The Appell-Fernandez Team, led by Andrew Appell and David Fernandez, is recognized as one of New York City’s most effective new development and sales collectives. Known for structured strategy, calm execution, and outcomes that consistently outperform the market, the team has built a reputation for delivering clarity and precision in every stage of the sales cycle.

With roots in Brooklyn and a prolific portfolio that spans Manhattan and beyond, the Appell-Fernandez Team has become a trusted partner for developers, buyers, and sellers across New York City. Their multidisciplinary backgrounds in design, construction, and business leadership have fueled more than $600 million in closed sales, multiple industry honors, and recognition among the Top 20 New Development Teams in NYC (The Real Deal) and Top 50 Nationwide (WSJ Real Trends).

What sets them apart is not just their record, but their process. Every launch is architected with intention. Every decision is grounded in clarity. Clients describe them as calm in the chaos, sharp without ego, and relentlessly prepared. This ethos has enabled the team to drive record-breaking sellouts, set new pricing standards, and earn lasting loyalty across diverse neighborhoods and market conditions.

For the Appell-Fernandez Team, real estate is not just about transactions—it’s about transitions. Their work goes beyond bringing buyers; they bring structure and strategy to projects of every scale, ensuring that results are measurable, sustainable, and aligned with the vision of the people they serve.

Execution Is Our Language. New York Is Our Dialect.

 
 

Andrew Appell

@andrew_appell

Andrew Appell is a new development strategist and real estate advisor known for clarity under pressure and brand-forward thinking. A Pratt Institute–trained designer and former architecture project manager, Andrew co-leads the Appell-Fernandez Team with a sharp focus on ground-up new development—from site analysis and floor plan logic to branding, pricing, and sellout execution. Developers trust him not just to sell product, but to shape it.

Known for his composure in high-stakes deals and clean, fast execution, Andrew brings a rare fluency in both design and market psychology. He’s also carved out a niche in the luxury townhouse space, guiding bespoke restorations and high-touch resale strategies.

Born and raised in Ditmas Park, Andrew comes from generations of Brooklynites and resides in the borough with his wife and two children. Outside of real estate, he’s a lifelong home cook—still designing, just in cast iron.

David Fernandez

@originalfernandez

 
 

David Fernandez brings over two decades of multifaceted real estate experience to his leadership of the Appell-Fernandez Team. From hands-on construction to project management and high-volume sales, he’s built a reputation for pairing deal-making savvy with operational precision. A former top-producing agent turned developer's representative, David now leads multi-site sellouts, offering clients deep expertise across acquisition, funding, marketing, and sales strategy.

Known for his unstoppable drive and unrivaled network, David approaches every project with entrepreneurial energy and developer-first insight. His ability to anticipate problems before they arise — and inspire momentum where others stall — has made him a trusted force across Brooklyn and Manhattan.

When not in the field, David is with his family of five in New Jersey or enjoying NYC’s finest cigars, spirits, and dining.

Irina Balueva

@irinabaluev

 
 

With a background in economics and risk management, Irina Balueva delivers highly strategic, data-backed guidance for buyers, sellers, and investors navigating NYC’s fast-moving real estate market. Known for her radiant energy and client-first focus, Irina has built a loyal following by blending analytical insight with genuine empathy and discretion.

She holds a master’s degree in Risk Management from Saint Petersburg University and wrote her thesis on real estate market cycles. Her precision has made her a go-to resource for international buyers, high-end resales, and new development deals. Irina also brings creativity and marketing intuition to every listing she touches.

Based in NYC, Irina enjoys discovering hidden corners of the city with her husband and their son, Aksel.

Seth Donstein

@sethdonstein

Seth Donstein is a construction-trained real estate advisor who brings craftsmanship, empathy, and clarity to every transaction. With a background in modern residential design and custom building, Seth has led construction and material selection for high-end townhouses and new development projects alike. Today, he’s known for translating that deep design and structural fluency into honest, informed guidance for buyers, sellers, and developers.

Seth previously ran a bi-coastal hospitality group, overseeing complex budgets and negotiations, and holds a psychology degree from Brooklyn College. Clients value his sharp eye, calm demeanor, and commitment to making every interaction personal.

Brooklyn-born and Roosevelt Island–based, Seth is a bassist, pilot-in-training, and proud husband and father.

Press, AF.

 
 
 
 

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More Than a Team, A Point of View

 
 

At our core, we’re thinkers, builders, strategists, and connectors who believe real estate is more than just inventory — it’s identity, design, timing, and trust. We’ve earned our stripes in the city’s most competitive arenas by blending intuition with rigor, and results with real relationships. As we grow, evolve, and create, one thing stays constant: our belief that great work speaks — and speaks volumes.

 
 

372 West Broadway, New York, NY 10012

917-968-4394 | 917-309-3398 l afteam@serhant.com