When buying or selling property in the Golden State, working with the best can make all the difference. The real estate market in California is as dynamic as it is diverse, requiring expertise, local knowledge, and unparalleled negotiation skills. In 2024, the top real estate agents in California are setting new standards in the industry, offering clients not just a transaction, but a transformative experience that maximizes value.

From the sun-soaked beaches of Southern California to the tech-driven hubs of Silicon Valley, these ten real estate agents have earned their place among the elite. They change the game with their innovative marketing strategies — ranging from drone tours to video campaigns crafted by a video marketing agency like Synima — deep market insights, and a client-first approach that ensures every deal succeeds. Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home or sell your property for top dollar, these professionals are the ones to partner with in 2024.

In this exclusive feature, we highlight the top real estate agents in California who are poised to transform your next real estate journey. Each brings unique skills and an unwavering commitment to excellence, making them the go-to experts for anyone serious about navigating the competitive California real estate market with confidence and success.

1. Barbara and John Klasic 

The Klasic Realtor team, First Team Real Estate led by Barbara and John, combines expertise, personalized service, and a commitment to excellence. John and Barbara are passionate about living life to the fullest. Whether it’s enjoying a round of golf, sailing along the coast, or discovering new dining spots, their enthusiasm for life translates into helping clients find not just a house but a home where they can live their best lives.

Barbara and John’s approach simplifies the complexities of real estate transactions, empowering clients to understand the financial implications of their decisions. Barbara’s ability to analyze market trends, property values, and investment opportunities sets her apart in the industry. Whether dealing with first-time homebuyers or seasoned investors, Barbara provides tailored advice to suit each client’s unique situation.

The Klasic Realtor team operates with a “less stress, more time for you” philosophy. They take the time to understand your needs, explore your options, and develop a customized plan that aligns with your goals, ensuring a smooth transaction so you can focus on what matters most. 

With Barbara and John by your side, you can be confident that your real estate goals will be met with professionalism, care, and a personalized approach that sets them apart.

2. Joshua Glaz

Joshua Glaz, the Founder and Visionary behind The Ave Agency, is a renowned Broker, Realtor, and Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) in California. Operating from the sun-soaked shores of San Diego to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, Joshua specializes in transforming real estate dreams into reality.

Joshua’s expertise is unmatched, and his client-centric approach sets him apart. He doesn’t just close deals; he creates win-win situations, ensuring every transaction positively impacts all parties involved. His dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has earned him the title of top realtor in the Downey Association of Realtors (DAOR) for 2022 and 2023, and he is poised to claim it again in 2024. Additionally, he ranks in the top 1% of loan officers in California.

Known for his boundless enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, Joshua is available to his clients 24/7, even during vacations. His unique approach, coupled with his extensive industry knowledge, makes him a sought-after realtor. Under his leadership, The Ave Agency disrupts the industry with its agility, vibrant branding, and the slogan, ‘My Realtor is better than your Realtor.’ Joshua’s infectious passion and profound commitment to his clients make him a go-to realtor for any buyer or seller.

3. Erik Flaskerud

Erik Flaskerud, a dedicated Realtor at RE/MAX Accord in California, brings 13 years of real estate expertise to the table, specializing in Contra Costa County and the East Bay Area. Working alongside Norma Flaskerud, who boasts 35 years of experience and a stellar reputation in Pleasant Hill, Erik’s team is a powerhouse in the local market.

Erik’s journey in real estate began as an assistant to his parents, where he cultivated a deep understanding of the industry from a young age. This early exposure ingrained in him the importance of responsiveness and client satisfaction, traits that set him apart in a competitive field.

With an unwavering commitment to helping sellers and buyers achieve their real estate goals, The Flaskerud Team’s local roots and experience are invaluable. Sellers benefit from Erik’s keen market insights and strategies to maximize property value, while buyers receive expert guidance to make solid and competitive offers without overpaying.

In addition to his professional achievements, including the 2021 Chairman’s Club and 2022-23 Platinum Club awards, Erik is a pillar of his community. Active in local sports, school events, and charitable activities, he seamlessly blends his professional and personal life to support and enhance his community.

4. Leona Greenlow-Turner

Leona Greenlow-Turner, a Realtor at Session Real Estate in Oakland, CA, has been a stalwart in the real estate industry since 2003. Since beginning her tenure at Keller Williams in 2007, she has expertly served sellers, buyers, and investors, leveraging her extensive experience and deep industry knowledge. Leona’s passion for real estate ignited from a young age and has driven her to excel in various roles, including as a Keller Williams Faculty member and mentor for new agents.

Her unique approach is characterized by her kindness, resourcefulness, and comprehensive knowledge, particularly in property assessments and construction, thanks to her initial training with a retired general contractor. This background allows Leona to provide exceptional insights into property repairs and the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

Leona’s real estate philosophy centers on building wealth through strategic property acquisition. She advocates purchasing a new home every one to three years and is dedicated to bringing families home and enhancing community stability through real estate. Her compassionate approach and expertise in selling homes in competitive markets and tax deed investing make her invaluable for sellers and investors seeking knowledgeable and empathetic guidance.

5. Tanya Gruhl

Tanya Gruhl is a seasoned Realtor at Friends Real Estate Services in Northern California, known for her expertise in residential, commercial, and agricultural properties. With a strong finance and data analysis background, she clarifies complex real estate transactions, ensuring her clients make informed decisions.

Tanya’s experience spans property management and real estate development analysis, including residential, multi-residential, and commercial projects. Her deep understanding of the Northern California market allows her to offer creative solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs, whether transitioning from city life to the countryside or investing in income-generating properties like ADUs or ranches.

With over 500 successful deals in the commercial sector this year alone, Tanya is a trusted guide for those navigating the dynamic marketplace of Northern California. She simplifies the complexities of real estate, providing personalized advice that aligns with her clients’ goals.

Whether buying, selling, or investing, Tanya’s clients benefit from her ethical approach and commitment to delivering positive results. As a licensed professional with the California Department of Real Estate, Tanya is dedicated to helping families and business owners achieve financial success through real estate.

6. Tori Atwell

Tori Atwell, a Broker Associate at The Agency Los Altos, brings immeasurable expertise and client dedication to real estate. Renowned for her integrity and hard work, she was a true pioneer in preparing and staging properties for the market in Silicon Valley, revolutionizing industry practices.

Tori’s real estate career, which began in 1986, includes over 1,700 transactions, from small condominiums to multimillion-dollar homes. She excels in property value assessment, providing invaluable insights on maximizing price and market position. Her advanced marketing skills far surpass the norm, ensuring each property receives unrivaled exposure.

Leveraging her extensive experience as a past Rotary Club President, City of Mountain View Mediator, Real Estate Association Council Member, and Certified Signing Agent [Notary Public], Tori consistently achieves top-level results and exceeds client expectations. Her deep knowledge spans the Peninsula and South Bay regions of the San Francisco Bay Area and encompasses numerous certifications, including SRES, CCRE, and NAR C2EX. 

When clients hire Tori, they work directly with her, benefiting from her personal touch in every aspect of the transaction, from marketing and negotiations to handling paperwork. She aims to make the real estate industry work for her clients, prioritizing their needs above all.

7. Deborah Maciel

Deborah Maciel, powered by eXp Realty of Northern California, Inc., is a highly esteemed Concierge Realtor® in California, known for her unparalleled expertise in the real estate market.

With over a decade of experience, Deborah provides a bespoke service tailored to each client. Her comprehensive knowledge spans local, national, and international markets, making her an invaluable asset for clients moving to or from California’s Central Valley and Tri-Valley regions.

A true leader in the real estate community, Deborah has held influential positions within the Women’s Council of Realtors and the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals. She continues to mentor upcoming real estate professionals, having graduated from the Central Valley Association of Realtors’ Leadership Academy.

As the host of the Emmy-nominated and Telly Award-winning show American Dream Bay Area, Deborah is a renowned figure in California. Her extensive certifications, including Digital Marketing and Certified Master Negotiation Expert, keep her at the forefront of real estate trends and technology.

Deborah’s exclusive White-Glove Concierge Service makes her the single point for all her clients’ needs. This refined versatility, combined with her background in interior design, allows her to offer meticulous property preparations, ensuring luxury homes capture the imagination of discerning buyers.

8. Matt Trudell

Matt Trudell, a seasoned Realtor at Coldwell Banker Realty in California, boasts over 20 years of extensive experience in the real estate industry. 

With a one-of-a-kind background as a real estate branch manager for one of the world’s largest brokerages and a partner in a brokerage housing 175 agents, Matt’s insight is unparalleled. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right professional for real estate transactions, encouraging clients to interview multiple agents to ensure the best fit.

A member of the prestigious International Diamond Society, Matt specializes in various areas, including buyer and listing services, foreclosure expertise, consulting, and property management. His meticulous, client-focused approach is integral to his ability to advance clients’ life goals through real estate.

Matt advises against letting personal relationships influence such significant decisions, stressing the need for clarity and specificity from any potential representative. He treats real estate as a critical business decision, advocating for clients to shop and compare representatives just as they would for any other service.

For those serious about buying or selling real estate in California, Matt Trudell and his experienced team are committed to delivering exceptional service and results.

9. Nicola Speranta

Nicola Speranta is a distinguished figure in the real estate industry, serving as the President of the Speranta Group at Compass in California.

Originally from New Zealand, Nicola has amassed over 25 years of professional real estate experience, specializing in residential and investment properties. She launched Speranta Group in San Francisco in 1998, and since 1999, her company has been a cornerstone of the San Gabriel Valley real estate market.

Nicola’s expertise spans a wide array of complex transactions, including tax exchanges, reverse tax exchanges, trust sales, and short sales. Her superior negotiating skills and unwavering customer service have earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Hall of Fame in 2015 and multiple Platinum and Diamond awards.

The Speranta Group is renowned for its comprehensive approach. It offers lending, title, marketing, and design services, ensuring clients receive a seamless experience characterized by professionalism. Nicola’s team boasts the top online exposure in Monrovia, Arcadia, and Pasadena, consistently outperforming competitors.

Nicola is also deeply involved in her community, sponsoring various local and national charities. Residing in North Monrovia with her husband and two children, she continues to lead the Speranta Group with integrity, dedication, and a passion for real estate excellence.

10. Keith Walker

Keith Walker is the dynamic Team Lead and Founder of The Keith Walker Team of Intero in California, where his philosophy is, ‘I care about people, not properties.’

With 26 years of real estate experience, Keith is an around-the-clock realtor dedicated to his clients. Following in his father’s footsteps to establish a reputation built on integrity, style, and finesse, Keith’s expertise spans residential home sales, home buying, and investment properties.

In residential sales, Keith excels in creating competitive bidding scenarios, ensuring homes sell at top prices. His Platinum and Gold Listing Service plans offer flexibility and affordability, and his team of contractors enables valuable upgrades without upfront costs. For home buyers, Keith’s empathetic, fun, and goal-oriented approach turns the buying process into a journey of friendship and success.

As an investor partner, Keith evaluates cash flow, appreciation, and ROI to help clients build profitable portfolios. His commitment extends beyond transactions, offering clients ongoing support with reputable repair and contracting services.

As an Intero Foundation Top Contributor, Keith supports local children and the community alongside his real estate practice. An unmatched ally in real estate, Keith Walker is defined by comprehensive service, constant communication, and meticulous market insights.

As you embark on your real estate journey in California, choosing one of these professionals means choosing a partner who is as invested in your success as you are. In a market as competitive and dynamic as California’s, having the right agent by your side can transform a daunting process into an empowering and rewarding experience. Trust in their expertise, leverage their insights and watch your real estate dreams come to fruition confidently and easily.