Accomplished real estate veteran, investor, and entrepreneur Edward Longley has embarked on his latest flagship project: spearheading the growth of NJ Elite Group, a collective of top real estate professionals and investors identifying investment opportunities for clients across the United States. Longley joined NJ Elite Group as its COO after a long and distinguished career with The Hollingsworth Group, a New York-based real estate investment firm known for working with C-level executives, real estate developers, investors, and businesses.

As he steps into his new role at NJ Elite Group, he plans to develop strategic partnerships while leveraging the organization’s resources and influence to champion civic improvement initiatives. Committed to sustainable construction, he aims to help clients identify eco-friendly investment opportunities nationwide. A longtime supporter of multiple charities, he has also expressed plans to collaborate with local nonprofits to support neighborhoods and communities in New Jersey.

Throughout his time at The Hollingsworth Group, which he founded in 2011, Longley emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality services despite fluctuations in the real estate market. Running a business in Manhattan, New York, he navigated significant downturns following unexpected catastrophes such as 9/11, the Northeast Blackout of 2003, Hurricane Sandy, the 2007–2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, Longley recognized the value of exceptional customer service, and his persistence ultimately paid off as The Hollingsworth Group weathered these crises.

“I had to work twice as hard, with a focus on innovation during certain years, as we seemed to have a major crisis every three or four years,” Longley explained.

At The Hollingsworth Group, Longley also demonstrated a long-term interest in the creative use of technology to solve real estate challenges.

“We utilized a blend of cutting-edge tech-based solutions for both residential and commercial real estate to produce unprecedented results,” he stated.

In addition, he developed several key initiatives, including the company’s proprietary real estate concierge and relocation program; its “Giving Back” charitable initiatives; a unique quantum technology platform that helped the firm buy low and sell above market value; and Edge Marketing, a multi-channel marketing approach that enhanced the entire real estate process and contributed to record-breaking success.

Longley’s passion for technology has also influenced his other ventures, including the AI marketing pioneer Alpha Trend, where he serves as a silent partner, and the auction house and international real estate firm Sotheby’s, where he served as Team President and Global Real Estate Director.

Longley’s openness to new ideas and entrepreneurial spirit date back to the early stages of his career, long before his time at The Hollingsworth Group. His business journey began in his 20s when he worked as a national sales manager in the gift industry, facilitating deals with major retailers such as Frank’s Nursery & Crafts, Party City, and Michael’s. He later led sales teams at The Guardian and MassMutual. Eventually, he developed an interest in real estate and earned an MBA in management and leadership, as well as a master’s degree in education. 

Today, Longley is focused on expanding NJ Elite Group with a strong emphasis on ethical business practices.

“We have wonderfully talented people and a profitable business here, but they are also good human beings. I want integrity to be a core component of the way we do business going forward,” he states.

NJ Elite Group is exploring opportunities to offer internships and establish a real estate investment trust (REIT) in the future. Longley continues to leverage his expertise in real estate, wealth management, technology, and leadership development to help NJ Elite Group achieve its goals. Expressing confidence in the company’s future, he adds, “We have a state-of-the-art, proprietary business model and amazing leadership at NJ Elite Group. Now it’s time to show the world what we can do.”

Written in partnership with Tom White