This week we spotlight Ben Willig, the newly appointed Executive of Agent Growth and Strategy, Downtown at Brown Harris Stevens. Joining us from Forbes Global Properties Member Elegran, Ben brings a mix of Wall Street-honed analytical skills, deep industry leadership experience, and a passion for elevating agents to their highest potential. In the interview, he shares what drew him to BHS’s family-oriented culture, how lessons from his early career shaped his leadership style, why “fun” is his one-word advice for navigating today’s market, and much more.
You joined Brown Harris Stevens this week after many years at Elegran. Why did you decide BHS was best for your next chapter of your career?
Family, brand, leadership, and future vision. I’ve always thrived in private, family-oriented cultures, and every person I spoke with described BHS using the word “family.” That kind of culture, from leadership down to every agent, is rare and powerful. BHS also brings together the credibility of a legacy brand with the warmth of a collaborative, high-integrity team. From the moment I met the leadership, I felt that “it factor.” Their vision for the future and the caliber of talent across the company made the decision an easy one.
You started your career on Wall Street. What did you learn there that you bring to your real estate career?
Work ethic, analytical thinking, and, through my own mistakes, how essential life balance is. Wall Street taught me how to communicate complex ideas clearly, present financials effectively, and maintain a relentless drive. But it also showed me that professional success doesn’t fix imbalance in the rest of your life. Some of the best lessons I’ve learned came from coaches after that chapter, and I now share those with agents. It’s not just about being great at what you do, it’s about being great at who you are. The rest follows.
You are passionate about elevating the agents around you, what is one word of advice to navigate the current real estate market we are in?
Fun. This market, like every market, will create its next top performers, so why not you? Markets don’t stop greatness; they shape the strategy. Be consistent, know when to pivot, and don’t wish for fewer problems, wish for more wisdom. Lean into your unique strengths and enjoy the process. That energy is magnetic.
Agents say that you are always willing to lend a helping hand in their business. What is your management style?
As leaders, we serve at the feet of our people. We’re nothing without our agents and staff. Having walked in their shoes as an agent and a team leader, I know what it's like out there. My style is hands-on, I want to be in the trenches with our agents, knocking down doors and helping them succeed every step of the way.
Share with us your outside opinion of BHS before joining.
From the outside, I saw a respected brand that dominated the high-end market in New York, and I also assumed (incorrectly) it might have been a bit behind some industry trends. Since joining, I’ve realized that BHS is actually one of the most forward-thinking companies in the business. The family ownership, the marketing innovation, the leadership, it’s all evolving fast. I’m excited to help tell that story to the marketplace. I’ll be shouting it from the rooftops!
What is your opinion on the future of the real estate agent over the next ten years and how do you best prepare for the future and maximize profitability?
The future belongs to agents who combine high volume or niche excellence with deep trust and emotional intelligence. Tech will continue to evolve, but humans will always crave relationships with those they trust. The best way to stay future-proof is to become a great leader, someone who communicates clearly, builds trust, and adapts fast. Use technology to amplify, not replace, your strengths. Stay open, stay humble, and lead with both skill and heart.
Share something few know about you.
I once closed a negotiation on a West Village townhouse while on an ER table after getting hit by a bus on a CitiBike. Doctors said my helmet saved my life, and my wife, Lindsay, was on the other side of the table, holding the phone. Every day since then has felt like a gift, and I believe I was kept around on the earth that day to share a few of mine. That is when my path to coaching truly began.
I’m also a proud husband to Lindsay and dad to our two amazing kids, Harvey and Paige. I could go on for hours about our family, they are my greatest source of joy.
Share a photo on your camera roll that means a lot to you and share why.
My family is my greatest blessing. I’m passionate about pushing myself to new limits physically, mentally, and professionally. I believe most of us haven’t even scratched the surface of our full potential. For me, Ironman races have become a personal proving ground of pushing my limits. What’s been beautiful is seeing how that journey has inspired my wife in her own athletic pursuits, and my son, Harvey, just completed his first triathlon. That ripple effect wasn’t my intention, but it’s one of the most meaningful outcomes. This photo captures that spirit.
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