Michael Petruska is a dedicated realtor affiliated with Keller Williams at the Chestnut Hill office in Newton, Massachusetts, working throughout the Boston MetroWest region. Keller Williams, headquartered in Austin, Texas, stands as the largest real estate franchise in the world by agent count, operating over 1,000 market center offices and having more than 162,000 agents affiliated with the brand. In the United States, the franchise leads the industry in both sales volume and units.
Before moving into real estate, he built a successful career in financial advising. That experience included managing a large client base and eventually stepping into leadership roles where he coached others to grow their advisory practices. He brings that financial expertise, strategic insight, and a consistent client-first mindset into his current work in real estate. His current focus is on helping individuals and families buy and sell homes, maintain long-term relationships, and develop property portfolios that align with their goals.
Professional Career
Michael began his professional journey with Equitable Life Insurance, where he worked as a Financial Advisor. In this role, he helped clients—both individuals and business owners—create tailored strategies for long-term wealth building and financial protection. Over time, he managed over 1,500 client households, overseeing assets exceeding $170 million.
His work involved guiding clients on investment planning, evaluating opportunities, and offering recommendations that matched their financial goals. He also supported families and businesses in creating personalized plans for wealth preservation and growth.
Part of his responsibilities included conducting in-depth financial planning, researching investment products, and executing transactions to meet client needs. He regularly led seminars and in-person financial literacy sessions, aiming to empower more people with a solid understanding of their financial decisions.
Transition into Management
After several years with Equitable Life, he transitioned into a management position. As Vice President, he became a part of the leadership team in the Boston office. His duties included recruiting, training, and developing new advisors across New England. Petruska also worked to identify potential markets and opportunities to grow the firm’s outreach and services.
Under his direction, the Retirement Benefits Group team he built received national recognition. Several advisors he mentored moved into leadership roles themselves. Across his career, he’s worked with over 5,000 individual and business clients, managing over $450 million in assets.
He has also been involved with multiple industry groups and professional associations, where he’s maintained a focus on continuous development, industry trends, and networking with other professionals. These affiliations have allowed him to stay informed and effective in his work.
Career Recognition
Over the years, he has earned several awards that highlight his professional performance. One notable achievement includes the Management Development Award, which ranked him as the number five manager in the country in 2021.
Michael also received the NAIFA 4 Under 40 Award from Advisor Today magazine. This recognition is given to four financial advisors under the age of 40 who show exceptional dedication to their clients and communities.
From 2018 through 2021, he was named a Five-Star Wealth Manager by Five Star Professional. This award acknowledges advisors with a strong client service history, solid asset management, and a clean regulatory record.
Education and Certifications
Petruska earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Bryant University, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island. During his time there, he participated in internships focusing on both corporate and personal finance. He was also active in Greek life, intramural sports, and the university’s lacrosse team.
He holds FINRA Series 7, 66, and 24 licenses, in addition to Life, Accident, and Health insurance licenses across multiple states.
Personal Life
Michael grew up in Bayonne, New Jersey, and attended high school at St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City. While attending Bryant University, he met his wife, and they got married in 2004. Now based in Milford, Massachusetts, they have three children. The family also enjoys the company of their two French bulldogs, Zoe and Mia.
In his free time, he enjoys traveling and hiking with his family. He also enjoys golf, fitness routines, and car racing. Outdoor activities play a big part in his personal life.
Community Involvement
For more than a decade, he has given his time to the Milford Youth Baseball League, coaching both of his sons. He also spent three years coaching youth football in the same town.
He consistently contributes to the Pan Mass Challenge (PMC), a cycling event that raises money for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund. Held each August, the PMC is one of the top fundraising athletic events in the country. Since its founding in 1980, the event has raised over $1.047 billion to support cancer research and care.
Michael Petruska brings together years of financial expertise, leadership experience, and community involvement into his work in real estate. His approach remains focused on providing knowledgeable service, building strong relationships, and helping clients reach their real estate goals.
