March 3, 2026 (KANSAS CITY, Mo.) — After Franchise Business Review (FBR) recently recognized United Country Real Estate as a 2026 Top Franchise, the market research firm has now bestowed a similar honor on a United Country franchisee in Alabama.
In late February, FBR named Selma, Ala.-based United Country | South Land Company and broker-owner Darren McGilberry as a Franchise Excellence Award winner. McGilberry specifically stood out for his entrepreneurial spirit, collaborative leadership and community engagement.
Primarily serving clients in South Central Alabama across the state’s “Black Belt” region, McGilberry’s brokerage specializes in country homes, hunting and recreational land, riverfront properties, farms and other lifestyle and rural real estate. McGilberry also brings professional forestry experience to the table. His franchise was one of only 50 nationally recognized this year with the Excellence Award (previously known as the Franchise Rock Stars Award).
Twenty-five-year real estate veteran McGilberry worked independently before later joining a large brokerage, and then in March 2023 made the leap to join United Country. However, significant challenges preceded that latter move, as McGilberry suffered a spinal cord injury and was hospitalized for several months. He battled through adversity to create a two-person operation in Selma that has now grown into a team of 10 people focused on constant collaboration and shared goals.
“I’m deeply thankful for my team,” McGilberry said. “Their dedication, professionalism and work ethic are what drive our success every day. Most importantly, this recognition belongs to our clients. Their trust and belief in us and the services we provide are the foundation of everything we do.”
The broker’s leadership style has always been one defined by guidance and mentorship, especially with new agents, who have the benefit of walking with McGilberry through his own property transactions to gain a strong foundation first. He’s supportive, encouraging and ultimately, wants his agents to feel empowered to succeed.
Though still physically limited by his earlier injury, McGilberry also remains dedicated to serving his community. He donates time and money to local schools, educational programs and various nonprofit groups — including a big focus on the Alabama Wildlife Federation.
And when it comes to running the brokerage, McGilberry acknowledged with gratitude that he’s had the best year of his career. A handful of years ago, he said he realized that a collaborative team along with the weight of a 100-year-old company such as United Country were essential to staying competitive. Well, that, along with his trademark resilience and determination.
“Receiving the Franchise Excellence Award is truly an honor,” he said. “I’m incredibly grateful to United Country for providing the platform, tools and support system that make achievements like this possible. The technology, marketing reach and training empower us to serve our clients at the highest level.”
Interested in real estate in or near Selma, Alabama? Check out United Country | South Land Company’s current property inventory. Or, contact the brokerage for assistance in selling your Alabama property.