Darin Tansey, a well-known Miami Beach real estate agent affiliated with Douglas Elliman, died Tuesday morning at age 50. He was found at his residence in the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Tansey moved to Miami nearly twenty years ago after growing up in Iowa and built a successful career in luxury real estate across Miami Beach, Edgewater, Bay Harbor Islands, and nearby areas. Over his career, he closed more than $3 billion in deals. His work included sales at the Ritz-Carlton Residences and involvement with upcoming projects like Edition Residences in Edgewater. Most recently, he led sales for La Maré by Regency Development Group in Bay Harbor Islands and Villa17 in Miami Beach.
Jay Parker, CEO of Elliman Florida, and Michael Liebowitz, CEO of Douglas Elliman, informed staff about Tansey’s death via an internal memo: “His warmth, sense of humor, professionalism and genuine care for both clients and colleagues made him a true standout at Douglas Elliman and across our industry,” the email reads.
Michael Liebowitz told The Real Deal that he met Tansey 15 years ago when Tansey brokered the sale of Liebowitz’s first home in Miami. “Darin brought something special to Douglas Elliman that can’t be replaced,” Liebowitz wrote on social media.
Jay Parker expressed deep sorrow over Tansey’s passing: “He was a man of integrity, honor, professionalism, respect, commitment, discipline and tenacity,” Parker said.
Chris Wands from Elliman described Tansey as “the most selfless person” in real estate. “He was one of my best friends. He gave me my first job in real estate. Business-wise, friend-wise, there wasn’t a better person,” Wands said.
Julian Johnston from Corcoran Group recalled working with Tansey about 15 years ago at Calibre International Realty. Johnston noted that Tansey excelled during his work selling units at the Ritz-Carlton project developed by Lionheart Capital.
Nelson Gonzalez from BHHS EWM Realty called news of Tansey’s death a “gut punch” to the heart: “He’s one of the good guys,” Gonzalez said. “Nobody ever had anything bad to say about him.”
Ashley Holland, who served as his publicist, stated: “Beyond his remarkable professional accomplishments, Darin will be remembered for his infectious energy, his unwavering loyalty, and the way he made every person feel seen and valued.”
Tansey was born on February 16th 1975 and is survived by extended family members and his dog Vino; funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
