Ron Fox had always dreamed of having his own brokerage, and when the unexpected opportunity arose during the COVID-19 shutdown, he found the time he needed to get his broker’s license and turn his dream into a reality. Malory Burkhalter had experienced Ron’s dedication firsthand as her real estate agent when she bought her first home. “His dedication to his work and attention to client service inspired me to want to become a real estate agent and do the same for others,” Malory recalled. “It wasn’t long after I got my license that I joined Ron on his real estate journey.”

For more than six years, Ron and Malory have been a real estate dynamic duo by establishing Downriver Homes as a brokerage that feels like a neighborhood family. “Malory is the only person I would want to do this with,” Ron said. “In a short period of time, we established ourselves as top performers in our field and achieved a brokerage volume totaling nearly $40 million. We are a boutique brokerage focused exclusively on residential sales in the downriver area.” 

Downriver Homes’ unique specialization allows them to provide personalized and tailored services to their clients, making them the go-to choice for anyone looking to buy or sell a home in the area. When it comes to their individual strengths, Ron brings a wealth of experience in marketing, advertising and managing client expectations. “Having previously managed a dealership, I know the importance of creating realistic expectations and going above and beyond to exceed them,” Ron explained. “Malory’s expertise in client service and phone sales enables her to build strong relationships with clients even before we meet them in person.”

While they have their unique roles within the team, both Ron and Malory share a common goal: to put their clients in a better position than when they first met. They genuinely care about the well-being of their clients and are dedicated to providing exceptional service throughout the entire real estate process. “I always say that we are like the ‘mom-and-pop’ shop of Downriver real estate,” Malory said. “The Downriver area is a very small community, so our approach fits perfectly.”

Ron and Malory’s innovative business style is attributed to their separate but equal strengths. Ron takes charge of the daily marketing efforts, ensuring that their brand is visible and engaging, while Malory handles all of the buyer-related tasks — from showings and answering leads to building relationships. Together, they form a well-rounded team that covers all aspects of the real estate business.

One of Ron and Malory’s passions is their mobile app, Downriver Homes, which they strive to get onto as many phones as possible. Packed with useful tools, the app benefits not only homeowners but also anyone living in the Downriver area. “We believe in the power of technology to enhance the real estate experience and are committed to leveraging it for the benefit of our clients,” Ron said.

When it comes to their work, Ron and Malory find satisfaction in knowing that they have guided their clients through a complicated process and have helped them achieve their homeownership dreams. “Seeing the excitement on our clients’ faces, especially when they thought homeownership wasn’t possible, brings us immense joy and fulfillment,” Malory shared.

Behind every successful team are supportive loved ones. Ron expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support from his mother, Patti, and also his wife, Jessica. Likewise, Malory is thankful for her family as well as for Ron, who took her under his mentorship, guiding and training her to become the outstanding agent she is today.

Beyond their professional lives, Ron and his wife, Jessica, have grown children and two American Staffordshire terriers. Malory and her husband, Anthony, are proud parents to three kids aged 13, 9, and 4. Both Ron and Malory find joy and balance in their personal lives, which undoubtedly fuels their energy and dedication in serving their clients.

The Downriver Homes team leads with their hearts in every transaction. “We are real estate agents by profession, but more importantly, we are people who deeply care about what we do,” Malory said. “We understand that buying or selling a home is not just a transaction: It’s a significant life event that impacts individuals and families in profound ways.”

“In the face of naysayers, I have a valuable piece of advice to other team leaders: Don’t let others determine what you are capable of,” Ron added. “With determination, hard work, and a heart-led approach, success is within reach.”