By: Black Bishop
As a result of the shelter-in-place orders that were implemented here in New York State due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Brooklynites were forced to hunker down in their homes and tough it out.
Some people discovered that they truly loved the home spaces they'd selected for themselves, and their positive feelings about their living situation helped to reduce the stress and anxiety that came with navigating this crisis.
Unfortunately, for many more people, they were forced to confront the fact that their living situations needed to change as quickly as possible.
For Black folks, things like this can become complicated. Historically we have always been shut out of the world of real property. These experiences have sowed a deep mistrust of the whole real estate industry, leaving us to navigate these very complicated transactions without professional guidance.
Fortunately if you live in New York City and Brooklyn specifically, there are many high-quality, experienced real estate experts who fully understand their responsibility to the Black community and are eager to help balance the scales of economic justice.
Here are seven of the top Black real estate brokers in Brooklyn:
1. mTkalla Keaton - Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Skybridge Team of VORO
With more than 20 years of experience in the real estate business and more than $100 million in sales transactions, mTkalla (pronounced T'kalla) has earned the trust of his clients, the respect of his colleagues, and the confidence of his community. Prior to joining VORO, he enjoyed a decade-long tenure at the Corcoran Group where he was a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Club, the Silver Council, and frequently recognized as a Top Ten Brooklyn broker. He understands the intricacies of the New York real estate markets and has guided both experienced investors and first time home buyers to successful outcomes. mTkalla is also the founder of The SkyBridge Team of VORO, a team dedicated to superior service and building bridges to opportunities in South Africa. mkeaton@voro.com, 917-771-2747
2. Toni Martin - Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Corcoran
Toni Martin is more than a broker—she's a best-in-class expert who knows New York City real estate "Buying or selling a home is a major decision. I help sellers effectively market their properties with the most competitive pricing, then find the most qualified buyer for a fast sale. I guide buyers through the complex real estate maze and negotiate the best deal possible to ensure they get their dream home."
toni.martin@corcoran.com (718) 288-7703
3. Aaron Seawood - Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Triplemint
As the head of Team Carte Blanche Aaron Seawood has passionate fans and an impeccable reputation as an advocate, partner, and confidant. "I'd call Aaron the Rolls Royce of real estate brokers. He's hands-on with physical help and emotional support which people so often need when they are taking the step of selling their home. Hands-on, heart on, wisdom on". aaron@triplemint.com 917.705.2929
4. Abdul Muid - Founder/Principal, Ivy North
Abdul Muid is the founder and principal of Ivey North. Abdul built his reputation as a trusted, personable and professional agent over 15 years of experience working at two of the city's top residential firms, Corcoran and Compass, generating $100 MM in sales volume during this time. His areas of expertise include co-ops, condominiums, townhouses, investment properties and land sales."I love waking up every single day and doing what I love most. I am living my dream, meeting fantastic people every day and representing some of the best homes in New York City." abdul.muid@iveynorth.com 347.489.9216
5. Tricia Lee - Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, SERHANT
Tricia's firsthand knowledge of the Brooklyn market stems not only from being a long-time resident of the borough, but also from owning and operating her very popular chain of nail and beauty bars, Polish Bar Brooklyn, for over 10 years in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill and Prospect Heights. Professional, organized and dedicated, she will work to create a positive experience for both sides in every property transaction. She is an avid traveller, loves cooking and reviewing beauty products in her spare time. reachme@tricialee.com 917.330.9737
6. Lois Thompson - Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Compass
Lois Thompson is on a mission to make real estate enjoyable. Her ability to ease concerns and dissipate fears is lauded among her clients who appreciate her ability to "talk them off the ledge" with informed guidance, deep knowledge of market data, and transparency. The aim of her firm yet compassionate approach is to ensure everyone leaves the table with their dignity intact. "Sometimes people don't actually need to sell, they just don't know what else to do . . . People just need good information, which I'm happy to provide." lois.thompson@compass.com 917.721.7552
7. Shonnette Yearwood - Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Compass
Shonnette Yearwood has the natural ability to deeply connect with people and confidently guide them through the often-daunting process of buying or selling a home. She's known for her thorough approach, her creative negotiation skills and her steadfast devotion to putting her clients' needs above all else. A dedicated people person, she truly thrives on helping clients find their place in the big city, and she's proud of the close bonds she's formed with them along the way. syearwood@compass.com 347.952.8487
