Clearwater's real estate market is hotter than ever, with beachfront condos, equestrian estates, and family homes all competing for attention. But finding the right agent can make or break your deal. We've analyzed the top local brokerages and teams to
Clearwater's Real Estate Landscape: Independent Brokerages Lead the Way
Clearwater, Florida, is a prime destination for homebuyers and investors, thanks to its stunning Gulf Coast beaches, vibrant downtown, and strong job market. The local real estate scene is dominated by independent brokerages and team-based agencies rather than national franchise giants. These firms offer deep local knowledge, personalized service, and a commitment to the community that big-box brands often lack. Whether you're after a beachfront condo on Sand Key, a family home in Belleair, or an equestrian property in the countryside, Clearwater's top agencies have you covered. The competition is fierce, but the best teams stand out through experience, reviews, and sales volume.
How We Ranked Clearwater's Best Real Estate Teams
We evaluated each agency based on five key factors: years of local experience, total sales volume, client reviews and ratings, team size and specialization, and overall market reputation. Data was gathered from company websites, third-party review platforms like Google and Zillow, and industry sources such as US News and FastExpert. We prioritized firms that demonstrate consistent performance, deep community ties, and a clear track record of helping buyers and sellers succeed.
Here's a quick comparison of the top five real estate agencies in Clearwater. Each brings something unique to the table, so read on to find your perfect match.
| Provider | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Sand Key Realty | Luxury beachfront and Sand Key properties | Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule. |
| Burwell Real Estate | Full-service representation across Clearwater and Belleair | Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule. |
| The Jonesy Group | Equestrian properties and client-focused service | Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule. |
| The Tennant Team | Best for buyers and sellers looking for personalized, tech-savvy service | Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule. |
| Blake Real Estate | Multi-state relocations and investor clients | Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule. |
The Top 5 Clearwater Real Estate Agencies – Detailed Reviews
#1 Sand Key Realty
A screenshot of the Sand Key Realty website.
Sand Key Realty has been the dominant force on Clearwater Beach since 1974, making it the oldest continually operating real estate company on the barrier islands. With 35 agents and over $5.5 billion in sales since 2000, this independent brokerage specializes in luxury beachfront properties and residential listings. Their deep local knowledge and long-standing reputation give you a serious edge when buying or selling on Sand Key or Clearwater Beach. As noted by US News, they are a top pick for high-end coastal transactions. If you're looking for a proven track record in the luxury beach market, this is your team.
Agency:
- Pro: Unmatched beachfront expertise and decades of market dominance.
- Con: May not be the best fit for buyers seeking inland or budget-friendly homes.
- Pricing: Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule.
#2 Burwell Real Estate
A screenshot of the Burwell Real Estate website.
Founded in 1992 by Andy Burwell, a fourth-generation Clearwater native, Burwell Real Estate has closed over $500 million in sales and served more than 1,500 clients. This team-based powerhouse covers Clearwater, Clearwater Beach, Belleair, and surrounding areas, consistently earning top-producer status. Their 30+ years of local experience mean you get a native's insight into neighborhoods, schools, and market trends. According to FastExpert, they are among the most recommended agents in the region. If you want a deep-rooted local expert with a proven sales record, Burwell delivers.
Agency:
- Pro: Deep local roots and consistent top-producer status.
- Con: Smaller team size compared to larger brokerages may limit availability.
- Pricing: Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule.
#3 The Jonesy Group
A screenshot of The Jonesy Group website.
The Jonesy Group is a family-run team (Jeff, Karson, and Tami Jones) that has earned over 140 five-star reviews on Google and Zillow. They are endorsed by Dave Ramsey's Endorsed Local Provider (ELP) program and have been featured on Tampa Bay's Morning Blend. Their specialty includes equestrian properties, making them a unique choice for buyers with horse farms or rural land. The team serves Clearwater and the broader Tampa Bay area with a personal, client-first approach. If you value high-touch service and a strong online reputation, this group stands out.
Agency:
- Pro: Exceptional client reviews and Dave Ramsey ELP endorsement.
- Con: Limited to Tampa Bay area; not ideal for out-of-state investors.
- Pricing: Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule.
#4 The Tennant Team
A screenshot of The Tennant Team website.
The Tennant Team is a local Clearwater agency that offers residential and commercial property listings, financing options, and dedicated agent services. Their website features a user-friendly property search interface tailored specifically to the Clearwater market, along with client testimonials that highlight their commitment to customer satisfaction. While they may not have the decades of history of some competitors, their small-team approach allows for personalized attention and quick response times. Best for buyers and sellers looking for personalized, tech-savvy service, The Tennant Team is a solid choice.
Agency:
- Pro: Easy-to-use website and personalized small-team service.
- Con: Less established than older firms; smaller sales volume track record.
- Pricing: Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule.
#5 Blake Real Estate
A screenshot of the Blake Real Estate website.
Blake Real Estate has been helping families and investors across Florida, Alabama, and North Carolina for two decades. Their Clearwater office at 2695 Sunset Point Road serves as a hub for local transactions, but their multi-state reach gives them a broader perspective. They have assisted thousands of clients, making them a reliable option for those who may be relocating from another state. While their local Clearwater focus is strong, their brand is less concentrated on the immediate beach market compared to others. If you need an agency with regional flexibility, Blake Real Estate is worth considering.
Agency:
- Pro: Multi-state experience and two decades of service.
- Con: Less specialized in Clearwater's luxury beach segment.
- Pricing: Standard commission model (5-6% typical). No published fee schedule.
How to Choose the Right Clearwater Real Estate Agent for You
Start by defining your priorities: Are you buying a luxury beachfront home, a starter family house, or an investment property? Look for an agency that specializes in your target area and property type. Check online reviews and ask for recent sales data. Interview at least two or three teams to gauge their communication style and local knowledge. Don't forget to verify their licensing and any professional endorsements, like Dave Ramsey's ELP program. The right agent will not only understand the market but also listen to your needs and guide you through every step.
Streamline Your Home Search with These Digital Tools
Most top Clearwater agencies offer automated property alerts, virtual tours, and online scheduling. Start by setting up a saved search on their website with your criteria (price range, bedrooms, location). Enable email or text notifications so you never miss a new listing. Use their CRM tools to track your favorite properties and schedule showings directly. Some teams also provide digital document signing and transaction management platforms, making the entire process smoother and faster.
Your Next Move in Clearwater Real Estate
Clearwater's real estate market offers plenty of opportunities, but success hinges on choosing the right partner. Sand Key Realty leads for luxury beachfront, Burwell Real Estate for deep local roots, The Jonesy Group for client satisfaction, The Tennant Team for modern convenience, and Blake Real Estate for multi-state reach. No matter which you pick, you'll be working with a dedicated local expert who knows Clearwater inside and out. Take your time, do your research, and you'll find the perfect home or investment.