Tensions Rise Among SERHANT Agents in ‘Owning Manhattan’ Season 2
Tensions have escalated among real estate agents featured in the second season of Owning Manhattan, particularly between Tricia Lee and Jessica Markowski. Lee has voiced her concerns about Markowski’s portrayal of success in the competitive New York City real estate market, suggesting that it misrepresents the realities faced by most agents.
Lee expressed her frustrations during a recent interview at DECIDER’s studio, just before the season’s premiere on Netflix. She criticized Markowski for presenting an image that, according to Lee, diminishes the hard work and dedication required in the industry. “When people are out here having to build a business from scratch, like 99.9% of agents, you’re selling this image that hurts us,” Lee stated.
In her comments, Lee indicated that Markowski’s success is largely attributed to her husband’s connections. “We all have a cheat in real estate…her husband is a cheat,” Lee elaborated. She acknowledged that her own previous business in Brooklyn opened doors for her in the real estate field, allowing her to secure opportunities. Yet, she believes Markowski’s public persona oversimplifies the path to success, which can be frustrating for those who have worked hard to establish their careers.
Lee’s concerns center around the notion that Markowski presents a narrative suggesting agents can achieve significant sales, such as a $1 million or $10 million property, without acknowledging the underlying challenges. This portrayal, according to Lee, contributes to a perception that agents are overpaid for minimal effort and lack genuine value.
Markowski, on the other hand, responded to Lee’s comments with surprise. She emphasized her work ethic, noting her origins in an immigrant family and the struggles she overcame to succeed in a challenging industry. “I work harder than anybody knows,” she asserted.
Markowski explained that her social media presence focuses on the highlights of her career, which may not fully capture the effort behind her achievements. With listings such as a $30 million property in Greenwich Village and a $17 million apartment at One High Line, she sees her successes as a reflection of her dedication. “I do work hard,” she reiterated, expressing disappointment that Lee perceives her in a negative light.
As the drama unfolds, viewers of Owning Manhattan are left to consider the implications of these conflicts within the real estate community. The series, which showcases the lifestyles and challenges of agents at SERHANT, has captivated audiences with its blend of personal and professional rivalries. Season 2 is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
The ongoing tensions between Lee and Markowski highlight the competitive nature of the real estate market in New York City, where personal perceptions and professional realities often collide. As agents navigate their careers, the balance between public image and hard work remains a critical conversation in the industry.
