STRONG LEADERSHIP, STRONG RELATIONSHIPS

STRONG LEADERSHIP, STRONG RELATIONSHIPS: THE FOUNDATION OF UNITED COUNTRY’S SUCCESS

United Country Real Estate’s century of success wasn’t built on marketing innovation alone — it was built on strong leadership, persistence, and genuine relationships. Leaders like Carl and Chris Hopkins and Lou Francis helped shape a company culture rooted in integrity and personal connection, guiding United Country through decades of growth while preserving the values that make it unique.

Relationships Built on Trust

Carl and Chris Hopkins credit much of United Country’s strength to the personal relationships between leadership and affiliates across the country.
“If someone from Fayetteville, Arkansas, wants to talk to the president, they can — and they feel like they’ve been heard,” they shared. “In rural areas, agents are out there working hard, and when they call the home office, we help them.”

That sense of accessibility and care created a culture where agents felt supported and valued. “The agents were always the most important people,” they said. “Without them, we don’t have anything.”

Persistence and Integrity

For the Hopkins, leadership meant more than results — it meant protecting the company’s family culture.
“In your career, you just don’t give up,” they said. “Believe in the company and protect that sense of honesty and community. Be pure, be honest, and keep moving forward.”

Their philosophy of persistence and authenticity helped United Country weather challenges and remain grounded in its mission.

Leading with Vision

Lou Francis brought a similar people-first approach to leadership, rooted in humility and genuine connection.
“What makes the company unique is relationships and personal friendships,” he said. “You don’t really get to know someone until you sit across from their desk and talk.”

Francis also reminded future leaders to never lose sight of what truly matters: “The number one asset of this organization is sitting in the seats of the banquet room.”

A Legacy That Endures

Together, Carl and Chris Hopkins and Lou Francis helped define what leadership means at United Country Real Estate — putting people before profits and integrity before convenience. Their example built not only a company that has thrived for more than a century, but also a culture that continues to inspire and strengthen its people today.

Learn more from these United Country legends by reading the full interview here