A Manhattan apartment can attract several offers within days, while a large Hudson Valley house may need months of careful marketing to find the right buyer. New York’s property market is not one single market. Co-ops, condominiums, brownstones, suburban houses, luxury estates and new developments all require different knowledge.
A strong real estate company should provide accurate pricing advice, experienced local agents, professional property marketing and support through negotiations and closing. With these qualities in mind, let us look at five leading real estate companies based in New York in 2026.
1. Compass
Compass is a technology-focused real estate brokerage headquartered in New York City. It began in downtown Manhattan and has since developed a large office network covering New York City, Long Island, the Hamptons, Westchester County and the Hudson Valley.
The company handles residential sales, rentals, luxury properties, new developments and selected commercial transactions. Its platform gives agents access to property-search tools, market data, customer-management systems and digital marketing resources.
Compass Concierge is another notable service. Subject to programme terms, it may help eligible sellers pay for improvements such as painting, staging, flooring or landscaping before listing the property. The expenses are generally repaid when the home sells or when the agreement ends.
Why Compass is included: Its broad New York coverage, large agent network and strong digital platform make it suitable for sellers who want extensive marketing reach.
- Global headquarters: 110 Fifth Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10011
- Official website: https://www.compass.com/
2. Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Douglas Elliman is a New York-based brokerage with deep experience in residential, luxury and new-development real estate. Its markets include New York City, Long Island, the Hamptons, Westchester County and several major property destinations outside the state.
The company reported approximately $39.8 billion in sales and rental transactions, around $25 billion in new-development business and a network of about 6,000 agents on its official company profile.
Douglas Elliman provides residential brokerage, new-development marketing, commercial services, relocation assistance and specialised support for sports and entertainment professionals. Its established presence in Manhattan’s luxury condominium and co-op market is one of its main strengths.
Why Douglas Elliman is included: Its long New York history and experience with luxury residences, Hamptons properties and major development launches give it a strong position across several high-value markets.
- Headquarters: 575 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022
- Official website: https://www.elliman.com/
3. Brown Harris Stevens
Brown Harris Stevens has operated in New York real estate for more than 150 years. Its coverage includes Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Hamptons, Westchester County and the Hudson Valley, along with selected markets outside New York.
The company is especially well known for luxury residential sales, co-op and condominium transactions, townhouses and high-value estates. It also provides property management, new-development services, relocation support and commercial real estate assistance.
Brown Harris Stevens places strong emphasis on personalised brokerage rather than a purely technology-led service. This may appeal to clients handling complicated estates, distinctive properties or co-op transactions that require close attention to board procedures and financial documentation.
Why Brown Harris Stevens is included: Its exceptional New York history and strong luxury, townhouse and co-op experience make it a respected choice for complex residential transactions.
- Primary New York office: 770 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10065
- Official website: https://www.bhsusa.com/
4. SERHANT.
SERHANT. is a modern New York real estate brokerage founded by broker and media personality Ryan Serhant. Its principal New York markets include New York City, Long Island and the Hamptons.
The company handles residential resale, luxury properties, new developments and private-client transactions. It is particularly recognised for combining brokerage with video production, social media and digital property marketing.
Its new-development division represents condominium projects and works with developers on branding, pricing, marketing and unit sales. Sellers seeking high-visibility online campaigns may find the company’s media-led approach attractive.
Why SERHANT. is included: Its strong digital marketing capabilities and concentration on luxury and new-development properties give it a distinctive position in New York City.
- New York headquarters: 372 West Broadway, New York, NY 10012
- Official website: https://serhant.com/
5. Houlihan Lawrence
Houlihan Lawrence is one of the most prominent real estate companies serving communities north of New York City. Its main markets include Westchester County and the Hudson Valley, with additional operations in Connecticut. The company describes itself as a real estate leader north of NYC.
Its services cover residential sales, rentals, luxury properties, new developments, commercial real estate and global relocation. Buyers can search properties across suburban towns, country communities and riverfront areas where pricing and market conditions differ greatly from Manhattan.
Houlihan Lawrence also connects clients with mortgage, title and insurance services through affiliated providers. These remain separate transactions, so customers should compare their costs and terms independently.
Why Houlihan Lawrence is included: Its detailed knowledge of Westchester and the Hudson Valley makes it especially useful for suburban buyers, sellers and people relocating from New York City.
- Corporate office: 800 Westchester Avenue, Suite N-505, Rye Brook, NY 10573
- Official website: https://www.houlihanlawrence.com/
What Should Buyers and Sellers Compare?
The company name matters, but the individual agent will manage most of the transaction. Ask about the agent’s recent sales in the same neighbourhood, property type and price range.
Sellers should request a comparative market analysis, marketing plan, commission explanation and proposed listing period. Buyers should discuss communication, property searches, offer strategy and any written representation agreement before beginning serious viewings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a large real estate company always the best choice?
A: No. A smaller brokerage or local agent may have better knowledge of a particular neighbourhood. Relevant experience and personal service are more important than company size alone.
Q: Why do New York co-op buyers need an experienced agent?
A: Co-op purchases may involve financial requirements, board applications, reference letters and an interview. An agent familiar with the building can help the buyer prepare a stronger and more complete application.
Q: Can a seller interview agents from several companies?
A: Yes. Sellers should compare pricing recommendations, recent results, marketing methods, communication style and contract terms before selecting an agent.
Q: Should a buyer work with several agents at once?
A: It can create confusion, especially after signing a buyer-representation agreement. The agreement should explain whether the relationship is exclusive, how long it lasts and how the agent will be compensated.
Q: What should a seller check before signing a listing agreement?
A: Review the commission, agreement length, cancellation provisions, marketing commitments and items excluded from the sale. All promises should appear in writing rather than being based only on a verbal discussion.