The Top 10 Most Successful Realtors, And What We Can Learn From Them

The global real estate market is a massive and dynamic space, but some names shine brighter than others for their incredible success, game-changing ideas, and lasting influence on the industry. Recent hit shows like Selling Sunset and Bling Empire have made the glamorous world of real estate more popular than ever, giving viewers a glimpse into the high-stakes deals, jaw-dropping properties, and larger-than-life personalities that define the business.

Real estate can be incredibly lucrative, offering the potential to earn big commissions faster than in many other professions. As Selling Sunset’s Jason Oppenheim said, “Success in real estate comes when you understand the market, know your clients, and always look for the next opportunity.” But while it’s true that the rewards can be significant, the industry demands a lot of learning, hard work, and persistence to reach the top.

The staff at Bella are spotlighting the top 10 most famous and accomplished realtors in the world. By diving into their journeys, we’ll share key lessons and insights to help make the path to success a little easier for you—whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your real estate career. Let’s dive in!

1. Ben Caballero - HomesUSA.com, Inc.

In the realm of real estate, Ben Caballero's name is synonymous with unparalleled success, particularly in the new homes market. Ben Caballero is a legend in the real estate world, holding the title of the most productive real estate agent in the U.S. and even earning recognition in the Guinness World Records. His remarkable success is rooted in his innovative approach to selling homes. As the founder and CEO of HomesUSA.com, Caballero revolutionized the industry by creating a platform that streamlines the process of listing new homes for builders, enabling him to manage an extraordinary volume of transactions.

In 2022 alone, Caballero sold more than 6,000 homes, a feat that underscores his ability to leverage technology and systems to handle high-volume sales. His career is defined by his focus on serving home builders, providing them with unmatched speed, accuracy, and efficiency in getting their properties listed and sold.

His record-breaking sales achievements have earned him recognition in the Guinness World Records.

1. Leverage Technology: Caballero emphasizes the importance of using technology to improve efficiency and handle larger volumes of transactions. He often shares that automating processes and creating scalable systems are keys to growth in real estate.

   • “Automation is critical in today’s real estate market—it allows you to focus on what matters most: your clients.”

2. Focus on a Niche: Caballero built his career by focusing on serving home builders, proving that specializing in a niche can lead to tremendous success.

3. Master the Fundamentals: Despite his tech-driven approach, Caballero stresses the importance of understanding the basics of real estate and consistently delivering excellent service.

4. Think Long-Term: He advises real estate professionals to think beyond short-term commissions and focus on building systems and relationships that lead to sustainable success.

 The key takeaway from Caballero's career is the power of innovation and the importance of embracing technology to stay ahead in the competitive real estate market.

2. Serena Boardman - Sotheby's International Realty

Serena Boardman has made a significant mark in the luxury real estate market of New York City. She is one of the most successful and respected real estate brokers in the luxury market. As a senior global real estate advisor and associate broker with Sotheby’s International Realty, she has built a stellar career specializing in high-end properties in New York City. With a keen eye for exclusive properties and a profound understanding of her clientele's desires, Boardman's success is built on her exceptional negotiation skills and her ability to maintain confidentiality and trust. Her career teaches us the value of specialization and the critical role of discretion and trust in real estate transactions. 

Serena Boardman Boardman is known for handling some of the most exclusive and expensive transactions, often working with ultra-high-net-worth clients, including celebrities, business executives, and international buyers.

Her success is marked by her discretion, professionalism, and deep understanding of the luxury market. She consistently ranks among the top real estate brokers in the U.S., with her sales often exceeding hundreds of millions annually. Boardman’s ability to market and sell luxury properties is backed by her connections, extensive market knowledge, and exceptional negotiation skills.

1. Discretion Is Key: Boardman stresses the importance of maintaining client confidentiality, especially in the high-stakes luxury market.

   • “In the luxury market, trust and privacy are everything. Always prioritize your client’s comfort and confidence.”

2. Understand Your Market: She advises brokers to develop an in-depth understanding of the local market and its nuances, particularly in specialized segments like luxury real estate.

3. Build Relationships: Boardman emphasizes the value of relationships over transactions. Cultivating long-term client trust often leads to repeat business and referrals.

4. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity: Unlike volume-based brokers, Boardman believes in providing a boutique level of service for every client, ensuring each transaction is handled with the highest level of care and attention.

3. The Altman Brothers - Douglas Elliman

Josh and Matt Altman, famously known as The Altman Brothers, are two of the most recognizable names in luxury real estate. Based in Los Angeles and specializing in high-end properties in exclusive neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Bel Air, and the Hollywood Hills, the brothers have built a real estate empire with over $5 billion in career sales.

The duo rose to prominence through their appearances on Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, which showcased their ability to close jaw-dropping deals and navigate the competitive luxury market. Known for their high-energy approach, sharp negotiation skills, and marketing prowess, they represent a mix of celebrity clients, international buyers, and investors.

Their success is fueled by their unmatched work ethic, innovative marketing strategies (such as leveraging social media and video content), and a deep understanding of the luxury real estate market.

Their success story is a testament to the effectiveness of personal branding and the power of media in real estate.

The Altman Brothers exemplify how developing a strong personal brand can open doors and create opportunities in a crowded marketplace.

1. Work Hard and Stay Persistent: The Altman Brothers emphasize the importance of hustle and grit in real estate, especially when starting out.
   
   “Real estate is a grind. If you’re not ready to outwork everyone else, this isn’t the industry for you.” – Josh Altman
   
   

2. Build Your Personal Brand: They advise agents to create a strong personal brand that showcases their expertise and personality, using platforms like Instagram and YouTube to connect with clients.

3. Leverage Relationships: The brothers stress the importance of building and maintaining relationships with clients, developers, and industry professionals to drive repeat business and referrals.
   
   “It’s all about who you know and how you treat them. Real estate is a relationship business.” – Matt Altman
   
   

4. Think Big and Be Bold: They encourage agents to take risks, dream big, and aim for high-value deals, even if it means stepping outside their comfort zone.

5. Master Negotiation: The Altman Brothers highlight the importance of being a skilled negotiator to ensure the best outcomes for clients while building trust and confidence.

4. Mauricio Umansky - The Agency

Mauricio Umansky is a highly successful real estate entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of The Agency, a luxury real estate brokerage known for representing high-end properties and celebrity clients. Based in Beverly Hills, Umansky has closed over $4 billion in sales throughout his career and is regularly ranked among the top real estate agents in the United States.

Under his leadership, The Agency has become a global brand, with offices in multiple countries and a reputation for exceptional service and innovative marketing. Umansky is also widely recognized for his appearances on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, where he showcases his luxury real estate expertise. His success is driven by a client-first mindset, a passion for real estate, and the use of cutting-edge technology and branding to elevate the business.

His ability to foresee market trends and his emphasis on a cohesive company culture highlight the importance of forward-thinking and the value of fostering a collaborative work environment.

Here's what he has to say:

1. Put the Client First: Umansky emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the client’s needs and building trust.
   
   “Real estate is a relationship business. Your clients need to know you have their best interests at heart.”

2. Master the Art of Negotiation: He believes strong negotiation skills are essential for achieving the best outcomes for clients.
   
   “In every deal, listen more than you speak. Understanding your client and the other party is the key to success.”

3. Invest in Your Personal Brand: Umansky encourages agents to focus on building a recognizable and trustworthy personal brand.
   
   “Your reputation is everything in this industry. Be authentic, consistent, and professional.”

4. Leverage Technology and Innovation: He highlights the importance of using digital tools, social media, and advanced marketing techniques to stand out
   
   “Stay ahead by embracing technology to market properties and connect with clients.”

5. Be Passionate and Persistent: Umansky credits his love for real estate and his persistence as key drivers of his success.
   
   “Passion fuels success. If you love what you do, it shows—and clients respond to that energy.”

5. Lee Shau Kee - Henderson Land Development,

Lee Shau Kee is one of the richest real estate tycoons in the world and the founder of Henderson Land Development, a leading property development company based in Hong Kong. His success story began with investments in Hong Kong’s burgeoning property market during the 1950s and 1960s, leveraging the city’s rapid economic growth and urban expansion.

Henderson Land has developed a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial properties, and is known for its innovative and high-quality projects. Lee Shau Kee’s business acumen and long-term vision have also led him to invest heavily in mainland China, where his developments have contributed to urbanization and economic growth. With a net worth of over $29 billion, his success is a testament to his strategic foresight and ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Here is his wisdom in business:

1. Think Long-Term: He emphasizes the importance of patience and long-term thinking in real estate investments.
   
   “Invest in real estate for the long haul. Time will multiply your wealth.”

2. Seize Opportunities: Lee believes in taking calculated risks when markets present opportunities for growth
   
   “When the market is uncertain, that is the best time to invest.”

3. Focus on Quality: He advises developers to prioritize quality and innovation in their projects to ensure long-term value.
   
   “Build not just for today, but for the future.”

4. Diversify Investments: While real estate is his primary focus, Lee has also diversified into other industries, highlighting the importance of spreading risk.
   
   “Never put all your eggs in one basket. Real estate is stable, but diversification protects your wealth.”

5. Practice Humility and Giving Back: Known for his philanthropy, Lee stresses the importance of giving back to society as a way to create positive impact.
   
   “True success is measured by what you give, not just what you gain.”

6. Zhang Xin - SOHO China

Zhang Xin is one of the most successful female real estate entrepreneurs in the world and the co-founder and CEO of SOHO China, one of the largest real estate development companies in China. 

Her visionary projects and commitment to architectural excellence have not only transformed urban skylines but also influenced the development strategy of commercial spaces in China. Zhang's career offers insights into the importance of vision, innovation, and social responsibility in shaping the future of real estate.

Starting from humble beginnings as a factory worker, Zhang pursued higher education in the UK and later worked in finance before entering real estate. Alongside her husband, she built SOHO China into a powerhouse known for developing iconic commercial properties in Beijing and Shanghai, often collaborating with world-renowned architects.

“Good design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that inspire and endure.”

7. Stephen Ross - Related Companies

Stephen Ross is a billionaire real estate developer and the founder and chairman and visionary behind Related Companies, one of the most prominent real estate firms in the world. He is best known for spearheading transformative urban developments, including the iconic Hudson Yards in New York City, the largest private real estate development in U.S. history. Under Ross’ leadership, Related Companies has built a portfolio that spans luxury residential properties, affordable housing, retail, and commercial spaces.

Ross’ success is rooted in his innovative approach to real estate, blending urban planning, architectural excellence, and community development to create thriving, modern spaces. His ability to execute large-scale, visionary projects has cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the industry.

His dedication to innovation and his ability to execute complex, large-scale developments teach us the power of visionary leadership and the importance of perseverance in bringing ambitious projects to fruition.

1. Think Big and Innovate: Ross emphasizes the importance of taking bold steps and pushing boundaries in real estate development.
   
   “You have to envision what doesn’t exist yet and create something extraordinary.”
   
   
2. Focus on Long-Term Value: He advises developers to prioritize creating sustainable and community-focused projects that offer long-term impact and profitability.
   
   “Real estate isn’t just about buildings; it’s about shaping cities and communities for the future.”
   
   
3. Embrace Challenges: Ross highlights that overcoming obstacles and managing risks are integral to success in large-scale real estate.
   
   “Challenges come with the territory—embrace them as opportunities to innovate.”
   
   
4. Build Strong Partnerships: He stresses the importance of collaboration with architects, governments, and investors to bring ambitious projects to life.
   
   “You can’t do it alone. Building great things takes teamwork.”
   
   
5. Stay Visionary: Ross believes that successful real estate professionals need to think beyond current trends and anticipate future demands.
   
   “Great projects are about creating what people will need tomorrow, not just today.”

8. Gary Keller - Keller Williams Realty

Gary Keller, co-founder of Keller Williams Realty, the largest real estate franchise in the world by agent count. Starting with a single office in Austin, Texas, Keller's vision and leadership transformed Keller Williams into a global powerhouse, known for its agent-first model, innovative training programs, and focus on technology.

Under his guidance, Keller Williams pioneered strategies like profit-sharing and a strong culture of collaboration, attracting top talent and creating a loyal network of agents. In addition to his business success, Keller is a best-selling author of influential real estate books like The Millionaire Real Estate Agent and The ONE Thing, which have become essential reading for professionals in the industry.

Under his leadership, Keller Williams has become one of the largest and most innovative real estate companies globally. Keller's philosophy emphasizes the importance of education, technology, and an agent-centric approach, demonstrating that the success of a real estate business is directly tied to the empowerment of its agents.

Gary's words of wisdom when it comes to real estate:

1. Focus on Big Goals: Keller advises agents to think big and create clear, actionable plans to achieve their dreams. 
   
   “Success is about focusing on the right things and working hard at them every day.”
   
   
2. Master Lead Generation: He emphasizes the importance of consistently generating leads to grow a sustainable real estate business.
   
   “Your number one job is lead generation. Without leads, there are no sales.”
   
   
3. Prioritize Learning and Training: Keller believes continuous education is key to long-term success in real estate.
   
   “The more you learn, the more you earn.”
   
   
4. Focus on Systems and Models: He stresses the importance of implementing proven systems and processes to scale your business effectively.
   
   “Don’t reinvent the wheel; find what works and build on it.”
   
   
5. Maintain a Work-Life Balance: Keller advocates for focusing on what matters most and finding balance between personal and professional life.
   
   “Extraordinary success doesn’t require extraordinary effort—it requires focused effort on the right things.”

9. Christian Daw - Daw & Co.

Christian Daw, a name that resonates with innovation and excellence in the international real estate market. As the driving force behind Christian Daw Design, Christian has carved a niche in luxury real estate, renowned for his unparalleled client service and cutting-edge marketing strategies. With a keen eye for emerging trends and a deep understanding of global market dynamics, Christian has consistently brokered monumental deals, setting new benchmarks in the industry. His approach to real estate is holistic, focusing on creating value and enriching experiences for his clients. His success story is not just about the properties he has sold but about the trust he has built and the future he envisions for real estate. Though Christian Daw focuses more on the interior designs and styles of a home rather than the sale of it, his presence within the real estate world still holds up to this day.

Here is what Christian has to say about real estate:

1. Focus on Relationships: Daw emphasizes the importance of building trust and long-term relationships with clients.
   
   “Real estate is about people, not just properties. Take the time to understand what your clients truly need.”

2. Master the Market: He advises agents to stay ahead by thoroughly understanding market trends and data, especially in their niche.
   
   “The more you know about your market, the more valuable you are to your clients.”

3. Leverage Technology: Daw highlights the role of digital tools, from social media to virtual tours, in reaching a broader audience and marketing properties effectively.

4. Be Persistent and Adaptable: He encourages realtors to stay persistent in the face of challenges and adapt to market changes to maintain an edge.

5. Deliver Value: Daw’s key advice is to always deliver exceptional value by going the extra mile for clients, ensuring they see you as a trusted advisor.

10. Barbara Corcoran - The Corcoran Group

Before becoming a household name on "Shark Tank", Barbara Corcoran transformed a $1,000 loan into The Corcoran Group, one of New York City's premier real estate firms. Her journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, innovation, and strategic branding. After decades of success, she sold the company for $66 million, cementing her legacy as a real estate powerhouse. Corcoran's experiences underscore the significance of believing in one's vision and the transformative power of effective branding and marketing.

Her real estate career is marked by her innovative marketing strategies, her ability to recognize opportunities in the market, and her knack for building strong client relationships. She revolutionized the industry with her bold PR tactics, like publishing The Corcoran Report, which analyzed NYC real estate trends and established her as a trusted authority.

Going back to Shark Tank, she has made over 130 deals on the TV show with her biggest investment of $350,000, purchasing 40% ownership rights to Coverplay. Barbara sold her real estate firm in 2021 for $66 million dollars.

Barbara's Advice:

1. Take Risks: Corcoran emphasizes the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone and taking bold actions.
   
   “Don’t you dare underestimate the power of your own instinct.”

2. Market Creatively: She encourages realtors to stand out through innovative marketing. Early in her career, Corcoran gained attention by finding unique ways to advertise her listings, which often involved storytelling and creative angles.

3. Build Confidence: Corcoran believes confidence is the key to success, even when you’re just starting out.
   
   “Don’t wait until you feel confident to act. Taking action builds your confidence.”

4. Learn from Rejection: Having faced her share of failures, she advises embracing rejection as a learning experience and using it to improve.
   
   “Every failure is a stepping stone to something better.”

5. Focus on Relationships: She stresses the importance of being genuine and treating clients and colleagues with respect, as relationships drive success in real estate.

In Conclusion

The achievements of these real estate luminaries illuminate the diverse pathways to success within the industry. From embracing technology and innovation to prioritizing client relationships and community involvement, the lessons gleaned from their careers are manifold. As we reflect on their accomplishments, it becomes clear that success in real estate is not just about transactions; it's about building relationships, understanding market dynamics, and continuously adapting to the ever-evolving landscape. For anyone looking to make their mark in the world of real estate, these titans offer inspiration and guidance on the journey to achieving excellence and beyond.

What Else is Trending in Real Estate?

• Decor-Rest Furniture: Is it Right for You?
• Virtual Staging is dominating real estate sale
• Who is the TV celebrity real estate agent?
  
• Find out Who is the Richest Selling Set Member