WFG’s Patrick Stone has stamped his mark on real estate

Patrick Stone, the founder and chairman of Williston Financial Group (WFG), is commemorating 50 years in the real estate sector — a significant achievement coinciding with the 15th anniversary of WFG, established in the aftermath of the Great Recession.

Expressing his astonishment, Stone remarked, “It’s surreal. I started in April of 1975. I never thought I’d still be at it five decades later, but I love this business — the people, the challenge, the evolution of it all.”

From modest beginnings to becoming an industry leader, Stone’s journey reflects entrepreneurial spirit, a keen understanding of market dynamics, and a steadfast commitment to enhancing the real estate process for all involved parties.

Stone entered the industry at the age of 25, swiftly gaining recognition through various ventures such as residential subdivisions, warehouses, and a medical office condominium. He highlighted the value of his early hands-on experiences in comprehending the entirety of the real estate domain.

Facing a pivotal moment during the savings and loan crisis in the mid-1980s, Stone navigated challenges by pioneering innovative solutions, like establishing a contract servicing department to support seller-financed transactions. These initiatives proved to be crucial for sustaining profitability during a tumultuous market period.

Throughout his career, Stone has held key positions in notable organizations and received prestigious accolades for his contributions to the industry, including HousingWire’s Vanguard Award in 2019 and 2021.

Following his tenure as president and COO at Fidelity National Financial, Stone initiated WFG with a vision to redefine the role of title companies in real estate transactions. The company’s emphasis on collaboration and client-centric innovation set it apart in the industry landscape.

Operating with a deliberate growth strategy, WFG prioritizes value creation over market share expansion, maintaining a strong presence across seven Western states and forging partnerships in major housing markets nationwide.

Stone emphasized the importance of adaptability and control in navigating challenging market conditions, advocating for industry reforms to enhance closing efficiency and address the persistent housing shortage issue.

In reflecting on his career, Stone expressed gratitude for the collective effort of mentors, teams, partners, and clients in shaping his professional journey. He underscored the significance of unity and collaboration in driving positive change within the real estate sector.