Columbus International

Kim Kardashian’s Skims Scores Prime Fifth Avenue Retail Space at Bargain Rates (The Real Deal)

By Columbus International,25 March 2024

In a strategic move that underscores shifting dynamics in New York City’s retail real estate landscape, Kim Kardashian‘s apparel empire, Skims Body, has secured a coveted lease for a sprawling 20,000-square-foot space on Fifth Avenue. This development comes at a fraction of the cost compared to its predecessor, signaling a savvy business maneuver amidst a changing market. According to reports from The Real Deal and Crain’s, Skims Body inked a deal with Oxford Properties and Crown Acquisitions for at least 75 percent below the previous tenant’s lease rates. The stark difference in pricing was highlighted in a recent report by Fitch Ratings, which also noted adjustments in the mortgage structure backing the Skims space and other properties in the vicinity. While specific lease details remain undisclosed, industry experts speculate that Skims Body’s rental rates could be well below the $770 per square foot paid by Versace, the former occupant, as reported by KBRA in 2022.

This suggests that Skims Body is likely paying under $200 per square foot—a substantial reduction reflective of evolving market dynamics. Kim Kardashian’s multifaceted entrepreneurial prowess likely played a pivotal role in securing such advantageous terms, especially as neighboring retailers recalibrate their strategies and vacate Fifth Avenue addresses. This vacancy trend has empowered companies like Skims Body to negotiate from a position of strength, capitalizing on prime retail spaces in iconic locales. Oxford Properties reports full occupancy for Olympic Tower’s retail segment, constituting 28 percent of the property but contributing over 60 percent of total rental revenue. Negotiations are also underway for office space within the same complex, showcasing sustained investor interest despite recent market adjustments. Institutional investors, who have held the mortgage since 2017, recently witnessed Fitch downgrading seven classes associated with the $760 million loan, due for maturity in 2027. The transition in tenant occupancy has coincided with a 13 percent dip in cash flow, now at $56 million annually, since the mortgage’s initial sale. Skims Body is gearing up for a grand opening slated for February, enhancing its brand presence with a high-profile physical retail outlet.

The company’s meteoric rise is mirrored in its valuation, which surged to $4 billion last year—a staggering $800 million leap from 2022 figures. Versace’s gradual exit from the space since 2018, initially signaled by its subleasing efforts, underscores the dynamic shifts reshaping New York’s retail real estate narrative. As Kim Kardashian’s entrepreneurial ventures continue to make waves across industries, Skims Body’s strategic real estate play exemplifies a nuanced understanding of market opportunities amid evolving consumer preferences and economic landscapes. This move not only solidifies the brand’s physical footprint but also underscores the enduring allure of iconic retail addresses amidst transformative market forces.

Photo credit: Skims

La Lombardia è la regione con più transazioni in Italia

Nhood’s Innovative Urban Regeneration Project Set to Transform Piazzale Loreto in Milan into Vibrant Community Hub

By Columbus International,22 March 2024

Carlo Masseroli, CEO of Nhood Italy, shares his vision regarding Piazzale Loreto, emphasizing the potential of the location and the challenges associated with generating commercial pathways in less central and more complex contexts. Speaking to Sole24Ore, Masseroli outlines the “Loc-Loreto Open Community” project, winner of the Reinventing Cities competition launched by the Municipality of Milan in 2021 and currently in the construction phase to redevelop Piazzale Loreto. Masseroli explains that the success of this initiative lies in the synergistic relationship between the public and private sectors, crucial for effective urban and real estate regeneration. Masseroli highlights the strategic importance of Piazzale Loreto in Milan, frequented by a significant number of people using the subway and by residents of the densely populated surrounding area. However, the commercial route along Corso Buenos Aires towards Piazzale Loreto is currently underdeveloped.

The goal of the project is to transform this location into a destination by engaging various market brands to start construction by May. The plan includes installing retail outlets of various sizes to meet the needs of passersby and the local community. An innovative aspect of the project is managing the square as a reference point for the area, a model absent in Milan but present in other cities. Masseroli sees this initiative not only as a local challenge but also as an opportunity to experiment and subsequently export the adopted model. Unlike past attempts with commercial districts, the project aims to create collective value greater than the sum of individual commercial activities. However, bureaucratic complexities have been an obstacle to the success of such initiatives.

The proposed model could be replicated in other underutilized squares, especially those near subway stops, to stimulate retail attractiveness and dissemination, generating added value for surrounding spaces. The project also presents an advantageous socio-economic return on investment (SROI), estimating that every euro invested generates a value of four euros. Rents for commercial spaces near Corso Buenos Aires, near Piazzale Loreto, range from 1,000 to 2,000 euros per square meter per year, and the project envisages the distribution of commercial spaces over a total area of 8,000 square meters. This model, rooted mainly in the Anglo-Saxon world, where commercial districts are privately managed, is also being implemented elsewhere. Nhood is currently implementing a similar project in Spain, confirming the international potential of this innovative urban and commercial regeneration strategy.

The effect of luxury neighborhoods on more peripheral ones: the new real estate trend in Milan

By Columbus International,21 March 2024

A recent real estate report, the “Wealth Report 2024” dedicated to Milan and curated by Knight Frank, an international network specialized in luxury property brokerage, has revealed an interesting phenomenon: the rise in real estate values in luxury neighborhoods such as Porta Nuova is directly influencing prices even in traditionally less central areas like Quarto Oggiaro. Although the report does not explicitly mention these neighborhoods, it highlights the significant impact that the strong demand from foreigners in high-end neighborhoods has had on the growth of real estate prices in Milan in recent years.

Initially, it may seem surprising, considering that the study focuses on Uhnwi, i.e., those with exceptionally high net income (generally exceeding 30 million euros), a rather exclusive buyer segment. However, both Knight Frank’s report and the Tirelli & Partner Observatory confirm that the main buyers of luxury real estate in Milan are precisely these extremely high-income individuals, many of whom are foreigners. The choice of Milan as a destination for high-level business activities in the country is well known, while those seeking a quiet place for retirement or holidays tend to prefer regions such as Tuscany or Sardinia. But what makes Milan so attractive for luxury real estate investments? Christian Dominici, a Milanese accountant, explained that in addition to its status as an important international financial center, Milan also offers a high quality of life, with a vibrant cultural scene and excellent gastronomy. From an investment perspective, Milan stands out as the only Italian city capable of guaranteeing stability in values over time. While a villa in Sardinia may not maintain its value significantly over time, a luxury property in Brera or Corso Magenta offers more concrete profit prospects in the long term. A key factor that has contributed to Milan’s attractiveness for Uhnwi is the favorable tax regime offered by Italian legislation.

Those who transfer their residence to Italy can benefit from a reduced tax of 100,000 euros per year, with an additional 25,000 euros for each additional family member, thus avoiding other taxes on foreign income in countries with which Italy has agreements against double taxation. This tax advantage has led to a significant increase in individuals, including high-level athletes, choosing Milan as their tax residence. Even foreigners with more modest incomes find it advantageous to invest in real estate in Milan thanks to the generous tax incentives offered for the renovation and energy efficiency of homes.

Population registry statistics highlight the significant presence of high-income foreign citizens in Milan, mainly from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, and Japan, many of whom choose to reside in the central districts of the city. These data confirm the increasingly central role of Milan in the international luxury real estate investment landscape.

Source: Corriere Milano

Related Companies Reveals Renderings of Massive $12 Billion NYC Casino Complex at Hudson Yards

By Columbus International,20 March 2024

Plans have been revealed by Wynn Resorts for a colossal $12 billion project in Hudson Yards, a once train-filled area in Manhattan‘s West Side. The proposal, crafted in collaboration with real estate powerhouse Related Companies, envisions an imposing 80-story tower overlooking the Hudson River. This towering structure would house a sprawling gaming facility and hotel. Surrounding the magnificent casino skyscraper would be office complexes, residential towers, and an expansive 5.6-acre park, creating a vibrant urban landscape. Strategically positioned between West 30th Street and 33rd Streets, and 11th and 12th Avenues, the resort would be easily accessible to pedestrians strolling along the High Line, a repurposed elevated train line now serving as a public park. The architectural renderings depict a sleek office building and residential tower adjacent to the casino resort tower, enhancing the skyline from the Hudson River viewpoint. Additionally, the project includes plans for a 750-seat public school, a community facility, and a daycare center.

Dubbed Hudson Yards West, the venture, in collaboration with the Oxford Properties Group, promises to generate 35,000 union construction jobs and 5,000 permanent positions within the resort, according to its planners. Advocates for the proposal argue that the hotel component would become a prime destination for visitors attending events at the nearby Javits Center, potentially amplifying tourism and economic growth in New York City. Jeff Blau, CEO of Related Companies, remarked on the project’s potential to further invigorate the local economy, expressing enthusiasm for the development’s role in benefiting the state, the city, and the neighboring communities. Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, highlighted the appeal of Wynn New York City as a premier destination for luxury travelers, citing the propensity of Wynn guests to spend more, thereby driving increased tax revenues and local economic activity. While the exact cost of the endeavor remains undisclosed, previous estimates suggest a staggering $12 billion investment, inclusive of expenses associated with constructing atop the rail yard. With the state contemplating the issuance of up to three casino licenses in the downstate region, intense competition among potential bidders has emerged. Notably, in Queens, Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, has proposed an $8 billion gaming complex near Citi Field named “Metropolitan Park.”

Meanwhile, Resorts World New York City, situated at Aqueduct race track, has announced a $5 billion expansion, seeking approval to offer table games alongside its existing slot parlor. In the midst of this fervent competition, Hudson Yards’ developers face the challenge of securing political and community support, mindful of past opposition that thwarted similar projects, such as former Mayor Bloomberg’s proposed West Side Olympic stadium. State Sen. Brad Hoylman, representing the Hudson Yards neighborhood, has expressed the need to ensure alignment with the site’s original vision, dating back to 2009. The proposed development, with its consolidation of buildings and increased park space, must navigate a rigorous approval process involving city officials and undergo thorough land use review. Amidst skepticism from rival casino bidders, one close source remarks on the shifting prospects of the Hudson Yards plan, indicating a transition from a perceived impossibility to a challenging endeavor.

Source: New York Post
Images: Related Companies and Wynn Resorts

Rental opportunities on the rise. From Milan to Florence, it’s the perfect time to invest in Italy (Immobiliare.it)

By Columbus International,19 March 20249 November 2024

The rental costs in the main Italian cities have become so high as to exclude both individuals and families with a single income. It’s interesting to note that it’s not Milan, but Florence, that emerges as the least accessible city for those seeking a two-room apartment for rent. And this makes it a great asset if you’re looking for a secure real estate investment.

According to insights from Immobiliare.it, the proptech company affiliated with Immobiliare.it, the average monthly amount a person would need to allocate for rent – ideally not exceeding 30% of their net income – has been compared with the actual average rent demanded for a two-room apartment in major urban centers. In Florence, for instance, the average monthly rent for a two-room apartment stands at 1,066 euros, yet the average budget available for a single individual barely surpasses 480 euros. Shockingly, only 0.5% of the two-room apartments listed in the market are affordable for solo renters. Following closely is Naples, where the average monthly rent climbs to 850 euros, but given the municipality’s average income, a single person can only afford around 415 euros for rent, less than half of the required amount. Consequently, the accessibility rate falls below 1%.

Milan boasts the highest rental rates among the cities under scrutiny, with rents exceeding 1,320 euros per month for a two-room apartment, while the budget available to a single individual, at 650 euros, falls significantly short. A similar situation unfolds in Venice, where despite an average monthly rent of approximately 880 euros, a single person can only afford 430 euros, less than half of the required sum. Moreover, while in Milan only 0.8% of the two-room apartments on offer are within reach for solo renters, the situation in Venice is even direr, with no affordable options available. Single individuals face challenging rental conditions in Bari and Bologna as well. In Bari, where the rent for a two-room apartment has surged by nearly 200 euros per month over the past year, reaching 800 euros, the average salary fails to meet the required amount, hovering around 430 euros. Meanwhile, in Bologna, the average rent stands at about 925 euros per month, exceeding what a person could realistically pay by 510 euros. In Rome, there’s a glaring disparity between the rent demanded by landlords and the budget available to renters, with a gap of over 70%. Landlords request an average monthly rent of 890 euros, while the budget of a single individual barely reaches 520 euros. Verona fares slightly better, with an average monthly rent of 770 euros, aligning closer to the budget of around 480 euros that a resident can allocate for rent. In the two major Sicilian cities, Palermo and Catania, the gap between the rent demanded by landlords and the budget of single renters hovers around 45%. In both cities, the monthly rent slightly exceeds 580 euros, while renters can only afford around 400 euros. In municipalities like Turin and Genoa, where the available budget for renting a two-room apartment closely matches the rent demanded, there’s a more balanced situation. In Turin, the average monthly rent slightly exceeds 600 euros, whereas a single individual can afford around 500 euros. Similarly, in Genoa, the gap between the average monthly rent of 550 euros and the personal resources of 450 euros is narrower. Notably, Genoa remains the city with the highest accessibility to two-room apartments for single renters, with 38% of the available stock.

Antonio Intini, Chief Business Development Officer of Immobiliare.it, commented: “The analysis reveals that the rental market in our major cities offers few sustainable options for those with a single income. In most cases, single individuals must allocate at least 50% more than the considered sustainable budget for rent, if not double. Considering the potential for further rent hikes, it’s imperative to reflect on the future of our main urban centers, which are becoming increasingly inaccessible to new generations, forcing them to seek housing solutions in the outskirts and potentially weakening the socio-economic fabric of the cities.”

Source: Monitor Immobiliare

Miami’s Office Market Cools as Tallest Tower Struggles to Secure Anchor Tenant

By Columbus International,18 March 2024

The emergence of challenges surrounding the construction of One Brickell City Centre, poised to be Miami’s tallest corporate skyscraper at approximately 1,000 feet, reflects the gradual cooling of the city’s once-booming office real estate market. Related Cos., a New York-based developer, and Swire Properties, an international firm founded by the British Swire family, find themselves in a struggle to secure a key tenant nearly a year after breaking ground. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Related is in the process of restructuring its agreement with Swire, the landowner. Reports suggest that Swire has even contemplated selling the 1.55-acre downtown Miami site, as revealed in a document reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. However, Swire has clarified that while they regularly assess various options for their development sites, the One Brickell City Centre site is currently not up for sale. Related has affirmed its ongoing collaboration with Swire despite the challenges.

The U.S. office market has faced pressures from rising interest rates and the shift to hybrid work models, impacting cities like Miami, which previously weathered such challenges better due to corporate relocations and limited office space availability. However, recent data from commercial real estate services firm JLL indicates a 25% decrease in leasing activity in the Miami office market last year compared to 2022. Additionally, sublease vacancies surged by 66%, signaling existing tenants’ desires to downsize their office footprints. Steven Hurwitz of JLL notes, “There’s a slowdown of new-to-market activity. We’re sort of at a new inflection point.” Juan Arias, director of market analytics for CoStar in South Florida, highlights that office construction starts in Miami have decelerated following a peak in the second quarter of 2023. Factors such as higher interest rates, increased construction costs, and subdued leasing activity in a softer economic climate have contributed to this slowdown. Miami, once primarily focused on leisure and tourism, is striving to evolve into a thriving business and financial hub. While the city has attracted financial and tech firms from various regions, it also grapples with challenges such as soaring property prices and limited educational infrastructure for new residents. Despite these hurdles, Miami’s office market remains robust compared to many U.S. cities. It registered the highest annual office rent growth last year and maintained a low office vacancy rate of 8.4%.

Related chairman Stephen Ross, known for his interest in South Florida projects, has emphasized One Brickell City Centre’s significance. The tower, with 68 floors spanning 1.5 million square feet, is slated for completion in 2028. Ross aimed to secure prominent tenants, including discussions with Ken Griffin of Citadel regarding potential tenancy, although recent developments suggest Griffin’s firm is pursuing other ventures. While the partnership for One Brickell City Centre’s anchor tenancy did not materialize, both Ross and Griffin have hinted at future collaborations. Their joint statement expresses eagerness to partner on initiatives beneficial to the community, indicating potential future endeavors despite the current challenges facing this high-profile project.

The Allure of Living Abroad: Exploring Real Estate Opportunities for Americans

By Columbus International,15 March 2024

In recent years, the allure of living abroad has transformed from a distant dream into a tangible reality for many Americans. Fueled by various factors such as a robust U.S. dollar, increased accessibility through direct international flights, and the adoption of flexible hybrid work models, markets around the globe have witnessed a surge in interest from American buyers. However, before embarking on the journey of international homeownership, there are several essential considerations to ponder.

One of the critical factors influencing the decision to purchase property abroad is the cost per square foot, which closely mirrors the familiar adage of “location, location, location.” For instance, in Italy’s Como province, the average price per square foot stands at $147. However, prime waterfront properties in sought-after regions like Lake Como command significantly higher prices, exceeding $1,000 per square foot. Such disparities underscore the importance of thorough research and financial planning when venturing into the international real estate market. While the prospect of purchasing an existing property may be enticing, many expats opt for building anew or embarking on renovation projects to achieve their desired level of luxury.

Despite the initial challenges and delays in return on investment, the appeal of customizing one’s living space to suit individual preferences outweighs the convenience of turnkey properties, especially in markets where supply is limited. According to the 2023 U.S. Residential Real Estate Study by WSJ Intelligence, Europe and the Caribbean emerge as the top two regions where American buyers contemplate purchasing homes. Among European destinations, Italy holds particular appeal, with Tuscany standing out as a favored choice. Motivated by factors ranging from retirement to a desire for a change in lifestyle or a vacation home in the heart of Europe, American buyers are drawn to Tuscany’s picturesque landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Moreover, for many American buyers, acquiring property abroad serves as a pathway to permanent residency, particularly among retirees.

The concept of “golden visas,” which grant permanent residency to property owners, gained traction during the pandemic. As such programs evolve and some expire, prospective buyers must navigate the intricacies of residency requirements to ensure a seamless transition to their new global home. In recent years, Tuscany has emerged as a hotspot for international real estate investment, witnessing a remarkable surge in inquiries from American investors. The region’s timeless allure, characterized by rolling countryside, vineyards, and historic towns such as Florence and Lucca, has captivated the imaginations of buyers seeking a slice of Italian paradise.

From quaint villas with picturesque vistas to charming apartments nestled in bustling city centers, Tuscany offers a diverse range of options to suit varying lifestyles and preferences. In conclusion, the dream of living abroad is no longer confined to the realm of fantasy for many Americans. With favorable market conditions, evolving work dynamics, and a renewed appreciation for quality of life, the prospect of owning property in international destinations like Tuscany has never been more attainable. However, thorough research, careful planning, and an understanding of local regulations are essential prerequisites for turning this dream into a fulfilling reality.

From Covid era to 2024, the return to the office in New York City is still a “work in progress”

By Columbus International,11 March 2024

After nearly four years since the initiation of pandemic-induced lockdown measures, New York City‘s journey towards a full return to office life remains a work in progress. Along this path, the city is approaching two significant milestones, one presenting a positive outlook while the other brings a more somber tone.

The first milestone involves office attendance rebounding to nearly 80 percent of its pre-pandemic levels. New York stands out as one of the top-performing markets in this regard, with workplace visitations in 2023 reaching 77.5 percent of the figures seen in 2019, as reported by Placer.ai. This marked a significant leap forward from the preceding year, witnessing a foot traffic surge of over 30 percent compared to 2022. (Placer.ai’s metrics gauge activity within a building, encompassing ground-floor retail spaces, rather than merely the presence of office workers at their desks.)

Despite this progress, as any office owner would attest, New York still has a considerable distance to traverse. However, the situation appears graver elsewhere across the country. In cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Washington D.C., office attendance figures for 2023 lingered at levels well below half of pre-pandemic norms. Only Miami has managed to surpass New York’s performance, with 78.1 percent of 2019’s office attendance levels. Despite frequent anticipations of a game-changing return-to-office wave, progress has been incremental. Optimism surged once more at the onset of the new year, fueled by headlines proclaiming that “90% of Companies Will Return to Office By the End of 2024.”

This narrative echoes previous predictions, such as those made by Resume Builder in late 2022, asserting that “9 in 10 companies will require employees to work from the office in 2023,” based on a survey of 1,000 major business leaders. However, the actual implementation of return-to-office policies has proven sluggish. Even among companies that have succeeded in recalling most of their employees to the office, the transition to a full five-day workweek onsite has been challenging. Nationwide, office attendance remains down by approximately 33 percent on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, dropping by nearly 50 percent on Mondays and Fridays. Only a handful of firms adhering to strict return-to-office protocols continue to utilize office space at pre-pandemic levels.

Many have adopted a hybrid model, allowing for a reduction in their physical footprints. Consequently, despite the gradual progress of the return-to-office movement, office owners continue to face significant challenges. Manhattan’s availability rate reached a record high of 18.2 percent in February, as reported by Colliers, edging closer to another milestone: 100 million square feet of available office space.

Across the borough’s primary office districts, total office absorption plummeted by 1.43 million square feet, bringing the cumulative available office space to 98.05 million square feet. Thus, while forecasts may paint an increasingly optimistic picture of an imminent return to office normalcy, healthy skepticism remains warranted regarding the immediate prospects for improvement in New York’s office market.

Source: The Real Deal

Riding the Real Estate Rollercoaster: New York City Market Trends Unveiled

By Columbus International,11 March 2024

Here are the latest developments in the New York City real estate market.

In the current landscape of the New York City housing market, the equilibrium between buyers and sellers holds significant importance. With a consistent decrease in housing inventory and a rise in median prices, the market tends to favor sellers. The limited availability of homes places sellers in advantageous positions, potentially leading to more favorable deals. However, this doesn’t necessarily translate to a gloomy outlook for buyers. The increased demand and fluctuating market dynamics offer opportunities for those looking to make strategic investments in real estate. The surge in home prices in New York reflects the impact of dwindling housing inventory and heightened demand. Consequently, the prevailing trend indicates that home prices aren’t declining but rather experiencing growth, signaling a robust market with the potential for lucrative returns for sellers.

The year 2024 began much like its predecessor, with low housing inventory and fluctuating interest rates around 6.5 percent, as reported by the New York State Association of REALTORS. The average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage saw a slight decrease from 6.82 percent in December 2023 to 6.64 percent in January 2024. However, compared to the same period last year, the interest rate has shown an increase from 6.27 percent, highlighting the dynamic nature of the real estate market. One notable shift in the market is the continued decline in housing inventory, persisting for 11 consecutive months in year-over-year comparisons. Across New York, the inventory of homes for sale decreased by 10.2 percent, dropping from 39,544 homes in 2023 to 35,492 units in 2024. This limited supply presents challenges for buyers but also creates an environment where sellers may find opportunities to capitalize on the scarcity of available homes. New listings experienced a modest decline of 1.5 percent, totaling 9,279 in January 2024 compared to 9,423 in the same month of the previous year. Closed sales witnessed a more significant decrease, dropping by 3.8 percent from 7,486 to 7,203 homes in January 2024. Conversely, pending sales increased by 8.9 percent, indicating a potential rebound and heightened activity in the coming months. January saw a 6.7% increase in the number of homes entering into contracts, marking a positive turn as buyers returned amidst declining mortgage rates. This surge, slightly higher than the average over the past five years, is attributed to the drop in mortgage rates during November and December, enticing buyers back into the market post-year-end holidays. However, despite this uptick, challenges remain. Highly-priced homes are staying on the market for longer periods, keeping the city’s median asking price elevated.

Elevated asking prices, coupled with rising mortgage rates, are prompting sellers to make concessions to attract buyers, illustrating a nuanced market scenario. As of January, the median asking price in NYC stood at $1.095 million, reflecting an 11.7% increase from a year ago. This uptick is largely due to a slowdown in the luxury market, where homes priced at $4.975 million and above are taking longer to sell. The median asking price in Manhattan rose by 8.4% year-over-year to $1.68 million, indicating a resilient market experiencing notable shifts. While luxury listings in Manhattan witnessed an increase in median asking prices, the typical luxury listing received only 93.2% of its initial asking price, indicating a shift in power from sellers to buyers at the highest end of the market. In Brooklyn, where inventory is limited, the median asking price surged by 16.8% to $1.05 million. Meanwhile, Queens offers a more affordable option, with a 4.2% year-over-year increase, resulting in a median asking price of $624,900. The NYC housing market grapples with the aftermath of elevated mortgage rates and median asking prices, limiting the pool of potential buyers. While the monthly mortgage payment on a median-priced home rose by 16.1% year-over-year to $5,619 in January, the median asking rent increased by just 0.1% to $3,500. With a considerable number of potential buyers still on the sidelines, those who can afford to stay in the market now have more room for negotiation. The median asking price for homes entering into contracts in January was $925,000, 15.5% lower than the overall median asking price of homes on the market. This disparity indicates a market where more affordable homes are gaining traction among buyers, while the luxury segment experiences a slowdown. Despite the recent decline in mortgage rates, the outlook for the New York City housing market remains complex. Seller concessions, aimed at attracting buyers, have become more prevalent. In September 2023, when mortgage rates were above 7%, 2.7% of for-sale listings mentioned seller concessions. Despite a subsequent decline in average mortgage rates to 6.7%, concessions in January held steady at 2.3%, showcasing a significant increase from the 1.4% average in 2021.

Regarding negotiations, buyers are finding more areas to maneuver. NYC sellers are increasingly willing to offer concessions explicitly in their listings, helping to reduce closing costs for buyers without reducing the asking price. One notable concession gaining popularity is the rate buydown, with 1.7% of sponsor condos offering this option in January, a significant increase from the 0.1% average in 2021.

Shore Club Stunner: $120M Penthouse Sets Record as Miami’s Priciest Pad

By Columbus International,11 March 2024

An extraordinary ocean-view penthouse in Miami Beach is set to be sold for a staggering amount exceeding $120 million, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. If finalized, the transaction would surpass previous records, making the condominium the most expensive ever sold in the Miami area. Situated within the prestigious Shore Club Private Collection, this lavish unit boasts a living space complete with terraces and a private rooftop pool, offering unparalleled luxury, comfort, and breathtaking ocean views. The identity of the buyer remains a mystery as the developers, the Witkoff Group and Monroe Capital, have chosen not to comment, fueling speculation. Real estate record-breaker and billionaire hedge fund magnate Ken Griffin had previously set a record for Miami condos in 2015 when he acquired two penthouses at Faena House for $60 million. Griffin later sold those units for a lower price: $46.2 million. His passion for high-value real estate transactions continued in 2022 with the purchase of the waterfront property at Adrienne Arsht in Coconut Grove, Miami, for an incredible sum of $106.87 million, marking a historic moment: the first nine-figure residential sale ever in the city. This recent monumental sale underscores an unprecedented surge in Miami’s luxury real estate market, with affluent individuals eagerly vying to secure their piece of paradise.

The Shore Club redevelopment project has been in the works for years, involving the transformation of two iconic hotels – the 1940s-era Shore Club Hotel and the historic Cromwell Hotel, a gem of Art Deco architecture from the 1930s. Designed by esteemed architects Robert A.M. Stern, the development features 49 residences spread across the original Cromwell Hotel and a new imposing structure rising above the beach. Additionally, an ocean-facing standalone villa and a luxurious five-star resort managed by Auberge Resorts Collection are set to enhance the complex. Sales of Shore Club apartments began early last year, with prices ranging from approximately $6 million to $40 million, excluding the jewel penthouse. Excitement is palpable for the project’s completion (expected in 2026). Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design, in collaboration with RAMSA, is the firm responsible for the architecture. The interiors, overseen by RAMSA, will embody a yacht-inspired aesthetic, featuring a serene color palette evocative of the surrounding natural elements.

Photo via The Boundary (Rendering)

Kim Kardashian’s Skims Scores Prime Fifth Avenue Retail Space at Bargain Rates (The Real Deal)

Nhood’s Innovative Urban Regeneration Project Set to Transform Piazzale Loreto in Milan into Vibrant Community Hub

The effect of luxury neighborhoods on more peripheral ones: the new real estate trend in Milan

Related Companies Reveals Renderings of Massive $12 Billion NYC Casino Complex at Hudson Yards

Rental opportunities on the rise. From Milan to Florence, it’s the perfect time to invest in Italy (Immobiliare.it)

Miami’s Office Market Cools as Tallest Tower Struggles to Secure Anchor Tenant

The Allure of Living Abroad: Exploring Real Estate Opportunities for Americans

From Covid era to 2024, the return to the office in New York City is still a “work in progress”

Riding the Real Estate Rollercoaster: New York City Market Trends Unveiled

Shore Club Stunner: $120M Penthouse Sets Record as Miami’s Priciest Pad

Newsletter