Michael Friedland

Most realtors start with a license and learn the business as they go. I took a different path. For 28 years, I worked hands-on in nearly every facet of real estate—renovations, property management, development, investment, and as a landlord for over 22 years—before becoming a licensed realtor. This deep, firsthand experience allows me to offer insights that go far beyond the typical buying and selling process while providing insight into the local market. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, I moved to Maine in 1995 and have proudly called the Willard neighborhood in South Portland home since 1999.

Since 1995, I’ve been immersed in real estate, not from inside an office, but on job sites, investment properties, and in the trenches of major projects. Over three decades, I’ve:

• Purchased 13 buildings and sold 18 units, including multi-unit to condo conversions
• Managed my own rental properties for over 22 years
• Led acquisitions and renovations for a major property management company
• Founded and operated Willard Square Home Repair, overseeing a skilled trades team
• Launched The Lumbery, a lumberyard/garden center in Cape Elizabeth, Maine
• Managed Airbnb rentals and earned certification as a home inspector

This hands-on experience means I don’t just see properties—I can see value where others might not. Whether you’re looking for your next home or investment, I can help identify the hidden potential or pitfalls in properties, provide renovation advice, estimate improvement costs, provide referrals to  contractors that I use myself, and help you navigate local codes and ordinances. If you're selling, I’ll provide straightforward, practical advice on how to prepare your home for the market and maximize its appeal. But I'm not alone. I have a whole team behind me. Working with me and the Townsend Real Estate team ensures that all facets of your property journey will be handled diligently, practically, personally, and professionally. You can expect constant communication and feedback every step of the way. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, we take the time to understand your goals and deliver results that align with your vision.

And then some...

Not only can I guide you through the process of buying or selling, but I can also offer valuable advice on what comes next—whether that’s creating a maintenance plan, developing short-term rentals, renovating for resale, or stepping into the role of a landlord. My local knowledge is an added bonus.

If you're seeking a realtor with decades of hands-on experience, practical insight, and a keen eye for value, let’s talk. Real estate is more than just a transaction—it’s an investment, and I’m here to help you get it right.