a big part of me.

www.realproducersmag.com • 59

It’s vital to help neighborhoods, through building communities that will change families lives. lot of veterans who want to start their own business and do something outside their norm. We speak our own language as veterans. I am very fortunate to be good at what I’m doing, so it’s important when I talk with veterans to let them know that it can be done by working with a network and their sphere.”

One of his favorite organizations is the Marine Corps League in Collin County.

“The primary purpose of the group is to serve Marines and Navy FMF Corpsmen in need in the local area.

The Marine Corps League is committed to making sure we take care of them,” Noè explains. “I’ve been working as the fundraising chair for about five years now. The Marine Corps 60 • November 2019

Birthday Ball is our biggest fundraising event that’s open to the public. We saw it as an opportunity to educate the public about the United States Marine Corps and its traditions.”

More than 500 people attended last year.

“During that event, Herschel ‘Woody’ Williams, the last living Marine Medal of Honor recipient from Iwo Jima, attended. One thing he’s very passionate about is recognizing Gold Star Families — those who have lost a family member in combat or a theater of operations. We don’t talk enough about them. They shared their son or daughter with their country and made the ultimate sacrifice,” Noè points out. “Many times, they don’t have a place to honor their loved ones, because they’re buried at Arlington National Cemetery. So, we took up the charge to bring the Gold Star Monument to Frisco.”

Noè and the team have negotiated the land donation from the City of Frisco and are raising funds

to erect the monument — Dedication planned for May of 2020.

At last year’s 243rd Marine Corps Birthday Ball event, Noè was recognized as Marine of the Year for his spirit of service and selflessness.

It’s the same spirit he applies to his work with his clients.

“We have so many people moving into North Texas from all over the world.

We have to take charge and help build America,” Noè emphasizes. “It’s vital to help neighborhoods, through building communities that will change families lives.”

It’s clear that Noè De Leon is truly a man of honor and pride … Here to Serve.

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Lisa

Birdsong g Focused Intentions

cover story Written By: Dave Danielson Photography By Scott Peek Photography

We all know the importance of setting goals and how it can transform our lives. While many of us understand the value of it in theory, how many actually follow through and create a plan to achieve those goals?

Sometimes it takes seeing the results of goal-setting and planning for us to realize how to apply it ourselves. After all, as the saying goes: some things are simple, but follow-through can be tough.

Lisa Birdsong, a North Texas native, is a positive example of what can happen when you set a goal and then see it through to completion.

As a REALTOR®, and Group Leader of the Lisa Birdsong Group with Coldwell Banker Residential

64 • November 2019

Brokerage, Lisa knows what it takes to achieve high-level results with planning and action items in short, thorough, and focused intentions.

“Success, for me, is a moving target. I want to succeed at something each day. I believe that every small success lays the groundwork for big ones,” Lisa explains.

Sometimes trial and error is the way that works in revealing the right path ahead.

“I believe it’s important to remember that what works for one agent may not work the same for another,” she reflects. “People want a secret recipe for success, but there isn’t one. However, consistency, integrity, and hard work are a few of its ingredients.”

Signs of Success Those who know Lisa will attest that she is driven.

Her results as a REALTOR® are one measure of her mastery. She formed the Birdsong Group in the fourth quarter of 2013, and in 2018, they closed a remarkable $47 million in volume. Their 2019 numbers are on pace to reach $60 million. She credits teamwork for their continued increase in productivity.

www.realproducersmag.com • 65

The Lisa Birdsong Real Estate Group

But Lisa prefers not to focus solely on their volume to measure success. As a leader and mentor, she also measures their success by community involvement. They support local schools and hospitals, each member having a passion for something near and dear to them.

Lisa speaks of her group with obvious pride: “I’m here because of what we do together. We have a truly great group of professionals, among the best in the industry, each working hard for their clients and supporting one another,” she smiles, “When you surround yourself with the right people, and you do the right things, then the right things happen.”

And their admiration for her is mutual, as shown in their longevity within the group and by a special gift they recently

66 • November 2019

gave her: a bamboo bowl filled with rocks.

Each rock was marked with a word they use to describe Lisa. Words like: fearless, classy, and generous.

The strength of the Birdsong Group can be easily identified by the focus of its members. Lisa says the awards and accolades are always fun to receive, but the real achievements come in the form of the help they give to others - clients and community alike. She firmly believes the old adage of ‘you get what you give’.

They do so much, including tolerating unusual hours and endless work calls.

They’re amazing, and they bring me back to the reality of what truly matters.

Lisa’s children: Austin, 23 years old, and Alexis, 9 years old

Finding Her Voice Lisa remembers April 2010: the month she officially became a residential real estate agent. But that career choice hadn’t always been on her radar. Far from it.

“Real estate found me, I didn’t find it,” she jokes.

“When I was growing up, I wanted to be a radio disc jockey. I have a passion for all types of music and thought radio would be a fun environment. I always wanted a perfect radio voice.”

For the record, Lisa has never been crazy about the sound of her own voice. But the real estate industry found a voice in her life as she was entering adulthood.

“My senior year of high school, I was presented with an opportunity to be a weekend leasing agent. I loved it,” she recalls. “I stayed in multi-family property management for 14 more years. I advanced to commercial property management and loved it, too, but wanted more personal interactions.”

Lisa obtained her real estate license in 2006 but didn’t make the move to residential real estate until 2010. According to her, “I wanted to move to residential real estate many years earlier, but I couldn’t bring myself to give up the security of the corporate world. Once I found the courage, I immediately knew I had made the right decision.”

One of the keys to her decision to finally make the jump was her husband, Denny.

“He’s one of my biggest fans; he thinks I can do anything,” Lisa says. “I have a very supportive family, including our twenty-three-year-old son, Austin, and our nine-year-old daughter, Alexis. They do so much, including tolerating unusual hours and endless work calls. They’re amazing, and they bring me back to the reality of what truly matters.”

During her transition, Lisa had one direction in mind – forward.

“I was not going to fail,” she says with determination.

“The fall out rate in real estate is frightening, so every day I woke up with the intent of what I had to do to make that day successful for me. Everything was intentional. I blocked out time for networking, making calls, following up, and handwriting notes. Everything I did was focused on what I wanted to achieve.”

Creating Her Future In some ways, Lisa also moved ahead by following a basic process of elimination.

She asked herself daily if her actions were ‘helping a client, building the business, or making money’.

www.realproducersmag.com • 67

One goal never changes.

I want to be better today than I was yesterday. This includes my personal life, my faith, community service, marriage, and career. I want to be the best version of myself. I want people to say I made a difference.

Lisa with her husband, Denny

“If it wasn’t something that met at least one of the three criteria,” she says firmly, “then I didn’t do it during regular business hours.

I still follow the same principle today.”

what my mentors would have done and incorporate those lessons into my daily life.”

Goal-getting begins with goal-setting.

Lisa understands the importance of being a mentor, because she credits the mentors she’s had throughout the years--those who helped shape her approach to life and business.

“I can link the steps of my journey to very specific role models.

Each one was a well-rounded woman who let their success speak for them. They taught me the importance of doing what you say you’re going to do and treating everyone with respect,” Lisa says.

“So when I encounter certain situations in business, I reflect on 68 • November 2019

“I have my goals written down - they’re daily, quarterly, yearly, and even life goals. Some I share with others, some I don’t: but I look at them every day,” Lisa says. “One goal never changes. I want to be better today than I was yesterday. This includes my personal life, my faith, community service, marriage, and career. I want to be the best version of myself. I want people to say I made a difference.”

That’s another goal she achieves each day.

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FAQ

ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE Real Producers magazine started in Indianapolis in 2015 and is now in over 98 markets across the nation and spreading rapidly. North DFW Real Producers launched August 2018.

Name a large city and we are there or will be soon!

owners, or even yourself! Office leaders can also nominate 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.

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.

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 photo shoot.

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: WHAT DOES IT COST A REALTOR/TEAM TO BE FEATURED? Q: WHO RECEIVES NORTH DFW REAL PRODUCERS MAGAZINE?

A: The top 500 agents in North Dallas/Fort Worth. We pull the MLS numbers (by volume) from in the North DFW area: Collin County, Denton County and a few other locations in Dallas County that are North of I-635. Approximately 20,000 agents are licensed in this territory. We cut the list off at #500, and the distribution was born. The 2018 Top 500 cut off is $8.5 million. The list will reset at the end of every year and will continue to update annually.

Q: WHAT ABOUT THE DALLAS AND FORT WORTH TERRITORIES?

A: Dallas Real Producers (Dallas County South of 635 — including Rockwall County) has finally launched and their publication is now in circulation! Fort Worth Real Producers (Tarrant County) will launch in the near future. Yes, Real Producers will cover 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, 72 • November 2019

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 or many the top agents have recommended every single preferred partner you see in this publication. We won’t even meet with a business that has not been vetted by one of you and “stamped for approval,” in a sense. Our goal is to create a powerhouse network, not only for the best realtors in the area, but the best affiliates, as well, so we can grow stronger together.

Q: HOW CAN I RECOMMEND A PREFERRED PARTNER?

A: If you know and want to recommend a local business that works with top realtors, please email us to let us know at: northdfw@realproducersmag.com.

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A Stunning First Impression

Visit Taylor Morrison and Darling Homes today to see every gorgeous detail that makes us unique.

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All information (including, but not limited to prices, views, availability, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) deemed reliable as of publication date but not guaranteed and remains subject to change daily or delay without notice. Floor plans and elevations are an artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. As-Built Condition will control. Price(s) shown may not reflect lot premiums, upgrades and options. Photos are for illustration only and do not necessarily represent a specific community. All homes subject to prior sale. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Not an offer in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Please see a Community Sales Manager for details and visit www.darlinghomes.com or www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. © June 2019. Darling Homes of Texas, LLC and Taylor Morrison of Texas, Inc., respectively. All rights reserved.

74 • November 2019

www.realproducersmag.com • 75