For Cliff Freeman II and his son, Cliff Freeman III (affectionately known as C3), Father’s Day holds a deeply special significance, interwoven with personal milestones and professional triumphs. This annual celebration isn’t just about gifts or a meal; it marks the day, 27 years ago, when Freeman II first held his newborn son. From that moment, a bond was forged that would evolve into a powerful friendship and a thriving business partnership, shaping the future of the Cliff Freeman Group.
This Father’s Day weekend, the Freemans are not just celebrating in a conventional sense; they’re in Orlando, immersed in a real estate conference. This trip embodies their unique relationship, blending professional development with invaluable family time. It’s a testament to how their lives and careers are harmoniously intertwined, building a legacy that extends far beyond property transactions. The Freeman family, comprising Cliff Freeman II, his wife Karen, and their children Cliff III and Caroline (23), forms the formidable team behind their Prosper-based agency, brokered by eXp Realty, a dynamic force in the Dallas-Fort Worth real estate market.
Cliff Freeman II, the patriarch, boasts an impressive 35-year tenure in real estate. While he initially dabbled with his license and engaged in commercial work, his serious foray into the industry began in 2000 upon his return to Dallas. His diverse background also includes significant experience in mortgage lending and over a decade as an adjunct professor of real estate and finance at Collin College. This extensive knowledge base forms the bedrock of the family business, providing invaluable mentorship and strategic insight.
“I honestly never imagined a career of this magnitude was possible,” Freeman II reflects, crediting divine grace and the unparalleled opportunities presented by eXp Realty. “It has been an extraordinary blessing, far exceeding anything I dared to dream. It’s truly the best thing I could have ever hoped for, allowing us to build something truly special as a family.” This sentiment underscores the deep personal fulfillment derived from his professional journey, especially now that it’s shared with his children.
Building a Real Estate Empire: Like Father, Like Son
The journey of Cliff Freeman III into real estate is a compelling narrative of passion, adaptability, and family ambition. A talented golfer during his time at Plano West High School, C3’s path took a significant turn when the family relocated to Prosper in 2010. This move was strategically motivated, aimed at enhancing his academic opportunities and strengthening his golf game. The decision paid off handsomely, with Freeman III clinching a state championship in his sophomore year, a pivotal moment that foreshadowed his future success.
Prosper, a close-knit community where “everybody knows everybody,” became home for the Freemans, and they remain deeply rooted there today. After graduating from Texas A&M in 2017 with a solid foundation in finance and economics, Freeman III wasted no time in obtaining his real estate license. His ambition was clear: to join his father’s growing enterprise, recognizing the immense potential for personal and professional growth within the family business. He quickly began to immerse himself, building crucial connections and honing his skills.
“The real turning point for me was discovering the potential at eXp Realty,” Freeman III explains. “It presented incredible opportunities for both myself and our entire family, allowing me to directly contribute to my dad’s vision.” He recounts how his father, in a classic entrepreneurial move, “threw me into the fire and told me to figure it out,” yet always remained a steadfast source of guidance and support. Despite numerous part-time jobs during high school and college, C3 considers this his inaugural “real career,” a testament to the depth of his commitment and the significant responsibility he has embraced.
From a young age, Freeman III was exposed to the world of real estate, accompanying his father to property showings and even sitting in on classes at Collin College. While he was initially put off by his father’s frequent absences, he now understands the invaluable lessons imparted during those formative years. “Looking back, he was essentially teaching me everything I needed to know,” C3 reflects. “Being part of a family business like this is truly remarkable, creating a bond that transcends typical professional relationships.”
A Family United by Vision and Values
The Freemans embody a unique blend of family devotion and unwavering professional drive. Their regular phone calls often revolve around business strategies, and shared dinners are a common occurrence. Cliff Freeman II emphasizes that the learning flows both ways, constantly gaining fresh perspectives from his children. This dynamic interchange is evident in their impressive individual achievements and collective growth.
Both Cliff III and Caroline demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit early on, each acquiring their first rental properties at the age of 19, and now proudly owning their own homes. Caroline, at 23, is a multifaceted asset to the team, excelling not only in direct home sales but also in managing the inside sales department and meticulously planning critical events for the agency. Her contributions highlight the diverse talents that strengthen the Cliff Freeman Group’s operations.
Despite the remote nature of much of modern real estate work, Cliff Freeman II remains physically close to his children, living within a mile or two and seeing them frequently. This proximity fosters both personal connection and ongoing business collaboration. Freeman II speaks with profound pride about his son: “C3 has truly brought an incredible intensity and commitment to this endeavor. He possesses a maturity beyond his years and is passionately dedicated to ensuring this becomes a lasting legacy for our family. The way he conducts himself, I sometimes can’t believe it’s the same kid I used to drive to the golf range.”
This shared family venture has elevated their relationships and conversations. “As a family, we’re building something that holds deep significance for all of us,” Freeman II continues. “My children’s destiny within this business is firmly in their hands. It has propelled us to an entirely new level as a family, enabling us to openly discuss crucial topics like finances, strategic planning, and future goals – conversations that many families might not typically have with their children. It’s enriched both our business and family life immeasurably.”
Pioneering Digital Engagement: The Freeman Real Estate Podcast
Beyond traditional real estate practices, Cliff II and C3 collaborate on a dynamic real estate TV podcast, a venture that recently celebrated its 110th episode. This platform serves as another avenue for their shared passion and a tangible expression of their father-son bond. “It’s another immensely gratifying thing to witness as a dad,” Freeman II shares. “Initially, C3 was a bit nervous in front of the camera, but he dedicated himself to improving, and now he’s an indispensable part of the show. Someday, this show will be his to lead. It’s been one of the truly wonderful experiences we’ve shared as father and son, building something together that resonates with a wider audience.”
For Freeman III, the podcast transcends its immediate purpose as a business tool. “It’s timeless,” he remarks, highlighting its role in capturing invaluable memories and insights between father and son that can be cherished and shared with future generations. This digital archive not only educates and informs but also preserves the essence of their unique relationship and their journey in the Dallas-Fort Worth real estate landscape.
The Heart of the Business: Family, Faith, and Client Success
At the core of the Freeman Group lies a profound love for family, coupled with an unyielding work ethic. Even during leisurely rounds of golf, business conversations often naturally emerge, demonstrating their constant engagement and strategic thinking. “We are running a serious business,” asserts Freeman III, “and that demands a high level of professionalism in every interaction and decision.” This professional ethos, however, is deeply rooted in personal values.
The younger Freeman recently achieved a significant success, securing a listing that went under contract for $90,000 above what his client had paid for the property. With the closing anticipated in July, Freeman III expresses immense satisfaction in assisting a good friend and U.S. veteran, underscoring the personalized and impactful approach they take with their clients. This outcome is a testament to their deep understanding of the Prosper and Dallas real estate markets and their commitment to maximizing client returns.
“Our approach is truly about empowering people, helping them achieve their financial goals through real estate, and being a trusted advisor they can talk to about family, faith, and life’s joys,” Freeman III elaborates. “It’s a distinct team model, infused with a personal touch. I often refer to our real estate team as an extended family, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for both agents and clients.” This philosophy has been instrumental in their remarkable expansion.
The patriarch, Cliff Freeman II, radiates immense pride in the exponential growth and operational excellence of The Freeman Group. “Since my son joined, we have collaboratively built an extensive residential real estate team that now includes 75 dedicated agents right here in the bustling Dallas market,” he proudly states. “Furthermore, our revenue share group within eXp Realty has expanded dramatically, growing from approximately 1,000 agents to an astounding 12,000 agents. This growth is nothing short of electrifying and reflects the synergy of our family’s efforts.”
Even with their substantial professional achievements, Cliff Freeman II frequently revisits the memory of June 18, 1995 – the day his son, C3, was born. “He arrived early, around 7:12 in the morning,” Freeman II recounts, a smile evident in his voice. “He was, and continues to be, one of the greatest gifts a father could ever receive.” This poignant reflection perfectly encapsulates the profound connection that fuels their family, their business, and their enduring legacy in the world of real estate.