In the dynamic world of real estate, Minnesota is a realm of opportunity, offering a diverse range of properties that cater to many preferences. At the heart of this bustling market are the top real estate agents in Minnesota, professionals who excel in their field and redefine the standards of real estate excellence. This article delves into the achievements and unique qualities of these esteemed individuals, highlighting the top 10 real estate agents in Minnesota who are reshaping the property landscape.
The real estate market in Minnesota is as varied as its seasons, ranging from luxurious lakeside residences to cozy urban apartments. Navigating this market requires local knowledge, market insight, and negotiation skills—qualities Minnesota’s top real estate agents embody. These agents have carved a niche by consistently delivering exceptional service, demonstrating unparalleled market expertise, and fostering lasting client relationships.
Our curated list of the top 10 real estate agents in Minnesota is a testament to their professional accomplishments and a guide for potential buyers and sellers seeking the best in the industry. These agents have been selected based on rigorous criteria, including customer reviews, sales records, industry recognition, and their unique approach to handling the intricate Minnesota real estate market. Join us as we explore the cream of the crop in Minnesota’s real estate scene, providing insights and inspiration for your next real estate venture.
1. Kayla Gustafson
Kayla Gustafson, Senior Partner & COO of High Pointe Land in Minnesota, is a standout figure in the real estate landscape, boasting an impressive resume that reflects her expertise and commitment to client success. As a licensed MN and WI broker with a Master of Business Administration, she brings a unique blend of education and experience to the industry.
Kayla’s nearly decade-long tenure includes leadership roles at two brokerages, navigating residential and commercial transactions with a keen understanding of market dynamics. Data, market insights, and a commitment to transparency characterize her approach. Meanwhile, High Pointe Land has flourished during its four years in business, a testament to Kayla’s dedication and the hard work of the partners.
Beyond her business success, Kayla actively contributes to the real estate community as a sought-after consultant in new construction and a regular speaker at industry events. She is recognized for her achievements and serves as a regular REGGIE judge for the MN Housing First Association.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kayla is an adjunct professor at Metropolitan State University and the board chair of the local charity Emerge Mother’s Academy. Her multifaceted expertise and dedication to her community make her a prominent and respected figure in the real estate arena.
2. Ann F. Anderson
Ann F. Anderson, a seasoned Realtor at NOW Realty in Minnesota, is committed to personalized and ethical real estate practices. Her mantra, ‘It’s not about me, it’s about you!’ encapsulates her approach.
Specializing in the metro area real estate market, Ann’s exceptional knowledge and keen understanding of her clients have led to remarkable success as a listing and buyer’s specialist. From overseeing home cleanouts to marketing luxury homes, Ann combines marketing systems and project management skills to ensure a seamless experience.
Recognition as a ‘Super Real Estate Agent’ by Mpls. St. Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business from 2018-2023 highlighted Ann’s dedication to service. As a Dave Ramsey Trusted Pro Agent, she prioritizes debt payoff and wealth building through real estate. A hands-on approach sets her apart—Ann serves each client personally, offering a unique and tailored experience.
With humble beginnings on a small farm in Southwest Minnesota, Ann’s early experience of financial challenges shaped her into a money-conscious, diligent professional. Her journey from purchasing her first home at 23 to becoming a respected figure in the real estate market testifies to her unwavering commitment to exceptional service.
3. Mark Callender
Celebrating over 20 years as a Realtor, Mark Callender of RE/MAX Results in Minnesota has a wealth of experience and a genuine real estate passion.
Starting his career as an appraiser in the 1990s, Mark developed a keen ability for Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This skill ensures the best prices for his clients, whether buying or selling. Beyond transactions, Mark emphasizes the human element, embodying the ‘golden rule’—treating others as he would wish to be.
Setting Mark apart is his communication and transparency. The Realtor’s dedication is evident in educational videos spanning seven years, featured on various social media platforms, and emailed directly to his extensive database. Reviews from satisfied clients serve as a testament to his client-centric approach.
Mark’s impressive achievements include the RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award, Platinum Club, and recognition as a Multi-Year Minneapolis–Saint Paul Super Agent. Moreover, his affiliation with the Children’s Miracle Network shows his commitment to the community.
As the head of the Callender Home Team, Mark disrupts the industry with a staunch public presence. While others might cut back during market slowdowns, Mark doubles down on his advertising efforts, showcasing resilience and a dedication to client success.
4. Pat Karley
Pat Karley, an esteemed Associate Broker at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties in North Dakota, brings over two decades of experience to the real estate sector. Her unique background as a journalist significantly bolsters her abilities in active listening and thorough research, essential skills that greatly benefit her clients in real estate transactions.
With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Pat has handled a diverse array of properties, ranging from agricultural land and farmsteads to city residences, rural properties, and recreational lake homes. Her expertise also extends to selling and purchasing investment properties, a field in which she actively participates and manages her own investments.
Renowned for her consistent performance, Pat has been a Top Producer in her company each year. She provides high-quality representation that prioritizes clients’ interests, ensuring they find the best solutions for their situations.
Pat’s company stands out in the region for its emphasis on excellence. The team commits to being ‘Forever Agents’ for their clients, making the experience smooth and enjoyable beyond the sale. This client-centric approach, combined with an association with Heritage Homes, one of the premier custom home builders in the region, solidifies Pat’s industry leadership.
5. Casey Gores
Casey Gores, the esteemed Owner of Casey Gores Realty in Minnesota, has been a stalwart presence in the real estate industry since 1996.
Leading a five-star, full-service brokerage firm, she offers a unique blend of expertise for buying, selling, and investing in residential real estate in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. Her commitment to client education is a defining feature of her approach.
Unlike a conventional salesperson, Casey positions herself as a world-class negotiator, dedicating her efforts to guiding clients with a comprehensive understanding of the process. With a diverse background in residential real estate, she provides clients with exceptional insights, ensuring their decisions are well-informed. Her professionalism guarantees a seamless, stress-free experience; a sentiment echoed in numerous stellar testimonials where clients attest to feeling like her sole focus.
Casey has secured consecutive wins of the Super Real Estate Agent award over four years, placing her among the top 3-5% of agents. This accolade underscores her excellence in the field and amplifies her credibility.
Committed to exceeding expectations and maintaining round-the-clock availability, Casey Gores emerges as a trusted expert, shaping the future of real estate in Minnesota and Wisconsin with passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.
6. Steve Gaffney
Steve Gaffney, the accomplished Broker/Owner of Rocket Realty in Minnesota, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the real estate landscape. As a licensed Real Estate Broker, Steve’s proficiency spans residential and commercial real estate, with a distinctive insight into the development of raw land. Unlike conventional agents, he prioritizes understanding a buyer’s comfortable monthly payment, reflecting a commitment to ‘Real Estate Done Right.’
Steve’s diverse background as a retired police officer and trained hostage negotiator enhances his approach to real estate. But his leadership extends beyond the industry, with active roles in civic organizations such as the Jaycees, Boy Scouts, and Forest Lake Baseball Association, showcasing a commitment to community service. Furthermore, Steve’s successful negotiation of commercial properties and businesses, leveraging SBA programs like the 7A and 504 loans, adds another layer to his impressive portfolio.
Under Steve’s leadership, Rocket Realty is experiencing controlled growth, emphasizing quality agents. The imminent addition of a new office in the extreme north metro area signifies the company’s commitment to expanding its reach while maintaining a standard of excellence.
7. Amy Peterson
Amy Peterson, a distinguished Realtor at Edina Realty in Minnesota, brings over two decades of comprehensive real estate experience, setting her apart as a trusted advisor in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Rooted in Blaine since 2004, Amy’s passion for client objectives is evident in her fresh perspective, organized approach, and commitment to keeping clients’ best interests at the forefront.
With a background in the construction industry and extensive real estate training, Amy offers a unique vantage point, identifying distinctive features and potential issues others might overlook. Volunteer roles at local, state, and national Realtor associations exemplify her industry leadership.
Amy actively instructs and mentors others with designations, including ABR and CRS, and she serves as a Certified Instructor for the National Association of Realtors. Noteworthy achievements include the 2022 Minnesota Realtor of the Year, 2020 SPAAR Distinguished Service, and 2015 Edina Realty Emma L Rovick Memorial awards.
In 2023, Amy’s election as the next President of the Saint Paul Area Association of Realtors reflects her ongoing dedication to the broader industry. Beyond real estate, Amy’s involvement in financial literacy initiatives showcases her commitment to community impact, making her a real estate professional with both expertise and a heart for service.
8. Julie Parker Peak
Julie Parker Peak, Broker/Owner of Northwoods Real Estate Group LLC in Minnesota, stands out with a unique blend of expertise that sets her apart in the real estate industry.
With a remarkable 16-year history at Peak Companies LLC and five years leading Northwoods, Julie brings a wealth of experience. Her dual qualifications offer clients a comprehensive perspective as a licensed General Contractor since 2011 and a licensed Real Estate Broker since 2018.
Notably, Julie holds the GRI designation and excels as an REO expert, specializing in government contract listings for bank-owned properties. Her commitment to excellence has earned Top Preservation with VRM in Minnesota since 2013.
Viewing it as a calling rather than a career, Julie’s genuine passion for real estate is undeniable. Her team’s commitment to personalized service and post-transaction care creates lasting client connections. Moreover, their General Contractor status allows them to interact long after the deal, working on properties to create customized client spaces.
Julie Parker Peak’s commitment to excellence, industry leadership, and genuine care make her a standout choice in the competitive real estate landscape.
9. Tracy Otoka Cushman
Tracy Otoka Cushman is the renowned Broker/Owner of Cushman Realty in Minnesota. With nearly two decades of experience, Tracy has witnessed the dynamic shifts of the real estate market, from the highs of buyers’ and sellers’ markets to the challenges of recessions and recent global events. This extensive background equips her with a deep understanding of diverse market conditions, allowing her to adeptly navigate the current landscape of low inventory and high demand.
Balancing her roles as a professional, wife, and mother of two, Tracy empathetically connects with her clients, understanding the significance of their time and needs. Her specialties include being a buyer’s agent, listing agent, managing short sales, and staging properties.
Tracy sees real estate as not just a profession but a passion. She tailors each transaction to the client’s unique requirements, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable home-searching experience. Regardless of how far her client is up the property ladder, Tracy’s goal is to make the process efficient, saving time and money. Her dedication to personalized, quality service has given her a stellar reputation on Minnesota’s real estate scene.
10. Yvonne Hanson
Yvonne Hanson, an accomplished Executive Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Results in Minnesota, simply ‘makes it happen’ in the competitive real estate market.
A native Minnesotan, Yvonne’s approach is client-centric, prioritizing their interests first. She is known for her energy, extensive knowledge, and robust negotiation skills. Moreover, she believes everyone can reach their real estate goals, regardless of the economic climate. She manifests this philosophy by focusing on local market trends and broader economic influences, ensuring her clients make well-informed decisions at the right time.
With 17 years of experience, Yvonne has established herself as a top-tier professional, ranked in the top 9% of all realtors in the Twin Cities area. Her exceptional performance is evident in her ability to secure top dollar for homes, and her listings typically sell for more than the average agent’s. She also excels in fast sales, ranking in the top 17% by selling homes 20 days quicker than the average.
Apart from her real estate prowess, Yvonne’s diverse background as a marathon runner, Spanish speaker, and returned Peace Corps Volunteer adds to her skills and perspective, reflecting her well-rounded expertise and commitment to her community.
As we conclude our exploration of “The Top 10 Real Estate Agents in Minnesota for 2024,” it’s clear that these professionals are not just leaders in their field but also pivotal figures in shaping the real estate landscape of Minnesota. Each agent, with their unique blend of skills, experience, and dedication, has proven to be a valuable asset to their clients and the broader community.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property, these top real estate agents in Minnesota offer unparalleled expertise and personalized service. Their deep understanding of the local market, combined with their commitment to excellence, ensures that your real estate journey will be handled with the utmost professionalism and care.
Remember, the right real estate agent can make all the difference in your property transaction. The agents featured in this list have demonstrated their ability to navigate the complexities of the Minnesota real estate market with ease and efficiency. They are not just agents; they are trusted advisors who are ready to guide you through every step of your real estate journey.
If you’re ready to embark on your next real estate venture in Minnesota, consider reaching out to one of these top professionals. Their proven track record, combined with their innovative approaches, makes them the ideal partners to achieve your real estate goals.
