Never Wait for Permission to Lead, Says Platinum Properties CEO
As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, MHN talked to Dezireh Eyn about what it takes to succeed as a female broker.
The real estate industry is constantly evolving, and many brokerage firms have either faded away or been absorbed by larger players. Yet, Platinum Properties—a family-owned company based in New York City’s Financial District—has managed to prosper and grow. Founded in 2005 with just three employees, the firm has become one of Manhattan’s top boutique brokerages.
On its 20th anniversary, Platinum is entering an exciting new chapter, with Co-Founder Dezireh Eyn taking over as CEO. Why is this moment particularly special? Because she is now at the helm of an all-female leadership team—a rarity in an industry historically dominated by men.
Multi-Housing News asked Eyn to talk about the power of diversity and mentorship, as well as the workplace policies needed to drive lasting change for women in real estate.
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Why was it important to you for Platinum Properties to become an all-female-led company? What impact do you expect this to have on company culture and client relationships?
Eyn: Platinum Properties has always been a company that values diversity, collaboration and innovation, so having an all-female leadership team is not just a milestone—it’s a reflection of who we are and what we stand for … It’s a testament to the strength, expertise and strategic vision that women contribute, and I’m incredibly proud to lead a team that embodies those qualities.
This shift has had a profound impact on our company culture. Platinum Properties has always been a people-first brokerage and our leadership team is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative and empowering workplace. We understand the importance of mentorship, work-life balance and creating opportunities for growth. We live by the core value of ‘health, then wealth,’ that’s why we’ve implemented initiatives like flexible work schedules, paid time off and wellness programs that prioritize both personal and professional development.
For me, this is personal. My late grandfather was a strong advocate for women in leadership and entrepreneurship, and his belief in fostering opportunity has always been a guiding force in my career. Not to mention, while growing up, my mother was a full-time working parent, and it was remarkable that she was able to do it all. She set an example and paved the way for me to follow. Throughout my journey in real estate and in life, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have strong female role models, not just for the next generation of professionals but for the industry as a whole …
In your new role as CEO, what are your top priorities?
Eyn: My top priorities center on growth, innovation and empowerment—values that have defined Platinum Properties since its founding nearly 20 years ago … Our team brings a diverse range of expertise, perspectives and experiences, and we’re united by a shared commitment to supporting our agents and driving the company forward.
Recruiting top talent is a key initiative. As we expand, we want to attract ambitious, service-driven professionals who align with our values and vision …
Increasing brand awareness is another major focus. Platinum Properties has long been a leader in Lower Manhattan, but we’re looking ahead to further solidifying our presence across the city …
Finally, we’re doubling down on our investment in support staff and technology. One of Platinum’s biggest advantages is our higher-than-industry standard agent-to-staff ratio, ensuring that our agents have dedicated administrative, marketing and operational support to stay ahead of the curve.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the real estate sector, and how have they shaped your leadership style?
Eyn: Real estate, especially New York City real estate, is one of the most fast-paced, high-stakes industries out there. It demands resilience, adaptability and the ability to make quick, strategic decisions—qualities that have absolutely shaped my leadership style.
From the start of my career, I was drawn to the energy of this business. The unpredictable nature of the market, the constant negotiation and the high expectations from clients taught me how to stay calm under pressure, pivot when needed and always find a solution. In real estate, you don’t wait for opportunities—you create them. That mindset has become a core principle in how I lead.
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I take a hands-on, action-oriented approach to leadership. I don’t believe in sitting on the sidelines. I’m deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, from supporting our agents to refining our strategy. My experience navigating the intensity of this industry has taught me that the best leaders don’t just dictate—they collaborate. They listen, they problem-solve and they move decisively.
Ultimately, my leadership style is about empowering others, ensure that our agents have the support, resources and mentorship they need to thrive. Whether it’s through innovative technology, a strong support staff or a collaborative team environment, I lead with the same philosophy that has shaped my career—stay agile, stay driven and never stop creating opportunities.
In your opinion, what needs to change for more women to have access to senior-level leadership roles?
Eyn: We need to be intentional about breaking down the barriers that have historically limited access to those opportunities. Change starts at the top—with companies recognizing the value of diverse leadership and actively fostering an environment where women can grow, lead and thrive … (They) need to focus on three key areas: mentorship, flexibility and equal access to opportunities.
First, mentorship and sponsorship are critical. Women need to see other women in leadership roles. They need guidance, advocacy and a support system that helps them navigate the path to senior positions. I was fortunate to have strong role models … (and) I’ve carried that forward in my own leadership.
Second, workplace policies must evolve to support women at all stages of their careers. The reality is that many women face added challenges in balancing career growth with personal responsibilities, and companies that recognize this—by offering flexible schedules, paid family leave and support systems—will retain and elevate more female leaders.
Finally, we need to ensure that leadership opportunities are based on merit, not outdated norms … Our all-female leadership team wasn’t built for the sake of diversity—it was built because they are the best people for the job. When companies focus on talent and capability … more women will have the chance to take their well-earned seats at the table.
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By the way, what makes women good brokers? And what could be done to encourage more women into broking?
Eyn: Being a great broker has nothing to do with gender—it has everything to do with skill, work ethic and the ability to build meaningful relationships. Success in real estate is driven by expertise, negotiation skills and a deep understanding of clients’ needs, and those qualities are not exclusive to any gender.
That said, women have historically been underrepresented in certain segments of the industry, particularly in leadership and the commercial sector. Barriers still exist—whether it’s limited access to high-level mentorship, fewer opportunities to lead or outdated perceptions about who excels in this business. (So) the focus shouldn’t be on why women make good brokers—it should be on how we create more opportunities for women to break barriers in real estate.
That starts with visibility. Women need to see other women thriving at every level of real estate—from top-producing brokers to CEOs—so they know these paths are not just possible, but achievable …
Creating flexible, supportive work environments is another key factor. Real estate is a demanding career, and many talented women leave the industry because they don’t see a path that allows them to succeed while also balancing personal priorities …
Ultimately, success in real estate is about determination, strategy and execution. Women bring immense value to this industry, and the more we remove outdated barriers and create real opportunities, the more we’ll see women stepping into—and excelling in—every facet of the business.
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As we celebrate Women’s History Month, what’s your message to the next generation of female leaders?
Eyn: Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the trailblazers who have come before us while also looking ahead to the next generation of female leaders. My message to women stepping into leadership—whether in real estate, business or any industry—is simple: Own your ambition, break barriers and never wait for permission to lead …
I also want to remind young women that leadership isn’t about doing it all alone. The best leaders build strong networks, seek out mentorship and lift others as they rise. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance and support of those who believed in me, and I believe it’s our responsibility to do the same for the next generation. Find mentors, be a mentor and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you.
Finally, remember that resilience is key. The path to leadership isn’t always easy, but challenges are what shape great leaders. Stay adaptable, embrace change and don’t be afraid to take risks. At Platinum, one of our core values is ‘Make the Weather’—meaning we don’t wait for opportunities, we create them. That’s the mindset I encourage every young woman to adopt.
