2024’s Best NYC Residential Real Estate Agencies Revealed
This analysis focuses on the operations of real estate agents who were affiliated with a firm based in New York City in 2024, as per their licensing records.
Each real estate licensee and each brokerage firm are considered independent entities as recorded by the Department of State (DOS). For example, “Douglas Elliman Real Estate” and “Douglas Elliman Referral” are considered separate brokerage firms for the purpose of this report.
This report highlights the top performing real estate firms based on Corofy’s key performance indicators which includes a firm’s growth, hiring, turnover and retention. Only residential firms are considered.
What NY Real Estate Brokerage Has Best Training For New Agents?
When you’re starting as a new real estate agent in New York, receiving the best training is crucial for your success. Several brokerages stand out for their robust training programs. Coldwell Banker is one such brokerage, known for its comprehensive training system that caters to new agents, offering a mixture of business skills development and practical real estate knowledge.
Coldwell Banker Training:
- Business Skills: Sharpen your fundamental business skills with Coldwell Banker’s extensive course library.
- Clock Hours: Up to 13,000 hours a year are allocated for training purposes.
- Course Review: To ensure the most current information, courses are periodically reviewed in line with industry changes.
Another noteworthy brokerage is Charles Schwab. Although primarily known for its finance-focused services, Schwab also provides a comprehensive training platform for new real estate agents. They make training accessible 24/7, including live events and on-demand videos, to meet the diverse needs and schedules of new agents.
Charles Schwab Training:
- Robust Training: Offers a variety of training methods, including webinars, live training, and on-demand sessions.
- Learning Center: Availability of a wide array of educational content through the Schwab Learning Center.
By choosing a brokerage that offers a strong focus on agent development, you’ll be setting a solid foundation for your real estate career in New York.
Which Real Estate Brokerage Is Best For Part-Time Agents In New York?
As a part-time real estate agent in New York, choosing the right brokerage is crucial for your success. You need a firm that accommodates flexible schedules and offers comprehensive support. Here are some options tailored for part-time agents:
- Fathom Realty: Known for being a cloud-based brokerage, Fathom Realty extends the agility you require. Their structure is favorable for agents on the move, providing innovative technology and a supportive environment without stringent demands on your time.
- Coldwell Banker: This brokerage is recognized for their commitment to training and development. They provide extensive opportunities for agents to enhance their skills, which is beneficial when balancing real estate with other commitments.
Fathom Realty is suitable if you desire independence and a fast-paced tech environment. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a structured approach with robust training, Coldwell Banker could be your choice.
Remember to consider the commission split, desk fees, and other costs when making your decision. Your choice should align with your real estate goals and the amount of time you can dedicate to your career.
How To Evaluate The Best Real Estate Companies For New Agents In New York?
As a new real estate agent in New York, you’re likely seeking a brokerage that will provide the best platform for your budding career. When evaluating real estate companies, it’s vital to consider the following aspects:
Training and Mentorship: Look for a firm that offers a comprehensive training program to help you understand the nuances of the New York real estate market. Mentorship opportunities are also crucial as they provide real-world insights and guidance.
Brand Recognition: A well-recognized brand can give you a head start in building your reputation. Clients may be more inclined to trust an agent associated with a respected brand.
Commission Structure: Understand the commission split and any other financial obligations, such as desk fees. It’s important to find a balance that rewards your efforts and supports your growth.
Tech and Marketing Support: Working with a company that leverages technology effectively can streamline your workflow. Additionally, marketing support is essential for generating leads and establishing your presence.
Culture and Values: Aligning with a company whose culture and values match yours can lead to a more fulfilling work environment.
Local Knowledge: Key for New York agents, is a firm’s understanding of the diverse and specific local markets, from Manhattan skyscrapers to Brooklyn brownstones.
For example, Mont Sky Real Estate is notable for providing support well-suited for New York agents. Additionally, explore brokerages like Keller Williams and others that have a presence in New York to ensure you’re making an informed decision.
Reputation
When you’re considering a real estate school in New York, reputation is paramount. You must look at several indicators to gauge a school’s standing in the industry:
- Student Reviews: Examine what current and past students say about the school. Positive feedback and high ratings are strong indicators of satisfaction.
- Success Rates: Verify the school’s pass rates for the New York Real Estate Exam. A high pass rate suggests effective teaching methods and curriculum.
- Accreditations: An accredited school meets the educational standards set by New York State.
- Professional Associations: Membership in associations like the NYS Board of Real Estate strengthens a school’s reputation.
- Industry Recognition: Look for awards or recognitions from real estate entities indicating the school’s credibility.
- Years of Experience: Schools with a long history in New York often have an established reputation.
Here’s a condensed reputation checklist:
- Look at student reviews for personal experiences.
- Check the school’s exam pass rates.
- Ensure the school is properly accredited.
- Identify any affiliations with professional bodies.
- Look for awards or recognition in the industry.
- Consider the school’s years of operation in New York.
Remember, your education will be the foundation of your career, so taking the time to assess the reputation of real estate schools is essential to your future success.
Training and Support
When pursuing a New York real estate license, it’s essential to select a program that offers strong training and support. Quality education providers furnish a range of resources aimed at ensuring your success in the industry.
- Instructor Support: Having direct access to experienced instructors can be vital for clarifying complex topics and getting answers to your questions.
- Real Estate Study Guides: They are tools to support your learning process, breaking down topics into comprehensible segments.
- Interactive Study Groups: These sessions can help deepen your understanding of course materials and provide networking opportunities.
- Career and Coaching Support: Look for programs that assist with job placement and career advancement after licensing.
Brooklyn School of Real Estate provides one example of a local institution with comprehensive training options, including classroom instruction tailored to New York real estate laws and practices.
It’s not solely about passing the exam; you need to prepare for real-world applications as well. For first-time renewals, New York mandates specific continuing education requirements, such as ethics and legal issues—a topic you should be familiar with even as a newcomer.
Furthermore, schools like Corofy claim high pass rates on state exams and offer lifetime job placement assistance, which might be beneficial as you embark on your real estate career.
Selecting the right support system can profoundly impact your real estate education journey. Ensure the program you choose offers a blend of resources that cater to your learning style and professional goals.
Commission Structure
In New York, the real estate commission is typically a percentage of the property’s sale price. When you sell or buy a property, agents’ commissions are an essential cost to consider. Understanding how commissions work can help you better navigate the real estate process.
The standard commission rate for real estate transactions can range, but it is usually around 5% to 6%, divided between the seller’s and buyer’s agents. Here’s a basic breakdown:
- Seller’s Agent: Receives half of the total commission
- Buyer’s Agent: Receives the other half
Some recent changes in the industry may affect these structures. For example, the Real Estate Board of New York is implementing new buyer’s agent commission rules, which could alter traditional practices.
Keep in mind that commission rates are not fixed by law and are always negotiable. Whether you are working with a buyer’s agent or a seller’s agent, it’s important to discuss commission rates and come to an agreement before entering a contract. The agreed-upon fee will then be outlined in the listing agreement or buyer’s agency agreement, ensuring transparency and mutual understanding of the payment structure.
Culture and Values
As a real estate professional in New York, your understanding of cultural competency is not just beneficial; it is a mandated aspect of your practice. You are required to complete a 2-hour course on Cultural Competency as part of your continuing education. The purpose is to equip you with the knowledge to engage effectively across diverse cultures.
Implicit Bias training is another critical component. You must also engage in two hours focusing on Implicit Bias, helping you to serve clients without unconscious prejudicial influences.
Core Values You Should Uphold:
Respect: Recognize and honor the differences among the diverse populations in New York.
- Professionalism: Always conduct business in a manner that reflects positively on your integrity and the real estate industry.
- Awareness: Be cognizant of your own biases and work to overcome them.
The New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) outlines professional standards, including the Code of Ethics, which emphasizes respect for cultural differences. Realtors are expected to show courtesy to the general public, upholding New York’s high standards of professionalism.
Ongoing education, such as the courses offered by the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), now includes cultural competency training, reflecting New York’s diverse clientele. This training is key to ensuring that you, as a real estate broker, can serve all customers with understanding and respect.
Technology and Marketing Tools
To succeed in the New York real estate market, leveraging technology is crucial. Start with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software. This tool assists you in managing contacts, tracking interactions, and streamlining sales processes.
Marketing is another area where technology plays a vital role. Utilize social media platforms to showcase properties and engage with potential clients. Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are instrumental for visual promotions.
Here are some key tools to consider:
- Digital Signature Software: Allows for quick and secure signing of documents.
- Virtual Tour Software: Create immersive property walkthroughs for online viewers.
- SEO Tools: Improve your website’s visibility in search engine results.
- Email Marketing Platforms: Keep your clients up-to-date with newsletters and property alerts.
In terms of advertising, the New York State Department of State and the New York State Real Estate Board provide guidance to ensure your marketing practices are not misleading. Following these regulations will protect both you and your consumers.
Lastly, stay informed about the best online real estate courses in New York to maintain and expand your knowledge on evolving real estate laws and marketing strategies. Keeping your skills sharp is essential in the competitive world of New York real estate.
Size and Location
When you’re considering obtaining your real estate license in New York, it’s important to understand the impact of size and location on property values and market dynamics.
Size: In New York’s real estate market, the size of a property typically relates directly to its value. Larger properties often command higher prices, but this is also dependent on their location.
- Residential: Square footage can significantly influence the listing price.
- Commercial: Lease rates may be calculated per square foot, affecting overall costs.
Location: Location is a key factor in New York real estate. Properties in urban centers like New York City have different value determinants than those in suburban or rural areas.
- Urban Real Estate: Proximity to amenities such as public transportation, restaurants, and entertainment districts.
- Suburban and Rural Real Estate: Factors such as school districts, lot size, and community services play a larger role.
As you study for your New York real estate license, keep in mind that each area presents unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for advising clients and closing sales effectively. Your knowledge of how size and location influence property values will be an asset in your career as a real estate salesperson.
Top 10 NYC Growth by Percentage
With an impressive agent growth of 362%, Casa Blanca ranked as the fastest-growing residential firm by percentage in New York City in 2024. This was followed by Serhant, which grew its headcount by 156%.
Coldwell Banker Reliable ranked 3rd, with an impressive 92% growth.
Boutique firms such as Brooklyn Group and Platinum Properties made their way to the top 10 fastest-growing firms by percentage, proving that boutique firms have a strong standing in the New York City brokerage landscape.
| # | Brokerage Name | Percentage Growth |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Casa Blanca | +362.50% |
| 2 | Serhant | +156.10% |
| 3 | Coldwell Banker Reliable | +92.19% |
| 4 | Century 21 Future Homes Realty | +70.21% |
| 5 | Highline Residential | +63.55% |
| 6 | Real Broker NY | +44.64% |
| 7 | Brooklyn Group | +42.86% |
| 8 | Platinum Properties | +34.38% |
| 9 | Greystar | +32.69% |
| 10 | Exit Realty Top Properties | +29.73% |
93% Is the average growth percentage of the 10 fastest growing firms by percentage of agent count in 2024.
When asked what has contributed to their firm’s overall growth and agent retention, this is what leaders from these growing brokerages had to say:
“We have a team based culture that uniquely positions us to support our agents in their growth while assisting with their needs. We also have a robust support staff to help with many of the operational tasks that typically take up much of an agent’s time, freeing them up to spend more 1 on 1 time with clients.”
Hannah Bomze – CEO & Co-Founder – Casa Blanca
“Our success with agent retention is a result of three things: Hiring in line with our core values which results in a uniquely collaborative culture, unparalleled company generated leads in both sales and leasing, and a much higher staff to agent ratio than the industry norm resulting in the best agent support in New York. “
Dezireh Eyn – COO – Platinum Properties
“What gets me up in the morning is not necessarily growing Brooklyn Group first, but building relationships with every agent as an individual whether Brooklyn Group is the right fit for them or not. We do not look at agents as just another number but when they choose Brooklyn Group it is an opportunity to use real estate as a medium to build the life and career they want.”
Jordan Stallings – Head of Talent – Brooklyn Group
“New York City will always be a place that people move to and from. With the worldwide reach of the Coldwell Banker brand, and our local reach at Coldwell Banker Reliable Real Estate with offices in NYC, Brooklyn, and the Hamptons, our network consistently provides agents with the opportunity to fill their pipeline, build new relationships and enhance their business.”
Joseph Hamdan – Principal Broker – Coldwell Banker Reliable Real Estate
Top 10 NYC Growth by Headcount
Exp Realty ranked as the top firm in New York City in agent growth by headcount in 2024. The brokerage grew its headcount from 1406 to 1784 agents in 2024.
They were followed by Highline Residential and Serhant which added respectively 136 and 128 agents to their brokerage headcount.
Special mention to KWNYC, which for a second year in a row ranked in the Top 10, proving that they are growing into a power player in the industry.
| # | Brokerage Name | Headcount Growth |
| 1 | Exp Realty | +382 |
| 2 | Highline Residential | +136 |
| 3 | Serhant | +128 |
| 4 | Compass | +117 |
| 5 | Compass Greater NY | +92 |
| 6 | Corcoran Group | +77 |
| 7 | Keller Williams NYC | +71 |
| 8 | Coldwell Banker Reliable | +59 |
| 9 | Casa Blanca | +58 |
| 10 | Real Broker NY | +50 |
1,170 Is the cumulative number of agents from all firms that ranked in the Top 10 in New York City by agent head count in 2024.
We asked two leaders from the firms on this list what has helped their brokerage rank in the Top 10 for Agent Growth by Headcount. This was their responses:
“From our 2020 brokerage re-launch, our Leadership Team began, and has continued our growth with a vision, planning, collaboration, and intention to create and deliver a company culture of learning, teaching, coaching, diversity amongst us all, and extending exceptional service to the agents- these ‘business owners’ who join us at every level of their career. We are their business partners- here to fully support their business.”
Fanny Montalvo – Broker of Record – Keller Williams NYC
“We strongly believe we have the best technology platform in New York City for agents. Agents add the most value when they spend the majority of their time with their clients building relationships. Our platform and infrastructure allow our agents to focus on clients through automation and streamlining of tedious and laborious tasks. Our recruiting process is simple, we show agents our technology and let them decide if they want to continue the conversation.”
Bilal Haris Khan – President – Highline Residential
Top 10 NYC by Retention
Casa Blanca ranked as the top firm in New York City when it came to retention in 2024, retaining more than 93% of its agents during that period.
This was followed by Serhant with a retention rate of 89%.
Rounding out the top 10 was Bergen Basin Realty, with an annual retention rate of 84%.
| # | Brokerage Name | Agent Retention |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Casa Blanca | 93.75% |
| 2 | Serhant | 89.02% |
| 3 | City Connections Realty | 88.31% |
| 4 | Sothebys International Realty | 86.41% |
| 5 | Winzone Realty | 86.11% |
| 6 | Next Stop NY | 86.00% |
| 7 | R New York | 85.74% |
| 8 | Brown Harris Stevens | 85.73% |
| 9 | Tom Crimmins Realty | 84.47% |
| 10 | Bergen Basin Realty | 84.00% |
87% Is the average retention rate among the firms that ranked in the Top 10 in New York City by agent retention in 2024.
Brokerage growth is not just about growing in headcount, but also retaining the talent currently on your team. Stefani Berkin from R New York and Marissa Ghesquiere from Sotheby’s International Realty shared how their brokerages ranked in the Top 10 by retention:
“As a family run business, R New York prefers a holistic brokerage model that places our agents at the forefront. Our agents have autonomy to run their business the way they want to with the great technology, training, PR, marketing, social media, lead generation we offer. R New York agents get everything the traditional firms offer, plus the added bonus of keeping their hard earned commission.”
Stefani Berkin – President – R New York
“Beyond any metric, our stellar retention of agents is what we are most proud of. When agents join Sotheby’s International Realty, they become part of a luxury brand that is both meaningful and powerful and not only resonates with their existing clientele but provides an opportunity to interview with sellers that are not already in their spheres of influence.”
Marissa Ghesquiere – Executive Vice President of Sales – Sotheby’s International Realty
Top 50 NYC by Agent Count
New York City’s top 3 major players, Douglas Elliman, Compass, and Corcoran remain unchanged, ranking in the top 3 spots by agent count in NYC.
The Agency entered the NYC market and ranked number 17 after joining forces with Triplemint in May 2024.
When asked how their firms have established themselves in the Top 50 brokerages by Agent Count, this is what leaders from these top ranking brokerages had to say:
“We provide ongoing support, resources, and competitive commission splits that empower our agents to grow in a constantly evolving market. The unique flexibility and independence we offer, sets us apart from traditional brokerages and allows us to consistently attract and retain successful agents.”
Adam Mahfouda – CEO – Oxford Property Group
“In a more challenging market, it’s more important than ever for agents to be able to differentiate themselves in the market, provide targeted exposure for their sellers, and have access to an international referral network to feed and grow their business. Elegran offer its advisors and their clients global access and exposure through Manhattan’s only true global real estate platform, backed by Forbes and its engaged audience of 132 million.”
Michael Rossi – CEO – Elegran | Forbes Global Properties
“Living New York prides itself on keeping an efficient team of high end agents focused on servicing our Developers, Buyers, and Sellers. We also benefit from having a full service property management team which feeds our leasing business and allows us to package services at competitive rates. Agents looking to make a change will be brought into our ecosystem where they will be assigned landlord accounts and buyer seller leads generated from our principal network and our participation with programs like Streeteasy Experts and Localize.”
Adrian Savino – Managing Director – Living NY
“Between our platform and brand, our visionary leadership across all offices, never-ending expansion, and our best-in-class graphic designers, staff, and managers, there is a certain je ne sais quoi that we capture very effectively. The thing about quality is you can’t fake it. And this is especially true about company culture and the way it translates to the way we conduct business.”
John Carbone – Managing Director – Nest Seekers
| # | Brokerage Name | Agent Count |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Douglas Elliman Real Estate | 4,219 |
| 2 | Compass | 2,911 |
| 3 | Corcoran Group | 2,490 |
| 4 | Exp Realty | 1,784 |
| 5 | Compass Greater NY | 988 |
| 6 | Brown Harris Stevens | 964 |
| 7 | Winzone Realty | 798 |
| 8 | R New York | 661 |
| 9 | Keller Williams NYC | 610 |
| 10 | Oxford Property Group | 605 |
| 11 | Nest Seekers | 571 |
| 12 | Sothebys International Realty | 518 |
| 13 | Bond New York Properties | 379 |
| 14 | Highline Residential | 346 |
| 15 | Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices | 319 |
| 16 | Robert Defalco Realty | 250 |
| 17 | The Agency | 226 |
| 18 | Serhant | 213 |
| 19 | eRealty Advisors | 181 |
| 20 | Yourhomesold Guaranteed Realty | 180 |
| 21 | Douglas Elliman Referral | 179 |
| 22 | Elegran | Forbes Global Properties | 174 |
| 23 | Real Broker NY | 168 |
| 24 | Coldwell Banker Reliable | 166 |
| 25 | Keller Williams Realty NYC Group | 165 |
| 26 | Brown Harris Stevens NYs | 165 |
| 27 | Brown Harris Stevens Brooklyn | 160 |
| 28 | Exp Realty Bkny | 159 |
| 29 | Real New York | 157 |
| 30 | Corcoran | 156 |
| 31 | Remax Edge | 156 |
| 32 | Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices | 150 |
| 33 | Scope Realty | 144 |
| 34 | Redfin Real Estate | 136 |
| 35 | Level Group | 135 |
| 36 | Remax Elite | 134 |
| 37 | Exp Realty NYC | 130 |
| 38 | Momentum Real Estate | 122 |
| 39 | Exit All Seasons Realty | 119 |
| 40 | Ideal Properties Group | 118 |
| 41 | Corcoran Sunshine | 117 |
| 42 | Exr | 114 |
| 43 | Sothebys International Realty | 113 |
| 44 | Ditommaso Real Estate | 111 |
| 45 | E House Realty & Management | 110 |
| 46 | Fillmore Real Estate | 110 |
| 47 | Coldwell Banker Warburg | 106 |
| 48 | SPiRALNY | 104 |
| 49 | Vylla Home | 104 |
| 50 | Living New York | 104 |
Ranking the Best Luxury NY Real Estate Brokerages
When you’re starting as a new agent, choosing the right brokerage can make all the difference. In New York, luxury brokerages not only offer prestigious property listings but also provide robust support that can catapult your career. The following brokerages are renowned for their reputation and commission structures, making them top choices for new agents eager to break into the luxury market.
- Keller Williams: Known for their extensive training programs and solid support systems. They offer flexible commission splits to their agents.
- RE/MAX: A global brand with strong name recognition. RE/MAX has a competitive commission structure but may come with higher desk fees.
- Coldwell Banker: With a legacy in high-end properties, Coldwell Banker balances a traditional brokerage feel with innovative marketing strategies.
- eXp Realty: Their online-centric approach provides you with advanced tools and technology to help in efficiently marketing luxury properties.
For you as a new agent, pay attention not just to the commission split but to the value of referrals, the availability of advertising resources, and management support in each firm. Each brokerage has its own unique benefits, so consider which features align best with your personal goals and work style while stepping into the world of luxury real estate.
Top-Rated Brokerages for Agent Programs In New York
When you’re embarking on a real estate career in New York, choosing the right brokerage is pivotal for your growth and success. Here are some of the top-rated brokerages renowned for their agent programs, which could be ideal for you as a new agent:
- eXp Realty: Known for its innovative cloud-based operations, eXp Realty provides extensive online training and virtual mentorship, which you can access from anywhere, making it highly adaptable for modern agents.
- Keller Williams: With a focus on career development, Keller Williams offers new agents comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and technology that supports your burgeoning career in real estate.
- Coldwell Banker: As a new agent, you’ll find a supportive environment at Coldwell Banker, which offers robust educational resources and marketing tools to help you establish a strong foundation in the industry.
Each of these brokerages provides unique advantages for your real estate journey. They provide a range of in-house training programs, support, and tools to ensure you are well-prepared to navigate the New York real estate market. As you evaluate your options, consider the culture, training, commission structure, and technological resources each of these brokerages offers to ensure they align with your career goals.
About Corofy Data & Intelligence
Corofy computes various data sets to arrive at the most accurate and comprehensive intelligence for real estate brokerages in New York City, including independent third-party sources, open public data, and proprietary Corofy data. We are committed to upholding the integrity of our proprietary data. We go to great lengths to ensure we provide you with the most complete, accurate, and in-depth information.
Conclusion
Each year, we analyze the New York City brokerage industry to uncover which brokerages are leading the way in terms of overall growth, agent headcount, and retention.
While nationally recognized brokerages still have a strong standing in the market, our 2024 report shows that boutique firms are on the rise, ranking in the top 10 across all categories.
The New York City real estate market is consistently dynamic and 2024 was no different in this respect.
Congratulations to the growing brokerages that are changing the New York City real estate game with a unique approach to growth and retention.
Special Note
The Corofy Team wants to thank our special guests who shared really insightful quotes:
Michael Rossi, CEO – Elegran | Forbes Global Properties
Fanny Montalvo, Broker of Record – Keller Williams NYC
Dezireh Eyn, COO – Platinum Properties
Adam Mahfouda, CEO – Oxford Property Group
Hannah Bomze, CEO – Casa Blanca
Adrian Savino, Managing Director – Living NY
Jordan Stallings, Head of Talent – Brooklyn Group
Stefani Berkin, President – R New York
John Carbone, Managing Director – Nest Seekers
Joseph Hamdan, Principal Broker – Coldwell Banker Reliable Real Estate
Marissa Ghesquiere, Executive Vice President of Sales – Sotheby’s International Realty
Bilal Haris Khan, President – Highline Residential
If you’d like to receive additional information, please contact us at support@corofy.com
Who is Corofy?
Before being a school, Corofy is a community. Our founder, Eddy Boccara, started his real estate career as a real estate salesperson looking for a side hustle.
Since then, he’s had a passion for New York real estate and specifically the talented individuals that take the leap to get their real estate license and help this industry progress.
Eddy created Corofy with one goal in mind: to provide people with quality real estate education that actually helps them build a career they can be proud of.
