The Shepherd Real Estate Team earned their reputation. Now at eXp Realty, they’ve found a network that plays at the same level.
It takes a certain kind of team to reach more than $450 million in combined career real estate sales — with that number still growing. It takes guts. It takes tenacity. And it even requires a special IT factor that few can ever reach. The Shepherd Real Estate Team, however, has that trifecta down pat.
Led by Darren Shepherd, a Hall of Fame agent with a list of awards long enough to rival a surf lineup in San Clemente, the team is known for its smooth-as-glass coastal style and calm, confident approach. Darren has been recognized with Diamond Club, Chairman, and Platinum Club honors at RE/MAX, along with a 40 Under 40 award that marks him as a standout in his field.
The Shepherd Real Estate Team specializes in single-family homes, townhomes, and condos across Orange County. Their clients range from first-time buyers to long-time homeowners ready for a new chapter.
“We’re not in the business of selling houses,” Darren explains. “We’re in the business of changing lives. We help people step confidently into the next chapter of their story, with a level of clarity, strategy, and care they didn’t know existed in real estate.”
It’s that client-first mindset that keeps their business steady and their reputation strong.
The Hardest Part Turned Easy
After being with Compass for the past two years, moving brokerages could have seemed like a daunting task. But Darren said the transition has been incredibly smooth. For a team used to setting the standard, it was refreshing to find peers who operate with the same drive and focus.
“In just the first few weeks, I connected with so many talented people I didn’t even know existed, and each conversation added real value,” Darren said.
For him, that wasn’t even the most impressive part.
“What impressed me most was how open everyone was,” he continued. “Challenges I had been trying to solve on my own already had clear answers because someone here had been through it and wanted to help. That kind of accessibility is rare, and it’s been a powerful reminder of why I made this move.”
What Sealed the Deal
After nearly a year of consideration, Darren decided it was time to make the leap.
“What really drew me to eXp was the collaborative culture,” he said. “It’s a true playground for driven agents and leaders to build, innovate, and grow together. It’s not about competition; it’s about elevation. Every conversation, mastermind, and shared idea pushes us to create better experiences for our clients and stronger businesses for our teams.”
Because of this collaboration and support, The Shepherd Real Estate Team is now launching in Temecula, Ca.
He credits Matt Farnham for the introduction. “Matt is someone I’ve admired both personally and professionally,” Darren said. “Seeing the caliber of people he’s surrounded by, and the culture of growth he’s built, made it clear that this was the right environment for us to continue evolving and impacting our clients at a higher level.”
Behind the Team
Away from the office, Darren keeps life simple. A Nevada native who traded desert views for ocean air more than a decade ago, he now calls Orange County home with his wife and three kids.
Sports taught him how to lead. “We coach, we guide, we celebrate every win,” he said. “This business isn’t just about transactions; it’s about transformation.”
For Darren, growth comes from connection. The Shepherd Real Estate Team is guided by care for their clients and a belief that working together creates something bigger than individual wins.
