Miami has been listed as one of the Top Ten Glamorous A-list Destinations in the world, according to the Lonely Planet. This week, we’ll take a look at why!
The Miami of the Miami Vice era in the 1980s was a mixture of retirement homes and an abundance of sleaze, drugs and crime. However, in the early 1990’s Miami cleaned itself up and became a destination for fashion houses and model agencies, attracted by the superb location backdrops for fashion shoots provided by the beautiful beaches, Art Deco architecture and bright sunshine. Soon Miami became super-hip and an abundance of hotels, bars and restaurants were revamped or opened up to cater to the incoming elite. There were plenty of places to park yachts, such as in Bal Harbour in North Miami Beach and eventually, there came the super glamorous hotels such as the Fountainebleau in Mid Beach.
Miami Beach is experiencing a celebrity boom right now, with numerous American sports stars and media stars choosing to buy homes here. Just this week, there are reports in the Miami New Times that the New York Yankees’ star A-Rod has bought a $24m home in Miami to share with his girlfriend, superstar Cameron Diaz. The Celebrity King and Queen of Miami is probably still Emilio and Gloria Estefan, who have invested heavily in local art, businesses and charity projects.
If you fancy grabbing a piece of Miami Glamour for yourself, why not check out Kelly’s website for the finest selection of luxury real-estate.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Monday, September 12, 2011
South Beach Wine and Food Festival
This week, The Food Network launched its new website to promote the 2012 South Beach Wine and Food Festival. Now in its 11th year, the festival brings together some of the most tasty bites and decadent wines at venues across South Beach, including a series of giant marquees right on South Beach itself. In the past, the event has attracted top chefs from all around the world, including Emeril Lagasse, Bobby Flay, Rachael Ray, Al Roker, Martha Stewart and Guy Fieri. The event will follow the huge success of the 2011 festival, which attracted over 50,000 visitors with discerning palates.
The festival will take place from Feb 23-26 2012. According to the Miami New Times, the hottest events are likely to be the Best of the Best, Paula’s Sunday Brunch, the Farm-To-Table Brunch with Michael Schwartz, The Flavors of Flay and BBQ & The Blues, which features performances of a selection of Blues favourites. However, there are many other attractive options such as browsing the Grand Tasting Village and a variety of themed parties based on cuisines from around the world. Believe us, Miami knows how to throw a good party.
Tickets will go onsale on Oct 24, with the opportunity for American Express cardholders to get pre-release tickets before then.
If you are interested in owning a piece of South Beach, why not check out Kelly’s website for the very best of beach property!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
A Beginners’ Guide to Miami Beach: Part 4 - A Totally Tropical Place
Miami is famous for its white sand and summer sun, but is that how it is all year round? This week, we’ll discover more about the climate in Miami.
Right now, in September, it’s the middle of low season in Miami. It is not uncommon for hurricanes to come along...which can be a bit off-putting for visitors or immigrants from countries that don’t tend to experience them, such as the UK or Canada. However, ask any expat, even from these countries, and they’ll tell you that you get used to how to prepare for them and find a way of getting on with your life regardless. The main financial impact of the hurricane season tends to be on obtaining the correct insurance on your property to give yourself peace of mind. In fact, there can even be something romantic about sitting on the beach watching the palm trees bend...
In contrast, the tourist high season in Miami starts in November and goes on until around June, hitting its peak at around February and March, when the big festivals such as the Winter Music Conference and dozens of others hit the town and the temperatures are pleasantly in the high 20’s or low 30’s Celsius (80-85 Fahrenheit). The tourists come for the entertainment and the wonderful climate to escape the chilly Northern winters.
However, this year, it seems that the gaps between low and high season are levelling out, according to a recent article in the nytimes. It seems that more people are coming to Miami to sip classy cocktails in the swimming pool to keep cool in the sweltering Miami heat of July and August.
If you are interested in owning a piece of the Miami heat, why not check out Kelly’s website for the very best of beach property.
www.britishmiamirealtor.com
Right now, in September, it’s the middle of low season in Miami. It is not uncommon for hurricanes to come along...which can be a bit off-putting for visitors or immigrants from countries that don’t tend to experience them, such as the UK or Canada. However, ask any expat, even from these countries, and they’ll tell you that you get used to how to prepare for them and find a way of getting on with your life regardless. The main financial impact of the hurricane season tends to be on obtaining the correct insurance on your property to give yourself peace of mind. In fact, there can even be something romantic about sitting on the beach watching the palm trees bend...
In contrast, the tourist high season in Miami starts in November and goes on until around June, hitting its peak at around February and March, when the big festivals such as the Winter Music Conference and dozens of others hit the town and the temperatures are pleasantly in the high 20’s or low 30’s Celsius (80-85 Fahrenheit). The tourists come for the entertainment and the wonderful climate to escape the chilly Northern winters.
However, this year, it seems that the gaps between low and high season are levelling out, according to a recent article in the nytimes. It seems that more people are coming to Miami to sip classy cocktails in the swimming pool to keep cool in the sweltering Miami heat of July and August.
If you are interested in owning a piece of the Miami heat, why not check out Kelly’s website for the very best of beach property.
www.britishmiamirealtor.com
Monday, August 29, 2011
Miami Werewolves at the Downtown Full Moon Party
Miami is famous for glamour and parties. With top class bars and clubs attracting the world’s best DJs, Miami is definitely a place where you can find your groove. Miami is also a place to develop the body beautiful. Every day South Beach becomes a catwalk of fitness as beautiful people rush by on rollerblades or in designer trainers. South Beach also offers the opportunity to embrace your spiritual side, with yoga classes being offered twice a day for $5 on the 3rd St beach.
The regular Downtown Full Moon Party at the Miami Arts Space is the perfect opportunity to combine hedonism with health and spiritual well-being. For the party people, the event offers live bands and DJ sets and a drinks bar offering Chakra Cocktails among your favourite tipples. The beautiful people include the fire dance performers who demonstrate their skills for the partygoers. Finally, for the spiritual seekers, the event offers free yoga classes and also there is a massage therapist on site to unknot your tensions away. For a more hippy vibe check out the full moon drum circles held between 79th & 86th Streets on Miami Beach.
If you’re interested in living the Miami lifestyle, why not check out Kelly’s website to find your dream home.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
The regular Downtown Full Moon Party at the Miami Arts Space is the perfect opportunity to combine hedonism with health and spiritual well-being. For the party people, the event offers live bands and DJ sets and a drinks bar offering Chakra Cocktails among your favourite tipples. The beautiful people include the fire dance performers who demonstrate their skills for the partygoers. Finally, for the spiritual seekers, the event offers free yoga classes and also there is a massage therapist on site to unknot your tensions away. For a more hippy vibe check out the full moon drum circles held between 79th & 86th Streets on Miami Beach.
If you’re interested in living the Miami lifestyle, why not check out Kelly’s website to find your dream home.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Monday, August 22, 2011
For EverGlades
One of the most popular day trips out of Miami is to check out the world-famous Everglades National Park. The Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the US and has been designated a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve and Wetland of International Importance. Its swampy wetland environment provides the ideal habitat for numerous species of birds and animals, with its most notorious residents being the King of the Everglades, the American Alligator.
The most popular way to see the Everglades is to take a tour out on an airboat. Many operators run half day tours from Miami, such as Everglades Eco Adventure or Everglades Tours. However, if you are a nature fanatic, why not check out the full day eco tours by Everglades Day Safari. Or if you want a tour led by the indigenous Seminole people, check out Seminole Tours.
One thing’s for sure, the future of the Everglades as a pristine natural environment is looking a little more secure. This week, the federal government has confirmed that a $100m investment is to be made to permanently protect an additional 24,000 acres of land around the National Park’s Lake Okeechobee from development. So it looks like there’ll be a home for the Kings of the Everglades for some time to come!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
The most popular way to see the Everglades is to take a tour out on an airboat. Many operators run half day tours from Miami, such as Everglades Eco Adventure or Everglades Tours. However, if you are a nature fanatic, why not check out the full day eco tours by Everglades Day Safari. Or if you want a tour led by the indigenous Seminole people, check out Seminole Tours.
One thing’s for sure, the future of the Everglades as a pristine natural environment is looking a little more secure. This week, the federal government has confirmed that a $100m investment is to be made to permanently protect an additional 24,000 acres of land around the National Park’s Lake Okeechobee from development. So it looks like there’ll be a home for the Kings of the Everglades for some time to come!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, August 14, 2011
A Beginner’s Guide to Miami Beach: Part Three – Skinny Dipping and Luxury Shopping in North Beach
North Beach is the area north of around 63rd Street on Miami Beach. The beaches in this part of town are a little wilder and generally quieter than those in Mid or South Beach. Haulover Beach is one of the most famous “clothing-optional” beaches in the US and has pristine white sands and areas suitable for both surfing and swimming. If nudism is not your thing, then there are plenty of other areas in Haulover Beach where you rest your beach towel down for a beautiful day.
North Beach was originally planned as a “perfect city” in 1917 and still has its original street layout and boasts historical churches and parks, such as Greynolds Park.
North Beach is also home to Bal Harbour, an exclusive part of town with its designer shopping mall and ample mooring for your luxury yacht! Luxury apartment buildings in the area include One Bal Harbour and the much anticipated, exclusive St Regis, due to open January 2012.
If you’re interested in finding out more about buying a piece of North Beach, contact Kelly, the Best British Miami Realtor!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Monday, August 8, 2011
What’s Going On in the Biscayne Corridor?
The roads are up, the cranes are stretching into the sky and scaffolding covers buildings all around the area heading out of Downtown Miami on Biscayne Boulevard. Enjoying wonderful views across Biscayne Bay across to Miami Beach and the Atlantic Ocean beyond, the Biscayne Corridor is becoming hot stuff as far as property is concerned.
A $726m project has been approved to develop the area around Omni station at 1700 Biscayne Boulevard. Recently reported in The Miami Herald, the project includes 672 residential apartments, 505 hotel rooms and commercial and retail space. Construction is due to start next year and be complete by 2015.
Almost right next door at 1777 Biscayne Boulevard, 98% of the commercial development 18 Biscayne has now been let, according to the Herald. The brand new development included a 49,200 sq ft Publix grocery store and multiple retail units.
The Omni centre is the locus for proposed infrastructure developments also. Plans are currently being considered to develop a trolley car or a light rail service from the area, to supplement the existing Metromover and local bus services that already serve the area.
If you are interested in finding out more about what’s going on at Biscayne Boulevard and for some great property deals, why not contact Kelly!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
A $726m project has been approved to develop the area around Omni station at 1700 Biscayne Boulevard. Recently reported in The Miami Herald, the project includes 672 residential apartments, 505 hotel rooms and commercial and retail space. Construction is due to start next year and be complete by 2015.
Almost right next door at 1777 Biscayne Boulevard, 98% of the commercial development 18 Biscayne has now been let, according to the Herald. The brand new development included a 49,200 sq ft Publix grocery store and multiple retail units.
The Omni centre is the locus for proposed infrastructure developments also. Plans are currently being considered to develop a trolley car or a light rail service from the area, to supplement the existing Metromover and local bus services that already serve the area.
If you are interested in finding out more about what’s going on at Biscayne Boulevard and for some great property deals, why not contact Kelly!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, July 31, 2011
A Beginner’s Guide to Miami Beach: Part Two – Relaxation and Killer Cocktails in Mid Beach
This week, we’re going to be exploring Mid Beach, the laid back neighbour to the glamour and boisterousness of South Beach. With beautiful, extended beach-side board walks and all the facilities, sun-loungers, beautiful Caribbean waters and fabulous cocktails; Mid Beach is the area between Dade Boulevard and 74th St and is the place to come for the perfect beach day away from the crowds in South Beach.
Mid Beach is also home to the super-swanky Fountainebleu resort, which boasts its own luxury spa, exquisite dining and nightclubs where world famous Dance DJs come to play. With a series of outdoor poolside bars serving fabulous cocktails, it’s the perfect place to pose in a designer bikini and high heels. Or perhaps just watch the beautiful people.
If you fancy getting hot and steamy in the Miami heat, then why not try the Russian Baths on Collins and 54th Street? With loads of rooms ranging from the super hot saunas and steam rooms to the chilly polar bear room and the tropical rain room, you’ll spend hours finding the perfect balance.
Mid Beach is a popular and quiet residential area, with property ranging from condos such as The Blue and Green Diamond to high quality single family homes.
If you fancy a piece of laid-back Miami, contact Kelly to find out more.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Mid Beach is also home to the super-swanky Fountainebleu resort, which boasts its own luxury spa, exquisite dining and nightclubs where world famous Dance DJs come to play. With a series of outdoor poolside bars serving fabulous cocktails, it’s the perfect place to pose in a designer bikini and high heels. Or perhaps just watch the beautiful people.
If you fancy getting hot and steamy in the Miami heat, then why not try the Russian Baths on Collins and 54th Street? With loads of rooms ranging from the super hot saunas and steam rooms to the chilly polar bear room and the tropical rain room, you’ll spend hours finding the perfect balance.
Mid Beach is a popular and quiet residential area, with property ranging from condos such as The Blue and Green Diamond to high quality single family homes.
If you fancy a piece of laid-back Miami, contact Kelly to find out more.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Becoming Co-operative in Florida
This week, we’ll discuss the co-operative system of property ownership. Co-operative ownership is commonly with apartment buildings in Manhattan and other northern metropolitan areas of the US. However, there are some opportunities to become co-operative in Florida.
If you are from overseas, or from outside of major metropolitan areas in the US, you may not be familiar with how co-operative property ownership works. Basically, it goes like this: the co-operative is a corporation that owns the building and all the occupants of the individual units receive shares in the corporation in proportion to the size and location of their apartment. As the co-operative operates as a corporation, there is a board of directors elected by the occupants (in their capacity as shareholders), who are responsible for the running of the co-operative. The directors are responsible for collecting maintenance fees from shareholders and ensuring communal areas are maintained, and all liabilities that the corporation faces are paid.
The directors are also responsible for approving or rejecting new entrants into the co-operative, based on the criteria agreed by all shareholders. This may sound a little scary for a prospective buyer, but the purpose of this is to protect the existing residents from financial risk and also to ensure that the overall atmosphere of the building is retained. Co-operatives, therefore, tend to have a better community feel than buying a condominium, as residents tend to take more responsibility for themselves and the building. Some co-operatives become very exclusive indeed. As the residents define their own co-operative agreements, each co-op is different. It is important that your lawyer checks that you can use your prospective apartment for the purpose that you intend, e.g. sometimes it may not be possible to buy into a co-operative with a mortgage, or to sub-let your apartment.
Another big advantage, perhaps the biggest advantage, with co-operatives over condominiums is that you tend to get better value for money, with both the capital price of the shares and also property taxes. As you own shares rather than a piece of real-estate, it is more difficult for authorities to make an accurate valuation for property taxation, and therefore the assessed property values are usually much lower than for an equivalent condominium.
If you fancy looking into becoming co-operative, a fantastic opportunity has come to the market right in the heart of the most upmarket area of Miami Beach, SoFi, just two blocks from one of the nicest parts of South Beach itself...A 700sq ft one bed apartment at only $138,499, this is a truly unique opportunity to get in with the in-crowd in a fantastic location!
Contact Kelly if you are interested in becoming co-operative in South Beach!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, July 17, 2011
What’s Up in Downtown Miami?
Miami has a world class beach culture and killer cocktails but that’s not all that happens in the city of glamour. Big business goes down in Downtown Miami. Miami is a gateway to the Americas, with many corporations basing their Latin American operations in the City. Being a major port, all the major cruise lines and also large commercial shipping operations have presence in the city. Miami has also become a major centre for international banking, coming after only New York and Chicago as a centre for major banks in the US.
Downtown Miami consists of four districts: the Central Business District (CBD, also referred to as “Downtown”), Brickell, Omni and Park West.
The CBD is the most historic part of Miami, where all the museums, courthouses and federal buildings are. It is also home of Flagler Street, a major shopping street, and the Miami Jewelry Quarter, famous for a huge choice of cut price precious metals and gems. Marquis Residences offers an ideal address and exclusive lifestyle for the most discerning art lovers, epicurean aficionados and social urbanites of South Florida.
Brickell is the most upmarket part of Downtown Miami, and is the base for many international consulates and embassies, as well as many of the international bank. There are currently massive plans to invest almost $1bn in the area to transform it further into a retail and commercial destination. Mint is your starting point for the ultimate Miami lifestyle.
Omni is a transport centre, but also is home to large cultural centres such as the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts everything from opera and ballet to Broadway Musicals. There are also some residential buildings with wonderful views over Biscayne Bay, such as The 1800 Club or Quantum on the Bay.
Park West is famous for its hip nightclubs such as Space. It is currently underdeveloped and various project proposals have been considered for the area over the years. However, with its prime location between the CBD and Omni, it seems like only a matter of time before there is a property rush in the area.
If you are interested in finding out more about what properties are available in Downtown Miami, why not browse Kelly’s website to see what’s up Downtown?
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Downtown Miami consists of four districts: the Central Business District (CBD, also referred to as “Downtown”), Brickell, Omni and Park West.
The CBD is the most historic part of Miami, where all the museums, courthouses and federal buildings are. It is also home of Flagler Street, a major shopping street, and the Miami Jewelry Quarter, famous for a huge choice of cut price precious metals and gems. Marquis Residences offers an ideal address and exclusive lifestyle for the most discerning art lovers, epicurean aficionados and social urbanites of South Florida.
Brickell is the most upmarket part of Downtown Miami, and is the base for many international consulates and embassies, as well as many of the international bank. There are currently massive plans to invest almost $1bn in the area to transform it further into a retail and commercial destination. Mint is your starting point for the ultimate Miami lifestyle.
Omni is a transport centre, but also is home to large cultural centres such as the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts everything from opera and ballet to Broadway Musicals. There are also some residential buildings with wonderful views over Biscayne Bay, such as The 1800 Club or Quantum on the Bay.
Park West is famous for its hip nightclubs such as Space. It is currently underdeveloped and various project proposals have been considered for the area over the years. However, with its prime location between the CBD and Omni, it seems like only a matter of time before there is a property rush in the area.
If you are interested in finding out more about what properties are available in Downtown Miami, why not browse Kelly’s website to see what’s up Downtown?
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Monday, July 11, 2011
Elect Yourself into Congress!
It’s very easy to get excited about real estate in Miami Beach! There are so many fabulous and interesting buildings and single family homes to choose from. This week, we’re going to have a look at one particular building that offers both affordable Miami glamour and the potential for an excellent rental income!
Welcome to The Congress Hotel on the world-famous Ocean Drive! A condo-hotel right in the heart of Miami’s historic Art Deco district, The Congress Hotel has beautifully preserved architectural features. These days it is an intimate building with just 87 units, yet it nestles among top quality bars and restaurants. However, if a piece of tranquillity is what you are after, how about a dip in the rooftop pool! Looking over the beautiful South Beach, it really is a pool with a view!
The rental opportunities are fantastic. The hotel even offers a rental program, so you can make money if you don’t use the apartment all year round. This is a real advantage with this building, as it can be more complicated to rent apartments in other Miami Beach buildings.
Right now, there is an apartment for sale with an ocean-view balcony in The Congress Hotel. At just $349,000, it offers the lucky buyer the opportunity for both fun in the sun and solid rental income!
Contact Kelly to arrange your viewing!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Monday, July 4, 2011
Miami Beach Property Market Report for Quarter 2: April 1st-June 30th 2011
Currently there are a total of 2181 active listings in the MLS (multiple listings service) in the Miami Beach region (down 20% over quarter 1 with 2732 active listings). This includes condominiums and single family homes.
Of these 11% (239) are listed as short sales (down from 14% in Qtr 1) and 2.3% (50) are ‘REO’ or bank owned (Qtr 1 = 2.4%).
There have been 762 reported closed sales in the MLS for quarter two of 2011. This is a 23% increase over the 621 reported sales for the same period last year and 4% increase over the first quarter.
Comparison of Number of Homes and Condominiums Sold during Quarter 2 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
South Beach
Ocean Drive
South of Fifth
Miami Beach (33140)
Miami Beach (33141)
Comparison of Median Selling Price per square foot ($) during Quarter 2 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
South Beach (33139)
Ocean Drive
South of Fifth
Miami Beach (33140)
Miami Beach (33141)
*All numbers and data in this report are pulled from the MLS (multiple listing service) and do not include sales directly by owner.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Of these 11% (239) are listed as short sales (down from 14% in Qtr 1) and 2.3% (50) are ‘REO’ or bank owned (Qtr 1 = 2.4%).
There have been 762 reported closed sales in the MLS for quarter two of 2011. This is a 23% increase over the 621 reported sales for the same period last year and 4% increase over the first quarter.
Comparison of Number of Homes and Condominiums Sold during Quarter 2 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
South Beach
Ocean Drive
South of Fifth
Miami Beach (33140)
Miami Beach (33141)
Comparison of Median Selling Price per square foot ($) during Quarter 2 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
South Beach (33139)
Ocean Drive
South of Fifth
Miami Beach (33140)
Miami Beach (33141)
*All numbers and data in this report are pulled from the MLS (multiple listing service) and do not include sales directly by owner.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Beginners’ Guide to Miami Beach – Part One: Orientation
Welcome to Miami! Bienvenido a Miami! So Will Smith says in his 1998 smash hit. In this article, we’ll be taking a brief look at the various different neighbourhoods in Miami Beach. Over the next few months, we’ll explore each one in more detail in an occasional series of articles, mixed in with the usual lifestyle and real estate articles that you’ll find in this Miami Beach blog. We’ll start the Guide with an introduction to the city that has become known as “The Billion Dollar Sandbar.”
Miami Beach is an island separated from Downtown Miami by Biscayne Bay, which merges with the Atlantic Ocean. The first road bridge from Downtown Miami was built in 1913 by John Collins. Now there are five road bridges connecting Miami Beach with mainland South Florida. The sea waters surrounding Miami Beach are probably the cleanest and clearest in the US, despite the Port of Miami in Downtown Miami being one of the busiest cruise and cargo ports in the country. Dotted in the ocean around Miami Beach are exclusive and star-studded islands full of super-exclusive luxury houses, such as this spectacular home sold earlier this year for $9.35m, and 'The Villa Stella' on sale now.
Miami Beach has been built on international trade, immigration, fashion and tourism. Founded in the late 19th Century, some of most historic buildings in Miami Beach can be found in the historic Art Deco district dating from the 1920’s, when it became a playground for the rich and famous for the first time.
An influx of Jewish immigrants has also shaped the Miami Beach of today. During the mid 20th Century, there was enforced segregation, where Jewish people were only allowed to live in the area south of 5th street, sometimes known as SoFi. The area developed a strong Jewish identity, and as time has passed, the area has transformed into one of the most desirable locations to buy real estate, with luxury buildings such as The Apogee and The Continuum.
South Beach is probably the most famous part of Miami Beach and includes the Art Deco district and SoFi, as well as all other areas South of Indian Creek at around 23rd Street. Famous for photogenic glamour at the beach and also the world famous Ocean Drive, South Beach is the centre of fun and nightlife in Miami Beach. The area has grown in popularity from the 1980’s onwards when the hit TV series Miami Vice, followed by the inaugural Winter Music Conference and the relocation of several international model agencies, re-established Miami Beach as a place where the beautiful people come to have fun in the sun.
Mid Beach is quieter than its raucous southern neighbour and has become a popular residential area. Famous for spectacular hotels such as the Fountainbleau, Mid Beach was also the location of the The Jackie Gleason Show in the 1950’s.
North Beach stretches from 63rd Street upwards and includes Bal Harbour, with its designer shopping mall and ample mooring for your luxury yacht!
We hope you enjoyed this basic introduction to Miami Beach. We will look more closely at the various residential districts of Miami Beach over the next few months. So watch this space!
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specialises in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Miami Beach is an island separated from Downtown Miami by Biscayne Bay, which merges with the Atlantic Ocean. The first road bridge from Downtown Miami was built in 1913 by John Collins. Now there are five road bridges connecting Miami Beach with mainland South Florida. The sea waters surrounding Miami Beach are probably the cleanest and clearest in the US, despite the Port of Miami in Downtown Miami being one of the busiest cruise and cargo ports in the country. Dotted in the ocean around Miami Beach are exclusive and star-studded islands full of super-exclusive luxury houses, such as this spectacular home sold earlier this year for $9.35m, and 'The Villa Stella' on sale now.
Miami Beach has been built on international trade, immigration, fashion and tourism. Founded in the late 19th Century, some of most historic buildings in Miami Beach can be found in the historic Art Deco district dating from the 1920’s, when it became a playground for the rich and famous for the first time.
An influx of Jewish immigrants has also shaped the Miami Beach of today. During the mid 20th Century, there was enforced segregation, where Jewish people were only allowed to live in the area south of 5th street, sometimes known as SoFi. The area developed a strong Jewish identity, and as time has passed, the area has transformed into one of the most desirable locations to buy real estate, with luxury buildings such as The Apogee and The Continuum.
South Beach is probably the most famous part of Miami Beach and includes the Art Deco district and SoFi, as well as all other areas South of Indian Creek at around 23rd Street. Famous for photogenic glamour at the beach and also the world famous Ocean Drive, South Beach is the centre of fun and nightlife in Miami Beach. The area has grown in popularity from the 1980’s onwards when the hit TV series Miami Vice, followed by the inaugural Winter Music Conference and the relocation of several international model agencies, re-established Miami Beach as a place where the beautiful people come to have fun in the sun.
Mid Beach is quieter than its raucous southern neighbour and has become a popular residential area. Famous for spectacular hotels such as the Fountainbleau, Mid Beach was also the location of the The Jackie Gleason Show in the 1950’s.
North Beach stretches from 63rd Street upwards and includes Bal Harbour, with its designer shopping mall and ample mooring for your luxury yacht!
We hope you enjoyed this basic introduction to Miami Beach. We will look more closely at the various residential districts of Miami Beach over the next few months. So watch this space!
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specialises in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Spinning the Green Wheels of Steel in South Beach
Miami Beach might be famous for its flash cars and yellow Ferraris. But residents and tourists have been discovering some lean and green ways of getting around South Beach.
Deco Bikes have been popping up at stations all around Miami Beach since March 2011. Deco Bikes is a cycle rental scheme operated by a private company that shares its profits with the City. Bikes are docked at stations dotted around the city, with maps and smartphone apps available to help users find their nearest Deco Bike. Tourist tariffs range from $5 per hour to $30 for a 3-day pass. Residents can subscribe to use the bikes for $15 per month.
Municipal bike rental schemes have been growing in popularity across North America and Europe. The largest and longest established scheme is in Paris, where there are over 45,000 bikes. London’s scheme has been running successfully for about a year and has over 6,000 bikes. Londoners have taken the bicycles to their hearts, nicknaming them “Boris Bikes”, after the city’s eccentric Mayor.
The Deco Bike scheme is small in comparison, with just 200 bikes initially. However, with Miami’s fabulous climate, fitness culture and flat topography, people will definitely want to spin some green wheels of steel!
While we are on the subject of Eco-friendly ways of getting around Miami Beach, how about grabbing a free ride around town?
That’s right; Swoop Miami will pick you up and take you where you want to go in South Beach for free. Just tip the driver. The cost of the vehicle is covered by advertising. Swoop is green too, as it’s a shared ride service and all its vehicles are electric.
The drivers like to attract attention with vibrant music and cheerful shouts of “Swoop Swoop” to passers-by. So one thing’s for sure, you’ll arrive at your destination in some style - the perfect way to start a night out in the fun and glamour of South Beach!
Kelly Charles is a Realtor in Miami Beach - if you are interested in buying, selling or renting in this wonderful tropical beach town, Contact Kelly here.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Happy Birthday Ma’am!
Celebrations of the Queen’s Official Birthday are big business on both sides of the Atlantic!
In London, we saw Prince William take part in the Trooping the Colour parade in full military regalia to celebrate his grandmother’s 85th birthday, which comes just a day after the Duke of Edinburgh’s 90th Birthday. Thousands of people packed the streets around Buckingham Palace to watch the lavish spectacle, with a history of more than 250 years.
In Miami, the British-American Business Council (BABC) is hosting a Gala Event on Saturday 18th June at the Conrad Hotel to commemorate the landmark occasion. The Miami chapter of BABC provides its members with opportunities to promote their business and make valuable contacts in a series of educational, networking and social events.
The event promises to be a lavish and very British affair. Bombay sapphire gin and tonics will be available on arrival. Dinner will be prepared by renowned British Chef Jonathan McCann and accompanied by complementary wine and specially-imported Welsh spring water. After dinner entertainment includes a live auction for transatlantic business-class flight ticket, with a silent auction for other goodies, followed by dancing to music from the Miami Blues Band.
Her Majesty will be represented by the Guest of Honour, Consul General, Kevin McGurgan and his wife, Victoria. It will be a fantastic opportunity to experience Great British hospitality and to network with all manner of interesting people. Tickets cost $125 per person, available via the Miami BABC website.
If you are a Brit looking for your own palace in Miami, why not contact Kelly, the best British Realtor in Miami!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Buying Residential Real Estate in Florida from Overseas – Part Three: Life with Your New Home
Welcome back to the final part of our series of articles about buying your dream home in Florida! In this article, we will be looking at the best ways of generating rental income and becoming a Florida resident.
Renting Out Your Property
Generating a rental income in the Florida sunshine is an attractive option for overseas investors. In Miami Beach, the type of rental income you can receive depends on the rules and regulations of the condominum building you choose. Most condos permit annual rentals, some allow six-monthly rentals but very few have more lenient rental policies.
Therefore, unfurnished, long-term rentals is the easiest rental market to target in Miami. Current rents start at around $1,500 for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment to as much as $12,000+ for a bling-tastic ocean-view fully-furnished two-bedroom condo in a luxury building such as Il Villaggio.
As an overseas investor, you will find it useful to use a local agent to find tenants for your property. A licensed Realtor will typically rent your apartment in return for 10% of the gross lease. Utilities such as electric, gas, cable television and internet are usually covered by the tenant. You will normally need to pay annual property taxes, mortgage payments and condo maintenance fees.
Becoming a Legal Alien
If you are coming to the US from overseas, then your visa status is an important consideration.
Nationals of participating countries will be able to enter the US as a tourist for 90 days under a Visa Waiver. Go to the ESTA website for a current list of participating countries and how to apply. If your country does not participate in the ESTA scheme, check with your local US consulate or embassy for more details about getting a US visa.
Depending on your nationality, you may be able to obtain an extended tourist visa for up to 6 months to cover your stay in the US. Extended tourist visas need to be obtained before you arrive in the US. The days when you could pop over the border to Canada or Mexico to extend a tourist visa are over.
Remember that if you come to the US as a tourist, you will not be able to work and, if caught, the penalties for doing so are severe. Common ways of obtaining a US work visa include making a significant investment in an eligible business, transferring internally to a US office of an international company, or marrying an American. People of certain nationalities are eligible to participate in the annual US Green Card Lottery scheme. Unfortunately, British Nationals are ineligible at present.
The immigration process can be complex, and you may find it beneficial to seek advice from a reputable immigration lawyer.
Making Florida Connections
Foreigners have been coming to live in Florida for years. You can learn so much by speaking to people who have made the big move before you. There are communities of expats from many different countries all across the state. There are many internet forums for expats of all nationalities living in Florida, such as Internations and Britishexpats.com.
The best networking events for British and Irish expats in Miami are organised by Patricia at Britishflorida.com. They have a subscription service that can help you find the right visas and investment opportunities in the state and an email bulletin of jobs, flight deals and upcoming events.
Conclusion
We hope that our articles over the last three weeks have given you a good insight into the process for buying Residential Real Estate in Florida. If you’re feeling inspired to start your property search, why not contact Kelly Charles, a British Realtor who knows how to help overseas investors find their perfect piece of Florida paradise?
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specialises in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Renting Out Your Property
Generating a rental income in the Florida sunshine is an attractive option for overseas investors. In Miami Beach, the type of rental income you can receive depends on the rules and regulations of the condominum building you choose. Most condos permit annual rentals, some allow six-monthly rentals but very few have more lenient rental policies.
Therefore, unfurnished, long-term rentals is the easiest rental market to target in Miami. Current rents start at around $1,500 for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment to as much as $12,000+ for a bling-tastic ocean-view fully-furnished two-bedroom condo in a luxury building such as Il Villaggio.
As an overseas investor, you will find it useful to use a local agent to find tenants for your property. A licensed Realtor will typically rent your apartment in return for 10% of the gross lease. Utilities such as electric, gas, cable television and internet are usually covered by the tenant. You will normally need to pay annual property taxes, mortgage payments and condo maintenance fees.
Becoming a Legal Alien
If you are coming to the US from overseas, then your visa status is an important consideration.
Nationals of participating countries will be able to enter the US as a tourist for 90 days under a Visa Waiver. Go to the ESTA website for a current list of participating countries and how to apply. If your country does not participate in the ESTA scheme, check with your local US consulate or embassy for more details about getting a US visa.
Depending on your nationality, you may be able to obtain an extended tourist visa for up to 6 months to cover your stay in the US. Extended tourist visas need to be obtained before you arrive in the US. The days when you could pop over the border to Canada or Mexico to extend a tourist visa are over.
Remember that if you come to the US as a tourist, you will not be able to work and, if caught, the penalties for doing so are severe. Common ways of obtaining a US work visa include making a significant investment in an eligible business, transferring internally to a US office of an international company, or marrying an American. People of certain nationalities are eligible to participate in the annual US Green Card Lottery scheme. Unfortunately, British Nationals are ineligible at present.
The immigration process can be complex, and you may find it beneficial to seek advice from a reputable immigration lawyer.
Making Florida Connections
Foreigners have been coming to live in Florida for years. You can learn so much by speaking to people who have made the big move before you. There are communities of expats from many different countries all across the state. There are many internet forums for expats of all nationalities living in Florida, such as Internations and Britishexpats.com.
The best networking events for British and Irish expats in Miami are organised by Patricia at Britishflorida.com. They have a subscription service that can help you find the right visas and investment opportunities in the state and an email bulletin of jobs, flight deals and upcoming events.
Conclusion
We hope that our articles over the last three weeks have given you a good insight into the process for buying Residential Real Estate in Florida. If you’re feeling inspired to start your property search, why not contact Kelly Charles, a British Realtor who knows how to help overseas investors find their perfect piece of Florida paradise?
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specialises in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Buying Residential Real Estate in Florida from Overseas – Part Two: Money Matters
Welcome to the second part of our three-part series of articles about buying residential property in the Sunshine State. In this article, we’ll be looking at the fees and charges associated with buying a property in Florida from overseas.
Calculating the Cost
In addition to the purchase price of your piece of Florida, buyers should allow additional funds to cover the closing costs. Closing costs are complicated, some are fixed fees such as settlement fees, courier fees, recording fees and some are variable, calculated upon the sales price of the property such as state stamp taxes.
The closing statement is known as the HUD-1 and itemizes all the charges imposed on a borrower and seller in a real estate transaction.
Realtor commissions are paid by the seller in the US.
Property taxes are paid annually in the US and in Florida are 2% of the assessed value of the property.
Finding the Right Mortgage
There are various options to consider if you need raise a mortgage for your dream home purchase.
Mortgages are available in the US for overseas investors, even in this post-credit crunch era. The mortgage would be secured on your Florida home. As a foreigner, you will typically need a deposit of at least 35%. An advantage of holding a US mortgage is that you can reduce your exposure to exchange rate fluctuations if you are planning to receive a rental income in dollars.
Alternatively you could raise finance in your home country either by remortgaging an existing property or by obtaining a new mortgage on your Florida home. The advantage of this is your own familiarity with the mortgage market at home.
However, in the UK and other developed countries, there are many mortgage consultants with experience of helping investors find the best way of financing their American dreams. Your ability to obtain a mortgage at a decent interest rate will require a good credit rating and evidence of earnings.
Transferring Funds to the US
If you are a cash buyer or obtain a mortgage in your home currency, you will need to purchase a large quantity of US dollars during in the buying process. When obtaining financing to purchase your American Real Estate and wiring funds to the US there must be a clear trail evidencing the source of the funds.
If you are planning to collect rental income in the US, you may want to consider opening accounts with a bank with presence in both your home country and the US. Some international banks offer low-cost or fee-free transfers between accounts in the US and countries like the UK or India e.g. Citibank.
You could save more than $1000 for a typical home purchase by using a currency broker like HIFX and Moneycorp to buy your dollars. Be aware that FX brokers tend not to be covered by regulatory authorities, so it is probably best to use a larger, reputable firm.
You may also want to consider obtaining a forward exchange rate to protect yourself from adverse currency market movements between exchanging contracts and completing your home purchase.
If you are based in the UK, check out Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert website for up to date information about the best deals on foreign currency transfers.
Conclusion
We hope you’re clearer now about the types of costs you’ll face when buying your dream home in Florida. In the final part of this series, we will be looking at settling into your Florida home and give you some top tips for maximizing your rental income. See you next week!
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specializes in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Calculating the Cost
In addition to the purchase price of your piece of Florida, buyers should allow additional funds to cover the closing costs. Closing costs are complicated, some are fixed fees such as settlement fees, courier fees, recording fees and some are variable, calculated upon the sales price of the property such as state stamp taxes.
The closing statement is known as the HUD-1 and itemizes all the charges imposed on a borrower and seller in a real estate transaction.
Realtor commissions are paid by the seller in the US.
Property taxes are paid annually in the US and in Florida are 2% of the assessed value of the property.
Finding the Right Mortgage
There are various options to consider if you need raise a mortgage for your dream home purchase.
Mortgages are available in the US for overseas investors, even in this post-credit crunch era. The mortgage would be secured on your Florida home. As a foreigner, you will typically need a deposit of at least 35%. An advantage of holding a US mortgage is that you can reduce your exposure to exchange rate fluctuations if you are planning to receive a rental income in dollars.
Alternatively you could raise finance in your home country either by remortgaging an existing property or by obtaining a new mortgage on your Florida home. The advantage of this is your own familiarity with the mortgage market at home.
However, in the UK and other developed countries, there are many mortgage consultants with experience of helping investors find the best way of financing their American dreams. Your ability to obtain a mortgage at a decent interest rate will require a good credit rating and evidence of earnings.
Transferring Funds to the US
If you are a cash buyer or obtain a mortgage in your home currency, you will need to purchase a large quantity of US dollars during in the buying process. When obtaining financing to purchase your American Real Estate and wiring funds to the US there must be a clear trail evidencing the source of the funds.
If you are planning to collect rental income in the US, you may want to consider opening accounts with a bank with presence in both your home country and the US. Some international banks offer low-cost or fee-free transfers between accounts in the US and countries like the UK or India e.g. Citibank.
You could save more than $1000 for a typical home purchase by using a currency broker like HIFX and Moneycorp to buy your dollars. Be aware that FX brokers tend not to be covered by regulatory authorities, so it is probably best to use a larger, reputable firm.
You may also want to consider obtaining a forward exchange rate to protect yourself from adverse currency market movements between exchanging contracts and completing your home purchase.
If you are based in the UK, check out Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert website for up to date information about the best deals on foreign currency transfers.
Conclusion
We hope you’re clearer now about the types of costs you’ll face when buying your dream home in Florida. In the final part of this series, we will be looking at settling into your Florida home and give you some top tips for maximizing your rental income. See you next week!
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specializes in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Buying Residential Real Estate in Florida from Overseas – Part One: How It Works & Choosing Your Advisors
Want some more Fun and Sun in your life? Excited about the investment opportunities in Real Estate right now? Thinking of buying a property in Florida but don’t know how? Then you need our quick guide to get you started!
This is part one of a series of three articles. We’ll cover the purchasing process and the advisors you will need to secure your piece of paradise.
Buying real estate in the USA is generally far less complicated than in any other country in the world and Florida remains a particularly easy and safe place for overseas investors to buy, with thousands of foreigners finding dream homes in the Sunshine State every year.
In Florida, the buyer and seller are each represented by Real Estate Agents or Realtors, who work through a broker to draw up a contract that defines the conditions of sale. Once the contract is signed, the buyer pays a deposit of around 3-5%. (New developments often require a 10-20% deposit). On a regular sale, the closing typically takes around 30 days. Short sales and foreclosures may take much longer, 3-4 months is not unusual.
Finding the Right Realtor
The Realtor you choose is an important factor in making your purchase a dream, rather than a nightmare. Your Realtor will help you find your home, represent your best interests in negotiations and connect you to other professionals you may need in the buying process.
Unfortunately, there have been property scams and con artists keen to rip off unfamiliar entrants to the Florida real estate market. Therefore, it is important that you use common sense when choosing your Realtor. As a precaution, you can check their credentials on the Florida licensing website.
It is a good idea to interview a few Realtors. The ideal Realtor to help you buy or sell your property will be honest, hard working, an excellent negotiator, knowledgeable about the local real estate market and have good client testimonials. As an overseas investor, it is advisable to select a Realtor with experience of working with newcomers to the US property market.
Legal Eagles, Tax and Travel
As with almost every other country, we strongly recommend that you use a fully independent lawyer to oversee and give advice through the buying process in the US.
To save the time and expense of multiple round trips to sign legal documents and papers during the buying process, you can give power of attorney to a trusted US representative. A real estate attorney and consultation with an accountant can assist in how best to purchase the Real Estate, particularly if you are considering renting out your investment, in order to limit your liability and manage your tax payments.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found the article a helpful start in your buying process. Next week, we’ll talk about Money, Money, Money – including fees, mortgages and foreign exchange.
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specialises in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
This is part one of a series of three articles. We’ll cover the purchasing process and the advisors you will need to secure your piece of paradise.
Buying real estate in the USA is generally far less complicated than in any other country in the world and Florida remains a particularly easy and safe place for overseas investors to buy, with thousands of foreigners finding dream homes in the Sunshine State every year.
In Florida, the buyer and seller are each represented by Real Estate Agents or Realtors, who work through a broker to draw up a contract that defines the conditions of sale. Once the contract is signed, the buyer pays a deposit of around 3-5%. (New developments often require a 10-20% deposit). On a regular sale, the closing typically takes around 30 days. Short sales and foreclosures may take much longer, 3-4 months is not unusual.
Finding the Right Realtor
The Realtor you choose is an important factor in making your purchase a dream, rather than a nightmare. Your Realtor will help you find your home, represent your best interests in negotiations and connect you to other professionals you may need in the buying process.
Unfortunately, there have been property scams and con artists keen to rip off unfamiliar entrants to the Florida real estate market. Therefore, it is important that you use common sense when choosing your Realtor. As a precaution, you can check their credentials on the Florida licensing website.
It is a good idea to interview a few Realtors. The ideal Realtor to help you buy or sell your property will be honest, hard working, an excellent negotiator, knowledgeable about the local real estate market and have good client testimonials. As an overseas investor, it is advisable to select a Realtor with experience of working with newcomers to the US property market.
Legal Eagles, Tax and Travel
As with almost every other country, we strongly recommend that you use a fully independent lawyer to oversee and give advice through the buying process in the US.
To save the time and expense of multiple round trips to sign legal documents and papers during the buying process, you can give power of attorney to a trusted US representative. A real estate attorney and consultation with an accountant can assist in how best to purchase the Real Estate, particularly if you are considering renting out your investment, in order to limit your liability and manage your tax payments.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found the article a helpful start in your buying process. Next week, we’ll talk about Money, Money, Money – including fees, mortgages and foreign exchange.
Kelly Charles is a licensed Florida Realtor working in Miami Beach. She specialises in helping overseas investors enter the Miami real estate market.
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Monday, May 16, 2011
Buy Miami’s Finest Real Estate with Miami’s Finest
This week, Gary Hennes Realtors announced one of the largest home sales in Miami Beach this year.
Selling at $9.35m, the spectacular home on star-studded Hibiscus Island boasts 8,000 square feet of decadent Miami luxury, including an infinity pool and 120ft of frontage onto Biscayne Bay. The selling price is a great indicator of the growing strength of the luxury market as the highest priced unit sold on the island last year closed at $5.4m.
The home was designed by the award-winning Chad Oppenheim, one of the hottest young architects in the world right now. His current projects include the design of the luxury Delano Mondrian hotel in Las Vegas. Ten Museum Park, a condominium building in downtown Miami, is another of Oppenheim’s projects. Built in 2007, with its double storey units, spectacular array of community swimming pools and spectacular views of Biscayne Bay, it is already considered a design classic. Check out Chad’s youtube video where he talks about designing Ten Museum Park.
Units sold out fast when the building was launched, but there are a few on the market right now ranging from $279K to $1.8m. It’s a great opportunity to live in your very own piece of cutting edge design.
Like Oppenheim, Gary Hennes Realtors is emerging as a star of the glittering Miami real estate market and recently entered its sixth year of operation.
“Gary Hennes Realtors stays competitive by providing the finest properties, from the most exquisite art deco and historic luxury condos to sophisticated luxury waterfront properties with million dollar views,” said Gary Hennes. “Our philosophy is to create a concierge relationship where buyers, sellers and our Realtors thrive.”
So if you’re feeling inspired to join the Miami glitterati, make your move in safe hands and contact Kelly at Gary Hennes!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Brickell CitiCentre Set to Transform Downtown Miami
Brickell just South of Downtown Miami has been desirable area for property investment since the 1980s, attracting a cosmopolitan clientele of both expats and native Floridians. Close to the financial district and an abundant selection of high quality bars and restaurants, the neighbourhood has a classy, high-end ambience.
The development of Brickell from deserted brownfield wasteland into today’s sophisticated neighbourhood has been a terrific success and some of the key architects of that transformation have new plans to further enrich the area.
This week The Miami Herald has reported on exciting plans for a 4.6 million square foot mixed-use project that is set to revitalise Brickell and its neighbouring areas. The Brickell CitiCentre development is set to contain residential, commercial and a mix of luxury to moderate retail units and is estimated to generate $1bn in overall economic impact, including thousands of additional jobs being generated in the area, according to a study by Miami Economic Associates.
The Mayor of Miami, Tomás Regalado, is understood to be a strong supporter of the scheme. “This is a huge complex that will bring to Brickell Avenue, downtown Miami and East Little Havana an energy it has never, ever seen before,” said Regalado, who will take the nontraditional step of presenting a developer’s project to the City Commission. “I think it needs to carry the clout of the office of the mayor to send a message that this is a huge project for the city of Miami.”
The development would be large-scale, phased over a time period of ten years and starting as soon as December 2011.
Exciting plans, indeed, Brickell could well be the very hottest place to be in Florida soon! Contact Kelly now if you want to grab your piece of the action!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
The development of Brickell from deserted brownfield wasteland into today’s sophisticated neighbourhood has been a terrific success and some of the key architects of that transformation have new plans to further enrich the area.
This week The Miami Herald has reported on exciting plans for a 4.6 million square foot mixed-use project that is set to revitalise Brickell and its neighbouring areas. The Brickell CitiCentre development is set to contain residential, commercial and a mix of luxury to moderate retail units and is estimated to generate $1bn in overall economic impact, including thousands of additional jobs being generated in the area, according to a study by Miami Economic Associates.
The Mayor of Miami, Tomás Regalado, is understood to be a strong supporter of the scheme. “This is a huge complex that will bring to Brickell Avenue, downtown Miami and East Little Havana an energy it has never, ever seen before,” said Regalado, who will take the nontraditional step of presenting a developer’s project to the City Commission. “I think it needs to carry the clout of the office of the mayor to send a message that this is a huge project for the city of Miami.”
The development would be large-scale, phased over a time period of ten years and starting as soon as December 2011.
Exciting plans, indeed, Brickell could well be the very hottest place to be in Florida soon! Contact Kelly now if you want to grab your piece of the action!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Painting Fun and Sun – Britto’s Success in Miami & Beyond!
Miami is a city full of sunshine, optimism and colour. And Romero Britto Central is an artist full of sunshine, optimism and...well, colour too!
Born in Brazil and named after Grand Central station in New York City, Romero Britto came to prominence through a chance meeting with the founder of Absolut Vodka’s Absolute Art Ad campaign, Michael Roux. Roux was so impressed with the artist’s work, he asked him to design limited edition promotional packaging, following in the footsteps of art icon Andy Warhol. The designs were a tremendous success and, from there, Britto developed a career making Pop Art for companies, municipalities and also private collectors.
His following grew and eventually Britto started attracting celebrity attention. Collectors of his work now include Arnold Schwartzenegger and Michael Jordan. He has completed commissions for the likes of Michael Jackson, Madonna and President Obama.
Britto works on canvas and sculpts and has developed a distinctive style combining bright colour and strong lines. His work has a childlike appeal and innocence, but also enough depth to satisfy the more discerning contemporary art aficionado.
In contemporary art circles, Britto’s name is virtually synonymous with Miami, so much so that Miami-Dade County have commissioned him to make a series of public art pieces throughout the city, such as the giant installation at 5th and Alton, Miami Beach.
If you want to find yourself your own piece of celebrity Pop Art, Britto has permanent exhibition space on Lincoln Road, Miami Beach and a sales website. There you can find a large range of original works, Britto prints and Britto designed products ranging from candles to suitcases! Britto is a very accessible artist, with something to suit every budget.
If contemplating art has inspired you to soak up the Miami sunshine and color, check out Kelly’s latest listings online! The Bentley Bay has wonderful space and light, perfect for hanging a piece of Britto’s work!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Royal Wedding Fever in the Miami Heat!
Typical of Miami, you can choose the perfect party to meet your Royalist needs!
If classic Miami glam with a British twist sounds like your thing, The National Hotel is hosting a breakfast viewing party complete with Full English at its oceanfront location right in the heart of the Art Deco district in South Beach. With live BBC and BBC America coverage, from 6 to 11 am, you can be sure that in the luxurious surroundings of their Blues Bar, you'll be rubbing shoulders with true Miami royalty. Dress up well to be in for a chance of the Best Kate Hat spot prize! If you’re not an early riser, don’t despair - they’ll loop the coverage through the day so you can sip your Kir Royale and get your fill of glam at any time! Contact The National Hotel to reserve tickets at $24 each.
If you want to celebrate the pomp and circumstance with an old-fashioned Afternoon High Tea, complete with proper British brew, pastries and champagne, check out The Biltmore in Coral Gables. Starting at the civilised time of 1pm, the screening will be accompanied by an informal fashion show of Nordstrom wedding attire. During the event, The Bilmore will be launching their nationwide contest, “Marry me in Miami!”, the winners getting their very own Royal Wedding – a $150,000 dream do at The Biltmore. Contact pr@biltmorehotel.com to reserve your ticket at $30 each.
If you want to want to make your whole family more Royal, then Veronica’s Dollshouse Boutique in South Miami is offering High Tea and etiquette training, along with a screening of the wedding and all sorts of traditional English frivolities for all the family. Perfect for budding Princes and Princesses of all ages! Purchase your tickets online – tickets are limited!
After a right Royal knees-up, remember that Kelly is the Best of British for all your real luxury estate requirements in Miami. Click here to search for a Miami pad fit for a Princess!
Whatever you end up doing, be sure to raise a glass to toast the happiness of good ol’ Wills n’ Kate on April 29!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
A Dream Walk on Ocean Drive
It’s hard to walk along Ocean Drive without being accosted by glamorous hostesses, trying to tempt passing tourists with drinks and food offers. All sorts of entertainment can be found on the strip, ranging from table top dancing by nubile dancers ( both male and female) at Mango’s, or checking out the bikini body contests at the MTV-famous, Clevelander or upping it in the class stakes with a smart cocktail at The Tides and much more besides. This weekend the Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival dominated the strip, with classic 50s cars and a celebration that in Miami Beach you can live your life and be the person you truly are!
A strange thing about Ocean Drive is that although all the events and madness go on, it is pretty easy to escape. If you aren’t in the mood for the bar life, then just cross the street and you find yourself strolling the promenade amongst the palm trees, watching the beautiful people weave between pedestrians skilfully on their rollerblades. Or the inept tourist riders doing their best on segway scooters. From this side of the street, it is easier to appreciate the beautiful architecture of the Art Deco buildings that line the strip.
After your gentle stroll, imagine being able to just walk in off a quiet part of Ocean Drive, into one of its classic Art Deco buildings, and call it your home. With a rarely available apartment for sale in the 1931 Van Ness building – your Ocean Drive dreams could come true! Contact Kelly today to arrange your viewing!
www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Maple Leaves and Palm Trees – Canada Comes to Miami!
Are you a Canadian thinking of buying property in the USA? Or even moving from Canada to the USA?
South Florida, and Miami, in particular has long been a favourite of Canadian snowbirds and full time immigrants.
“I love it here in Miami,” says Leon, a banker from Montreal, who has lived in Miami for the last ten years, “People here are so healthy, laid back and happy. My friends from home love visiting me here, especially when it’s winter back home. It’s so sunny and tropical here, and it’s exotic too. I even get to speak French with the Haitians who live here. I love it!”
Recently with the weakening of the US dollar and the decline in the US property market, Canadians have been finding fantastic deals on condos, apartments and single family residences in the Miami real estate market. There are some truly fabulous pieces of sunshine to be found at the moment! Check out The Mirador on the chic West Avenue in South Beach, or it's swanky neighbor The Mondrian!
However, there are signs that the real estate market is changing...
“Now, with the American economy and employment gaining strength, home sales should pick up and put a floor under soft prices,” said Sal Guatieri, senior economist, BMO Bank of Montreal, speaking in a recent interview published in the Vancouver Sun. “We expect prices to rise over time as the overhang of unsold homes eases.” He also expects the US dollar to strengthen, which would add to the investment potential for Canadians who buy real estate now.
So now’s the time to swap the maple leaves for palm trees and the white snow for white sand!
Contact Kelly to see what Miami has to offer you!
Or search for Miami Beach properties on www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
South Florida, and Miami, in particular has long been a favourite of Canadian snowbirds and full time immigrants.
“I love it here in Miami,” says Leon, a banker from Montreal, who has lived in Miami for the last ten years, “People here are so healthy, laid back and happy. My friends from home love visiting me here, especially when it’s winter back home. It’s so sunny and tropical here, and it’s exotic too. I even get to speak French with the Haitians who live here. I love it!”
Recently with the weakening of the US dollar and the decline in the US property market, Canadians have been finding fantastic deals on condos, apartments and single family residences in the Miami real estate market. There are some truly fabulous pieces of sunshine to be found at the moment! Check out The Mirador on the chic West Avenue in South Beach, or it's swanky neighbor The Mondrian!
However, there are signs that the real estate market is changing...
“Now, with the American economy and employment gaining strength, home sales should pick up and put a floor under soft prices,” said Sal Guatieri, senior economist, BMO Bank of Montreal, speaking in a recent interview published in the Vancouver Sun. “We expect prices to rise over time as the overhang of unsold homes eases.” He also expects the US dollar to strengthen, which would add to the investment potential for Canadians who buy real estate now.
So now’s the time to swap the maple leaves for palm trees and the white snow for white sand!
Contact Kelly to see what Miami has to offer you!
Or search for Miami Beach properties on www.BritishMiamiRealtor.com
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Miami Beach Property Market Report for Quarter 1, January 1st-March 31st 2011
Currently there are a total of 2732 active listings in the MLS (multiple listings service) in the Miami Beach region. This includes condominiums and single family homes.
Of these 14% (380) are listed as short sales and 2.4% (66) are ‘REO’ or bank owned.
There have been 730 reported closed sales in the MLS for the first quarter of 2011. This is a 20% increase over the 608 reported sales for the same period last year.
Comparison of Number of Homes and Condominiums sold during Quarter 1 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
Comparison of Median Selling Price per Square Foot ($) during Quarter 1 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
*All numbers and data in this report are pulled from the MLS (multiple listing service) and do not include sales directly by owner.
For further information on the property market or if you are interested in buying or selling, contact Kelly for assistance.
Of these 14% (380) are listed as short sales and 2.4% (66) are ‘REO’ or bank owned.
There have been 730 reported closed sales in the MLS for the first quarter of 2011. This is a 20% increase over the 608 reported sales for the same period last year.
Comparison of Number of Homes and Condominiums sold during Quarter 1 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
Comparison of Median Selling Price per Square Foot ($) during Quarter 1 of 2011 v 2010, By Location
*All numbers and data in this report are pulled from the MLS (multiple listing service) and do not include sales directly by owner.
For further information on the property market or if you are interested in buying or selling, contact Kelly for assistance.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Enjoy the Classic Miami Experience in the Van Ness Building!
Think Miami and you probably think Art Deco. Or if you don’t think Art Deco, you probably think Ocean Drive, or maybe even South Beach itself. But Art Deco, Ocean Drive and South Beach just yards away, this new condo listing is just pure Miami class!
One of just 33 apartments in the beautifully maintained Van Ness building on Ocean and 14th street is yours to buy!
There was a time when this classic apartment building stood alone on Ocean Drive, archives from the University of Miami show how it was once just beach, palm trees and the Van Ness Hotel on Ocean Drive. It was a true icon of luxury when it was built in 1931 and it definitely remains one now, with its beautifully preserved Art Deco character and large heated pool. Ocean Drive has evolved into a classy neighbourhood full of sophisticated bars and restaurants and Versace’s mansion is just a couple of blocks away. This really is the definition of glamorous living!
The apartment for sale is a cute fully furnished one bedroom unit, your prefect, ready-to-go beach pad! Listed at $229,000.
This truly is a special opportunity! Contact Kelly to arrange to see this rarely available piece of Miami glamour!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Celebrate next St. Patrick’s Day in County Miami!
If you are considering a move from Ireland to the US, why not come to County Miami? Miami may not be known for its Irish population, but it has everything that a self-respecting Irish person needs to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day and beyond! And it’s a million miles from the wet weather and economic gloom of the Emerald Isle.
You won’t need to abandon your jig practice to start with. The Breffni Academy of Irish Dancing in North Miami trains dancers of all ages and levels for feises all over the world.
If you enjoy the Cheltenham Festival, have no fear, there are plenty of dog and horse racing events at courses close to Miami, perfect for the cheeky flutter! Golfers are also exceptionally well catered for. There are 1,261 courses in Florida – that’s more than four times the number in the whole of Ireland (300).
Don’t worry about missing the soccer, 6 nations or the Gaelic Games either – subscription services can bring them right to your home. Or you can go to one of the Irish bars in South Beach – Waxy O’Connor’s, Finnegan’s and The Playwright regularly show European sports. There are occasional Irish Traditional music sessions at Waxy’s in Brickell also.
Just like any decent town back in Ireland, you’ll find a Catholic church not too far from the pub. There is a massive Latin population in Miami, so if you fancy something a bit different for St. Patrick’s Day, how about going to Mass in Spanish!
For a more traditional St. Patrick Day’s celebration, there is an annual Irish Festival in Coral Gables, which features Irish music, crafts, dancing and a drop of the black stuff. And of course, a few more Guinnesses can be found in Miami’s Irish Bars afterwards.
Property investment was one of the big pastimes in Ireland until a couple of years ago. If you invest here in Miami , you could come back after a few jigs to a fabulous condo looking back towards the Emerald Isle. You’ll find beautiful ocean views in The Blue Diamond or The Green Diamond. A couple of sea front condos. It’s only 4,014 miles to Mizen Head, Co Cork!
So, go on, go on, go on, go on, go on... Make your lucky leap in the capable hands of Kelly Charles, the specialist in Miami real estate for overseas investors. Spend next Paddy’s Day in the sunshine with a few more freckles! Sláinte!
You won’t need to abandon your jig practice to start with. The Breffni Academy of Irish Dancing in North Miami trains dancers of all ages and levels for feises all over the world.
If you enjoy the Cheltenham Festival, have no fear, there are plenty of dog and horse racing events at courses close to Miami, perfect for the cheeky flutter! Golfers are also exceptionally well catered for. There are 1,261 courses in Florida – that’s more than four times the number in the whole of Ireland (300).
Don’t worry about missing the soccer, 6 nations or the Gaelic Games either – subscription services can bring them right to your home. Or you can go to one of the Irish bars in South Beach – Waxy O’Connor’s, Finnegan’s and The Playwright regularly show European sports. There are occasional Irish Traditional music sessions at Waxy’s in Brickell also.
Just like any decent town back in Ireland, you’ll find a Catholic church not too far from the pub. There is a massive Latin population in Miami, so if you fancy something a bit different for St. Patrick’s Day, how about going to Mass in Spanish!
For a more traditional St. Patrick Day’s celebration, there is an annual Irish Festival in Coral Gables, which features Irish music, crafts, dancing and a drop of the black stuff. And of course, a few more Guinnesses can be found in Miami’s Irish Bars afterwards.
Property investment was one of the big pastimes in Ireland until a couple of years ago. If you invest here in Miami , you could come back after a few jigs to a fabulous condo looking back towards the Emerald Isle. You’ll find beautiful ocean views in The Blue Diamond or The Green Diamond. A couple of sea front condos. It’s only 4,014 miles to Mizen Head, Co Cork!
So, go on, go on, go on, go on, go on... Make your lucky leap in the capable hands of Kelly Charles, the specialist in Miami real estate for overseas investors. Spend next Paddy’s Day in the sunshine with a few more freckles! Sláinte!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Winter Music Conference 2011
It’s a great week to glam up and party hard in Miami! Winter Music Conference is here! The WMC was established in 1985, bringing together the best house and electronic music DJs. There are parties everywhere, on beaches, by pools, in normally vacant hotel lobbies. Even stores are hiring DJs to spin discs to cater for the massive influx of party people for the weekend. Last year 100,000 people attended the event.
The party people certainly go about town in style. Bentleys, Ferraris and Hummers liberally sprinkle the main drags of Washington Ave and Collins Ave and girls walk around town on skyscraper shoes so high they need planning permission.
Designer shoes are not the only glamorous skyscrapers in Miami right now, there are plenty of luxe pads with spectacular views for a superstar DJ or clubber to throw the perfect party either before or after a hard night in the club. It could be your very own private rooftop pool at The W or the more affordable, always fun Roney Palace.
Picking the coolest club is a tough challenge for a WMC attendee, with over 400 events going on. The biggest nights promise to be in Downtown Miami at Club Space, at the Pool Bar at the Shelbourne in the Art Deco District and at the now legendary Nikki Beach, right on the beach close to South Pointe. But with DJ delegates representing music from Industrial German Techno to Latino House and everything in between, if electronic music your thing, you’ll find your heaven at the Miami Winter Music Conference!
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