“We’re All About Our Clients.”
Joan Brothers is an accomplished CEO, seasoned real estate executive, international business consultant, and published author whose career exemplifies leadership, innovation, and global perspective. As the CEO and President of Manhattan Boutique Real Estate (MBRE), Joan has spent decades redefining the New York City real estate landscape, blending boutique service with strategic market insights to deliver exceptional results for her clientele. In addition to her real estate ventures, she leads Smart NY Solutions Inc., where she consults on Smart City initiatives, helping communities and businesses adapt to a rapidly evolving urban future.
With a career that bridges continents and industries, Joan’s academic and professional journey is as impressive as it is diverse. She holds a BA in Economics with a minor in Asian Studies from Boston College, an MBA in Marketing from the University of Hartford with studies in Paris, France, and is currently deepening her expertise at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate. Her educational pursuits have been enhanced with specialized certifications, including the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program Certificate in Entrepreneurship, Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) designation, and multiple certifications in real estate and affordable housing development from the City of New York.
Joan’s corporate foundation began with Mitsui & Co., the world’s largest trading company, where she honed her negotiation and marketing skills in the Steel Trading Division. Her early experience managing global operations translated seamlessly into her entrepreneurial ventures, enabling her to build and lead successful real estate firms including Interactive Development Associates LLC and Manhattan Global Properties before founding Manhattan Boutique Real Estate. Throughout her career, Joan has remained committed to empowering women in business, earning certifications from the Women Business Enterprise programs at the city, state, and national levels.
A prolific author and advocate for business leadership, Joan co-authored Women in Business – Leading the Way, a #1 Amazon bestseller in the Women & Business category, and contributed to Asia in Connecticut and Within Your Grasp: How to Enter the Japanese Market. Her thought leadership reflects her deep understanding of global commerce, cultural intelligence, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Recognized for her excellence, Joan has been honored with the Best for NYC Program award and the Best of Manhattan Award for Manhattan Boutique Real Estate. Her professional affiliations include The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), Sutton Area Community (SAC), and The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. She is also an active community supporter, engaging with the Asia Society, Civitas, and the China Institute to foster international connections and local impact.
As a licensed real estate broker in both New York and New Jersey, Joan embodies the values of trust, dedication, and innovation. Her leadership style is marked by her commitment to client success, ethical business practices, and her passion for elevating the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders. Joan’s multifaceted background, paired with her relentless pursuit of excellence, has made her a respected figure not only in real estate but also in the broader business community.
Whether leading a real estate transaction, consulting on Smart City initiatives, or inspiring future business leaders through her writing and mentorship, Joan Brothers continues to redefine what it means to be a modern executive — globally aware, strategically focused, and personally invested in making a difference.
Character
Joan Brothers exemplifies unwavering integrity, entrepreneurial spirit, and community commitment, building trusted relationships across industries while empowering others through her leadership and advocacy.
Knowledge
Joan’s extensive academic background in economics, marketing, and real estate, combined with decades of global business experience, positions her as a leading expert in real estate, Smart City consulting, and cross-cultural business strategies.
Strategic
Through visionary leadership and precise market insight, Joan has strategically expanded Manhattan Boutique Real Estate and Smart NY Solutions Inc., aligning innovative solutions with client needs and future-forward industry trends.
Communication
Joan communicates with authenticity and clarity, effectively bridging cultural and business divides while inspiring collaboration among diverse stakeholders through her writing, public engagement, and client relations.
