Houlihan Lawrence’s Darien brokerage is experiencing strong momentum under the leadership of Sales Manager Courtney Haidinger, whose strategic recruiting efforts have strengthened the office’s presence in the local market.
The Darien office has welcomed 12 experienced real estate professionals, each bringing deep market expertise and strong local relationships. Eight of the agents joined from Brown Harris Stevens: Liz Bacon, Elmerina Brooks, Breda Casey, Ali Cherenek, Robyn deCastro, Rita Marber (returning to Houlihan Lawrence), Mary Seiler and Beth Vaccaro.
Also returning to Houlihan Lawrence are Tami Hanford Hughes and Ellen McCue from Compass, joined by Lauren Stever from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Greenwich and Chris Peters, formerly with Coldwell Banker.
“Our recruitment strategy highlights the Darien brokerage’s market leadership and the appeal of being part of a top-tier team,” said Haidinger. “Our collaborative culture ensures constant communication, making us the most informed resource for our clients. The growth of our office has been organic and intentional. Our team has a long-standing culture shaped by trust, professionalism and meaningful relationships, both among our agents and with the clients we serve. That foundation has created an environment where experienced agents want to be on a strong, supportive team, where knowledge is shared, collaboration is genuine and everyone works toward the same goal: exceptional client service.”
With this expansion, the Darien office continues to provide clients with local expertise and exceptional service, reinforcing its role as a leading brokerage in the region.
The Darien market is booming. According to Houlihan Lawrence’s 2025 Luxury Market report, Darien had the highest sales price in southern Fairfield County at $26.5 million. Overall sales were up 15.9% for the year while median sales prices rose 21.5%.
Founded in Bronxville, New York, in 1888, Houlihan Lawrence is deeply committed to technological innovation and the finest client service. The company has 32 offices and 1,450+ agents serving Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Columbia, Ulster and Orange counties in New York, and Fairfield County in Connecticut.
