About Elizabeth Keenan-Penagos

Elizabeth is a passionate and accomplished agent known for her ability to translate even the most complicated transactions into an experience her clients not only understand, but also enjoy. She specializes in residential sales throughout New York City, with a special focus on Brooklyn. She has worked with a wide range of buyers and sellers, but loves any opportunity to work with first-time buyers. Regardless of neighborhood or budget, Elizabeth is always drawn to the chance to help her clients see a space's unexpected possibilities. "I can appreciate the value of a compact but efficient studio as much as a grand townhouse. It's all about finding a space in which you can envision yourself. It's even more exciting when the best fit surprises you." Elizabeth's natural communication skills and confidence with new people are the result of 15 years as a successful writer, researcher, and educator prior to her entry to real estate. She brings a combination of her research expertise, as well as a wealth of market knowledge and negotiation skills, to every transaction, ensuring that both her sellers and buyers receive the best service possible. Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, (where she began going to local open houses at age four), Elizabeth has lived in New York for nearly 20 years, with the exception of short detours in Seattle and San Francisco. Prior to her career in real estate, Elizabeth graduated with honors from Loyola University with a BA in music history and literature and earned a PhD in ethnomusicology from Columbia University. She spent the next seven years teaching music at Fordham University and working as a professional freelance writer and editor. Elizabeth has a range of interests outside of real estate, including a strong passion for music. She began studying the flute at the age of nine, and performed semi-professionally into her 20s. She plays electric bass in the NYC-based band Faulkner Detectives and bi-coastal Dead Dresses. Her first novel, Rebel Girls, will be published in summer 2019 with Harlequin Teen. Elizabeth is also an avid swimmer and runner (she's completed four marathons and over 30 half marathons). She currently lives in Inwood, where she shares a beautiful brick townhouse with her husband Ryan and their adorable cats. Testimonials "Buying in Brooklyn is a stressful experience, and Elizabeth went above and beyond to make the process as smooth and pleasant as possible. After an exhaustive search and some unexpected complications, Elizabeth found us the perfect apartment in the perfect location. We couldn't have done this without her -- her expertise in the field and her warm, approachable personality are unmatched. If you're looking to buy or sell in Brooklyn, don't look any further than Elizabeth Keenan-Penagos." -Melissa and Becca M. "Elizabeth did an incredible job finding my current home. She truly understood what I was looking for, was very helpful in walking me through the market and sale, and continues to stay in touch. Her focus on her clients' needs, knowledge, and ability to communicate make her a a huge asset as well as a delight to work with." -Alexis G. "I cannot thank Elizabeth enough for navigating the overwhelming world of New York City real estate to help me buy my dream first apartment. Elizabeth took the time to get to know me and understand my lifestyle, and was sensitive to these needs when recommending listings--each place we looked at was a good fit, but she didn't give up until we found "the one". She was honest, patient, tenacious and enthusiastic, and most importantly was always on my team. Thank you, Elizabeth!" -Linzee T.