Dan Cheney began his real estate career in 1979 with Century 21 J & J Realty. In 1980, he purchased the franchise and founded Century 21 Dan Cheney & Associates, Inc. He initially operated out of a 600-square-foot mobile office located at 12870 E. Kings Canyon Road. In 1986, Dan and his partners built a new 4,600-square-foot office complex at 1700 Jensen Avenue. He later bought out his partners and became the sole owner. During the early years, his focus was primarily on residential properties, along with a limited number of ranch sales.
After the first decade, Dan shifted his focus to commercial real estate, investments, and agriculture. His sales staff grew to 14 agents, including three brokers and one attorney, and the company achieved a market share
of over 32% in its area. He continued expanding into commercial, agricultural, and residential development projects.
By 2000, Dan had already navigated three economic recessions, though the most challenging was still ahead. In the early 2000s, he became heavily involved in residential development, contributing to nearly 20
subdivisions within the community. During this decade, the office earned seven Centurion Awards—the highest production honor awarded by Century 21 International. He also acquired nearly 130 acres of farmland, which he actively farmed.
The 2007 downturn, widely known as the “Great Recession,” proved especially difficult. Lasting nearly six years, it brought widespread
foreclosures, tightened lending standards, and a near standstill in the real estate industry. In response, the company adapted by establishing a foreclosure and short-sale department, becoming a primary seller of foreclosed properties for Wells Fargo Bank. The firm also secured a contract with the County of Fresno to assist with the newly formed Neighborhood Stabilization Program, one of only three companies in the county selected for this role.
During this period, the company’s property management division expanded significantly, and commercial leasing activity increased as the
firm worked to sustain operations through challenging market conditions.
Beginning around 2014, the market began a steady recovery across residential, investment, and agricultural sectors. From approximately 2015 to the present, growth has continued, and the firm has consistently adapted to evolving market conditions. His focus became primarily ag sales and commercial investments sales where he is very prominent in this field.
In 2000, ownership of the firm was transferred to Greg D. Cheney, who has led the company since. Dan shifted his focus to managing the
property management division, acquiring additional investments, and farming his citrus ranch.
