Our Story: Why We Exist
Our Founder’s Vision
Kevin Swift, an award-winning real estate agent, five-time author, and former Board Director of the Sunflower 
Association of REALTORS®, has been a driving force in the real estate industry for over three decades. His career is defined by hard work, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence, earning him accolades such as multiple Lifetime Achievement Awards and recognition from national industry leaders like Dave Ramsey, REALTRENDS, and RE/MAX International. Beyond real estate, Kevin’s dedication to community service includes 17 years on the board of the Topeka Rescue Mission and co-founding NET-Reach, a ministry that transformed a gang-infested neighborhood into a thriving community.
Through his extensive experience, Kevin identified two major challenges in the industry:
- Lack of Financial Protections: Buyers, sellers and agents often face unexpected transaction expenses, losses, and post-closing issues, costing them hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Modern Industry Disruptions: The rise of online platforms, AI tools, discount brokerages, market instability, industry lawsuits, and generational shifts are placing growing pressure on agents, leading to commission erosion and uncertainty about the role of real estate professionals.
As these forces increasingly challenge the value of agents and organizations like NAR, Kevin recognized the need for an innovative solution. He founded Realty Guardian to address these challenges head-on, providing robust financial safeguards for buyers, sellers, and the agents who serve them. By strengthening trust and reliability in the profession, Realty Guardian helps ensure real estate agents remain indispensable in an ever-evolving marketplace.
A Personal Message from Kevin Swift
At Realty Guardian, we are on a mission to transform the real estate experience by enhancing trust, security, and client satisfaction. Our purpose is clear: to empower exceptional agents like you—our Guardian Agents—and your clients with financial safeguards that instill confidence, provide security, and create a stronger position in negotiations.
The reality is that unexpected transaction challenges–like low appraisals, repair disputes, or unforeseen costs–often leave buyers and sellers at an impasse, facing frustration and financial losses.
Meanwhile, the perception that agents collect full commissions while clients bear the burden of these setbacks damages trust. Studies show that real estate agents rank only slightly above attorneys in public trust, underscoring the urgent need for meaningful change in our industry.
Together, we have the power to rewrite this narrative. By offering measurable protections that reduce out-of-pocket losses for clients, we elevate the value of our services, build loyalty, and strengthen both our industry and our personal brands. Realty Guardian also ensures you are protected with critical safeguards, including E&O deductible coverage, a legal defense fund, and compensation for your time and marketing expenses when listings expire or buyer deals fall apart. These protections allow you to focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional service while enjoying peace of mind.
Imagine the difference if every buyer and seller had a Realty Guardian Safeguard Plan—like the Appraisal Gap Fund—transforming moments of potential loss into seamless, stress-free closings. Together, we can create this reality and revolutionize how we approach our business.
Let’s work together to elevate our profession, protect our clients, demonstrate our worth, and unlock new revenue opportunities. It’s a win-win for everyone: financial solutions for clients when the unexpected happens, protections for you as an agent, reduced stress for all parties, and a brighter future for the real estate profession we love.
GRI, CNHS, RMC, REALTOR®
Founder & President, Realty Guardian
Become a Certified Guardian Agent
Elevate your expertise and credentials by earning the Certified Guardian Agent designation through our Risk Management Certification (RMC) training program. This streamlined program, currently under revision, equips you with advanced knowledge of transaction risks and safeguards, empowering you to deliver even greater value to your clients. Certified Guardian Agents also gain access to exclusive benefits, including client referrals. 
The real estate industry is evolving rapidly, with tech-driven platforms like Zillow and Redfin reshaping consumer expectations. Yet, buyers and sellers continue to seek agents who stand out with unmatched expertise, reliability, and service. With Realty Guardian, you can rise above the competition by offering cutting-edge financial safeguards and the added credibility of risk management certification.
In today’s challenging market, this combination is your competitive edge—helping you build trust, attract loyal clients, and position yourself for long-term success in a rapidly changing industry. Become a Certified Guardian Agent and lead the way into the future of real estate.