In the heart of Miami lies a hidden gem, Coral Gables, a city that has long captivated homebuyers with its Mediterranean-inspired architecture and lush greenery. However, the pandemic has propelled this idyllic neighborhood to new heights, transforming it into one of the most coveted real estate destinations in Florida.
The 33156 ZIP Code, once a haven for those seeking a tranquil retreat from the bustling city, has experienced a remarkable surge in property values. Once hovering around the $1 million mark, the median listing price has skyrocketed to an impressive $4.6 million as of April 2024, according to Realtor.com data. This remarkable appreciation has positioned Coral Gables as the second most expensive residential area in Florida, surpassed only by the illustrious Fisher Island, a Miami Beach-adjacent enclave with a staggering $12.75 million median listing price. As Miami experienced an economic renaissance during the pandemic, with businesses flocking to the area and a surge in mega real estate transactions around Miami Beach, Coral Gables emerged as a sanctuary for families seeking top-notch schools, proximity to thriving office culture, and a walkable downtown atmosphere.
Exclusive Membership: The Riviera Country Club
For those seeking an unparalleled lifestyle, the Riviera Country Club offers an 18-hole golf course meticulously designed and built by the legendary Donald Ross in the 1920s. In 2015, the course underwent a major renovation by the renowned Kipp Schulties, further enhancing its allure and prestige.
Event of the Year: The Mango Festival
Coral Gables is not only a haven for luxury living but also a celebration of nature’s bounty. Each summer, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden hosts the highly anticipated Mango Festival, a weekend-long event paying homage to the fruit with activities such as mango tasting. The garden boasts the world’s largest collection of mangoes, with nearly 400 varieties, and spans 83 acres, housing nearly 30,000 individual plants in its immaculate collection, making it a true Coral Gables mainstay.
Advice for the Buyer
While Coral Gables encompasses a 13-square-mile area with overlapping ZIP Codes, the driving force behind the soaring real estate prices in the 33156 ZIP Code is the prestigious gated community of Gables Estates. According to some local real estate agents, “The most expensive neighborhood in Coral Gables is Gables Estates. It offers direct waterfront access, expansive views, and properties spanning an acre or more.” Gables Estates is one of the few neighborhoods in the Miami area where such luxurious waterfront real estate can be found, rivaled only by the exclusive enclave of Indian Creek.
In conclusion, Coral Gables stands as the ideal oasis for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle in the heart of Miami. With its unparalleled amenities, prestigious communities, and unmatched natural beauty, this neighborhood presents an unrivaled opportunity for discerning investors seeking a piece of paradise in one of Florida’s most sought-after real estate markets.
Source: WSJ
Photo: Coral Gables