The New York City real estate community is mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars, Gail Sankarsingh, a top luxury associate real estate broker at Douglas Elliman, who passed away in New York at 1:41 a.m. Her death has left colleagues, clients, and friends in profound grief.
Among the first to share the heartbreaking news was her longtime friend Edwin Ayoung, who wrote, “She leave me sad this morning where she, GAIL SANKARSINGH, died in New York 1.41am and she was my best friend.”
Gail’s passing marks the loss of one of the city’s most accomplished and respected real estate professionals. Known for her level of expertise, relentless work ethic, and elegant approach to client service, she built a reputation that reached far beyond New York, earning admiration at home and abroad. Ranking as #5 and #6 out of more than 7,000 Douglas Elliman brokers nationwide, she was widely regarded as a top-tier expert in luxury co-op and condominium sales.
With more than 15 years of experience in New York City residential real estate, Gail’s career reflected both mastery and passion. She represented elite domestic and international clients, skillfully connecting discerning buyers with extraordinary homes while securing exceptional value for sellers. Her extensive knowledge of New York’s most prestigious buildings, combined with her intuitive understanding of client needs, made her a trusted figure within one of the world’s most competitive markets.
Her success drew national and international recognition, and Gail was frequently featured in major news outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Real Deal, and other respected industry publications. Her achievements also earned her appearances on television, where she was celebrated for her insight and poise.
In recent years, Gail shifted her focus toward serving her private clients more exclusively, continuing to excel in both resale and new development sales. Her career history included leadership roles at several of Manhattan’s most coveted addresses. She spearheaded sales at The Centrale, a Midtown luxury tower with 124 residences, and previously guided the sellout of The Chamberlain, a boutique Upper West Side co-op. Gail also served as Director of Sales at the prestigious Baccarat Hotel and Residences on Fifth Avenue, where she and her team oversaw the sale of the building’s remarkable $60 million penthouse among other high-value units.
Her résumé extended across numerous iconic developments, including Manhattan House, The Apthorp, The Residences at 400 Fifth Avenue, 101 Leonard Street, and The Beekman Hotel and Residences. Her work ethic, resourcefulness, creativity, and sharp negotiating skills allowed her to thrive even in volatile or challenging markets. For Gail, every project—a large-scale development or a single client’s search for home—was an opportunity to deliver her signature excellence.
Born in the Caribbean and of East Indian descent, Gail moved to New York City in 1986, where she built both her career and her life. She traveled widely, spending meaningful time in Zurich and visiting destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Outside of work, she devoted herself to charitable causes, enjoyed skiing in St. Moritz and Aspen, and embraced the discipline and joy of marathon running.
Her passing leaves a tremendous void in the industry and in the hearts of those who knew her. Gail Sankarsingh will be remembered not only for her professional brilliance but for her warmth, generosity, and unyielding dedication to excellence. Her legacy will continue through the countless clients she served, the developments she shaped, and the many lives she touched along the way.