Part-Time Gig To Real Estate Mogul - How To: Darren James

February 5, 2024  by Ewell Smith

Darren James, CEO of Darren James & Associates - LPT Realty, shares his grassroots marketing tactics that gave him a foothold early on to become one of the top agents in the entire U.S. to date, with over $1 billion dollars closed in real estate.



Darren shares 5 takeaways on this episode of Close The Deal. Com Podcast: 


  1. Darren's favorite restaurants to close the deal in Baton Rouge, LA.
  2. How Darren went from part-time to full-time and the importance of mindset.
  3. Early grassroots marketing tactics to get launched.
  4. Why the transition from EXP to LPT Realty?
  5. Darren explains the real estate market cycle - his optimistic outlook




This episode is brought to you by YourFirstFranchise.com



Connect with Darren


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Darren James & Associates



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a blue land rover defender is parked in a parking lot . Darren James wrapped real estate vehicle

Fun Fact: 11% of Darren's sales originate from his wrapped SUV


CTD Podcast with Darren James

LPT Realty

Ewell Smith interviews with Darren James, a former Louisiana state trooper turned real estate mogul. The key takeaway here is the emphasis on marketing over mere competence in the real estate business.


Darren James' Background:


Darren shares his journey from part-time real estate sales to becoming one of the top brokers in the United States, having sold over $1 billion worth of real estate. His unique approach involves integrating Louisiana crawfish into his marketing strategy.


Favorite Places for Closing Deals:


The conversation shifts to Darren's favorite places for business meals, with a focus on his love for Mexican cuisine. He highlights specific restaurants in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, and the surrounding areas, giving listeners a glimpse into his foodie preferences.


Gratitude and Mindset:


Darren expresses gratitude for the opportunities to impact people's lives positively. He shares his fear of not being able to reach a larger platform to help more individuals. His mindset revolves around abundance, believing that everyone can achieve success, and he aims to contribute to that journey.


Darren's Real Estate Journey:


Listeners get a glimpse into Darren's consistent and persistent approach to real estate. From starting as a part-timer, he rose to become the number one team with EXP Realty in Louisiana and the 54th in the entire United States. His story includes overcoming challenges, working multiple jobs, and utilizing motivational materials to fuel his ambition.


Building a Community Presence:


Darren's innovative marketing strategies, such as the "raving fan club" involving crawfish boils, wrapped vehicles, and community engagement, are highlighted. He shares how these grassroots efforts helped him build a recognizable brand and contribute to his success.


Transition to LPT Realty:


The podcast touches on Darren's recent venture with LPT Realty, where he discusses the rapid growth of the company, offering unique benefits like revenue share, stock options, and powerful marketing tools for agents.

Impact of Wrapped Vehicle:


A staggering revelation comes when Darren mentions that about 11% of his business is generated through his wrapped vehicle. This moving billboard has been a game-changer, showcasing the importance of creative and impactful marketing in the real estate industry.



Darren James' Entrepreneurial Journey


Darren James, a thriving real estate entrepreneur, shares his remarkable journey from a part-time position at Office Depot to becoming a successful figure in the real estate market. His story is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and adaptability, highlighting the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone.


Innovative Branding Strategies


Darren's unique approach involved wrapping a mini-van with his branding, a move that set him apart in the real estate landscape. The van became a symbol of his commitment and a conversation starter, helping him carve a niche in the market.


Community Impact Beyond Transactions


What sets Darren apart is his commitment to serving the community beyond traditional real estate transactions. During the 2016 flood, he provided a moving trailer to assist 17 families, showcasing his dedication to making a positive impact on people's lives.


Insights into Real Estate Dynamics


Darren's discussion on the cyclical nature of the real estate market and predictions for future trends provides valuable insights for those considering a career in the field. His emphasis on mindset, skill set, and daily habits as crucial elements for success resonates well with broader personal and professional growth contexts.


Call to Action and Service Commitment


The conversation concludes with Darren extending an invitation for listeners to connect with him for any real estate-related queries or career guidance. His openness to helping others reflects a genuine commitment to service, making his story not just about real estate but about making a meaningful difference in people's lives.


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About The Author: Ewell Smith - Certified Franchise Consultant /  Publisher  - Close The Deal /  Host - Close The Deal Podcast /  Author - Your First Franchise Roadmap - Ewell serves aspiring entrepreneurs and Veterans considering a franchise. To learn more, contact Ewell.

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