Meet us

Michael Sandak

With approximately $300 million in career residential real estate transactions and two decades of experience navigating New York City’s highly competitive real estate market, Michael Sandak has established himself as a trusted advisor to buyers and sellers throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. A co-head of Compass’ Trade Residential Team, Michael has consistently ranked among the nation’s top-producing real estate professionals, including multiple appearances in the top 0.25% nationally, as recognized by RealTrends and The Wall Street Journal.

Since beginning his real estate career in 2006, Michael has built his business on the belief that exceptional representation requires more than salesmanship. His approach combines rigorous market research, thoughtful financial analysis, skilled negotiation, and an unwavering commitment to protecting his clients’ interests. With extensive experience across Manhattan’s condominium, cooperative, and townhouse markets, as well as Brooklyn’s diverse residential neighborhoods, Michael brings both a broad understanding of New York City real estate and the nuanced, property-specific knowledge necessary to navigate its complexities.

Known for his analytical approach, Michael closely monitors inventory, comparable sales, pricing trends, and shifting market conditions to help clients make informed decisions. For sellers, he develops strategic pricing and marketing plans designed to position properties effectively, maximize exposure, and achieve the strongest possible outcome. For buyers, he provides candid assessments of property values, identifies opportunities, and negotiates strategically to ensure his clients make sound investments rather than emotional decisions.

Michael spent the first decade of his career at two leading Manhattan real estate firms, where his award-winning Sandak Team was consistently recognized among the firms’ top-producing groups. He joined Compass in 2015, leveraging the company’s technology, marketing capabilities, and collaborative platform to further expand his business and deliver an elevated level of service.

Throughout his career, Michael has represented a diverse clientele, from first-time buyers and growing families to seasoned investors, business executives, and luxury property owners. Regardless of price point or transaction size, he approaches every relationship with the same commitment to preparation, transparency, responsiveness, and results. His straightforward communication style and willingness to provide objective advice—even when that advice means recommending against a transaction—have helped him build enduring relationships and a business driven substantially by repeat clients and referrals.

Born in Brooklyn and raised in New Jersey, Michael studied sociology, psychology, and business at the University of Maryland and Rutgers University. His longstanding appreciation for architecture, interior design, and the distinctive character of New York City’s neighborhoods complements the market expertise he brings to his work.

Above all, Michael believes that the role of a real estate advisor extends well beyond facilitating a purchase or sale. It is about providing the knowledge, perspective, and advocacy clients need to make confident decisions in one of the world’s most consequential real estate markets.