C
lark Halstead, a pioneering figure in the real estate industry, passed away on August 22nd at the age of 83. He was a co-founder of both Sotheby's International Realty and Halstead Property, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the modern residential real estate brokerage landscape.
Halstead's career began in 1976 when he launched the brokerage with Edward Lee Cave. He later co-founded Halstead Property in 1984 alongside Diane Ramirez, who served as president, CEO, and chairman of the firm. His nephew, Christopher Halstead, an executive and sales director at Brown Harris Stevens in Connecticut, remembers his uncle's significant contributions to the industry.
Halstead's innovative approach to real estate brokerage was evident when he sketched out the idea for Halstead on a bar napkin during a lunch meeting with an investment group, as mentioned in a blog post on BHS' website. Approximately 20 years later, Halstead and Ramirez sold the brokerage to Terra Holdings, the parent company of BHS. Although he stepped back from day-to-day operations, Halstead remained involved as chairman emeritus, mentoring and advising the team.
Halstead was an active member and leader within the Real Estate Board of New York, where he played a crucial role in establishing and chairing the trade group's residential division. He also served on the board of governors.
In addition to his real estate ventures, Halstead was a well-known figure in media, hosting a weekly radio show called "Halstead's Real Estate Review" on WQXR and making appearances on TV shows like "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" and "Good Day New York." He was also a spokesperson and model for the Hathaway Shirt Company in the late 1970s.
Halstead was known for his unique approach to client service at his eponymous firm. He would drive clients around in a fleet of branded London taxis equipped with TVs, wet bars, and computers. His grandchildren, William, Winston, Oakley, and Olivia, survive him along with his daughters Heather Gustafson and Hilary O'Keefe, his son-in-laws Marc Gustafson and John O'Keefe.
Halstead's passing is a significant loss for the real estate industry. His innovative spirit, entrepreneurial mindset, and commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on residential real estate brokerage.
