Miami has fully rebounded from the effects of the 2008 real estate bubble bust. Competition for affordable single-family homes in the city’s most desirable neighborhoods is high, and full cash offers from foreign buyers often win out.
Going it alone can be a difficult—if not flat-out impossible—gamble. Your best bet is to find a reliable realtor with inside knowledge and expert know-how when it comes to navigating Miami’s highly competitive market. The agents on this list (who come recommended by friends and online reviews) are skilled professionals who emphasize client relationships over the bottom line.
Cinthia Ane, Allison James Estates & Homes Elite
Cinthia Ane works with Allison James Estates & Homes Elite and focuses on luxury waterfront and equestrian property sales in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach county. She prides herself on offering a whole experience—which often includes the logistics of remodeling, landscaping, purchasing a yacht and jet charters
Abraham Ash
Looking to lead the condo life? Miami is an ideal spot, and Abraham Ash knows how to guide his clients to their soul mate of a space in the up-and-coming Downtown area and its tony neighbor Brickell. A born-and-raised native to the city, clients rave about his insider knowledge when it comes to local hot spots, culture, food and nightlife.
Mario Avalos
If you need something on the residential and suburban side, they you’ll want to reach out to the incredibly personable and knowledgeable Mario Avalos. When he’s not accompanying clients to their dream homes in Pinecrest, Kendall, Palmetto Bay or South Miami, he’s calling them up clients to wish them a happy birthday or a festive Mother’s Day. His blog videos are also a great source on house hunting tips and tricks.
David Carlton, Boca Executive Realty
David Carlton has 13 years of experience in real estate and has formed strong connections and relationships with lender, title services and construction companies—all of the components needed to help a client move through the home buying process quickly and efficiently. Customers praise his can-do attitude and humble charm, because as David puts it, ““Service is a lost art in today’s business world and is the foundation of my business platform!”
Jorge Fernandez, Compass
Named to Elite 2012 & 2013 by Unique Homes Magazine and one of the founding agents of Compass, Jorge Fernandez specialized in high-end homes in the Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and Key Biscayne neighborhoods. “There are so many great things about living here, I feel fortunate to be able to help others find their own niche while discovering this very special place,” says Jorge, who is a true Miami native. “Living all my life and operating several businesses in Miami has allowed me the opportunity to witness South Florida’s expansion into a flourishing international hotspot.”
Dinorah Guerra, RESF Real Estate
Praised by clients and brokers for being honest, fair and ethical, Dinorah Guerra of RESF Real Estate is a born and raised Miami native who specializes in residential real estate with an emphasis on the Coral Gables neighborhood. She works with South Florida buyers, sellers and renters to help gain value from their property and wisely invest in the home of their dreams.
Ines Hegedus-Garcia
Anyone want a mojito? Along with being one of Miami’s most engaging, knowledgeable and down-to-earth realtors, Ines Hegedus-Garcia is a mojito connsoisseur (just check out her reviews on Miami’s mojitos on her blog!). With a focus on northern Miami-Dade county (Aventura, Miami Shores, Surfside, Upper Eastside, Biscayne Park), she’s been helping families find the right home since 1994.
Danny Hertzberg, The Jills
Currently working with Miami power team known as The Jills, Danny Hertzberg uses the latest technology to connect his clients with the perfect luxury single family home and/or condo. He has been featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 list as an industry leader, as well as on CNBC’s financial news program, Squawk on the Street.
Julian Johnston, Calibre International Realty
Julian Johnston has over 12 years of experience in residential real estate with a focus on waterfront homes in the Miami Beach islands. He’s one of the leading waterfront home brokers around town and has successfully worked with international buyers to connect them with their own private slice of paradise in the Magic City.
Simone Weissman Stein, EWM International Realty/The Nancy Batchelor Team
With a vast background in marketing and economics, Simone Weissman Stein provides a keen level of insight to clients looking for the first home, a luxe abode or a solid investment. When it comes to going above and beyond she’s one of a kind, offering concierge services that help acclimate newcomers to Miami’s neighborhoods and driving tours to showcase the city’s main attractions.
