Elan Gabai

Elan Gabai’s connection to real estate began at an early age, accompanying his father, a contractor, to construction sites and developing an appreciation for architecture, design, and the potential of a space. Originally from Rockland County, Elan moved to Manhattan in 1999 and has called New York home ever since.

Before entering real estate, Elan spent more than a decade in the fashion industry. He began his career as an assistant buyer at Saks Fifth Avenue before moving to the wholesale side of the business, where his work encompassed design, merchandising, marketing, and sales. That experience sharpened both his business instincts and his eye for presentation—skills that have become integral to his approach to real estate. Whether advising a seller on how best to position a property or helping a buyer recognize the possibilities within a home, Elan brings a thoughtful and discerning perspective to every transaction.

With extensive experience across Manhattan and Brooklyn, Elan has developed a particularly deep knowledge of the Upper East and Upper West Sides, where he lived for nearly two decades. In 2020, he expanded his personal connection to New York real estate by purchasing a home on Washington Street in DUMBO, a neighborhood he had long admired. He also spends time at his home in Amagansett and has developed a strong appreciation for the Hamptons and its distinctive residential market.

Elan is a member of The Rothman Team at Douglas Elliman, led by top-producing broker Adam Rothman. Together, the team represents buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants across a broad spectrum of the New York City market, from rentals and first-time purchases to multimillion-dollar luxury properties.

Known for his responsiveness, persistence, and highly personal approach, Elan believes exceptional representation extends well beyond negotiating a deal. He remains closely involved from the first conversation through closing, providing candid advice, careful attention to detail, and the level of service necessary to make even complicated transactions feel manageable.

Elan graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. His combination of market knowledge, business experience, design sensibility, and long-standing connection to New York gives his clients a trusted perspective when buying, selling, or renting in one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets.