Photo courtesy of Stefani Berkin, R New York
R New York, one of New York City’s largest firms, recently entered the red-hot real estate market in Westchester County.
Stefani Berkin, R New York president, says it brings a unique business model to the region. The company has more than 800 agents, and it enters the market following demand from both clients and agents, she says.
“Our 100-percent commission for agents is very innovative and forward thinking,” Berkin says. “With this business model, the agent can take advantage of all the coaching, training, technology, and marketing that we offer as a company without it coming out of their pockets.”
She adds that the 100-percent commission model is also beneficial for clients.
“Our agents have much more freedom and flexibility to use the dollars they make in commission to market and advertise their next property,” Berkin says. “They’re able to think outside the box, and that’s how you have to sell now. You can’t just slap a price on a property and show the buyer a 20-page booklet.”
R New York charges a monthly fee for agents to hold a license with the company. Berkin adds that the company charges the agents a small transaction fee per deal; for a $1.5 million sale it’s around $1,000.
Brokers and Westchester natives Robert Barr and Mike Walker will helm R New York’s Westchester office, located in Larchmont. Walker also heads up R New York’s agent education programs.
“I don’t see the Westchester real estate market losing steam anytime soon,” Barr says. “You have all the positives of being close to Manhattan without being in Manhattan. That’s super appealing to people who are looking to buy.”
