Top 3 Real Estate Brokerages in New York: Mid-Century Modern Experts Leading the Market

MCG Official ✓ Fact Checked by For The Writers
May 5
3 min read

Updated: Jun 22

New York City may be a global capital of real estate, but in a sea of luxury listings and high-rise penthouses, there's a growing appreciation for something quieter, cooler, and undeniably timeless: mid-century modern design. From the clean lines of a UES co-op to the architectural gems hidden in the boroughs and just beyond, discerning buyers are seeking out homes with character, clarity, and historical resonance.

And behind those deals? A select group of brokerages—and agents—who know exactly how to find them. Here, we break down the top three real estate firms in New York City and the standout mid-century modern specialists within each one.

Compass

Compass has taken the New York City market by storm with its sleek branding, tech-forward platform, and agent-centric model. But beyond its digital polish, the firm is also home to some of the city's most design-savvy agents, especially when it comes to the nuanced world of mid-century architecture.

Notable Mid-Century Modern Agents at Compass:

Penni Sodi: A former designer and founder of the mid-century furniture brand FURNISHme Inc., Penni brings an unmatched eye for period-specific detail to her listings. Her background in interiors informs every deal, helping clients understand the value of design-forward homes from both a lifestyle and investment standpoint.
Esteban Gomez: Dubbed “The Creatives’ Agent,” Esteban specializes in unique, architecturally significant properties in both NYC and upstate markets. His curated approach is ideal for clients seeking homes with history, a story, and a visual soul.
Maura Fitzgerald: Known for her sharp instincts and deep design fluency, Maura has helped clients discover and showcase mid-century properties in ways that highlight their architectural bones and natural light. She brings equal parts strategy and aesthetic expertise to the table.

The Corcoran Group

A pillar of New York real estate since 1973, Corcoran has long been the go-to firm for luxury, heritage, and architectural pedigree. Their deep network of agents spans every neighborhood, and several bring a special eye to the mid-century niche.

Notable Mid-Century Modern Agents at Corcoran:

Deanna Kory: A consistent top producer in Manhattan, Deanna has a sixth sense for staging and presenting homes in a way that emphasizes design value. Her understanding of how to market mid-century features—from original moldings to built-in fireplaces—makes her a powerful advocate for both buyers and sellers.
Cornelia Thomas, based in Brooklyn, has become known for her expertise in architecturally significant properties. Whether it's a brownstone with a modernist renovation or a preserved 1960s gem, she brings deep local knowledge and an appreciation for form and function.
Mark C. Penny: Recognized for his strategic approach and client-first philosophy, Mark is a trusted guide for those seeking distinctive homes that go beyond the typical white-box listing. His background includes work on homes that nod to mid-century principles of light, flow, and simplicity.

Douglas Elliman

Founded in 1911, Douglas Elliman is synonymous with prestige, but also with depth. With one of the largest agent networks in the city, the firm has a strong foothold in both legacy and contemporary markets, and a few of their agents are go-to names when it comes to architectural homes with mid-century flair.

Notable Mid-Century Modern Agents at Douglas Elliman:

Fredrik Eklund: Co-founder of the powerhouse Eklund Gomes Team and a television personality in his own right, Fredrik frequently represents distinctive, design-forward homes across NYC and beyond. His clients trust him not just for visibility, but for vision.
Raphael De Niro: Yes, that De Niro. With a client base that includes artists, actors, and creatives, Raphael’s team often works with properties that prioritize architectural integrity, many of which reflect mid-century influences in layout and design.
Ali Ebrahimi: Known for his design fluency and commitment to personalized service, Ali is particularly attuned to the emotional and spatial needs of his clients. He regularly works with homes that showcase open-plan layouts, organic materials, and iconic mid-century lines.

Why Hiring a Specialized Mid-Century Modern Agent Matters

In a city where trends come and go at lightning speed, mid-century modernism endures as a design movement and a way of life. These brokerages, and the agents highlighted within them, understand that MCM homes are not only about style, but flow, simplicity, light, and connection to place. Whether you're looking to list a time capsule from the 1950s or discover your dream home with a sunken living room and clerestory windows, these are the professionals you want on your side.

Typos? Not on our watch. This article has been fact-checked and finessed by the eagle-eyed editors at For The Writers. Have more to contribute or see something worth calling out? Let us know.