Find a Luxury Real Estate Advisor
Navigating Miami’s ultra-luxury real estate market requires far more than finding an agent—it demands partnering with a trusted advisor who understands the complexities of high-end transactions, possesses deep market intelligence, and delivers the elevated, white-glove service expected by sophisticated buyers. Whether you’re considering a waterfront estate in Bal Harbour, a penthouse in South of Fifth, or a new-development residence in Brickell, the advisor you choose will define the quality of your experience and the success of your investment.
With Miami’s luxury sector reaching historic highs—single-family homes trading above $3,000 per square foot increased 115% YoY and ultra-luxury demand at record levels—knowing how to identify the right advisor has become essential.
This guide outlines the most effective strategies and criteria high-net-worth individuals use to find the best luxury real estate advisors in Miami.
Understanding the Miami Luxury Real Estate Landscape
What Defines Luxury Real Estate in Miami
Miami’s luxury category typically begins at $1M+, while the ultra-luxury tier ($5M–$50M+) operates under an entirely different set of dynamics. Key 2024–2025 luxury indicators include:
- Median luxury condo price: $1.75M
- Price per square foot: $983, up 3.5% YoY
- Dominant markets: Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles Beach, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, South of Fifth
Each of these neighborhoods offers a distinct lifestyle, architecture style, and investment trajectory—your advisor must understand the nuances between them.
Current Market Dynamics You Need to Know
Miami’s luxury market is defined by:
- 53.5% cash closings between $1M–$5M
- Surging demand from U.S. Northeast, Latin America, and Europe
- Limited ultra-luxury single-family inventory
- Strong absorption rates in pre-construction and branded residences
A top advisor should articulate these dynamics clearly and apply them to your buying strategy.

Essential Qualities to Look for in a Luxury Real Estate Advisor
A Proven Track Record in High-End Transactions
Luxury experience is non-negotiable. Ask for:
- Recent sales in your price range
- Closed transactions in your target neighborhoods
- Examples of complex deals (trusts, international, new development)
- Annual luxury sales volume (top Miami teams exceed $200M+)
Your advisor’s history should match your specific needs—not just general real estate success.
Deep Local Market Intelligence
Your advisor should have:
- Micro-market knowledge at the building, street, and product level
- Insights into upcoming developments and infrastructure
- Access to off-market inventory
- Understanding of luxury buyer segments and pricing drivers
This level of intelligence is foundational—not optional—in Miami’s competitive environment.
Sophisticated Marketing & Elite Negotiation Skills
For sellers:
- High-end photography & cinematic video
- Targeted global digital campaigns
- Luxury publication placement
- Pre-qualified buyer networks
For buyers:
- Access to off-market inventory
- Strategic positioning in competitive bid situations
- Value-driven analysis of fair pricing
An Extensive Professional Network
High-net-worth individuals value advisors with relationships across:
- Developers
- Luxury agents
- Private banks & wealth advisors
- Attorneys (immigration, tax, trust)
- Architects, designers & contractors
This network becomes your advantage.

Strategic Methods for Finding Top Luxury Real Estate Advisors
1. Leverage Personal Referrals
Your network—especially attorneys, wealth managers, and private bankers—provides the most reliable introductions.
Questions to ask referrals:
- How responsive was the advisor?
- Did they understand your goals?
- Would you work with them again?
2. Research the Top Teams at Premier Brokerages
Start with leading brokerages specializing in the luxury segment:
- Compass
- Sotheby’s International Realty
- Douglas Elliman
- One Sotheby’s
Look for advisors with:
- Verified luxury sales
- Team infrastructure
- Strong digital presence
- Leadership in new development
The Ivan and Mike Team, for example, ranks as Miami’s #1 New Development Team, giving buyers early access to market-defining opportunities. (Link internally to: [New Development Hub])
3. Explore Luxury-Focused Platforms
Search curated platforms:
- Mansion Global
- LuxuryRealEstate.com
- Luxury Portfolio International
Review advisor bios, recent listings, press features, and market reports.
4. Attend Luxury Open Houses and Events
Open houses, charity galas, and new-development previews offer direct contact with advisors and let you assess:
- Presentation style
- Market expertise
- Communication skills
5. Evaluate Professional Credentials
The most relevant designations include:
- CLHMS (Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist)
- CIPS (Certified International Property Specialist)
- CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)**
These validate training and performance—not just attendance.

Questions to Ask When Interviewing Luxury Advisors
Break your questions into three categories:
Experience & Market Knowledge
- How many high-end transactions have you closed this year?
- What are your strongest Miami micro-markets?
- What are the current trends in my specific neighborhood?
- Can you provide references from similar clients?
Strategy & Marketing
For sellers:
- How do you market properties to international buyers?
- What is your list-to-sale price ratio?
- What is your average days on market?
For buyers:
- How do you identify off-market opportunities?
- How do you structure offers in competitive situations?
Service & Communication
- What is your preferred method of communication?
- How quickly do you respond?
- Will I work directly with you or your team?

Red Flags to Watch for
Lack of Specialization in Luxury
If their sales history is below the $1M–$2M mark, they lack luxury expertise.
2. Weak Local Knowledge
Vague answers about neighborhoods = immediate disqualification.
3. Slow Communication
In luxury, hours matter.
4. Overpromising or Pressure Tactics
Elite advisors provide data-driven recommendations—not guesses.

The Value of Working with Established Luxury Teams
Why Top Teams Perform Better
Teams like Ivan and Mike Team at Compass offer:
- 24/7 responsiveness
- Specialized roles (buyer agents, listing agents, marketing directors)
- Deep developer relationships
- Extensive off-market access
- Proven systems for complex deals
This model is superior to most solo-agent structures.
Making Your Final Decision
Your final decision should be based on:
- Trust and compatibility
- Verified results
- Clear communication
- Alignment with your goals
- Strength of their network
- Access to opportunities others can’t provide
Luxury transactions require strategy, discretion, and expertise—and the right advisor ensures your success.
Conclusion
Finding the best luxury real estate advisor in Miami is not a matter of convenience—it is a strategic decision that shapes your entire real estate experience and directly impacts your financial outcome. In a market defined by global demand, unprecedented price growth, and fierce competition for premier properties, partnering with an advisor who brings proven expertise, access, and discretion is essential.
The right advisor does far more than identify properties. They open doors to off-market opportunities, protect your privacy, provide data-driven guidance, and negotiate with the sophistication required in multi-million-dollar transactions. They understand Miami at the micro-market level—from Bal Harbour to Coconut Grove to South of Fifth—and can translate these insights into confident, informed decisions.
As Miami continues its ascent as one of the world’s most desirable destinations for ultra-luxury real estate, the advantage belongs to those who choose representation intentionally. Take the time to research, interview, and evaluate advisors based on their track record, market intelligence, network, and service approach.
Whether you’re searching for a waterfront estate, a penthouse overlooking Biscayne Bay, or a best-in-class new development residence, the advisor you select will determine the opportunities you access and the results you achieve.
In Miami’s luxury market, elite representation isn’t a luxury—it’s a requirement for success.
Leverage referrals from attorneys, wealth managers, and real estate professionals who regularly work with high-net-worth clients.
Luxury teams generally outperform solo agents due to better coverage, specialization, and access to exclusive opportunities.
Check their recent sales on Compass, Zillow, MLS data, and Miami-Dade public records for transparency.
High cash activity, international buyers, rapid development cycles, and strong demand for waterfront and branded residences.
Most high-net-worth buyers interview 3 to 5 advisors to compare expertise, chemistry, and market knowledge.
About Ivan & Mike
Ivan Chorney and Michael Martirena are the founders of The Ivan & Mike Team at Compass Florida, one of the most distinguished luxury real estate teams in the United States. With more than $2 billion in closed transactions, they are recognized among the Top 10 Medium Teams in the U.S. by RealTrends and #1 in New Construction Sales in Miami.
Ivan & Mike are celebrated for their deep market intelligence, developer partnerships, and discreet, relationship-driven approach. Their clients include UHNWIs, CEOs, athletes, and global investors seeking strategic acquisitions across South Florida.
Their mission is simple:
“We connect extraordinary people with extraordinary properties, delivering not just a transaction—but a lifestyle.”
Their insights have been featured in The Real Deal, Forbes México, Mansion Global, Inman, and The Wall Street Journal, positioning them as architects of Miami’s luxury lifestyle.
Based in Coconut Grove, Miami, FL (305) 907-7948 ivan.chorney@compass.com** | **mike.martirena@compass.com www.ivanandmike.com
FAQ´s
1. What is the fastest way to find a top luxury real estate advisor in Miami?
Leverage referrals from attorneys, wealth managers, and real estate professionals who regularly work with high-net-worth clients.
2. Should I work with a solo agent or a luxury team?
Luxury teams generally outperform solo agents due to better coverage, specialization, and access to exclusive opportunities.
3. How do I verify an advisor’s track record?
Check their recent sales on Compass, Zillow, MLS data, and Miami-Dade public records for transparency.
4. What makes Miami’s luxury market unique?
High cash activity, international buyers, rapid development cycles, and strong demand for waterfront and branded residences.
5. How many advisors should I interview before choosing one?
Most high-net-worth buyers interview 3 to 5 advisors to compare expertise, chemistry, and market knowledge.