Each year brings new challenges and opportunities, and 2026 was no different. For rising to those challenges while maintaining a steady pulse on the industry and the needs of their agents in the field, EXIT Realty South Central Regional Owners, Kathy and Troy Dooley were recognized with one of EXIT’s most prestigious accolades, the International Region of the Year award.
The Dooleys received their award at sea, aboard the Norwegian Getaway, during EXIT Realty Corp. International’s special 30th Year Anniversary Celebration and cruise in late October. Adding to their accomplishments, they also tied for second place in franchise sales rankings, bringing another distinction to their 2026 achievements.
“Congratulations to Kathy and Troy, two outstanding regional owners, on earning our prestigious Region of the Year award. This recognition reflects their exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to their agents, and the results they’ve achieved by building a culture of excellence and collaboration,” said Craig Witt, EXIT CEO – U.S. Organization. “We’re incredibly proud of what you have accomplished and continue to achieve, and we’re grateful for the example you set for your region and our entire organization.”
This is their fifth time being awarded Region of the Year, with previous honors in 2016, 2021, 2022, and as part of a three-way tie in 2023. Their growth mindset has also taken them beyond Alabama and Mississippi. In 2023, they expanded their leadership footprint into Arkansas and Oklahoma, opening new opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing broker/owners looking to take their businesses to the next level.
With nearly 14 years as part of the EXIT family, the Dooleys exemplify what it means to be leaders in their community. Their approach to leadership is rooted in the belief that success is even more meaningful when it is shared. Through live events hosted within brokerages and at state and regional levels, they foster a close-knit network where agents and brokers support one another, exchange ideas, and bring out the best in each other.
Their commitment to developing others is also reflected in their Leaders Developing Leaders program, which provides agents both inside of EXIT Realty and out, with a pathway to brokerage ownership. Rather than simply encouraging agents to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions, Kathy and Troy have created a supportive process to help them prepare for the responsibilities of becoming a broker/owner.
For the Dooleys, developing leaders isn’t simply about opening more offices, it’s about creating opportunities for people to realize their potential and build something of their own. Their philosophy is that one of the greatest measures of leadership is the ability to cultivate the next generation of leaders.
From helping brokers navigate acquisitions to remaining actively engaged with their agents and the ever-changing needs of the industry, Kathy and Troy are committed to creating an environment where people feel supported, connected, and empowered to grow. Their willingness to share their knowledge, invest in emerging leaders, and provide hands-on guidance speaks to a leadership style that puts people at the center of every business decision.
