CONNECTING. ELEVATING. INSPIRING.
CARINA SMITH: Bold Moves
JESSIE RITTENHOUSE: Living Authentically
CRAIG LAUGHLIN: Guiding Them Forward
DREAM HOME LENDING: A Symphony of Teamwork and Dedication
SILVAS LAW PC: Protecting Your Legacy
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!
ACCOUNTING/ TAX SERVICES
DASG, LLC
Joel Gilhang (214) 945-2488 dasgdfw.com
Gagandeep K Hibbard CPA, PLLC (682) 521-3584 GaganCPA.com
ATTORNEY
Silvas Law, PC (817) 264-7447 silvaslaw.com
Sullivan Law Offices
Christopher Sullivan (214) 784-9900 sullivanlawoffices.com
BUILDER
Perry Homes, LLC (972) 629-3900 perryhomes.com; brittonhomestexas.com
BUSINESS COACHING
Rialto Academy (512) 743-4330 RialtoAcademy.com
HANDYMAN
Ace Handyman Services
Craig Young (817) 809-6138 acehandymanservices.com/ offices/colleyville
HOME INSPECTION
Endeavor Real Estate Inspections
Chris Carathers (817) 726-5333 endeavorinspect.com
Greenworks (855) 349-6757 greenworksinspections.com
Inspect360 (817) 754-0360 inspect360.com
Semper Fi Home Inspections, Inc. (682) 351-2267 SemperFiHome Inspections.com
Super Team Services
Robyn Jordan (940) 367-1708 superteamservices.com
HOME STAGING
Dream Haus Staging (214) 997-4664 dreamhausstaging.com
HOME WARRANTY
Achosa Home Warranty (817) 933-8707 www.achosahw.com
INSURANCE
Century Insurance Agency (972) 539-4300 ciaauto.com
Jason Ridley Agency (817) 281-4500 jasonridleyagency.com
MORTGAGE LENDING
All Western Mortgage
Lori Kolbye (817) 980-2228 apply.awmtoday.com/ #?signup?referrerId= lkolbye%40allwestern.com
Cherry Creek Mortgage (817) 709-4683 NunisLending.com
Dream Home Lending24 (469) 714-7808 dreamhomelending.com
Edge Home Finance (972) 333-7360 NicktheBroker.com
First United Mortgage Group (469) 629-0776 firstunitedbank.com
Movement Mortgage (469) 202-4195 LoanOfficerMark.com
MPA Home Loans
- Drew Ramsey (817) 269-4030 ramseyhomeloans.com
NEXA Mortgage (817) 201-1147 Nouri-mortgage.com
MOVING SERVICES
Black Tie Moving
Tyler Coleman (512) 605-7328 blacktiemoving.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Desiree Roberts
Photography (972) 998-3133 DesireeRoberts.com
Premier Property Media (972) 533-5079 premierpropertymedia.com
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
HomeSmiles, Northeast Tarrant County (817) 395-9795 netc.homesmiles.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
American Real PM (469) 620-0114 americanrealpm.com
RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL LENDER
Hometown Lending (972) 322-4472 hometownlend.com
ROOFING
Alpha Roofing & Restoration (817) 330-9250 roofbyalpha.com
CLC Roofing Inc. (817) 416-7663 clcroofing.com
Deluxe Roofing & Construction (817) 247-8628 deluxeroofingdfw.com
K&M Services, Roofing & Construction (817) 918-3940 kmservicepro.com
PROCO (817) 975-5948 procoroof.com
ROOFING & SOLAR
Rankin Roofing & Solar LLC (469) 952-9151 rankinroofingandsolar.com
TAX SERVICES
Decision Financial Services, Inc (817) 268-9352 decisionfinancial.com
TITLE COMPANY
Fidelity National Title - The Baker Firm (817) 377-4100 fidelity-usa.com
Independence Title - Schultz & Kellar
Matt Schultz (817) 308-3606 IndependenceDFW.com
McKnight Title (817) 500-4146 www.mcknighttitle.com
Texas Premier Title (214) 373-1816 www.TXPrem.com
VIDEOGRAPHY/ PHOTOGRAPHY
studioUSA (469) 955-5833 studiousa.live
WEBSITE DESIGN & SEO
Digilatics (814) 954-6088 digilatics.com
WINDOWS
Glass Guru Southlake (817) 424-3500 theglassguru.com/southlake
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DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the North Fort Worth Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.
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Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Carina Smith’s journey to becoming a prominent real estate agent in North Fort Worth is marked by her adventurous spirit and genuine love for people. Her story of bold moves and deep connections reflects a life dedicated to helping others find their place in the world—literally and figuratively.
Carina grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, watching her father excel as a stockbroker. “I learned sales from watching him,” she recalls. This early exposure to the business world planted the seeds for her future career. However, it was her profound personal experiences and faith that truly shaped her path. After earning a BA in religion from Florida State University, Carina had a transformative encounter with Jesus, which led her to dedicate six and a half years of her life to serving the Jewish people in Jerusalem.
Her time in Jerusalem was spent cleaning the homes of Holocaust survivors, supporting terror attack victims, and organizing tours and
conferences. “One year turned into six and a half years,” she says, reflecting on a period that profoundly influenced her life. When her church in Texas invited her for training, she embraced the opportunity, even though she had never been to Texas before. “I’d never been to Texas, but it had been on my bucket list for years,” Carina explains. Little did she know that this move would change her life forever. She fell in love with Texas and met her future husband, Brent, solidifying her roots in the Lone Star State.
Carina’s transition to real estate began in January 2019, after she left her position on the ministry staff at her church to become a stay-at-home mom. When her daughter started kindergarten, Carina decided to pursue real estate, a field that allowed her to balance family life with a fulfilling career. “It allows me to spend time with our daughter in a way that I never could working another full-time job,” she notes.
Now leading The Carina Smith Group with her husband, Carina finds immense joy in helping clients fulfill their dreams. “Brent got into real estate a few months before me. His skill set is the perfect balance to mine. He thrives in accuracy and in tasks that I like least in real estate. All of our transactions are a team effort where he works behind the scenes while I do most of the client interactions. It’s only together that we’ve come so far,” she proudly shares. Carina loves helping both buyers and sellers reach their real estate goals. “For sellers, when we meet and I hear their motivation for selling, it drives me to help them stay focused on the big goal, no matter what it takes to get there. For buyers, I love hearing their ‘why,’ pushing their buttons a little bit to help them dig deeper so we can start a successful, fun home buying journey.” Her favorite moments are the final walkthroughs, where all the hard work culminates in a celebration of new beginnings.
Carina’s deep love for people and her genuine desire to see them succeed set her apart in the real estate world. “I LOVE people and want what’s best for them,” she emphasizes. This philosophy extends beyond transactions to building lasting relationships. “I love staying in touch with past clients. They are the reason for our success and I’m forever grateful to them,” she says. Whether it’s offering tips on home maintenance, helping protest property taxes, or connecting clients with trusted vendors, Carina is committed to serving her clients long after the sale is complete.
Gold awards at Keller Williams to ranking among the top agents at Bray Real Estate Group, her accolades reflect her dedication and expertise. However, it is her kindness and caring nature that she hopes to be remembered for. “I want to be remembered for how much I care for people. That they come first, not real estate,” she says.
Outside of real estate, Carina enjoys a vibrant life filled with roller coasters, prayer, and exploring new cuisines with her husband. Her ideal day off involves floating in her pool with a good book or podcast. She also serves on the prayer team and the coffee bar at her church, embodying her commitment to faith and community. Her daughter, Aria, works behind the scenes in the business with Carina. “She handles such tasks as preparing our mailings, prep and clean up for client appreciation events, and taking pictures for social media,” Carina explains with pride. “She is naturally a giver so her favorite part about working with us is the opportunity to make pop-bys and gift baskets to bless our clients. She loves homes, and even at such a young age, she has a keen eye for design including how to help stage homes for photos. Her combination of love for people and real estate exemplifies the qualities in the best REALTORS®.”
Looking ahead, Carina has ambitious goals. She aims to expand her business through open houses and social media, moving beyond her current referral-based model. She also wants to help others steward their wealth through real estate, believing in the resilience of the DFW housing market. “The people here are genuinely nice! So many great churches and ways for people to get involved in their community,” she says, expressing her love for the area and its potential for growth.
Despite the rewards, real estate has its challenges. For Carina, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a constant struggle.
“Trying to maintain a healthy, happy family while taking care of time-sensitive things for clients” is one of her biggest challenges. Yet, she perseveres, driven by a definition of success that goes beyond financial gain. “Success is not quitting, even when it’s hard, constantly improving your game, and getting positive feedback from clients,” she says.
Carina’s achievements speak for themselves. From earning the Silver Medallion and Triple
Carina Smith’s story is one of bold moves, deep connections, and unwavering dedication to her clients and community. As she continues to navigate the dynamic world of real estate, her genuine love for people and passion for helping others find their home in Texas shine through, making her a true beacon of hope and inspiration in the industry.
“Carina Smith is one of the most genuine, faith-filled and dedicated agents I know. She cares deeply for her clients, consistently going above and beyond to meet their needs. Carina’s creativity and resourcefulness are evident in the solutions she finds to ensure her clients achieve their goals. Her unwavering commitment and heartfelt approach make her an invaluable asset to our team.”
–Holly Oestereich, Associate Vice President for Fort Worth
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Debra Newby, Division Director of Dream Home Lending, has been a cornerstone of the mortgage industry for over two decades. With 22 years of experience under her belt, Debra’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and a steadfast commitment to those she serves. But in her eyes, it’s not about her personal achievements—it’s about the collective strength of the team she leads.
“This isn’t about me, it’s about the team,” Debra emphasizes, her words echoing the core philosophy of Dream Home Lending. The company, renowned for its expertise in a variety of loan programs—conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, construction loans, and more—thrives on a foundation of teamwork and shared values. “We are committed to having the right home loan and the expertise to make sure it’s done right,” she adds, showcasing the company’s dedication to precision and care.
At Dream Home Lending, the brand promise is deeply rooted in a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson: “A house is made of walls and beams, a home is built with love and dreams.” Debra believes in turning these words into action, ensuring that each client feels like part of the Dream Home Lending family. “We are committed to providing the education and resources required to understand the mortgage process while creating a genuine relationship with our clients,” she says. This commitment to relationships sets Dream Home Lending apart from its competitors.
of mutual support and growth has fostered a strong sense of community within the company.
The Texas team at Dream Home Lending is a testament to Debra’s leadership and vision.
Each member brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, creating a dynamic and effective unit. Brittney Fleischman, producing branch manager, is a certified divorce lending professional with 11 years of experience in the lending industry. CDLP gives her the additional knowledge and training for working with clients going through a divorce. Brittney has built a reputation for honest and dependable guidance and is known for her efficiency and dedication to serving families. “Mortgage supports homeownership. Homes are where our most valuable memories are made. It’s where we create stability and begin to build wealth for our families,” Brittney says, echoing the team’s mission to guide families through their homebuying journey.
We are committed to providing the education and resources required to understand the mortgage process while creating a genuine relationship with our clients.
Debra’s passion for helping others is palpable. “Helping everyone reach their goals and succeed is what drives me,” she says. Her dedication is not just towards the clients but also towards her team. She works tirelessly to help her team members achieve their dreams and goals. This culture
Christine Chisum, who has been with the team for most of her 18-year career, is dedicated to educating her clients. “Understanding all home loan options is crucial, and I strive to explain the pros and cons of each,” she explains. This dedication to client education is a cornerstone of Dream Home Lending’s approach.
Chance Pack brings over ten years of experience and a passion for finding the right solutions for his clients.He is heavily involved in his university alumni association and his community. “With my enthusiasm and experience, I remain dedicated to helping families become homeowners.” Chance says, showcasing his commitment to the team’s mission.
Barry Pack, with years of expertise, offers a unique financial approach. “My goal is to align the right
home loan to match their financial goals. If a client’s goal is to retire without a mortgage, I feel it’s my responsibility to help them customize a plan today,” Barry asserts, high lighting his client-focused strategy.
Antuann Boyd, nearing 30 years in the business, is known for his realistic and honest approach. “Keeping it real is my motto. I take the time to know each client, educate them, and provide them with honest, realistic information and guidance,” Antuann says. His deep commitment to client education and honest communication is a vital part of the team’s success.
Debra’s journey into the mortgage industry was influenced by key mentors and a desire to make a difference. “The distance between being number one and number two is always a constant. If you want to improve your team, you have to improve yourself,” she reflects. This philosophy of continuous learning and improvement is ingrained in the culture at Dream Home Lending.
When it comes to defining success, Debra believes it’s about service. “The key is to not worry about being successful, but to instead work toward being significant. When you shift your focus from success to service, your
work will instantly have more meaning,” she explains. This focus on service over success has been a driving force behind her leadership and the company’s ethos.
Outside of work, Debra values time with her family—her husband Jason, their three children, and their three dogs. “We are a competitive family, playing pickleball and board games,” she shares. Her ability to balance work and family life through time blocking is a testament to her efficiency and dedication.
Looking ahead, Debra is excited about the future of Dream Home Lending. “Our goal was never to be the biggest; it’s always been to be the best,” she says. The company’s streamlined technology and efficient processes are designed to provide the best service and savings for their clients. “Everyone on this team has been handpicked and genuinely cares about what matters most—our clients.”
In a place where business success is often measured by numbers, Dream Home Lending stands out for its emphasis on relationships and teamwork. Under Debra Newby’s leadership, the company continues to build not just homes, but dreams. And as Debra herself puts it, “You don’t build a business, you build people, and then people build the business.”
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
Alisha Minteer-Rosse’s journey into real estate began when she was just six weeks old. Her mother, Chris Minteer, brought her into the office, balancing the challenges of a career and motherhood. “Watching Alisha grow into an amazing businesswoman and entrepreneur has been one of my husband, Greg, and my proudest achievements,” Chris reflects. The story of Alisha and Chris is more than a family business; it’s a legacy of dedication, hard work, and a passion for serving their community.
Established in 1986, Minteer Real Estate Team boasts an impressive record. With over 4,100 families served and over 100 years of combined experience, they have built a powerhouse that exceeds client expectations. Alisha proudly states, “We utilize our over 100 years of combined experience and market knowledge to provide our clients with solution-based results.” The team is not just about selling homes; it’s about reducing stress and ensuring their clients feel supported every step of the way.
Alisha’s path to real estate was both inevitable and deliberate. Growing up in Grapevine and later Colleyville, she was inspired by her mother’s success in the 90s. By high school, she was interning with the team and learning the ropes from seasoned professionals like Kristy Rudolph and Tina Sanford, who both are still a part of the team today. “I watched my mom balance being a wonderful wife, mother, and successful businesswoman,” Alisha recalls. It was clear to her that real estate was her calling.
In 2007, while attending Texas State University, Alisha began her real estate career. Balancing school and work, she immersed herself in training, learning from industry giants. After graduation, Alisha chose to prove herself independently in Austin. Joining a forward-thinking brokerage, she quickly made a name for herself, even appearing in an Apple commercial. During this time, her relationship with her mother evolved from familial to professional mentorship. “She was incredible at being a resource for me to lean on, learn from, and get wisdom from,” Alisha says.
By 2012, despite initial success, Alisha felt burnt out and decided it was time for a change, which led her to leave real estate temporarily and join
a tech startup in Austin. This period allowed her to gain new perspectives and skills, but it also reinforced her passion for real estate. “This break from real estate was by the grace of God. It led me to have a deeper relationship with Him and realize that real estate was still my passion,” she shares.
In 2014, Alisha returned to real estate and rebuilt her business. Her success continued, and with the support of her husband, Ryan, they relocated back to Dallas in 2016 to join Minteer Real Estate Team. This move, while daunting, marked the beginning of a new chapter. Alisha’s team in Austin had been ranked #7 out of 300-400 agents, but she had to start from the ground up in DFW. Her mother’s unwavering support made the transition smoother. “My mom was amazing at supporting me and juggling the team, as everyone knew that this would be a big change,” Alisha recalls.
Minteer Real Estate Team is more than just a business; it’s a family. Alisha emphasizes, “We are a family-run business that loves what we do. Not only do my mom and I have an incredible relationship, but our team is unique. We work hard, love having fun together, and enjoy helping others accomplish their goals.” This sense of family extends to their clients, with each team member bringing unique strengths to the table, ensuring a high level of service and a “WOW” experience.
Chris’ pride in her daughter is palpable. “Watching her step in, work hard, and bring new energy and value to the team was evidence she was ready to take the business to the next level,” she says. Together, they spent nearly a year working on an official partnership, ensuring a professional process while protecting their cherished mother-daughter relationship.
WE UTILIZE OUR OVER 100 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE AND MARKET KNOWLEDGE TO PROVIDE OUR CLIENTS WITH SOLUTIONBASED RESULTS.
Looking to the future, both Alisha and Chris are excited. “Alisha’s passion for building the team and continuing to bring exceptional service and value to our clients, friends, and family is her top priority,” Chris states. The real estate industry continues to evolve, but Minteer Real Estate Team is prepared, thanks to their dedication and innovative spirit.
Alisha’s passion for the business is evident. “I love this industry so much. I love that it is constantly changing— evolving—with the customers in mind,” she says. Her leadership and commitment to her team and clients have solidified their reputation. The team’s accolades, including being ranked #1 at Keller Williams Realty – DFW Southlake and being named among RealTrends’ Top Large Teams in Texas, reflect their hard work and dedication.
For Alisha, success is more than professional achievements. “Success to me is defined by living an incredible life built
on having trusted and deep relationships, making time for family and my health, having a relationship with God, taking care of the people in my life, and having fun along the way,” she reflects. This holistic view of success drives her and the team to excel not just in business but in life.
As they look ahead, Alisha and Chris are committed to continuing the legacy of Minteer Real Estate Team. With over $1 billion in sales and a vision for the future, they are poised to impact the lives of many more families in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. “I want our team to be remembered for the legacy we are building and the lives we get to impact along the way,” Alisha says, underscoring their commitment to excellence and service.
The story of Alisha Minteer-Rosse and Chris Minteer is a testament to the power of family, hard work, and passion. Together, they have built a legacy that will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Tammy Silvas radiates the essence of a woman deeply intertwined with family and community, much like the roots of the sturdy oak trees she loves to camp beneath. As the owner and founder of Silvas Law PC, Tammy’s professional journey is marked by an unwavering dedication to families and clients, a theme that resonates throughout her life and career.
“I grew up in Grapevine,” Tammy shares with a nostalgic smile. She graduated from Grapevine High, then UT, and finally Texas Wesleyan Law School, which is now the A&M School of Law. Her path to the legal field was driven by a passion for helping families stay together and protect what they have. This desire, coupled with her thorough approach and personal touch, sets her law firm apart in a competitive field.
Silvas Law PC is not just another law firm. Tammy and her team take a comprehensive approach to trusts and estate planning, wealth and asset preservation, value-based legacy planning, business strategy, and exit planning. “We are committed to caring for our clients, their families, and their assets,” she explains, “Making sure they are protected today and in the future.” For Tammy, helping families protect their legacies is more than just a job; it’s a calling. She is particularly passionate about working with business owners, real estate investors, and individuals looking to safeguard their assets from creditors while ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.
One of the standout qualities of Tammy’s practice is her ability to communicate without the usual legal jargon. “I don’t talk in legalese,” she emphasizes. I spend time with my clients ensuring they understand the legal strategies and documentation that we are creating for them.” This clear, client-focused approach has been a cornerstone of her success, building trust and long-lasting relationships.
Tammy’s team is more than just colleagues; they are family. Her son, Nick Silvas, is in law school and serves as a paralegal and business planning specialist, and her daughter, Dora Silvas, is her legal assistant. Rounding out the team at Silvas Law PC is Sarah Brant, the client service director; Rey Lucio, the director of operations; and Annette Walters, the marketing director. Each member plays a crucial role
Our thoroughness, our processes, and our personal approach to planning – that’s what makes us different from the competition.
and shares a client-first mindset.
“Our thoroughness, our processes, and our personal approach to planning – that’s what makes us different from the competition,” Tammy notes.
Balancing work and personal life is a skill Tammy has honed over the years. “I have learned to say ‘no’,” she says, reflecting on the importance of setting boundaries. When she’s not immersed in legal documents, Tammy enjoys spending time in the outdoors, camping, hiking, or kayaking with her family and friends, and enjoying live music paired with a glass of wine. While two of her children are integral to Silvas Law PC, two of them work in her other growing business, Bricks & Minifigs, a used Lego reseller. She also has a son who is a proud member of the United States Marine Corps.
Tammy Silvas is a testament to the power of combining professional expertise with a deep, personal commitment to family and community. Her story is not just about building a successful law practice, but about creating a legacy that will endure for generations. In every aspect of her work and life, Tammy embodies the spirit of dedication, compassion, and excellence. And for her clients, there is no better advocate in safeguarding their legacies.
Les McGehee has presented thousands of events across the U.S. and 15 other countries. He is the President and founder of Rialto Academy, which provides education services to 360,000+ REALTOR®, and produces nearly 3000 real estate business courses per year. Les is the author of the best-selling book Plays Well With Others, and has written for, performed for, or consulted, many of the Fortune 500 and most of the major real estate companies in America.
Wednesday, October 16th from 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Cherry Creek Mortgage Building | 8074 Precinct Line, Colleyville
Craig Laughlin—a name that stands out not just for his professionalism but for his infectious personality and heartfelt dedication to helping others. With a career spanning two decades, Craig has become a trusted name in real estate, known for turning dreams into reality. His journey, marked by personal triumphs and professional milestones, is a testament to his steadfast commitment to his clients and community.
Growing up in Trophy Club, Texas, Craig’s roots run deep in the area he now serves. “I’ve lived in a 20-mile radius my whole life,” he says, reflecting on his journey from Northwest High School to Tarrant County Junior College. Craig’s familiarity with North Fort Worth is not just geographical but deeply personal, having lived and breathed the local culture for years.
Before venturing into real estate, Craig worked in the medical field, marketing mobile ultrasound and nuclear medicine studies. This experience honed his skills in communication and customer service, laying a solid foundation for his future career. However, it was in May 2004 that he found his true calling. “Helping people purchase their dream home as stress-free as possible is what drives me,” he shares.
At DFW Fine Properties, Craig’s approach to real estate is centered
around empathy and understanding. “Helping a client get a home they never thought they could and making it happen for them is the most rewarding part of my business,” he explains. His ability to navigate the complex emotional landscape of buying and selling homes has earned him a reputation as a caring and reliable agent.
For Craig, success is multifaceted. “Having a fulfilling personal life as well as maintaining financial stability for my family defines success for me,” he states. His personal life is deeply intertwined with his professional one. Married for nearly 20 years to his wonderful wife, Craig is a proud father to a 14-year-old son who excels in archery, cross country, and cello. “Family is everything to me,” he emphasizes, sharing that both of his brothers live close by in Hickory Creek and Boyd.
Tragedy has also shaped Craig’s perspective. “I lost my mother to dementia this year and my father in a car accident in 1991,” he recounts. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Craig moved to Texas in 1980 when his father was transferred by IBM. These personal losses have instilled in him a profound empathy and a desire to help others navigate their own challenges.
Outside of real estate, Craig enjoys a range of hobbies that reflect his adventurous spirit. “Boating, snow skiing, working out, and spending time with my wife and son are some of my favorite pastimes,” he shares. In 1992, Craig won the amateur motorcycle Texas Cross Country State Championship, a testament to his determination and competitive edge.
Craig’s advice to up-and-coming real estate agents is simple yet profound: “Don’t sit at home and wait for the business to come to you. Get out and meet people and let them know what you do. People work with people they like.” This philosophy has not only driven his success but has also made him a beloved figure in his community.
When asked how he differentiates himself from other agents, Craig highlights his availability and responsiveness. “I try to be available for my clients when they need me, by text,
phone, or email,” he says. His dedication to being there for his clients at all times has built a strong foundation of trust and reliability.
Looking ahead, Craig’s goals are clear. “I want to be better than I was the previous year, both in business and in my personal life,” he declares. His focus on continuous improvement and personal growth is a cornerstone of his philosophy.
Reflecting on the future of DFW, Craig is optimistic. “The people here have a heart of gold and are always willing to
help others. I see Dallas and Fort Worth becoming one big connected city,” he predicts. The area’s strong sense of community and rapid growth make it an exciting place to live and work.
Craig Laughlin’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a genuine love for helping others. “I want to be remembered as a good, caring person who loves to help people get to where they want to be in life,” he says. And through his work, Craig is doing just that—one home and one heartfelt connection at a time.
WE OFFER:
• CE Classes Including Social Media
• Fun Events Hosted Throughout The Year For Our Agents
• Exceptional Customer Service
• Proactive Communication Ask Us About Our Remote Online Notarization Feature!
Written by: Katherine H. Fondren
In the ever-growing North Fort Worth area, Jessie Rittenhouse, a REALTOR® whose journey from humble beginnings to a flourishing real estate career, is a testament to authenticity and relentless growth. Jessie’s story isn’t just about selling houses; it’s about building connections, fostering relationships, and leaving a legacy.
From the Carolinas to North Texas
Jessie’s roots trace back to a small town called Indian
After graduating high school in 2010, Jessie ventured into the world of hospitality. He started in humble roles within hotels, working his way up from housekeeping to becoming a general manager. “I realized at a young age I wanted to excel. I wanted to move out of the small town I was in because it just did not feel right. I knew there was something more for me in a larger city,” Jessie reflects. This ambition led him to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he pursued further education and began to carve out a new life.
Wilmington turned out to be a pivotal move for Jessie. It was here that he met his partner, Justin, an active service Marine with the United States Marine Corps. Their bond grew strong, culminating in a marriage that has spanned over a decade. Together, they navigated life’s challenges and joys, purchasing homes in different states and cities, becoming foster parents, and adopting a household of pets, including three dogs, a cat, and a macaw.
In 2019, Jessie relocated to Dallas, Texas, and in November 2020, he decided to take a leap into the world of full-time real estate. He became licensed and joined Century 21 Judge Fite Company by January 2021. Transitioning from hotel operations to real estate wasn’t without its challenges. “I was dual career when I first started real estate and never went in fully committed. Finally, once I let it go, it was like chains being cut off, and I excelled!” Jessie’s determination and work ethic paid off, allowing him to establish a successful real estate career in a relatively short period.
Land, situated on the border of South Carolina and North Carolina. Growing up, he was surrounded by the craftsmanship of his father, a carpenter who built custom homes. “I was always on job sites with him, looking over blueprints, surveys, floorplans,” Jessie recalls. These early experiences sparked his interest in building and design, even as he balanced odd jobs like pressure washing neighbors’ patios and yard work to earn a little pocket money.
Jessie’s passion for real estate is evident in his approach to business. “Scaling and developing an identity is my ULTIMATE goal,” he says with conviction. Jessie is dedicated to growing his brand and creating a team that embodies strong ethics and an unparalleled focus on excellence. He envisions expanding his business beyond DFW to markets like San Antonio, Austin, and Oklahoma City, driven by a desire to leave a legacy for his family.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his career, Jessie notes, is the entrepreneurial freedom it affords. “The ability to work with clients, friends, family, referrals, and others based off of pure hard work. Understanding that my business is what I make it out to be.” Jessie’s competitive nature and
servant’s heart fuel his drive to see his clients succeed, turning transactions into long-lasting relationships.
The journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Moving to a new city where he knew few people, Jessie had to build his network from scratch.
“Consistency, time management and building a real SOI were my biggest challenges,” he admits. Yet, through intentional effort and steadfast perseverance, Jessie has managed to create a thriving business.
Learning to let go of what he couldn’t control was another significant lesson. “It was hard for me to understand that no response is a response and that in life, you cannot control the way someone reacts to an outcome or feedback,” Jessie shares. This understanding has helped him navigate both personal and professional challenges with resilience and grace.
Real estate has not only provided Jessie with financial stability but has also allowed him to envision a future full of possibilities. He speaks with excitement about starting the surrogacy process to expand his family, a dream that real estate has made feasible. “My income is only capped if I allow it to be. I can grow it to match my dreams and aspirations.”
Looking ahead, Jessie has set ambitious goals for 2024, including scaling his business to close $20 million in volume and achieving Double Centurion Award status. Personally, he aims to pay off debt, enjoy monthly dinner dates with his spouse, and take his mother-in-law on a vacation abroad.
What sets Jessie apart from other agents is his unwavering authenticity. “I provide value in all aspects of my clients’ lives. My clients NEVER
have to worry if I am working hard,” he emphasizes. Jessie’s commitment to being genuine and intentional resonates with those he works with, fostering trust and loyalty.
Ultimately, Jessie wants to be remembered for being authentically himself, creating a cycle of forgiveness, support, healing, love, and acceptance. His advice to aspiring REALTORS® is simple yet profound: “Be YOU! Be authentic, be intentional, and always share kindness.”
Jessie Rittenhouse’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and growth. From his roots in the Carolinas to his flourishing career in North Fort Worth, Jessie exemplifies how authenticity and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements. As he continues to build his legacy, both personally and professionally, Jessie remains a beacon of what it means to pursue your dreams with unwavering commitment.
