Buying or selling a home in the Los Angeles area requires expertise from a knowledgeable real estate professional who understands the unique dynamics of the Southern California housing market. Choosing the right Los Angeles real estate agent can make the difference between a smooth process and a stressful experience when you begin your search for a dream home.
Los Angeles realtors often specialize in specific areas, whether that's luxury homes in Beverly Hills, first-time buyers in Silver Lake, or investment properties throughout the metro area. With Los Angeles starting 2024 at a median home price of $1.39 million and ending at $1.5 million, while inventory increased by 31%, Los Angeles real estate agents navigated a shifting market. The introduction of Measure ULA transfer taxes changed the game, making it vital to find an experienced professional who can protect your interests and enhance your purchase experience.
Who Are the Top Real Estate Agents in Los Angeles?
The following Los Angeles real estate agents have distinguished themselves based on transaction volume, sales data, and client satisfaction according to the Wall Street Journal, Hollywood Reporter, and industry publications. Research your Los Angeles real estate agent using Google reviews and MLS history before making your decision.
- Brokerage: Westside Estate Agency
- Specialties: Ultra-luxury Los Angeles real estate, celebrity clientele, creating lifestyle experiences
- Service area: Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Malibu, West Hollywood
- Notable stats: Ranked #1 in Los Angeles County with $1.597 billion in sales volume across 33 transactions in 2024. His reputation and loyalty from high-net-worth clients make him a testament to excellence in luxury homes.
- Real estate team: The Aaron Kirman Group
- Brokerage: Christie's International Real Estate Southern California
- Specialties: Luxury Los Angeles real estate, architectural estates, world-class properties
- Service area: Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Holmby Hills
- Notable stats: $1.405 billion in sales volume in 2024. Featured in magazine profiles and recognized for his style in representing prestigious properties.
- Real estate team: The Altman Brothers Team
- Brokerage: Douglas Elliman
- Experience: Star of "Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles"
- Specialties: Luxury Los Angeles real estate, high-profile clients
- Service area: Beverly Hills, Hancock Park, Encino, West Hollywood
- Notable stats: Over $1.1 billion in sales in 2024. His rewarding career suits those seeking an agent with proven success.
- Real estate team: Linda May Properties
- Brokerage: Carolwood Estates
- Specialties: Pedigree properties, historic estates
- Service area: Beverly Park, Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills
- Notable stats: $152 million in sales, including Larry Flax's Hollywood Deco Estate for $42.5 million. Her taste for exceptional properties makes her a top Los Angeles realtor.
- Real estate team: Pardee Properties
- Brokerage: Pardee Properties (independent)
- Specialties: Residential Los Angeles real estate, trust sales
- Service area: Greater Los Angeles area
- Notable stats: Just under $356 million in volume across 158 deals in 2024, with deal flow up 22% year-over-year.
- Brokerage: The Agency
- Specialties: High-end residential Los Angeles real estate, new home construction
- Service area: Santa Monica, Malibu, Beverly Hills
- Notable stats: Ranked #15 on the Los Angeles Business Journal's list. Known for discretion with high-profile clients, his approach ahead of market trends has built a strong reputation.
- Brokerage: The Agency (Founder and CEO)
- Specialties: Luxury Los Angeles real estate, celebrity clients
- Service area: Los Angeles County, Beverly Hills
- Notable stats: Over $305 million in transactions in 2024. His history of success includes exclusive representation for Four Seasons Private Residences.
- Real estate team: The Chernov Team
- Brokerage: The Agency
- Experience: Over 26 years, 1,000+ transactions
- Specialties: Residential Los Angeles real estate across all price points
- Service area: Los Angeles County, South Bay, Rancho Palos Verdes
- Notable stats: Ranked #8 on the Los Angeles Business Journal's Top 100 list. His fair approach benefits clients who spend money on properties averaging $1 million.
- Real estate team: Grauman Rosenfeld Group
- Brokerage: The Agency
- Notable stats: Ranked #10 on the Los Angeles Business Journal's list, specializing in lifestyle properties throughout Los Angeles.
- Brokerage: Compass
- Specialties: Malibu luxury Los Angeles real estate
- Service area: Malibu communities
- Notable stats: Over $8 billion in career sales, with $809 million in 2023. His expertise in Malibu has enriched the lives of countless clients.
What Are the Top Real Estate Teams in Los Angeles?
Real estate teams are groups of licensed Los Angeles real estate agents working together to provide comprehensive services. Teams offer benefits such as specialized expertise, greater availability, and dedicated advocates throughout the transaction process.
- Brokerage: Christie's International Real Estate Southern California
- Notable performance: $1.4 billion+ in annual sales, creating exceptional outcomes for clients seeking luxury homes
- Team leaders: Rayni and Branden Williams
- Brokerage: Beverly Hills Estates
- Notable performance: Over $1 billion in volume across 179 transactions, with strong loyalty from repeat clients
- Brokerage: Douglas Elliman
- Notable performance: Over $1.1 billion in sales, stars of reality events showcasing their fun and professional style
- Brokerage: The Agency
- Notable performance: Over $305 million in 2024, helping clients discover their dream home
- Brokerage: Carolwood Estates
- Notable performance: $152 million in sales of pedigree properties, a testament to their market expertise
What Are the Best Brokerages in Los Angeles?
When searching for a home in Los Angeles, your Los Angeles realtor works under a brokerage providing training, resources, and legal oversight. Choosing the right brokerage matters because it determines the expertise and network your Los Angeles real estate agent brings to your purchase.
Compass dominates the Los Angeles real estate market with over $18 billion in sales across more than 9,000 transactions. This tech-forward brokerage attracts top Los Angeles realtors by offering innovative platforms, advanced data tools, and industry-leading marketing resources that give clients a competitive edge.
Coldwell Banker Realty offers extensive resources through multiple Los Angeles metro offices, handling everything from starter homes to luxury estates. About 80% of Coldwell Banker Realty’s business comes from homes priced above $1 million, making it a strong choice for buyers seeking experienced Los Angeles real estate agents in higher-end markets.
Founded by Mauricio Umansky in 2011, The Agency has grown into a powerhouse with approximately $4.8 billion in sales volume and over 500 agents in Los Angeles. The Agency is recognized for its exceptional teams, collaborative culture, and personalized client experiences across luxury and lifestyle properties.
Sotheby’s International Realty combines global prestige with in-depth local expertise, specializing in luxury real estate in Los Angeles. With a transaction volume of roughly $3.9 billion, this brokerage connects high-net-worth buyers and sellers through its unmatched international network and refined marketing approach.
Christie’s International Real Estate Southern California returned to prominence under CEO Aaron Kirman, generating close to $2 billion in sales. The brokerage attracts elite Los Angeles realtors who focus on ultra-luxury properties and high-profile clientele.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brings financial strength and long-term stability to the Los Angeles real estate market, with nearly $3.8 billion in transaction volume. The brokerage serves residential, luxury, and investment buyers, offering trusted brand recognition and consistent performance.
Carolwood Estates is a boutique luxury brokerage ranked #8 in Los Angeles with $1.6 billion in volume. Known for discretion, personalized service, and refined branding, Carolwood Estates is a favorite among high-net-worth clients seeking a more private real estate experience.
Douglas Elliman has rapidly expanded its presence in Los Angeles, attracting high-profile agents, such as the Altman Brothers Team. The brokerage offers strong marketing, national exposure, and robust resources tailored to buyers and sellers in the luxury home market.
Founded by Kurt Rappaport, Westside Estate Agency specializes in ultra-luxury Los Angeles real estate. Despite its boutique size, the brokerage consistently outperforms its weight, delivering record-breaking sales that often surpass those of much larger competitors.
eXp Realty continues to grow in Los Angeles with its cloud-based model and revenue-sharing structure. This innovative brokerage attracts Los Angeles real estate agents across all price points, offering flexibility, collaboration, and strong incentives for both agents and clients.
What Are the Largest Real Estate Brokerages in Los Angeles?
- Compass – California's tech leader with over $18 billion in Los Angeles County sales, operating with 2,400+ Los Angeles realtors across multiple offices.
- Coldwell Banker Realty – Longtime national brand handling properties from starter homes to luxury estates with hundreds of experienced agents.
- The Agency – Founded in 2011, The Agency has grown rapidly to $4.8 billion in volume, with over 500 Los Angeles real estate agents.
- Sotheby's International Realty – Global luxury brand with strong LA presence, specializing in high-end properties and international clientele.
- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Operating multiple offices with nearly $3.8 billion in annual volume, backed by Warren Buffett's financial strength.
FAQ
Who Is the Best Real Estate Agent in Los Angeles?
Kurt Rappaport of Westside Estate Agency ranks #1 by sales volume with $1.597 billion in 2024. Aaron Kirman ranks #2 with $1.405 billion. Other top Los Angeles realtors include the Altman Brothers, Linda May, and Tami Pardee, all of whom are recognized by industry publications for their exceptional service.
How Much Do Most Real Estate Agents Charge in Los Angeles?
Most Los Angeles real estate agents charge 5-6% of the sale price, split between buyer's and seller's agents. The seller typically pays at closing, with each agent receiving 2.5-3% of the sale price. Some Los Angeles realtors offer negotiable rates depending on the purchase price.
Is a Broker Better Than a Realtor in California?
Both are licensed professionals, but brokers have additional training and can operate independently or supervise other Los Angeles real estate agents. Realtors are members of the National Association, following a code of ethics. The choice depends on your needs and the benefits each offers.
What Is the Difference Between a Broker and an Agent in California?
In California, agents work under the supervision of brokers, while brokers can operate independently and supervise Los Angeles real estate agents. Brokers complete additional education in real estate law and can own companies. Consulting an attorney for legal matters is recommended.
How Expensive Is Los Angeles Real Estate?
Los Angeles started 2024 at a median of $1.39 million and ended at $1.5 million, representing an 8% increase. The luxury homes of those living in Beverly Hills and Malibu can exceed tens of millions of dollars. More affordable options are available in North Hollywood and emerging Los Angeles neighborhoods, where you can start your search.
What Is Measure ULA and How Does It Affect Los Angeles Real Estate?
Measure ULA, introduced in April 2023, applies a 4% tax on residential deals starting at $5.15 million within Los Angeles city limits and 5.5% for transactions of $10.3 million or more. This changed the game, shifting luxury sales to Beverly Hills and other cities not subject to the tax.
What Are the Largest Real Estate Brokerage Firms Nationally?
The largest firms include Compass, Anywhere Advisors (which operates under Coldwell Banker, Century 21, and Sotheby's), eXp Realty, HomeServices of America, and RE/MAX, all with a significant Los Angeles real estate presence through local offices serving the world's entertainment capital.
What Real Estate Agency Has the Lowest Fees?
Several agencies offer competitive structures, including eXp Realty's cloud-based model and discount brokerages that offer commissions ranging from 1% to 2.5%. However, Los Angeles real estate agents emphasize evaluating service level alongside fees; protecting your investment matters more than just spending less.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Los Angeles Real Estate Investment?
Los Angeles realtors recommend emerging neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Highland Park, and the Arts District for investment potential. Established areas, such as Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, continue to appreciate strongly. Your Los Angeles realtor can provide MLS data and market analysis for specific neighborhoods.
What Are the Benefits of Working with a Los Angeles Real Estate Agent?
Working with Los Angeles real estate agents provides market expertise, MLS access, negotiation skills, and transaction management. They help you discover properties, protect your interests, enhance the purchase process, and navigate complex events from offer to closing, making the experience rewarding and fun.
Moving to Los Angeles? Request a Free Moving Estimate Today
Los Angeles' real estate market offers diverse opportunities, with a strong network of experienced real estate agents ready to help you find your new home. Whether seeking luxury homes in Beverly Hills, beach properties in Malibu, or investment opportunities, working with the right Los Angeles real estate professional is essential.
The Los Angeles realtors featured in this guide represent the best of the industry, combining market knowledge with professional expertise. Their reputation, loyalty to clients, and proven track record of success make them ideal partners. Seek recommendations from individuals who recently bought or sold in your target neighborhood for additional insights.
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