FK-Branding_Katzen-Team-Icon-Crimson-Red.svg

TESTIMONIALS

Fran Katzen is the lady to go to when seeking discretion, great negotiation, honest dealings –value of my time, and efficiency. She was to the point and I consider her a friend as well as my broker.

– Michael Strahan, NY Giant Defensive End

When I decided to buy, I went straight to Frances. I needed a pied a- Terre apartment. I had a very clear budget and only one weekend to buy. Fran did not waste my time, which is hard to come by. We went out, and she located the apartment in one day. It was the fantasy apartment I imagined in New York City. She is the best.

– Joyce Romanoff – President of MAYA ROMANOFF

As a real estate developer, I interact with numerous brokers in several marketplaces. Having worked with Fran Katzen on both the buy and sell side, I can confidently say that she is among the best brokers in the country. While working with Fran when my wife and I were looking for a home, she explained everything very clearly and had a strong understanding of all of the technical points. Frances’s negotiations were strong, and she is certainly a deal maker with a knack for getting it done. I have referred Fran to several of my close friends and family members and would strongly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a hardworking, honest and highly skilled broker.

– Neil Gehani – President of Trilogy Real Estate Group

I had Frances and her team represent my home. Frances and her team worked extremely proficiently, accurately, and with tremendous focus. She was able to fetch, what I believe, one of the highest prices in the building. Considering the current state of the market… As you can imagine I was very pleased with the results. I am happy to endorse Frances and her team to any owner who is seeking to list their apt.

– Peter Hess – Hess Architects and Design Team

When my wife and I set upon the process of looking for an apartment in New York City, we were uneducated in the dynamics of that marketplace. Fortunately for us, we met Fran Katzen in the early stages of our search. Fran took the time to fully understand what we were looking for, patiently showed us an appropriate variety of apartments, and then was highly effective and efficient as we zeroed in and closed on the property we decided upon. Fran was a pleasure to work with throughout. Her level of professionalism and knowledge of the New York market is second to none. The energy that she devoted to us as a client seemed endless. Fran was also extremely effective in representing us during negotiations on price and important closing details. It is without hesitation that I recommend Fran.

– Thomas W. Senior Vice President, Global Head of Equity Trading, Sanford C. Bernstein & Co., LLC

It is with great pleasure that I write this letter on behalf of Frances Katzen. In May of this year I interviewed several real estate brokers to sell my apartment in Manhattan. Every realtor who wanted my business recommended I put my apartment on the market at an unrealistic asking price. Ms. Katzen came prepared with comparable listings and recent sales and educated me about the current market. We agreed upon a realistic listing price and ultimately sold and closed on the apartment in under three months at full asking price. With other realtors the property would easily have been on the market for many more months with reductions to the asking price. Ms. Katzen has a passion for her work. She and her staff are dedicated professionals who were available to me at a moment’s notice. Ms. Katzen even negotiated our deal while she was traveling overseas. I was able to reach her during this crucial period as if she was working down the block. In a difficult real estate market I could not have been more satisfied with Frances’ work. Her tireless energy, savvy business skills, relentless marketing and frequent showing of the apartment were the reason for the expeditious sale at asking price, unheard of in this market. Not only do I recommend Frances, I would listen to her carefully and take her advice regarding sales strategies.

– Andrew B. – Attorney of Law

“We engaged Frances to run the sale process for our two bedroom condo. We were looking for a broker that brought a wealth of experience selling comparable condos in the area, but more importantly, we wanted to work with someone dynamic, resourceful and savvy that could maneuver the challenges of the current market. Frances exceeded our expectations on all of the above, in a process that she handled in a highly professional manner.

From the very first time we met, Frances articulated a very clear game plan and recommended a pricing strategy and a positioning to maximize traffic and demand. Starting with the photo shoot on day one to the negotiation with the buyer when we reached a final agreement, we felt that Frances provided us with sound advice. Every interaction we had throughout the marketing process, Frances was on top of every last detail and kept us well informed on anything relevant. She was always available and responsive and knew when, how and what information needed to be shared. We always felt that we had someone very capable running the sale and making the right decisions on our behalf.

Working with Frances proved to be an excellent decision. Not only did she deliver the outcome we had set out to achieve but she made the process seamless and stress free. We would highly recommend her to any potential seller looking for an experienced, trustworthy and highly driven broker.”

– Raul Ferrer – Emerging Markets Integrated Credit Trading – Deutsche Bank

I was so impressed with Frances when she helped me with the purchase of a new apartment, that I also had her help with the sale of the old one. I trust Fran’s advices explicitly because she has the ability to know what I wanted to accomplish.

– Nancy C., Hong Kong

Fran did a truly outstanding job selling our apartment. She exceeded our expectations in several ways….from her initial marketing of the unit, to how she handled several negotiations with interested parties to achieve the highest price, to how she worked with the buyer post-signing to navigate a very choppy NYC mortgage environment. Despite listing our apartment at a challenging time for NYC real estate, Fran achieved a great result and followed through to closing. I will be recommending Fran to any of our friends who are looking for a broker.

– Michael C Principal, Private Equity Professional

“Out of the huge universe of brokers, it’s rare that you find someone who truly hand-holds you through the process and works tirelessly on your behalf. Frances Katzen is that type of broker, and has a work ethic which I believe is unmatched. She has an innate sense for this sometimes challenging market and has time and again sold ‘unsellable’ properties in ‘difficult’ markets at a premium to comps on offer. I always recommend Fran based on my several exceptional experiences in buying and selling real estate (through her) in New York.

Regards,

– Adam Cohen. Finance- Goldman Sachs

I am a first-time home buyer and had just closed on an apartment. I found my home with the assistance of Frances Katzen. Frances had been wonderful from the start to the end of the process. She had presented various options for my price range and had quickly come to understand what I was looking for. She had negotiated a fantastic deal on my behalf on the apartment that I had finally settled for. More than that, she had gone beyond what I had expected by forgoing what had been due to her in order to put the apartment at the price level I was comfortable at. Throughout the whole process, I saw her passion in wanting to help me find a home. It was quite apparent that she has a great reputation in the business. In the course of preparing for closing, various people who had worked with her before had only good things to say about her. I am honored that a true professional like Frances was involved in my choice for a home.

– Helen T

I love my new apartment and am truly grateful that Frances Katzen was on my side. She earned my trust and respect for giving me the tough honest advice that helped make the deal happen. Purchasing in New York City can be daunting and Frances is a top notch broker who knows her way around all aspects of New York real estate.

– Jane Lee, Managing Director, Blackstone Debt Funds Management LLC

Frances is extremely knowledgeable about the NYC real estate market and is diligent on answering all her clients’ questions and requests promptly. She is practically ‘on-call’ for her clients 24/7. She is dedicated to making sure her clients (whether as buyers or sellers) are getting optimized service from her and her team.

– CT – Finance Goldman Sachs

Fran does great work! Fran helped us sell our apartment and buy a new one. Fran’s deep and up to the moment knowledge of the Manhattan market was invaluable. She also really took the time to get to know us and understand our goals. Fran was tireless, patient and proactive at the right times. We were very happy with the process and the results. Thanks so much again. Best, Todd

– Todd R. Triller / O’Melveny & Myers LLP

I refer to the recent sale of our apartment by Frances Katzen. Fran’s tenacity and complete client focussed approach has proved a winning formula. Throughout the marketing campaign Fran set realistic expectations on price and timing. This is a good indicator of Fran’s depth of knowledge about the Manhattan real estate market.

Fran also kept us informed every step of the way and was never one to shy away from the smallest of issues. This meant that an open dialogue between seller and buyer was always present. We have no hesitation in recommending Fran.

Kindest Regards,

–  James Wilson, Macquarie Bank, Sydney Australia

“Fran is smart, savvy, and sophisticated. When my husband and I were looking to sell our apartment in a difficult and ever-changing market, Fran’s expert advice and frank opinions were invaluable. We would recommend her and use her again without hesitation.”

–  Lisa and Josh Hershman, Goldman Sachs

“We initially contacted Frances due to her reputation and execution on another unit in our building. At our initial meeting, she exceeded our lofty expectations with comprehensive market comps and insightful views on the unique aspects of our apartment, building and surrounding neighborhood. She has vast contacts throughout the industry and was able to generate extensive interest well in advance of the first showing. She took a targeted approach to market timing and pricing and was able to attract multiple buyers above our ask. We sold above ask. We have referred her multiple times since our experience and will continue to do so.

– Susan and Curt Willing, Finance- Goldman Sachs

It was fascinating to watch Frances Katzen develop her game plan and execute her strategy literally effortlessly and flawlessly. Fran was correct when she said we truly needed her trust and her expertise, which we did, hence why we hired her from the start. I learned a lot and I am happy Fran was are able to add our property to the portfolio of sold properties at ABOVE the asking price and oh by the way in less than a week and all cash, in a downward market. Congratulations on your success and best wishes for your continued success! Please call us if you ever need a reference.

– Susan Willing

I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all the work you did for us. Despite a tough market and having to deal with number of “unique” bidders, you brought us a sound buyer at a really good price that we feel was fair to all.

Be assured we will feel very comfortable recommending you to others in Battery Park City as well as elsewhere.

– Neil and Mona Kelleher

When we hired Fran, we felt she was the right fit, she was a person of great taste who delivered excellent marketing materials and a strong marketing campaign as promised. She was committed, hardworking, persistent & resilient. This led to the success of the project. She and her team were reliable and could be counted on to have an open house every weekend. When things needed fixing, Fran was proactive, coming to us with problems and solutions. Fran got the job done, closing the deal in under six weeks after final offer. At all times her quick responses to our questions and attentiveness to our needs made us feel as if we were her only clients. To repeat, we will recommend her to all our friends..

– Neil and Mona Kelliher

” It is a pleasure to write this on your behalf. I just want to let you know how amazing you are at what you do! We have bought two condo’s from you over the past year or so, and I can honestly say you are one of the most professional, thorough, passionate and intelligent professionals i have ever had the pleasure of working with. Both my wife and I have been so impressed with you amazing talents, your persistence and aggressiveness that is at the same time handled with such class and respect, and lastly, your amazing ability to spot value and negotiate effectively on our behalf. These are such rare gifts you have!

It has been a pleasure working with you, i do recommend you to all my friends as the best real estate broker in NYC and i hope to be in a position to continue to purchase with you as my broker. I would never, ever go anywhere else. You have earned our loyalty, trust and also, our admiration. A true professional, a dear friend, and trusted advisor. You represent all of those things to us. Continued success.

– Mike and SuJin, MICHAEL BECKERMAN | CHAIRMAN, BECKERMAN, New York: San Francisco: Washington

I am writing this letter on behalf of my wife and me to express our gratitude and convey to you how thrilled we are with your representative, Ms. Frances Katzen, who recently facilitated the sale of our home.

Ms. Katzen was selected by us despite having received other reduced fee proposals from your firms competitors. We determined that Ms. Katzen was the best qualified as she displayed utmost professionalism by being fully prepared for our initial meeting with statistics that supported a well thought out marketing plan. It was very clear to us that she fully leveraged her years of real estate experience and her highly successful track record to form a basis for our listing strategy. She readily understood and clearly listened to us on what we were trying to accomplish both in terms of timing and objectives. Admittedly, I was initially skeptical of Ms. Katzen’s proposed strategy as the price point that she recommended was at the top end of the per square foot basis that our building has historically supported. Ms. Katzen presented strong evidence supporting her strategy while her confidence and experience ultimately won us over. Of note, Ms. Katzen was present at every major step in the sale process from crafting the initial listing summary, contracting the best photographer, and attending the open houses. After each open house, I was presented with a list of attendees that included detailed information on potential buyers reactions. Ms. Katzen successfully incorporated these real-time reactions into her future marketing efforts by staging certain rooms differently, etc. Her dedication, professionalism and work ethic did not waver throughout the process. Ms. Katzen’s efforts proved highly successful. We received multiple offers and subsequently went to contract within 2 months of listing. She tailored the closing to meet our extended timing parameters while achieving a price per square foot that exceeded our expectations and priced well above our buildings average.

We are very grateful to Fran and will certainly give her the highest level of recommendation to our friends.

Sincerely,

– Michael and Cindy Kendrot, Head of Debt Capital Markets Origination, Americas

As new owners in an exciting neighborhood, Fran and her team rented our place in less than a week in a slow season. We were very impressed with their professionalism & effectiveness – they shot great apartment photo’s & website posting, immediate open house’s, guidance on lease negotiations and prompt follow through. They were fast, responsive, and patient. A great team to have on our side. They exceeded our expectation.

Sincerely,

– Angie Lem – Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank

Fran and her team did a fantastic job selling my apartment. Fran brought to the table a wonderful understanding of my neighborhood, building, and apartment and instinctively knew the strengths she was working with and the issues she had to minimize. She put my goals for a speedy sale first and foremost, and she delivered a process that was beyond my expectations. She treated my apartment sale as a highest priority, even though the dollar value of the transaction was relatively small compared to the other apartments she is listing. She works around the clock and was never a moment delayed in responding to my emails or calls, even when she was halfway around the world. I hope I have the privilege of working with her again in the future.

– Peter Moskowitz – Ziff Brothers Investments

“Unfortunately, brokers in NYC don’t have the best reputation. But as soon as Fran walked into my apartment, I knew she was the exception to the stereotype. Her warmth, honesty, friendliness, expertise & openness drew me in & gave me complete peace of mind about the process & ability to sell my apt. I honestly have not had a moment of stress or angst since I signed with the her & don’t anticipate that to change leading up to my closing. I’ve been raving about Fran to anyone who will listen and see her as my life long brokers of choice.

– Babita Patel – Independent Film maker/ Documentarian

Fran Katzen is unparalleled in both her expertise, and her ability to give a total, 360 degree experience to her clients. Her sense of the market, and her understanding of both the financial, legal, and psychological realities of buying and selling, make the experience of working with her extraordinary. She sets the standard in the industry.

– Tristin Skyler- Writer- Screen Writer

“Fran knows the market innately and is confident in delivering best in class results to her clients. I can’t tell you the number of times I suggested reducing the price and or strategy and Fran stood firm because she believed in the positioning and was on the front lines. Fran delivered an all cash deal at full ask within record time. The results speak for themselves.”

– Brett Herschenfeld, Senior Vice President

SLGreene Realty Corp. “I put my trust in Fran and her team after many other brokers had left me disappointed and without a sale. The experience, was thorough and pleasant. They did the work and got it sold. I would recommend the Katzen group to anyone who is serious about selling their home.”

– Carla Tarantino-Marie, L.M.T.

Working with Fran was a pleasurable experience. We found her honest, direct, professional and most important successful. Her knowledge of the market Value in our neighborhood is extensive and her creativity in marketing and tenacious approach to sales is unmatchable. I would highly recommend Fran to any luxury apartment seller.

– Robin Wichser, Narciso Rodriguez

When I approached Fran to represent my sale, she advised me to hold off on listing the property for sale for 12 months. 12 months later I am in the position of accepting a full price offer on my property, one which was worth almost 30% less 12 months ago. Working with Fran has been a great experience as she is nothing but professional and accurate in her dealings with me and my sale.

I would highly recommend her as one of the most talented brokers in NYC.

– Riccardo Iavarone

After trying to sell my home with a previous agent, I decided to give Fran the opportunity to sell my property as I interacted with her when she was on the buyside of another property of mine, and I admired her tenacity. I informed Fran at the outset of my retaining her that I would be an extremely challenging (and demanding) client. There were several instances during the time my unit was listed with Fran that I gave direct challenges her to either improve on something or alter the way things were being done… At times, she followed my direction, and at other times she challenged my assertions and often her instincts proved to be correct. Though when we went to market, it was less than ideal timing (and my specific unit had certain challenges), Fran delivered on routine traffic and ultimately some tactical maneuvers to make a sale happen. I am extremely happy with Fran’s work and would definitely recommended her to anyone and happy to provide a reference.

– Jeffrey Green M.D, HealthCor Management, L.P.

Given my schedule and profession, I live in a different city during the basketball season. As a result, I could only come to NYC sporadically and often with very limited lead time.

Fran always accommodated my schedule and always made the most of the limited time that I had. She made the very difficult logistics easy and seamless. We now own fantastic new home, thanks to Fran’s help and guidance, I wouldn’t go anywhere else but directly to her.

– Emeka Okafor- NBA Basketball Player-The Hornets

“As a first time buyer acutely aware of the current economic climate, I was overly cautious on entering the NYC real-estate market. And, although Frances Katzen was highly recommended by colleagues and friends, I remained wary based on difficult and non-transparent experiences of other friends who worked with other brokers that were less than satisfactory.

Following my seamless closing, described by both the seller’s attorney and bank attorney as the smoothest they had experienced in quite some time, I write this testimonial to not only allay these concerns, but to showcase the wonderful experience I had working with Frances. Given my preferences, the Katzen group identified a list of excellent properties of which the first I saw was my final choice. Whether it was their recommendation of the highly attentive Katz & Matz legal team, or the identification of several mortgage brokers to help me finance a non-Fannie/Freddie approved building, I have never encountered a team so committed to helping me achieve my first home. I cannot thank Frances enough for her tireless work, dedication, and attention to detail (not to mention plenty of hand holding) during a tumultuous window which included Hurricane Sandy and Thanksgiving. I hereby recommend Fran and the Katzen group without hesitation and look forward to ensuring my friends have an opportunity to work with them when ultimately deciding to make one of life’s greatest commitments: home ownership.

– Brian Reidy, Director, Royal Bank of Canada

Fran,

It was such a pleasure working with you and your Team on the co-op sale at 167 E. 61st Street. Thank you so much for your commitment and energy whilst we were in Latin America, it was such a smooth transaction at a very high price- one of the highest for the line I am told by the managing agent. You were terrific.

Best wishes for a wonderful New Year
All my best,

– Maria and Enrique Ibarra

Fran Katzen and her team were extremely valuable in the sale of our apartment. We benefited from their experience, professionalism, and thoughtful approach to marketing our home. In particular we appreciated Fran’s honest feedback and advice throughout the process.

– Christopher Murphy | Director at Credit-Suisee

The selling of an apartment and especially co-op apartments in New York City can be a difficult undertaking. And at times, as the process grinds on, it can become arduous. This and more occurred on a recent transaction. I am writing to document the fact that if it wasn’t for Frances Katzen, I do not believe this transaction would have closed.

It was thanks to her professionalism, composure, knowledge and resolution based thinking that the sale eventually occurred. If given the opportunity to sell another NYC apartment, I would only utilize her services and would therefore unequivocally recommend her to others.

– Gavin Tollman | CEO at Trafalgar Tours

It is no accident Frances Katzen and her team ranked #3 in total transactions and #6 in total commissions earned in 2012. The statistics are impressive but they do not tell the full story. I write this testimony to share some of the story. Fran advised and worked with my wife and I on both the sale and the purchase of our Co-Op apartments in Greenwich Village in Fall ’12. The transaction was not easy due to specific market circumstances so we were very fortunate to have Fran’s representation. Fran’s fundamental and technical understanding of relative value in the NYC real estate market coupled with her interpersonal skillsets are superior. Experience is important but dedication is more important. Fran and her team worked diligently (and tirelessly) from start to finish on our transaction. Most importantly, the coverage (advisory, focus, passion, attention to detail, information sharing, and marketing effort) could not have been any better. Fran is a professional and she never compromised her fiduciary responsibility to get us the best result. I shudder to think how our result would have played out if we had worked with anyone other than Fran. My wife and I highly encourage our colleagues and friends to work with Fran on a prospective apartment buy and/or sale.

– Chris and Tyler Kulina | Director, Risk Solutions Group | Scotia Bank

Frances impressed from our first meeting, when she brought a thick dossier of prepared research about our apartment, how similar properties were doing in the market, and how her own results were beating market expectations. Choosing to work with her was an easy decision, and she expertly walked the difficult line of impressing upon us the necessity of certain decisions while still supporting our own choices. She would be our first choice for future as well.

– Lisa Brill/ Attorney at law and Chris Money

Fran is a Powerhouse! She knows how to get results and can be trusted every step of the way. She has the experience and the contacts, and operates with a team that is expert in making the sale happen. Our experience with her in the sale of our home was painless and VERY successful. Fran is an intelligent, thoughtful person and wonderful to work with. We couldn’t have been more pleased.

– Milt Simpson & Cathleen Gallander

“Fran, I have bought from you I have sold through you. I would NEVER do a trade in NYC real estate without you in charge.

You supported us with great contractor support through the nightmare of Hurricane Sandy. We were never left high and dry by you and your wonderful team–only dry!!!

Best of luck as you grow your real estate business-I must say ,however, I will not worry too much for your future as excellence always is in fashion , always reveals itself, always succeeds.

All the best

– Paul Kimball

“First of all, I wanted to thank you for everything. Not only was the process successful, it was also efficient. You treated this relatively small deal, as importantly as any other. Furthermore, Alisa loved you. She is not that easy to please. You have really have surpassed my expectations and lived up to your reputation. We are extremely pleased and I am sure we will be working with you and recommending you in the future.

All the best.

– Alisa Tugberk and Adrian Rodriqguez- Macedo”

When the time came for us to downsize and sell our apartment we retained a highly regarded and personable agent but a year and a half went by without a serious offer. We were discouraged and, both of us having retired, eager to realize the financial gain we had anticipated. It was at that point that Frances Katzen and her team entered our life–and changed everything.

Fran is a miracle worker. She advised us in ways to make the apartment look more attractive, uncluttering half a century’s worth of possessions–and helped us herself. She created a new marketing plan, emphasizing not only the gracious rooms and fabulous view but the chance to create one’s dream apartment within the existing space. IT WORKED. Architects and designers were inspired and within a month from signing on to represent us Fran had sold our apartment–at our asking price.

It’s been a pleasure working with Fran and her team from the first day we met. They were understanding and considerate of our feelings and needs. Our only regret is that we won’t be seeing and talking with them once the sale is finalized–unless we have another property to sell.

– Rita and Dr. Yale Kramer

To whom it may concern:
I wish to express my sincere thanks to Fran Katzen and her team, in particular Tristan and Anthony, for their professionalism in helping me to sell my Flatiron condo.
When I knew it was time to move from NYC, the only person I would entrust to the mission of getting my apartment sold quickly was Fran!! I was first introduced to Fran when she was the listing broker on my apartment when I purchased it in June of 2008. I was immediately impressed with not only her professionalism but with her kindness, friendliness, modesty and presence!
I discovered Fran to be well known, very much respected and very active in sales within 260 Park Avenue South.

Fran is extremely savvy and knowledgeable about the NYC real estate market and wasted no time in attracting a very serious buyer. I received my first offer within four days; the final offer accepted in exactly one week. I know it wasn’t just the booming market that sold my apartment so quickly. Fran knew exactly how to work the deal, leaving me an extremely happy seller as I received a price that far surpassed my wildest dreams!
I am absolutely certain that she must be a major asset within Douglas Elliman.
Respectfully,

– Joyce Bertoldo, Former owner of Apt. 3H, 260 Park Avenue South

Fran Katzen and her team were extremely valuable in the sale of our apartment. We benefited from their experience, professionalism, and thoughtful approach to marketing our home. In particular we appreciated Fran’s honest feedback and advice throughout the process.

– Christopher Freidman and Dipa Chandra

We had a fantastic experience listing with Fran after a mediocre experience with another realtor. She accurately valuated the property and helped with painting and staging recommendations that enabled us to list quickly. She found a buyer and closed quickly at a premium price! Fran is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, I’d highly recommend her to others.

– John Kelly | Former Owner of 350 West 53rd St #2C

“When we went through the interview process to select the right representation for our sale on Fifth avenue, we met with one of the most established brokers on Fifth Avenue, a reputable broker who had an existing relationship with the board, and Fran Katzen.

Fran offered an acumen and depth that provided comfort that while younger than her competitors, this in no way compromised her knowledge and sophisticated skill set. The Initial pricing we received from the broker community varied greatly, and gave us reason for concern. Ultimately, Fran’s pricing proved to be “spot on”–we were able to procure a full price offer of 16.5 million in less than 3 months from a qualified candidate that was able pass a very stringent and most discerning board.

We would be delighted to work with Frances Katzen and her team again without reservation.”

– On behalf of the estate of Lorenzo Zambrano

When it came time to sell our apartment to find a larger space, we went straight to Fran and Peter. We could not have asked for better service, counsel or results. By putting ourselves in their hands, within just a couple weeks we were able to secure a sale price well above our ask price and expectations. Their great strategy, negotiation skill, and all-around competence similarly led us, again beyond expectation, to finding our new dream home within our specific budget. They were always responsive, always laser-focused on our needs, and never pushy. It is easy to see why they have been so successful in this hyper-competitive market. We would not think of going elsewhere buying or selling in New York.

Warm regards,

– JP and Joeleen Song

“Fran demonstrated the patience and foresight throughout the sale process, and eventually achieved the full asking price we wanted. Her market knowledge, professionalism and responsiveness set her apart from her peers, giving us the confidence that she will get the job done.

– Steven Wong and Pamela Huang

Frances Katzen and her team were amazingly helpful and efficient throughout the entire process of searching for, and closing on, my apartment in New York City. They were extremely diligent and very available to provide answers to questions and give advice on the negotiation process and the many other moving pieces of a Manhattan real estate deal. I am so thankful that I chose to work with them and they would absolutely be my only choice for any future real estate needs.

– Conor Devine, GUGGENHEIM PARTNERS

We are very pleased to offer a lasting endorsement and a deep gratitude to Fran and her team. My husband and I engaged Fran to sell our apartment and were rewarded with a level of dedication, energy, and professionalism that is unmatched in the New York real estate market. Above all, Fran truly knows how to navigate the market and deliver results. As part of this extremely effective representation, Fran’s unwavering focus, business acumen, and a deft touch at all the critical junctions of marketing and negotiating proved to be invaluable assets to us as clients. We highly recommend Fran as a broker, a fantastic strategist, and a trusted advisor.
Thanks again,

– Amber & Slaven Jesic

Fran – Kate & I feel incredibly fortunate to have had you on our side throughout this process. Your counsel, advice and assistance have been invaluable. We will definitely be referring friends your way!

– Curtis Hardwick | JP Morgan

Frances was a life saver for us. She was able to step into what had become a stale listing and refresh and remarket our apartment to a new audience of buyers. She worked tirelessly for us and provided a steady hand in advising us through some stressful decisions. We would definitely work with Fran again.

– Dan and Jordan Gaspar

Dear Frances,

I wanted to take the time and thank you for your professionalism, hard work and friendship which is second to none! We enjoyed working with you from A to Z and it is obvious that we will use our service in the future. I gave you my full trust and you wisely used it. As you know I have been a good ambassador for you, for years, and you can be sure that I refer to you clients just as I did in the past.

– Aviv Oranim and Keren Arazi

Dear Fran,

Thank you for your stellar performance in the sale of Susan’s apartment. I can’t imagine a better process or outcome. You made it all seem extraordinarily easy and stress-free — and James and I are tremendously appreciative.

With best wishes,

– Marybeth and James Sollins

Frances Katzen is the representative you hope for in any financial situation. She has assembled a team to SUPPORT her; not stand in for her. She is aware of every detail of the deals she takes on. Responsive , capable and result driven Frances is known as an advocate who brings integrity and professionalism and stability to a frequently confusing, emotional and chaotic situation.

Frances specializes in gauging the current market and positioning a property to trade at or above ask consistently. She does this by having an unerring instinct of her market as well as the clientele she is working with.

I could not recommend her more highly.

– Leah Azoulay

I want to thank you for a job very well done. You were terrific in marketing and selling our loft and in managing the buyer through the closing process. As someone involved in new condo development in Manhattan it was a pleasure to see how well you understood the market and the marketing process as well as the closing process. I would highly recommend you to anyone looking for a top-tier team to sell their apartment.

– Anthony V. Labozzetta, President of Madison Equities, LLC

To sell my apartment, i sought a broker with deep knowledge of the local market, a strong track record of success, and a compelling story about how to effectively market my own property. Fran brought all of this to the table, and the results were multiple offers above our ask price after the first open house. I have already started referring her and her team of true professionals to prospective buyers and sellers of NYC residences. There is no one else I would call!

– Evan and Lisa Goldfine

Fran,

Thank you for all your help getting us there. I am very happy to get the price that we did $100K above the ask! Having everything done and dusted in virtually no time. The strategy that you proposed worked perfectly. I have the moving van ready to go! You are the consummate pro – that is why you are the best!

Sincerely,

– Peter

Frances Katzen is one of the best real estate rainmakers in NYC, and she and her team have delivered again. After buying a fantastic property with Frances a few years ago, she and her team – Lance Watson-Taffe lead – managed to rent my condo with the best parameters across the board. I will continue to recommend her and the team and look forward to working together again in the future.

Sincerely,

– Debora Koyama

Dear Fran,

I wanted to thank you for all your efforts on 1st Street and seeing the project through. You did a great job with little to work with in the early days and I wanted to make sure you know I, and my partners, are appreciative of all your efforts and I personally want to thank you and congratulate you on a job well done.

I hope to work with you again,

– Eckstein Development

Fran, It has been an absolute pleasure working with you. This is not always the easiest process, but to be able to smile and laugh with you thru all of the craziness makes it all the more enjoyable and is much appreciated. This home is just beautiful. Thank you for all that you do.

– Sally and Shane T

“Frances congratulations on selling my home in New York. It was smooth and wonderful; your company is great. Thank you so much. Hope to see you again.”

Sincerely,

– Pat Cooper

My wife and I had a wonderful experience working with Frances Katzen and her team. The attention to detail, constant feedback on showings, market guidance and personal attention made me feel like I was their only client. I would highly recommend using the Katzen team on your next listing in New York if you want a really positive experience with results!

– Jack McKillip

Buying in NYC is so much different than buying in San Francisco. The Katzen Team, represented by Lancelot Watson-Taffe, made the experience much less stressful. His client-focused service, hard work and his ability to plan ahead is second to none. Fran Katzen is the ultimate relator with a deep knowledge of the market and negotiation. As a seasoned banker, it is hard to impress me (lol) but I am indeed impressed!!

– Margaret Mak, Executive Director, First Republic Bank

I am writing this to express my extreme satisfaction with Fran, Lance and the rest of the Douglas Elliman Katzen Team

Over the last 6 years Fran has helped me sell three condominiums in Manhattan. Most recently our collaboration included the sale of an apartment in Midtown. Despite the difficult market conditions, Fran and her team helped develop a selling strategy that reimagined the apartments space and look…a necessity in this environment.

I chose Fran because of her professionalism and insight. I’m so glad I did as the property went to contract soon after listing.

I very much recommend her Team !

– Ronald Goldstein

We just received an email from Stu and the close is done!

We just wanted to thank you for your help, professionalism, your outstanding way to answer so promptly all our questions.

It’s has been a real pleasure to work with you and I am sure we will work again very soon all together on our next project.

Many thanks,

– Emmanuel Geindreau-Banchik and Steven Banchik

First of all, congratulations on an excellent job shepherding our transaction through the choppy waters we encountered. But for your expert advice and counsel, the outcome might have been different. Well done.

– Roger and Lou Keating

The lovely Frances Katzen is a delightful, 5-star real estate guru, known for her knowledge of NYC luxury markets, strikingly able to bring out the most desirable features of a property, no matter the price level. She’s a virtual magician in directing attention to its functionality and what yet may be done. Could not have gotten this closed in this insane climate without her!

– Diana Brian

Selling a property while living across the county is a challenging and scary position to be in. You have to have complete faith in a team that can successfully manage the relationships needed to sell a home. The contractors, the building management, the lawyers, the stagers….

I feel fortunate to have found and worked with Frances Katzen and her team. They made it easy, efficient, and seamless.

My place sold within days of being on the market. With my approval, Fran and her team managed the conversations with all the relevant stakeholders on my behalf to get the home sold for the maximum price.

Ongoing communication was excellent, and they took the worry and hassle away from me.

This has been honestly the best real estate transaction I have ever been a part of.

– Lynn and Alex Flynt

 

CONNECT WITH FRANCES