We spoke with Lexi Brine, licensed associated real estate broker at Julia B. Fee in Larchmont. She gave us some insight into the Westchester real estate market, her life in the Sound Shore and shared some of her favorite local spots! Be sure to follow her on Instagram, where she does a great job of presenting information about the current market and comparing towns in the Sound Shore with her “This Town or That Town” posts. You can also visit her website here.
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I was born and raised in Manhattan! I am a city-kid, who knew absolutely nothing about the suburbs. We moved to Larchmont the summer before my oldest started kindergarten and haven’t looked back!
Tell us about your family – how old are your children?
We have an 8-year-old son who is in third grade, a 6-year-old daughter in kindergarten, and a sweet 4-year-old rescue dog.
When did you decide you wanted to be a Realtor?
My professional life has been anything but a straight line. I started out in marketing at the Estee Lauder Companies, and then left for law school. I was practicing corporate litigation at Kirkland & Ellis when my son, Theo, was born and I left because I wanted some time at home with him. I did a bunch of things in between, keeping my toes in the work waters, but mostly focused on Theo (and then my daughter, Rosie two years later). Once we moved out here, I started getting SO many questions from my city friends about Larchmont and the suburbs and my move. Getting my real estate license is something I had always thought about but didn’t take the leap until COVID lockdown. I had a feeling of: Why Not? I started slowly, working on a big team and getting my feet wet, learning from the experts! And, quickly started to build my own business and find my own way. I went out on my own, and LOVE it! Many of my previous life skills (negotiating, marketing, advising, connecting people) etc. make this job a great fit for me.
Can you please share a bit about yourself as a realtor?
My number one goal as a realtor is to serve my clients with honesty and compassion. So, everything I do comes from there. I am very straightforward. I will tell a client when I don’t think the situation is right. I will tell them when they must come see a house. I understand how stressful – emotionally and physically – this all can be. I worked with a neighbor to sell her home. She had lived in the house for 20+ years, and it was understandably emotional. After we closed she thanked me for being so sensitive to her during the transaction. That meant the world. Yes, we got a great number for her home and it was a successful sale. And, also, she felt supported and understood. That’s what I try to offer.
The market in the Sound Shore has been so hot for well over a year know—do you think it’ll continue?
Oh, I wish I had a crystal ball! The supply/demand imbalance is still pretty extreme here. Inventory is super low and demand has persisted throughout. While I don’t think we will see the peak prices/competition of the last two springs, I think it will be a busy and competitive spring. And, still a good time to sell!
What’s one thing you’d like to tell potential clients before they start their home search?
Know what is important and what is not. Pick your priorities. And, remember you are buying a community as much as a house.
If you could give one tip to fellow Mom Entrepreneurs what would it be?
If you are your authentic self, the right clients and opportunities will be attracted to you. Never settle on your ethics or your values. And, if you LOVE what you do it will show! Also, lean on other supportive moms and businesswomen as much as you can. That’s where I often find my inspiration.
We love to support local businesses! Tell us your 10 fun local favorites – ready, go!
1 – Favorite local thing to do with your kids?
Skiing at Thunder Ridge, Hiking the Leatherstocking Trail.
2 – Favorite coffee shop?
La Parisienne
3 – Favorite lunch spot?
Stan’z to sit, Cherry Lawn salads to go
4 – Favorite spot to get your sweat on?
I work out at home mostly!
5 – Favorite date night spot?
Encore and Lusardi’s
6 – Favorite boutique?
Palmer & Purchase
7 – Favorite spot to grab a drink?
Heritage 147
8 – Who has the best bagels in town?
Bagel Power
9 – Best slice of pizza?
Sal’s!
10 – Favorite place to shop for children’s gifts?
Miller’s!!
Interview by Whitney Spinelli. Photos by Amanda Berce.