Today we’d like to introduce you to Jd Hearn
Hi JD, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My Journey: From the Gridiron to Real Estate
My career has been defined by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to growth. It began on the football field, where I played as a linebacker at UTEP before transferring to Texas A&M-Commerce. Under the leadership of defensive coach Joe Cauthen, I thrived, earning recognition as one of the top defensive players in the country. In 2005, I led the nation with 13.3 tackles per game, breaking the school record for total tackles in a season with 133. A record that still stands today. That year, I was honored as the defensive leader of the AFCA Division II Coaches’ All-America Team, a recognition that underscored my work ethic and dedication to excellence. Our team dominated defensively, ranking among the best in total defense, rushing defense, and scoring defense in the Lone Star Conference. The discipline, perseverance, and strategic thinking I developed during that time would become invaluable in every phase of my professional life.
Following my football career, I transitioned into the fitness industry, where I quickly gained national recognition. A feature in D Magazine helped propel me into a 15-year career in acting and modeling, allowing me to work across various productions and industries. The entertainment world required adaptability, resilience, and the ability to navigate high-pressure situations—skills that would later serve me well in business.
However, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the entertainment industry, I embraced the opportunity to pivot into real estate—a field that had always been close to my heart. Inspired by my mother, a successful real estate professional and entrepreneur who was both my hero and mentor before her passing in August, I was determined to honor her legacy by forging my own path in the industry.
I first became a licensed Realtor, focusing on building expertise and delivering value to clients in residential and investment real estate. To further expand my knowledge and elevate my ability to serve clients, I earned my broker’s license, allowing me to provide even greater insight and strategic guidance in an ever-changing market. My dedication to excellence in real estate was recognized when one of my listings was prominently featured in CandysDirt.com, a respected publication highlighting the most desirable homes in the Dallas area.
My journey has been anything but conventional, but each chapter has contributed to my expertise and professional approach. Success, to me, is not just about skill—it’s about continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. These principles guide me every day as I help my clients achieve their real estate goals with confidence and clarity.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has been anything but smooth, but every challenge has played a role in shaping who I am today. Transitioning from athletics to business required a complete shift in mindset. Football provided structure, discipline, and a clear path forward, but after my playing career ended, I found myself searching for a new identity. That uncertainty was one of my first major hurdles—figuring out how to translate my competitive drive into a meaningful career outside of sports.
Breaking into the fitness and entertainment industries came with its own set of struggles. Opportunities were inconsistent, and I had to constantly prove myself in a field where competition was relentless. There were periods of financial instability, times when I questioned whether I had chosen the right path, and moments when rejection felt overwhelming. However, each setback taught me resilience and adaptability—qualities that ultimately became my greatest assets.
The COVID-19 pandemic was another unexpected obstacle. After spending over a decade in acting and modeling, I suddenly found myself at a crossroads as the industry came to a standstill. It forced me to reevaluate everything, but it also presented an opportunity. I decided to pivot into real estate, inspired by my mother’s legacy in the industry. The transition wasn’t easy—I had to start from the ground up, learning an entirely new business while navigating an uncertain market.
On a personal level, losing my mother in August was the most difficult challenge of all. She was not only my biggest supporter but also my mentor, guiding me in both life and business. Her passing left a profound void, but it also reinforced my determination to carry forward the values she instilled in me—integrity, perseverance, and the importance of lifelong learning.
Despite these challenges, I’ve come to appreciate that every struggle has been a stepping stone to something greater. Whether it was pushing through the uncertainty after football, enduring the ups and downs of the entertainment world, or rebuilding in real estate, each experience has strengthened my ability to adapt, evolve, and keep moving forward. Obstacles are inevitable, but the ability to navigate them defines success.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
DFW Realty Group: A Commitment to Excellence in Real Estate
At DFW Realty Group, we specialize in helping clients navigate the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth real estate market with confidence. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our mission is to provide strategic guidance, expert market knowledge, and a seamless client experience.
What We Do & Specialize In
We offer full-service real estate expertise, focusing on:
• Luxury Residential Sales – Helping clients buy and sell high-end homes in some of DFW’s most desirable neighborhoods.
• Investment Properties – Assisting investors in identifying opportunities that align with their financial goals, whether it’s rental income or long-term appreciation.
• New Developments & Custom Builds – Connecting buyers with top builders and developers to create custom dream homes.
• Suburban & Relocation Services – Assisting individuals and families moving to or within the DFW metroplex, helping them find the perfect home that fits their lifestyle.
What Sets Us Apart?
• Personalized, Client-Focused Approach – Every transaction is unique, and we tailor our strategies to meet the specific needs of each client.
• Deep Market Knowledge – With years of experience in DFW real estate, we offer insight into trends, pricing strategies, and market conditions that help clients make informed decisions.
• High-Level Negotiation Skills – Whether buying or selling, we advocate fiercely for our clients to ensure they get the best possible deal.
• Strong Industry Connections – We have established relationships with top developers, lenders, contractors, and home service providers, offering clients a trusted network of professionals.
• Marketing & Exposure – Our listings have been featured in prominent real estate publications like CandysDirt.com, ensuring high visibility for sellers.
What We’re Most Proud Of
Our brand is built on trust, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to our clients’ success. What we’re most proud of is the reputation we’ve built—one that is centered around integrity, professionalism, and delivering results. We don’t just facilitate transactions; we build relationships that last long after the deal is done.
What We Want Readers to Know
Real estate isn’t just about buying or selling a property—it’s about finding the right home, making smart investment decisions, and building long-term wealth. At DFW Realty Group, we are here to guide you through every step of the process with clarity, confidence, and a client-first approach. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking for your dream home, we are dedicated to making your real estate experience exceptional.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your real estate journey, we’d love to connect and help you achieve your goals!
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Happiness, for me, comes from a combination of personal fulfillment, meaningful connections, and the ability to make a positive impact—both professionally and personally.
In my career, I find joy in helping clients achieve their real estate goals, whether it’s finding their dream home, securing a great investment, or successfully selling a property. There’s something incredibly rewarding about guiding people through one of the biggest financial and personal decisions of their lives. Knowing that I played a role in helping someone build their future is what keeps me passionate about what I do.
Outside of work, my greatest happiness comes from spending time with my family. No matter how busy life gets, being around my loved ones grounds me and reminds me of what truly matters. One of the things I cherish most is coaching my son’s baseball team. Watching him and his teammates grow, develop skills, and build confidence on the field is an experience unlike any other. It’s about more than just baseball—it’s about teaching teamwork, discipline, and resilience, lessons that will carry them far beyond the game.
At the heart of it all is my loving and supportive wife. She is my rock, my biggest cheerleader, and the one who keeps everything together. Her unwavering belief in me pushes me to be my best—both as a professional and as a husband and father. Having a partner who shares my vision and supports my goals makes every success even more meaningful.
Ultimately, happiness comes from balance—excelling in my career, making time for family, and being able to give back in meaningful ways. Whether it’s closing a great deal for a client, spending quality time with my family, or coaching on the baseball field, these are the moments that bring me the most joy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://DFWrealtygroup.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dfwrealtygroup/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/dfwrealtygroup/
- Twitter: https://x.com/dfwrealtygroup_
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dfwrealtygroup
