Florida

Jeff Bezos Buys Third Mansion in Indian Creek: Controversy Among Residents

By Columbus International,4 April 20249 November 2024

Jeff Bezos, the visionary force propelling Amazon to unprecedented heights, continues to fortify his dominion over the esteemed Indian Creek island, securing a third opulent mansion in his illustrious real estate portfolio.

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In a discreet off-market transaction shrouded in exclusivity, the acquisition commands a staggering price tag hovering around the $90 million mark, as reported by Bloomberg, thus elevating Bezos’ standing as a titan in the realm of property acquisitions. Insiders familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to The Post, divulged Bezos’ intentions to make this newly acquired residence his primary abode, while concurrently orchestrating the dismantling of his two preceding island abodes. Nevertheless, this audacious maneuver hasn’t gone unnoticed by the affluent denizens of the island, who covet their own slice of the prestigious enclave. “As the pinnacle destination in the nation, exclusivity reigns supreme on Indian Creek. The wealthy elite are drawn to its allure,” confided a source well-versed in the area’s real estate dynamics.

“With properties on the island already in high demand, Bezos’ clandestine dealings are bound to stir the aspirations of those vying for residency.” The revered Indian Creek island, spanning a scant 300 acres, is home to only 41 residential estates alongside the esteemed Indian Creek Country Club. Representatives for Bezos have remained tight-lipped regarding the transaction. Historical records reveal that the property last changed hands in 1998 for a modest $2.5 million, exemplifying the astronomical surge in its valuation over the intervening years. Bezos’ latest venture into the Miami real estate arena follows swiftly on the heels of his relocation from the Seattle region to the sun-kissed shores of the Sunshine State. With a formidable net worth totaling $203.7 billion, as per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Bezos epitomizes the epitome of luxurious living. His prior acquisitions on Indian Creek, amassing a staggering $147 million, firmly entrench him within the echelons of the island’s elite. With his residences boasting prestigious addresses such as 11 Indian Creek Island Rd, 12 Indian Creek Island Rd, and his latest acquisition at 28 Indian Creek Island Road, Bezos’ investment in the area now eclipses a staggering $237 million.

Often dubbed the “Billionaire Bunker,” Indian Creek counts amongst its residents illustrious figures such as power couple Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, football maestro Tom Brady, and esteemed investor Carl Icahn. Bezos’ presence on the island adds yet another luminary to its glittering constellation of residents. While Bezos’ financial acumen is undeniably formidable, his recent maneuvers have ignited speculation regarding his long-term strategies and investment trajectories. In February, he divested Amazon shares worth an eye-watering $8.5 billion, marking his first substantial departure from the company since 2021. The allocation of these proceeds remains shrouded in mystery, further fueling conjecture surrounding Bezos’ fiscal machinations.

Beyond his acquisitions in Miami, Bezos boasts an impressive array of properties, including residences in Washington, a sumptuous estate in Maui, and a grandiose mansion in Beverly Hills, procured for a princely sum of $165 million in 2020. The seller of Bezos’ latest acquisition, situated at 28 Indian Creek Island Road, is identified as former banker Javier Holtz, thus adding another chapter to the island’s storied legacy of opulent transactions.

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.

Ken Griffin’s Plan for a Miami Headquarters Finally Begins to Take Shape

By Columbus International,5 March 20249 November 2024

Ken Griffin, the billionaire founder of Citadel, caused quite a stir when he announced the relocation of his hedge-fund giant from Chicago to Miami. This move marked the most significant shift of any financial institution to the Miami scene. However, nearly two years down the line, the waterfront property Griffin secured for his planned $1 billion headquarters remains barren.

Citadel’s employees continue to toil away in temporary offices in the financial district, awaiting the fruition of their grand relocation plans. Nevertheless, the vision for Griffin’s Miami headquarters is gradually taking shape. Foster + Partners have been entrusted with the design, aiming to erect one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers. Renderings seen by The Wall Street Journal reveal plans for a luxury hotel atop the building, reflecting Griffin’s ambition to leave an indelible mark on Miami’s skyline. Gerald Beeson, Citadel’s chief operating officer, sees this as a pivotal opportunity to craft an iconic edifice befitting Citadel’s future.

Miami, often touted by Griffin as “Wall Street South,” is slated to be the firm’s primary hub, with expansions planned for New York City and London. Griffin’s conspicuous presence in Miami has drawn parallels to the impact LeBron James had on the city, attracting both businesses and wealth, and igniting pockets of growth in the real estate market. Born in Daytona Beach, Florida, Griffin founded Citadel in 1990, propelling himself into the upper echelons of the financial world. With approximately $58 billion in assets under management, Citadel stands as one of the globe’s foremost hedge-fund managers. Griffin’s high-profile acquisitions in Miami, including a record-breaking purchase of a sprawling estate in Coconut Grove, further underscore his commitment to the city. Before publicly announcing his relocation plans in 2022, Griffin quietly acquired a prime waterfront parcel on Brickell Bay, setting the stage for his envisioned headquarters. However, his collaboration with Sterling Bay, the initial developer, came to an abrupt end amid concerns about their ability to see the project through. Citadel’s subsequent search for an experienced developer with a solid track record in South Florida ensued.

Amidst uncertainties surrounding the fate of Citadel’s future headquarters, the company appointed Paul Darrah, formerly of Alphabet’s Google, as its chief workplace officer. Darrah, renowned for his role in developing Google’s corporate campus in Manhattan, aims to establish a temporary space within the 830 Brickell building. This interim solution will provide Citadel with a platform to experiment and refine its vision for the ultimate headquarters, a decision facilitated by the flexibility of the lease agreement. Griffin’s real estate endeavors, however, face challenges, with several acquisitions made but development hindered by existing structures, notably a condo building. Despite these hurdles, Griffin’s determination to establish Citadel’s presence in Miami remains unwavering, signaling a continued evolution of the city’s financial landscape under his stewardship.

Introducing E11EVEN Residences Beyond: Redefining Luxury Living in Miami

By Columbus International,26 February 2024

Nestled within the prestigious District 11 of Miami, E11EVEN Residences Beyond emerges as the epitome of opulent living, introducing a lifestyle coined as “24/11”. This visionary development, the second phase of the esteemed E11EVEN Hotel & Residences Miami project, is poised to transcend the ordinary and set new standards in Miami’s residential landscape.

With bespoke amenities empowering residents to transcend the mundane and a cadre of esteemed partners crafting immersive, entertainment-filled experiences, E11EVEN Residences Beyond promises a life of unparalleled luxury. Embark on an immersive journey into the realm of extravagance with a visit to the state-of-the-art sales gallery located at 1018 N Miami Avenue, where the essence of E11EVEN Residences Beyond comes to life through a meta-reality experience showcasing the new residential collection. At the heart of this visionary development lies the integration of holistic wellness practices, courtesy of the globally renowned wellness brand Chopra Global. Marking their inaugural residential and hotel partnership, Chopra Global brings the ancient healing traditions of Ayurveda to the towers of E11EVEN Hotel & Residences. The Chopra Spa & Studio invites residents and guests into a sanctuary of tranquility, featuring a sublime reception area designed to instill a sense of serenity. From a breathtaking indoor pool to a revolutionary somatic room offering immersive sensory experiences, the spa promises a holistic approach to well-being, complemented by yoga sessions, personalized treatments, and nutrition coaching.

Elevating the social and culinary landscape of E11EVEN Residences Beyond is The Clayton, an exclusive premium social club hailing from Chicago. Exuding an air of sophistication, The Clayton offers residents an array of curated cocktail and dining experiences, alongside private meeting spaces and secluded cigar hideaways, promising the epitome of a lavish night out. Further enriching the culinary tapestry of E11EVEN Residences Beyond is the Riviera Dining Group, renowned for its innovative hospitality concepts. Residents can indulge in a gastronomic journey at the experiential restaurant and lounge nestled within E11EVEN Hotel & Residences, or ascend to the rooftop lounge for panoramic vistas of the Downtown Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay. Beyond its luxurious amenities, E11EVEN Residences Beyond offers a realm of adventure, granting residents access to an expansive resort-style dual-level pool deck and a vibrant day club overlooking the cityscape. Sports enthusiasts can revel in the thrill of major sporting events at the casino-style sports lounge, complete with state-of-the-art amenities and a beer garden. For those seeking a seamless blend of leisure and business, E11EVEN Residences Beyond presents an array of services curated to facilitate every aspect of life. From fully staffed executive office suites to a private helipad for optimal convenience, every detail is meticulously crafted to elevate the resident experience.

Comprising studio to two-bedroom residences, the new residential collection at E11EVEN Residences Beyond epitomizes luxury living, boasting fully integrated “smart building” features, Subzero and Wolf appliances, custom ITALKRAFT Italian cabinetry, and designer-curated furnishings. The recently unveiled Speakeasy Collection adds a touch of sophistication, featuring studios with integrated modern cocktail bars stocked with premium liquors, transforming each residence into a swanky entertainment destination. Embrace a life of limitless possibilities at E11EVEN Residences Beyond, where luxury knows no bounds. With exclusive amenities and world-class partners, this visionary development epitomizes the ultimate live, work, play experience, inviting residents to embark on a journey of unrivaled sophistication and indulgence.

Photos via E11EVEN

Unveiling the Epitome of Luxury: Miami’s Starchitect-Driven Real Estate Revolution

By Columbus International,22 February 2024

In the world of luxury real estate in Miami, the mere mention of the name of a world-renowned architect can evoke prices that defy imagination. Imagine this: a penthouse spanning over 13,000 square meters ready to enter the market at a price of $150 million, equivalent to the astronomical figure of $11,000 per square meter. Welcome to The Raleigh, an illustrious Art Deco hotel currently undergoing renovation under the guidance of developer Michael Shvo, ready to unveil the epitome of opulence in collaboration with Rosewood Hotel and Residences. The allure behind these stratospheric prices? A design led by architect and visionary Peter Marino, celebrated globally for his creations. Marino and his “colleagues,” often referred to as “starchitects,” are the driving force behind many of Miami’s most coveted residential skyscrapers. Their involvement goes beyond aesthetics; it symbolizes exclusivity and prestige, elevating Miami’s already rich real estate landscape to unprecedented levels. According to some brokers, “in the Miami market, it is a true mark of credibility, of quality.” The intrinsic value associated with properties bearing the imprint of these architectural luminaries is emphasized, where ownership goes beyond mere real estate investment to embody a symbol of enduring value and sophistication. A glaring example of this phenomenon is One Thousand Museum, a beacon of architectural skill conceived by the late Zaha Hadid. The residences within this colossus have consistently commanded premium prices, with resales reaching up to $2,100 per square meter, a testament to the profound impact of alignment with a renowned architect. There is a trust instilled in buyers by the mere association with famous architects, citing the example of the St. Regis Residences by RAMSA in Brickell, where buyers have shown absolute confidence in the architect’s pedigree. To illustrate the tangible impact of the touch of a famous architect, let’s compare five upcoming towers in Miami, each crafted by the most eminent of starchitects, with their non-starchitect counterparts:

The Baccarat, a collaboration between the Related Group and GTIS Partners, boasts the design skill of Arquitectonica, a pillar in the architectural landscape of South Florida. The penthouse at The Baccarat commands a price of $21.7 million, translating to approximately $3,200 per square meter, representing a competitive advantage over non-starchitect offerings nearby.

The Shore Club, undergoing a revitalization under the transformative guidance of RAMSA, sets a new standard in luxury living. With penthouse prices kept discreet, the $6,250 per square meter for the Beach House sets an ambitious benchmark, surpassing nearby competitors.

The collaboration between Related Group and Integra Investments with RAMSA for the St. Regis Residences in Brickell embodies unparalleled luxury. Despite a 35% premium attributed to Stern’s involvement, the price of $4,500 per square meter for the upper penthouse remains competitive in the market.

The visionary project of Mast Capital and Starwood Capital Group, conceived by Rem Koolhaas’s OMA, embodies avant-garde design. The $37 million penthouse, sold at $6,500 per square meter, represents a significant premium over nearby offerings, underscoring the intrinsic value of architectural distinction.

The pinnacle of luxury finds its zenith in the legendary beachfront enclave reimagined by SHVO and designed by Peter Marino. With the crown jewel, a luxurious penthouse commanding an extraordinary price of $150 million, or $11,000 per square meter, it eclipses its competitors, embodying the pinnacle of exclusivity and luxury.

In the landscape of luxury real estate in Miami, the name behind the design is more than a mere recognition; it is a mark of unparalleled excellence and sophistication, capable of transforming residences into true works of art. As Miami continues its ascent as a global epicenter of luxury living, the influence of these visionary architects remains unparalleled, shaping the city’s skyline and redefining the very essence of luxury living.

Source: New York Post

Miami’s Short-Term Rental Condo Boom: A Paradigm Shift in Urban Living

By Columbus International,12 February 20249 November 2024

Miami’s real estate landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by a surge in short-term rental condos that are reshaping the dynamics of urban living across Downtown Miami, Brickell, Edgewater, and beyond. According to a report by the South Florida real estate firm ISG World, a staggering 8,467 short-term rental condos are planned across 26 projects in these areas, constituting a significant portion of the region’s development pipeline.

The rapid growth of short-term rental projects can be attributed to various factors, including economic and political uncertainty in Latin America. Craig Studnicky, CEO of ISG World, notes that developers are capitalizing on the influx of foreign buyers seeking to invest capital outside their borders, particularly amid volatile conditions in their home countries. With international buyers accounting for nearly half of home purchases in South Florida, these projects serve as attractive investment opportunities for individuals looking to diversify their portfolios. Studnicky highlights the exponential growth of short-term rental units in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, with developers seizing the opportunity to cater to the rising demand for flexible accommodation options. This surge in development underscores a “carpe diem” moment for developers, who have capitalized on the convergence of favorable market conditions to meet the evolving needs of residents and investors alike. Alicia Cervera, Chairman of Cervera Real Estate, emphasizes the increasing interest from American buyers in these projects, citing the affordability and flexibility offered by short-term rental condos compared to traditional housing options. With Miami’s population and property prices on the rise, there is a growing demand for smaller, more affordable housing solutions, making short-term rentals an attractive proposition for urban dwellers. Indeed, short-term rental condos are filling a void in the market by providing transitional homes for new arrivals to Miami, as well as serving as investment vehicles for those seeking to monetize their properties. With a wide range of amenities catering to both residents and travelers, these units offer a blend of convenience and luxury in prime urban locations.

Developers are responding to this demand by proposing a diverse array of projects with varying degrees of rental restrictions, catering to different preferences and investment strategies. From fully furnished turn-key residences to condo-hotels with limited occupancy rules, these developments offer options tailored to the needs of various buyers. One notable project, 600 Miami Worldcenter, has sold out its fully furnished units ahead of groundbreaking, underscoring the heightened demand for such offerings in prime locations like Downtown Miami. Similarly, the expansion of the Natiivo concept to Broward County reflects the broader trend of extending the reach of short-term rental condos beyond Miami’s borders.

While there may be some fluctuations in market demand, Studnicky remains optimistic about the future of these projects, citing the resilience of Latin American buyers and the allure of pre-construction investments. With interest rates becoming more favorable and construction financing more accessible, developers are poised to break ground on numerous projects, further reshaping Miami’s skyline and urban landscape. In conclusion, the proliferation of short-term rental condos represents a paradigm shift in Miami’s real estate market, offering investors, residents, and travelers alike a new way to experience urban living in one of the nation’s most dynamic cities. As these projects continue to evolve and expand, they are not only reshaping the physical landscape but also redefining the very essence of urban life in Miami.

Source: Bisnow

Barbie Cafe Buzz to Booming Developments: Wynwood’s Real Estate Rise

By Columbus International,8 February 2024

California-Miami Real Estate, a golden ticket!

Introducing the new Malibu Barbie Cafe, a lively pop-up restaurant in Wynwood, Miami, celebrating the spirit of 1970s Malibu Barbie. You can immerse yourself in a nostalgic culinary adventure, carefully crafted to honor the legacy and influence of the iconic Mattel doll.

Conceived through a partnership between Bucket Listers and Mattel, the giant behind Barbie, this collaboration is led by Derek Berry, a Miami native and president of Bucket Listers experiences. Following the success of previous pop-ups like Saved by the Max and the Peach Pit, this collaboration promises a unique culinary experience, following in the footsteps of previous Malibu Barbie initiatives in New York, Chicago, and the Mall of America.

You can then be transported to the sun-drenched beaches of 1970s Malibu, where every detail reflects the glamorous era of the doll. Designed by Master Chef semi-finalist Becky Brown, the menu boasts a fusion of flavors from Southern California, with delights such as rainbow pancakes, avocado toast, and cauliflower bowls, ensuring an enticing experience for all palates, including children with a dedicated menu.

The atmosphere is Instagram-worthy, complete with giant Barbie boxes, retro furnishings, and the signature pink shades synonymous with the brand. Interactive experiences await, from skating to disco-themed evenings, for guests of all ages.

Meanwhile, if after enjoying your Mattel-branded coffee you decide to buy a house in Miami, developers seem to all agree: Wynwood is a winning bet. Similarly to other areas of Miami, developers are descending on the neighborhood and have over a dozen projects in various stages of development. An analysis by The Real Deal has found that over 2,200 apartments and condominiums are coming to Wynwood. A number destined to increase.

Developers have spent just under $300 million solely on land acquisitions between March 2021 and May 2022. By comparison, approximately $366 million was spent on land in Brickell and $555 million in Edgewater.

Here are the planned projects in Wynwood:

Ironstate Development and Brookfield Properties, 26 Northeast 27th Street

Ironstate Development, based in Hoboken, New Jersey, led by brothers David and Michael Barry, along with Brookfield Properties, have proposed a complex of 289 apartments on the former Art by God site. Last year, they paid $15.6 million for the entire assemblage at 26 and 60 Northeast 27th Street, and 25 and 61 Northeast 26th Street.

Gamma Real Estate, 2825 Northwest Second Avenue

Gamma Real Estate from New York took control of the site from The Collective, after making a credit bid. Current plans for the property include 180 units, ranging from studios to six-bedroom apartments.

Clearline Real Estate, 2000 and 2021 North Miami Avenue

Clearline, led by Jenny Bernell, envisions a mixed-use project, likely including rentals. The undeveloped property is zoned for over 300 units.

Fifield Companies, 37 Northeast 27th Street

Fifield plans an eight-story residential building with 210 units and approximately 10,000 square feet of commercial space and a pedestrian walkway. The Chicago-based developer paid $19.5 million for the property in January. Construction is expected to be completed in 2024.

L&L Holding Company and Carpe Real Estate Partners, 31 Northwest 29th Plaza

New York developers L&L Holding Company and Carpe Real Estate Partners plan a mixed-use project that would span over 1 million square feet and include 509 units.

Rilea Group and Promanas Group, 94 Northeast 29th Street

Rilea Group and Promanas Group plan to build 127 rentals at 94 and 100 Northeast 29th street. Plans call for a 12-story project with a rooftop restaurant and a pool bar. The developers bought the properties for $12.2 million last year.

TriStar Capital, Related Group, Lndmrk Development, Tricera Capital, 2700 Northwest Second Avenue

TriStar Capital, Related Group, Lndmrk Development, and Tricera Capital plan to build more than 300 units. The developers paid $26.5 million for the 1.3-acre development site last year. Construction could begin in August.

PMG and Greybrook Realty Partners, 2431 Northwest Second Avenue

PMG and Greybrook Realty Partners secured a $142.3 million construction loan last year for their planned 318-unit, 10-story mixed-use project.

Related Group, 2130 North Miami Avenue, 38 Northwest 22nd Street

Related Group plans to build a pair of 12-story buildings with 317 apartments and 534 parking spaces.

Kushner Companies, Block Capital Group, 127 Northwest 27th Street

Kushner Companies and Block Capital Group are building a project that will have 152 apartments and 232 parking spaces, an outdoor pool deck, and a lounge. It’s expected to be delivered in the third quarter of this year.

Sources and Photos: Eater, The Real Deal, Instagram

Miami is much more than just a bubble. It is a journey towards technological and real estate innovation

By Columbus International,17 January 2024

In recent times, Miami has emerged as a beacon of potential, drawing attention from global investors, particularly those from Italy seeking promising opportunities. The city’s transformation into a burgeoning tech hub has captured the imagination, prompting discerning investors to explore the possibilities that extend beyond mere hype. Once renowned as the capital of Latin America and a thriving hub for tourism and real estate, Miami has swiftly evolved into one of the fastest-growing tech ecosystems in America. This seismic shift began in 2020 when influential Silicon Valley executives like Keith Rabois and Jon Oringer chose to relocate during the pandemic, attracting interest from other major players. The turning point occurred with a tweet from Mayor Francis Suarez in December 2020, responding to the prospect of moving Silicon Valley to Miami with a simple question: “How can I help?”

This enthusiastic embrace from Miami’s leadership signaled a commitment to facilitating relocations, conferences, and other essential elements for fostering innovation. Initiatives like Venture Miami have contributed to the city’s success, resulting in a surge in startup creation and tech job growth. The financial landscape attests to Miami’s tech momentum, with startups securing record-breaking financing in 2021 and continuing to flourish in 2023. The region attracted $5.8 billion in venture capital in 2021, with over $300 million invested in the first quarter of 2023 alone, surpassing the total for all of 2019. Miami now stands as the fourth-largest recipient of VC funding nationwide, trailing behind established coastal hubs like San Francisco. This surge in investment has not only propelled Miami’s tech sector but has also ignited a boom in luxury real estate, with high-net-worth tech leaders like Jeff Bezos and Citadel’s Ken Griffin acquiring multimillion-dollar properties. The emergence of $50 million-plus luxury towers and penthouses exceeding $100 million signifies an expectation of substantial future wealth creation.

Beyond the glamorous headlines lies the real narrative of everyday Miamians building startups focused on Latin America, blockchain, climate tech, health innovation, and more. The foundation for broader transformation is laid in local coworking spaces and small seed deals, reflecting a diverse and sustainable tech ecosystem. While discussions about the possibility of a bubble persist, Miami’s intrinsic strengths, including accessible capital, a supportive government, and access to Latin American markets, remain steadfast. The city’s tech sector, with over 10,000 jobs added last year, continues to exhibit favorable momentum, defying concerns of a mere hype cycle. Investors contemplating Miami’s potential need not fear irrational exuberance; the city stands on solid ground with genuine prospects for long-term success. As Miami cements itself as one of the country’s preeminent emerging tech ecosystems, the convergence of lower costs and strengthened ties between North and Latin American businesses ensures a promising future. While the tides of growth may fluctuate, the foundation laid ensures that Miami’s tech evolution is far more than a fleeting bubble – it’s a sustainable and exciting journey toward innovation.

Foreign Buyers Dominate Condo Sales in South Florida: Report Reveals Surge to 56%

By Columbus International,19 December 202319 December 2023

Foreign buyers accounted for 56% of all condominium sales in South Florida over the past year, a significantly higher figure compared to the rest of the country. Nationally, foreign buyers constituted 15% of condo purchases, while they made up 36% of condo sales elsewhere in Florida, according to the Miami Realtors Association. The sales volume attributed to foreign buyers in South Florida for the 12 months ending in July, covering single-family homes, townhouses, and residential condos, amounted to $5.1 billion, as indicated in the association’s annual international homebuyers report. Interestingly, the majority of buyers managed to navigate the challenges of higher interest rates, with 69% of residential purchases in South Florida being completed as all-cash transactions during that period, according to the report.

South Florida’s proportion of foreign buyers for all residential purchases stands at 18%, nine times larger than the rest of the country, where foreign buyers account for 2% of residential purchases, and twice as large as the rest of the state, where foreign residential purchases make up 6% of sales. Across the tri-county area of South Florida, the majority of buyers hailed from Latin America. In Miami-Dade County, the top five countries of origin for buyers were Argentina at 17%, Colombia at 14%, Venezuela at 13%, Brazil at 8%, and Mexico at 5%. In Broward County, buyers from Colombia represented 19% of purchases, followed by Argentina at 17%, Canada at 14%, Peru at 8%, and Venezuela at 4%. Palm Beach County saw Brazilian buyers make up 18% of purchases, followed by Costa Rica at 10%, Spain at 10%, Trinidad and Tobago at 10%, and Venezuela at 10%.

“Increasing global sales continue to be led by Miami,” stated Ines Hegedus-Garcia, chair of the board at Miami Realtors. She added that Miami’s unique combination of a vibrant lifestyle, cultural diversity, a burgeoning financial tech scene, modern architecture, eclectic shopping, proximity to Latin America, and iconic beaches were key factors driving the region’s sales among foreign buyers. In terms of dollar amount, Miami-Dade County accounted for $3.67 billion in sales, followed by Broward County at $1.07 billion, and Palm Beach County at $270 million. Overall, buyers from 52 countries participated in South Florida’s residential real estate market during the period covered by the report. While the total of $5.1 billion in South Florida falls short of the previous year’s $6.8 billion in sales, it remains consistent with figures from 2021.

Source: CoStars News

Miami’s Italian Renaissance: A Cultural Infusion in the Magic City’s Lifestyle and Real Estate

By Columbus International,29 November 2023

Miami has long been celebrated as Latin America’s informal northern capital, with Latin culture deeply embedded in its vibrant atmosphere. However, the city is now witnessing a surge in admiration for Italian influences alongside its Central and South American counterparts, marking a notable shift in cultural dynamics.

In a recent Forbes article, the transformation is evident not just in language, as Spanish is no longer the sole Romance Language resonating in residents’ conversations. Italian culture is making a substantial impact on the Magic City, leaving an indelible mark on various facets of life, including hospitality, fine dining, and real estate. Prominent hospitality brands like Bulgari Hotels & Resorts have found a home in Miami, while a plethora of exquisite Italian restaurants, including renowned establishments like Carbone, Contessa, and MAMO, have become integral parts of the city’s culinary landscape. Italian design and style have also permeated into the realm of real estate developments, with luxury condominium projects such as VITA at Grove Isle and ONDA Residences boasting Italian finishes and materials. The towering 57-story luxury condominium, Missoni Baia Miami, stands as the world’s first branded residential tower from the iconic Italian fashion house, showcasing its multihued design palette and Missoni Home furniture collection. Cipriani Residences Miami, a ground-up development in the Brickell neighborhood, is another testament to the Italian influence. Developed by South Florida’s Mast Capital in collaboration with the illustrious Cipriani family, globally renowned for their restaurants and nightlife venues, this 80-story-tall residential tower will feature 397 luxury condominium units, resort-style amenities, and classic Italian cuisine. Noteworthy in this cultural renaissance is VILLA Miami, a 55-story boutique residence crafted by TERRA and One Thousand Group.

Partnering with Major Food Group (MFG), the hospitality firm behind Carbone and Contessa, VILLA Miami promises a unique residential experience. MFG will curate the tower’s lifestyle offerings, incorporating Italian design into every aspect, from dining to leisure and wellness. Ugo Colombo, CMC Group founder, emphasizes the authenticity of Italian design brought by born-and-bred Italians involved in these projects. Colombo, alongside Onda Residences co-developer Valerio Morabito and their design partners, Molteni&C and A++ Human Sustainable Architecture, aims to create timeless, quality residential developments deeply rooted in the principles of fine craftsmanship and elegant architecture. “At both ONDA and Vita, we are creating timeless, quality residential developments,” says Colombo. “We have translated what it means to live in true luxury for the modern buyer, showcasing all aspects of ‘La Dolce Vita.'” These Italian-inspired developments present Miami residents and potential buyers with a taste of the good life, eliminating the need to travel to Rome to experience La Dolce Vita. The city’s western outpost has become a cultural melting pot, where the influences of Latin America and Italy converge, offering a unique blend of lifestyles and experiences. As David Martin, CEO of Terra, affirms, “VILLA’s Italian DNA is infused throughout all aspects, from the design to programming, amenities, and services,” making it an instant point of interest for those seeking a touch of Italian elegance in the Magic City. [Source: Forbes]