eXp Realty CEO Leo Pareja Named to MarketWatch 25, Signals Shift in Real Estate

November 13, 2025 – Leo Pareja, CEO of cloud-based brokerage eXp Realty, has been named to MarketWatch’s prestigious 2025 “25 Most Influential People” list, a recognition that underscores the growing impact of technology and disruptive business models on the real estate industry. Pareja’s inclusion highlights eXp’s unique approach to brokerage – a virtual, agent-centric model challenging traditional brick-and-mortar firms.

This recognition comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, as consumers increasingly demand digital experiences and agents seek greater flexibility and control over their earnings. While many brokerages have adopted some degree of technology, eXp Realty has built its entire business around a cloud-based platform, eliminating physical offices and offering agents a revenue-sharing model that incentivizes growth and collaboration.

A New Breed of Brokerage

eXp Realty's core differentiator lies in its virtual structure. Agents operate remotely, leveraging a suite of digital tools for communication, training, and transaction management. This allows eXp to offer agents higher commission splits – often 80/20 – and a generous revenue-sharing program, where agents can earn passive income by sponsoring new recruits. This model, while attractive to some, isn’t without its critics, some of whom initially likened the revenue-sharing structure to multi-level marketing. However, the company has consistently refuted these claims, highlighting its focus on sales volume and agent success.

“The traditional brokerage model is ripe for disruption,” said a long-time industry analyst. “eXp has proven that a virtual, agent-centric approach can be successful, and other firms are now scrambling to adapt.”

Financial Performance & Growth

Despite broader market fluctuations, eXp Realty continues to demonstrate solid financial performance. The company recently reported third-quarter 2025 revenue of $1.3 billion, a 7% increase year-over-year. While net income was $3.5 million, missing some analyst expectations, the company continues to invest in technology and agent growth. eXp currently boasts a global network of over 83,000 agents operating in 28 countries.

However, growth hasn't been without its challenges. The company experienced a slight dip in agent count earlier in 2025, prompting concerns about retention. Nevertheless, recent quarterly results show a rebound, indicating that eXp is successfully attracting and retaining talent.

Leo Pareja’s Leadership & Vision

Pareja, who took the helm as CEO in April 2024, has been instrumental in shaping eXp’s strategic direction. A veteran of the real estate industry and former top-producing agent himself, Pareja brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing agents today. His vision centers on empowering agents with technology, fostering a collaborative culture, and delivering exceptional consumer experiences.

“The goal isn’t just to be a different brokerage,” Pareja stated in a recent interview. “It’s to redefine what it means to be a real estate agent in the 21st century.”

Pareja’s emphasis on operational excellence and agent support has resonated with many in the industry. “He’s really focused on building a sustainable business,” said a Florida-based eXp agent. “It’s not just about growth at any cost.”

The Future of Real Estate: Virtual is Viable?

eXp Realty’s success begs the question: is the virtual brokerage model the future of real estate? While it’s unlikely to completely replace traditional firms, it’s clear that the industry is undergoing a fundamental shift.

“The pandemic accelerated the adoption of technology in real estate,” said a real estate technology consultant. “Consumers are now comfortable with virtual tours, online document signing, and remote communication. Brokerages that can’t adapt will be left behind.”

However, challenges remain. Some agents still value the sense of community and mentorship provided by a physical office. Others struggle with the self-discipline required to succeed in a remote environment. And the need for robust technology infrastructure and cybersecurity measures is paramount.

“It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution,” said a broker who recently switched from a traditional firm to eXp. “But for agents who are tech-savvy, self-motivated, and looking for more control over their earnings, it’s a compelling option.”

Looking Ahead

eXp Realty’s continued growth and Leo Pareja’s inclusion on the MarketWatch 25 list signal that the company is a force to be reckoned with in the real estate industry. As the company expands its global footprint and invests in new technologies, it’s poised to disrupt the traditional brokerage model and reshape the future of real estate. Whether other firms will fully embrace the virtual approach remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the industry is changing, and eXp Realty is leading the charge.