History of Mantle Realty
Mantle Realty began with a simple vision: to create a real estate firm rooted in family, community, and service. In 2014 our founder Dusty Baker sat at a pastor’s retreat with Jason Goins and decided to start a brokerage that would offer better support for agents and clients alike. Since then, Mantle Realty has grown into one of the Triad’s largest independent real estate companies. This history chronicles our journey from that first deal to the thriving, community-focused business we are today.
Beginnings of Mantle Realty
Our story starts in Lexington, North Carolina. Dusty’s mentor, Tracy Shrouder, guided him through the first transactions and encouraged him to embrace the challenge of starting a company. The first contract under the Mantle name was small, but it set the tone for our commitment to honesty and client care. We quickly realized that success meant more than sales; it meant building relationships and giving back.
- Founding year: Mantle Realty was founded in 2014.
- First office: We operated out of a small space in Lexington, sharing a love for real estate and community.
- Early mentors: Family, friends, and business owners offered support and advice to get us started.
Building a Family Business
Mantle Realty isn’t just a company; it’s a family. Dusty and his wife Bonnie balanced the demands of a startup with the responsibilities of raising their children. They welcomed agents who shared their values of integrity and service. Over time, our team expanded to include agents from Kernersville, High Point, Winston‑Salem, and beyond. We celebrated each other’s milestones and supported one another through challenges.
- Mentoring agents: Experienced agents mentor newcomers, helping them learn the craft and the importance of local knowledge.
- Work-life balance: We encourage agents to prioritize family and personal well-being.
- Collaboration: Our culture values teamwork over competition.
Growing with the Triad Community
As Mantle Realty grew, our connection to the community deepened. We invested time and resources into local events, schools, and charities. Our Prom Project provides formal attire to students who might otherwise miss prom. We host teacher appreciation initiatives and sponsor sports teams. These programs reflect our belief that real estate is about more than houses; it’s about people.
- Prom Project: Since 2017 we’ve collected and distributed gowns and suits to students across Davidson and Forsyth counties.
- Teacher appreciation: We partner with local businesses to surprise teachers with classroom supplies and recognition.
- Charity involvement: Mantle Realty agents volunteer at food banks, animal shelters, and neighborhood clean-ups.
Milestones and Achievements
From our first year, Mantle Realty focused on steady, sustainable growth. We expanded our services, embraced digital marketing, and adopted cutting-edge tools like Rank Math SEO to help clients find homes more easily. Along the way we achieved significant milestones:
- 2016: Opened our Kernersville office to better serve Forsyth County.
- 2018: Launched Mantle Realty’s training program for new agents.
- 2020: Adapted to virtual home tours and remote closings during the pandemic, ensuring client safety.
- 2023: Grew to become one of the largest independent brokerages in the Triad, with dozens of agents and hundreds of successful transactions.
Through each accomplishment, we remained focused on our mission: providing professional, honest, and compassionate service to our clients.
Our Vision for the Future
Mantle Realty’s story is still being written. We plan to continue growing responsibly, mentoring new agents, and deepening our ties with the communities we serve. We are committed to fair housing, transparent business practices, and embracing new technology to improve the client experience. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your current property, or seeking a career in real estate, we invite you to become part of our story.
If you’d like to learn more about our team or see homes in your area, visit our neighborhood guides for Lexington, Kernersville, and High Point. We look forward to meeting you.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mantle Realty founded?
Mantle Realty was founded in 2014 by Dusty Baker after a discussion at a pastor’s retreat.
Why did Mantle Realty start?
Dusty wanted to create a brokerage that prioritized agents’ growth and client service while remaining independent and community-focused.
What makes Mantle Realty different?
Our culture values family, mentorship, and community involvement. We combine local expertise with modern marketing to serve clients better.
How does Mantle Realty give back?
We organize Prom Project, teacher appreciation events, and volunteer efforts across the Triad to support students, educators, and local charities.


