Brokers in other cities have tried to recruit Bagwell with promises of lucrative deals, but this Arkansas native is content in his rural setting, despite an average sale price of $55,000 and a population of just 6,500 residents. For Bagwell, happiness is found in the area's rice fields and cattle pastures, rivers full of fish, and loyal clients. Bagwell closed $4 million in sales in 2005 and expects to push his volume to $7 million this year. He believes his area is poised for growth. "This is a place where baby boomers will want to retire because of low costs," he says.

Spotting opportunities: Bagwell's made a name for himself with investors, retirees, and immigrants. Because of his love of overseas travel, he seeks out people from different cultures. He's now working with a builder from Honduras and a developer from Korea.

Busy, busy, busy: Bagwell is helping to start a Habitat for Humanity chapter in Pocahontas, earning his broker's license, and hoping to become his area's No. 1 salesperson. Being No. 2, he says, isn't good enough.