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The day Tom Brady and the Kushners made Florida their home

Florida’s arms are always open for new visitors and especially for new residents, and in the past few weeks, the state has received with arms wide open its newest locals: Once New Yorkers Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump and football quarterback Tom Brady and his wife supermodel Gisele Bundchen.

The Kushners have started building their new home on the 1.8-acre lot at 4 Indian Creek Island Road, which they have recently purchased for $30 million, and they will shortly share this splendid community with equally famous neighbors.

Indian Creek Island, a jaw-dropping village located in Miami-Dade County in Florida, is home to an eclectic group of some of the world’s wealthiest people in diverse fields such as entrepreneurship and investment, which the Kushners are part of; and in the recent days Tom Brady and his wife have joined this select group.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback and his supermodel wife, Gisele Bundchen were revealed as the buyers of a stunning waterfront property on exclusive Indian Creek Island. Brady and Bundchen paid $17 million for the lot located at 26 Indian Creek Island Road, which they plan to demolish to build their dream home: a new, eco-friendly residence with all the amenities. This property will be very close to the Indian Creek lot that Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner reportedly bought to build a new mansion, according to The Real Deal.

Clearly, these prices are higher for the developments comparing it to other estates in other neighborhoods of Florida. However, those funds have a specific purpose: Since Indian Creek Island is a public municipality, some of these resources go to the private police and marine patrol forces that protect and safeguard the luxurious homes and the wealthy people who live in them, making Indian Creek Island one of the safest places in the entire state, as it boasts a 13-man police force for just 29 residences.

Indian Creek Island, dubbed as “Miami’s Billionaire Bunker”, has established itself as one of the hottest properties for celebrities and high-profile individuals, who are relocating from iconic places like The Big Apple and even Los Angeles: Joshua Kushner, Jared Kushner’s younger brother, and his supermodel wife Karlie Kloss have also reportedly bought a waterfront Miami Beach mansion that was sold over the summer for $23.5 million.

This property, was built in 2009, and it includes an array of great amenities that feature a splendid wine cellar, gym, a private dock and a majestic pool, the perfect spaces for living the best luxury experience offered in Florida to both residents and visitors.

It is definitely not a coincidence that big names in the celebrity and entrepreneurship worlds in America, which are out-of-state buyers, are announcing their relocation to Florida in the last few years and especially in recent months. This phenomenon may be due to the tax-friendly policy in the state that means significant money savings that can be used to reinvest in the business and even in the state, as well as other benefits buyers can take advantage of, resulting in high-end sales like the ones from The Kushners and Tom Brady.

Furthermore, it seems this trend of moving to Florida is far from being over because these high-end sales, which take place mainly in Miami Beach and Palm Beach, are making more and more companies wanting to buy a piece of land in Florida to expand their business and open a new branch there, like Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase did, not too long ago.

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JPMorgan Chase is now open to move to Miami Florida

JPMorgan moving to Miami

Miami has positioned itself as one of the fastest-growing cities and a top-choice for investment projects in the United States. In the latest years, big companies from all over the world had bet on this city for its potential in terms of growth and revenues for them.

This is the case of JPMorgan Chase, a top multinational investment bank and financial services holding company headquartered in New York City, which, just a few years back, made the bold choice to transfer some of its operations team to South Florida, contributing to the growth in the area and in the State of Florida, while getting attractive benefits of its own.

JPMorgan Chase: The brave bet of a giant in Miami

In a recent statement, the company has declared: “In 2019 alone, JPMorgan Chase has invested more than $8 million in South Florida nonprofit organizations to help the region tackle emerging global challenges and trends such as urbanization, globalization and climate change. And, to ensure that Miami has the workforce of tomorrow to help build the city of tomorrow, we are investing in local initiatives to train Miami’s workforce to take advantage of growing economic opportunities in the region.  Miami, we think you’ve got a great future — and we want to be part of it.”

This pronouncement of the investment bank is proof of the commitment JPMorgan Chase has acquired to the city of Miami and the South Florida region, considering them as a very valuable location to keep making great business and expanding the firm as one of the most valuable companies America has. 

Recommended: Goldman Sachs is setting its eyes on South Florida

Only so far, JPMorgan Chase has relocated a part of its team in South Florida for over a decade, with more than 2,400 local employees working across all of their businesses, including 190 local branches and 700 ATMs, changing the mind of the company’s CEO, Jamie Dimon, who once was not open to the idea of relocating to this region.

However, over the years and becoming acquainted with the promising atmosphere in Florida, Dimon slowly changed his mind. Firstly, around 2013 Dimon praised the business-friendly climate and low taxes of Florida, contrasting it to the situation in New York where taxes are very high, especially for businesses. Contrarily, Florida counts with notable tax benefits for companies, which are of great help and even more now in the current times, where saving money and investing it properly is a must for the lastingness of all businesses.

Recommended: Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami: Redefining Miami’s Skyline

Now, The New York Post has reported that Dimon has changed his mind and is now open to move to Florida: “Miami is one of the most attractive cities in the world in which to do business”, he even said once.

Even though JPMorgan Chase was a pioneer by betting on Miami a few years ago, seeing it as a sprouting terrain for big-name companies to make business; this trend that began a few decades ago has accelerated on this year by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has put small and large companies in a predicament due to the spiraling costs of taxes and other expenses such as office leases, whose value is more expensive than in other country locations, while in Miami and South Florida companies can find and advantageous location for their own benefit.

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Goldman Sachs is setting its eyes on South Florida

Goldman Sachs Group, one of the most important multinational investment bank and financial services companies in America, which has headquarters in New York City, is considering relocating to blooming South Florida, possibly following other financial giants who have retreated from New York to explore new locations with an interesting investment projection in the upcoming years. 

Miami is, in fact, one of those promising sites where investors and leading companies in the United States are setting their eyes on to settle their operations and keep growing, even expanding their brand and revenues. One of the main reasons for this resolution is, according to Bloomberg, the lack of a state income tax, an attractive feature for Goldman Sachs and other wealthy companies and executives, which given the case, and if they open a home base in Florida, could take advantage of these appealing tax benefits, a large capital that could be invested in growing the business or taking it to a higher level. 

Another possible reason for this intention is the critical situation in terms of money for big companies in New York due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and some think Goldman Sachs’ “potential movement may become a political talking point, as New York City faces a budget shortfall because of the pandemic”; so any loss in taxes or income is sure to play an important role in the sustainability of the company and its employees for the coming decades. 

Besides, the COVID-19 pandemic has proofed that working is not a matter of having a stationary place to work, but actually the opposite: work can be done remotely more than ever before, without having to spend so much money on a costly office, and even more in an outrageously expensive place like in New York. 

The investment bank has been looking at potential office spaces in Palm Beach County and Fort Lauderdale for its asset management unit. It is said that the prospective office would include both investment professionals and back-office staff. However, it is not clear how much of the business might move to Florida. In a statement, Wall Street’s best-known firm said it is, “executing on the strategy of locating more jobs in high-value locations throughout the US, but we have no specific plans to announce at this time”, leaving a huge expectation for the next step the company will make.

The relationship between Goldman Sachs and Florida is not new: Earlier this year, Goldman Sachs managing director Douglas Sacks paid nearly $12 million for a very exclusive condo at Eighty Seven Park in Miami Beach, an astounding waterfront luxury tower with a unique design that is the perfect depiction of the world-class lifestyle in the South of Florida.

This daring move from Goldman Sachs, which generates about $8 billion in annual revenue, is key to analyze the impact on the financial migration to Florida, not only in the economic and profit-making aspect but also from a cultural and investment outlook, since the exodus of a number of major investment firms, which have opened offices or moved their headquarters to South Florida, marks a new era of opportunities for Miami and the State of Florida; a moment to stand out as one of the most relevant and significant locations in America, a sprouting terrain where the big company names and executives can find better features to grow their businesses and even enjoy better weather.

Another possible reason for this intention is the critical situation in terms of money for big companies in New York due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and some think Goldman Sachs’ “potential movement may become a political talking point, as New York City faces a budget shortfall because of the pandemic”; so any loss in taxes or income is sure to play an important role in the sustainability of the company and its employees for the coming decades. 

Besides, the COVID-19 pandemic has proofed that working is not a matter of having a stationary place to work, but actually the opposite: work can be done remotely more than ever before, without having to spend so much money on a costly office, and even more in an outrageously expensive place like in New York. 

The investment bank has been looking at potential office spaces in Palm Beach County and Fort Lauderdale for its asset management unit. It is said that the prospective office would include both investment professionals and back-office staff. However, it is not clear how much of the business might move to Florida. In a statement, Wall Street’s best-known firm said it is, “executing on the strategy of locating more jobs in high-value locations throughout the US, but we have no specific plans to announce at this time”, leaving a huge expectation for the next step the company will make.

The relationship between Goldman Sachs and Florida is not new: Earlier this year, Goldman Sachs managing director Douglas Sacks paid nearly $12 million for a very exclusive condo at Eighty Seven Park in Miami Beach, an astounding waterfront luxury tower with a unique design that is the perfect depiction of the world-class lifestyle in the South of Florida.

This daring move from Goldman Sachs, which generates about $8 billion in annual revenue, is key to analyze the impact on the financial migration to Florida, not only in the economic and profit-making aspect but also from a cultural and investment outlook, since the exodus of a number of major investment firms, which have opened offices or moved their headquarters to South Florida, marks a new era of opportunities for Miami and the State of Florida; a moment to stand out as one of the most relevant and significant locations in America, a sprouting terrain where the big company names and executives can find better features to grow their businesses and even enjoy better weather.

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Marina Park, The Icon of The Miami Beach Marina Renovation

Marina Park

During the past few months, something has been going on and waters are deeply moving at Miami Beach. Well-renowned top Miami developer David Martin is focused on redeveloping the Miami Beach Marina into a high-rise, mixed-use tower. Martin, President and co-founder of Terra Group met for the very first time with the City Commission’s Finance Committee in April of this year. Due to his successful track record and entrepreneurial boost, Martin is convinced his company is capable to renovate the aging Miami Beach Marina with the new Marina Park.

Marina ParkFocused on how neighborhoods can be improved more than single construction projects he presented two designs for the developments. Option One included 16 floors on a 224 feet tower, 336 feet in length, a 0.6-acre park plaza to the north and a 1.1-acre park on the west side of the tower fronting the bay. Option Two was for 21 floors on a 285-ft tower, 242 feet in length, a 0.75-acre park plaza and a 1.25-acre park that runs from Second Street through to the bay.

After having several encounters with City Administration and the community the final agreement is a tower of up to 385 feet in height. The project would include about 60 residential units encompassing 275,000 square feet, as well as 45,000 square feet of a market, small retail stores, restaurant, juice bar, office and marina space at 300 to 400 Alton Road. Currently, this area is occupied by the popular Monty’s restaurant which would require its demolition if the project gets approved.

Both financially and aesthetically attractive, this ambitious project is a bet on Miami Beach’s new face of innovation and competitiveness and as Martin says “to address the challenges of sea-level rise and climate change”. He said his goal is to reposition and rebrand it to be “a premier yachting destination in this country.” Its construction will go to a public referendum on November the 3th. Why? Because the project involves a long-term lease of City-owned property, the sale of air rights, and a potential increase in FAR (Floor Area Ratio). In order to move forward, a majority of voters would have to sign off on the project.

But what about the numbers? City Manager Jimmy Morales and City Attorney Raul Aguila wrote a memo specifying the financial terms of the deal, including:

Number one: costs of the air rights for the residential building are $55 million. Number two: a minimum of $22.5 million for the construction of a new 45,000 sq ft Miami Beach Marina facility at the base of the residential tower to replace the existing facility at no cost to the City and additional public benefits including a 1.0-acre park, resiliency improvements, and enhancements to the surrounding Baywalk and Alton Road areas.

Number three: a minimum of $40 million on additional capital improvements for the operation of the Marina and “to upgrade the marina to world-class marina standards” with $15 million to be spent in the first ten years.

Number four: in 1983 the city entered into a lease to maintain and operate the Miami Beach Marina and property until 2022. Now, Martin is proposing a 99-year lease agreement (effective January 1, 2022) which includes a minimum annual guaranteed rent to the City of $1.9 million, inflation-adjusted. The current lease contains a guaranteed $320,000 minimum annual guaranteed rent.

Number five, as above mentioned, the developer will build a 1.0-acre public park that will be owned and controlled by the City for the benefit of the general public.

After talking with the President of Terra Group about positive beliefs on the future of the city, current Miami Beach Mayor, Dan Gelber, expressed his desire to develop an engaging atmosphere displaying green and water spaces where people can keep coming to move while enjoying South Florida’s best lifestyle. In his own words: “I think this is a special project that offers numerous exceptional advantages (…), one thing I really love about it is it’s a skinny building that will allow people from Alton Road to see into the Bay (…) my father (former Mayor Seymour Gelber) said to me “sometimes the most important things you do you’re never going to cut the ribbon on (…) but you’ll be very happy to know that you lit the fuse on it”.

Negotiations that have taken place with the City will create a “world-class marina” through promised improvements, and will help Miami Beach recover through the upfront cash to purchase the air rights, annual tax benefits estimated to be $3 million, and new jobs – 2,111 non-recurring and 261 recurring, says Martin.

After the November ballot and approval, the project must go through Planning Board and Design Review Board processes, and construction will start 4 years from the effective date. As Commissioner Ricky Arriola said this is a great opportunity for the City to “take something not so beautiful and make it more beautiful”. Voters have the final word, everything is ready, with local government being supportive and having an internationally respected development firm leading the way, this project joins the race for Miami Beach’s new era.

For more information about Marina Park contact Mike and Ivan below:

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    Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami: Redefining Miami’s Skyline

    Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami

    Miami’s skyline is about to change radically thanks to a new construction located over Biscayne Bay. This awaited project will mark a milestone in the city’s architecture and will introduce one of the most important 5-star hotel brands in the world: Waldorf Astoria.

    These two important events are proof of the value that Miami represents to investors in real estate and to remarkable brands that are interested in having a presence in this town; representing more opportunities for the inhabitants and visitors of the city to live unforgettable experiences and contribute to the vigorous’ town economy.

    The ultramodern design of the building will draw the attention of everybody from any angle and point in the city and beyond, due to its resemblance to a pile of unevenly stacked glass cubes and its astounding 1,049 feet height, making it the tallest in South Florida, surpassing the Panorama Tower in Brickell (848 feet tall). But this skyscraper is not only going to be a luxurious hotel managed and operated by the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand, but it will also include stunning residences with a great view, located at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, in the heart of Miami.

    Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences MiamiThe project, named Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami, was designed back in 2017 by the Miami-based firm Sieger Suarez Architects, and it is being co-developed by New York-based real estate firm Property Markets Group (PMG), Toronto’s Greybrook Realty Partners, along with local S2 Development.

    PMG has several years of experience in full-service development in acquisitions, renovations, financing, commercial and marketing operations, and residential real estate. It has completed over 85 residential buildings in New York, Florida, and Chicago and over 150 real estate projects in the USA. In recent years, PMG has completed another project in the Miami area and it is also the developer of X Miami (now open), a 464-apartment rental tower at 230 NE Fourth Street, which offers rent-by-bedroom apartments pitched at millennials and young adults.

    The interest of development companies in Miami continues to grow and as PMG principal Ryan Shear said in a press release: “the city continues to thrive as a top global destination with increasing arts, culture, tourism, fashion and luxury brands. This partnership is a major milestone for Miami’s real estate and hospitality industries.”

    And it is no surprise that this property stands out in the real estate portfolio thanks to its sophisticated design and its unmatched amenities, such as the 800,000 SF distributed in 94 floors, 400 condo residences, a 140-key 5-star hotel, luxurious restaurants, and exclusive stores.

    The residential tower, dubbed 300 Biscayne, is set to be located in the booming Brickell financial district, and it will become the right place to spend a luxurious holiday or to find a great location to live, surrounded by the best view and the vibrant spirit of the modern downtown Miami. The attractive location, thanks to its connection with every neighborhood, makes this property even more worth-having for people interested in living in a project full of enriching experiences and places.

    The construction marks the debut of the Waldorf Astoria brand in the city, to expand the luxury brand. “Miami — a vibrant, dynamic, and truly cosmopolitan destination that draws travelers from all over the world — is the perfect market for our iconic Waldorf Astoria brand”, said Danny Hughes, area president of the Americas, for Hilton Management Services, owner of the WA brand and worldwide leader in the hotel industry. Hilton Hotels already operates in the state of Florida with two properties in Boca Raton, two in Key West, and one in Orlando.

    Recommended: Waldorf Astoria, the highest skyscraper in Miami is launching sales

    On the other hand, Peter Politis, Greybrook Realty Partners CEO, stated that the joined work with Hilton Hotels raises the standard of the real estate market and this mixed-use development offers a new first-class experience to the future residents and guests of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami.

    In the meantime, Miami residents and visitors will have to wait for the grand opening of this long-awaited construction, but it will definitely be worth it and it will change for the better the skyline of this magical town.

    For more information about Waldorf Astoria Miami contact Ivan and Mike:

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      Canopy Park, The Tallest Residence Tower Ever in Miami Beach

      Canopy Park Miami

      A new project is coming to the 500 Alton Road Ventures and it is looking very good for visitors of South Beach, if we consider that this place has been filled by vacant lots for a while. But not anymore, because this location will soon become a beautiful three-acre park, named Canopy Park, located adjacent to a stunning building -the tallest ever in Miami Beach- where people can find their ideal place to live.

      Canopy Park Miami

      This promising construction project won the approval needed from the Miami Beach City Commission last year and it will be developed by Terra, Crescent Heights, both locals and New Valley. The project consists of a residential tower next to the public park, which will be located between the 600 and 700 blocks of Alton Road.

      This park, filled with native tree species, will be the perfect space for residents to engage in outdoor activities such as bike and running, it will also have an outdoor gym and dog run for your beloved pets. For the little ones, this park will have a one-of-a-kind playground, designed by MONSTRUM, a Danish company, creator of the best playscapes in the world. Some of the highlights of this fun playground are: a giant butterfly, a mangrove forest and a caterpillar slide where children can jump, climb, balance, and express their imagination while they recognize some of the most distinctive animal and vegetal species of Miami.

      Other activities in the park will include public art displays since Miami is a landmark thanks to its strong cultural and artistic background. Canopy Park is located at the site of the former South Shore Hospital, which was recently demolished. The construction of this attractive and valuable place to the city is scheduled to be completed by Summer 2021.

      Canopy Park will be connected to the South of Fifth neighborhood and the Miami Beach baywalk via a new pedestrian bridge over I-395. The bridge, designed by French conceptual artist Daniel Buren, will receive the name of Miami Beach Canopy. This construction will complete the Miami Beach Baywalk, creating a safe and seamless connection running from South Pointe Park north to the Lincoln Road District and east to the beachfront. In addition, the Canopy will become an instant icon for Miami Beach and a work of public art that guides pedestrians throughout a colorful road. Completion of the Miami Beach Canopy pedestrian bridge is anticipated for 2022.

      On the other hand, to take the Canopy Park experience to another level, a development team has been assembled, and it is composed by prominent artists, designers and architects who have the mission to add value to the community through this construction. The team includes architects Bernardo Fort-Brescia & Raymond Fort of Arquitectonica; landscape architect Laurinda Spear of ArquitectonicaGEO; design advisors Daniel Vasini of West 8, Anda Andrei of Anda Andrei Design, and Michael Gabellini and Kim Sheppard of Gabellini Sheppard Associates; and art advisor Lisa Austin.

      But the plans for Canopy Park do not stop there: this world-class natural location will play an important role in the sustainability and resilience policies very much needed in these modern times. This includes habitat restoration, vegetation, biodiversity, native plant communities, irrigation, water conservation and rainwater management, making a groundbreaking process for the maintenance and conservation of the park. Additionally, the park will be the most important and educational resource in Miami City to inform residents and visitors about the resilience and sustainability efforts being made by the city in the public spaces.

      As said by Dan Gelber, Mayor of Miami Beach: “World-class cities and neighborhoods are defined by their public spaces, and Miami Beach is home to some of the most desirable parks and open spaces anywhere”, and Canopy Park won’t be the exception to this rule, so we will have to wait patiently for Summer 2021 to start enjoying this beautiful public place available for the entire community.

      For more information about Canopy Park contact Ivan and Mike below:

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        Mike and Ivan’s multi-million-dollar partnership with Vida Jets

        Mike and Ivan multi-million-dollar partnership with Vida Jets

        With the utmost pride we announce our new, exclusive multi-million-dollar partnership with Vida Jets. Vida jets is the world’s premier jet specialist. that cater specifically to a distinguished clientele. We have partnered with them because the level of service they provide matches the level of service we provide as well.  Moreover, Vida Jets has a vast portfolio of charter options and a multitude of international destinations. They have flown premium services to over 5134 cities, many of which were tailor-made. By uniting our forces, we ensure our clients benefit from a stress-free white-glove experience from start to finish. 

        Mike and Ivan partnership with Vida JetsJet Traveler is one of the Vida Jets services, provided through a no-membership jet charter firm. This company has access to entire fleets of approved aircrafts. Moreover, it’s very easy to get a quote by simply entering details and requirements to receive various options. Once the client gets their quote, a Jet Specialist liaises with them to go over the specificities of their logistics. The Specialist will help the guest with every minute detail of their plan, down to the most personal requirements. Vida Jets uses cutting-edge technology to personalize its service. It has therefore become a pioneer in this brand of private aviation services.

        The JetAnother innovative tool by Vida Jets is its Jet Card service. Vida Altitudes is a membership deal whereby customers can be part of a network of fast, friendly and readily-available aircrafts. These include: helicopter, turbo-props, light to heavy jets, Airbus & Boeing business jets and air ambulances. Moreover the company has an Aircraft on Ground or AOG service. This means that they provide solutions when an aircraft is grounded and not given clearance to fly. Vida Jets makes certain customers get to their intended destination, with no further delay or detours. What’s more, Vida Jets has a Concierge Service which not only sees to your best flight experience, it can also arrange for further facilities prior to departure, or from your destination. These include gourmet-catering and luxury ground transfers.

        Vida JetsThe beauty of teaming up with Vida Jets is that many of our own clients are from the northern part of the United States. They often fly to their holiday homes in Miami from places including New York, New Jersey and Washington. We also welcome many Canadian customers from cities such as Toronto and Montreal. Our partnership with Vida Jets is precisely to facilitate our clients’ transfers from such distant locations. This is particularly important in current times, with COVID19 still impacting travel. Our endeavor is to provide safe flying options for our clientele, through charter flights where they can either travel alone or only with their loved ones. They can therefore maintain social distancing by avoiding crowded flights and airport terminals. Our promise

        Multitude of international destinations

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          Taller Aman Tower Gets Go-Ahead by Miami Beach Planning Board Despite Objections

          Taller Aman Tower Gets Go-Ahead by Miami Beach Planning Board Despite Objections

          Len Blavatnik’s Access Industries and Vlad Doronin’s OKO Group’s proposed 250-foot tall building in the Faena District received a green light to push ahead with their project. This comes after objections raised by residents of the adjoining Faena House primarily. The Aman Tower will be located between the former Versailles Hotel and Faena House on Collins Avenue, thus the opposing chorus from the Faena District. On Tuesday, 25 August, the Miami Beach Planning Board voted in favor of changing the regulations which limit current constructions to 203 feet. The developers will therefore now be able to move the Miami Beach City Commission for the legislature that will give the final nod to the building.

          Taller Aman Tower Gets Go-Ahead by Planning Board Despite Objections The Miami Beach Planning Board gave its approval after hearing arguments from both parties for over three hours. The vote went 5 to 2 in favor of the legal revisions. This means that the developers could get their final approvals this month and begin groundbreaking. 3425 Collins LLC had previously presented its case before the Miami Beach Planning Board in July. The developer of the Aman Tower wanted the Faena District Overlay to be modified to allow the 47-foot height increase.

          The new regulations will enable the new high-rise to surpass Faena House, already at the regulated height of 203 feet. The strongest voices raised against Aman Tower were therefore from these precise quarters. Billionaire homeowners entered a tug-of-war with billionaire promoters. A total of 26 owners objected to the height increase. Their reasons were listed in writing, in a letter addressed to the Miami Beach Planning Board.

          Among these, residents of Faena House claim a higher tower than theirs would counter guarantees received when their property was developed in 2015. “A massive, 250-foot structure was never contemplated nor expected and not what we were advised when we purchased our units.” The letter adds that the proposed taller construction “will obliterate our views to the beach and ocean, cast extensive shade and darkness, and cause other multiple deleterious impacts to our units.” For the wealthy homeowners, their perch over the waterfront is defined by exclusivity. They are, after all, part a very select club, who demand the highest standards when it comes to their lifestyle. Legal representatives of 3425 Collins LLC say, for their part, that the building will be erected further towards the back. Their counter-argument is that Faena House will then be the one to cast shade on Aman Tower.

          Furthermore, one of the contesting residents, Thomas Stern, suggested there was a conflict of interest in the proposal. The reason being that Blavatnik was one of the financiers who partnered with Alan Faena for the development of the Faena District. He said: “what’s being done here and how it’s being done are egregious.”  Among other objectors to the project are the former CEO of Goldman Sachs, Lloyd Blankfein, former U.S. Ambassador Paul Cejas and hedge-fund experts Jamie Dinan and Ken Griffin. The latter had made the acquisition of his Faena House penthouse for a whopping $60 million in 2015.

          The other protesters are concerned the area already has its fair share of high-rises. Kristen Rosen Gonzalez is a past Miami Beach commissioner, She reportedly said that the run-down Versailles Hotel and Condominium could have been given a fresh start instead. The melancholy building was once a kingpin of the art-deco marvels of Miami Beach. Gonzalez was among the voices heard by the Miami Beach Planning Board before it agreed to the legal amendments requested by 3425 Collins LLC. 

          If you are interested in more information about Aman Towers contact Ivan and Mike below:

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            19 Palm Ave in Palm Island sold at $20,500,000 by Ivan and Mike

            19 Palm Ave front

            We are thrilled to announce that Ivan Chorney and Michael Martirena closed the 19 Palm Avenue residence at $20.5 million, hitting one of the highest sales notes in Miami Beach. They represented the buyers, a California-based family who purchased the property through a trust. Dina Goldentayer of Douglas Elliman had listed the upscale home at $23.5 million in October 2019. This mansion is a class act in its entirety, starting with the architecture penned by the prized Choeff Levy Fischman.  With 9600 square feet of covered area, the property expands as one of the most lavish and exquisite on the Palm Island waterfront.

            The ground floor is a Choeff Levy Fischman ‘Tropical Modern’ signature layout, which is an open plan with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. These spill out onto the back-garden deck and seamlessly blend the interior and exterior living spaces. This makes up an open-air atrium of a handsome 460 square feet, with floating steps descending into a shallow pool. This area adjoins a larger, bespoke swimming pool, as well as high-end summer kitchen and wet bar.

            The centerpiece of this garden is this opulent arrangement of the infinity-edge pool and Lautner deck. The composition is such that the water appears like an oasis. It then boarders a sunken living room, which openly frames a cosy fire pit. The outdoor deck also includes a cabana with attached commodities. A spiral staircase springs up from this part of the house, to a rooftop lounge where sunbathing seems prescribed.

            In the crisp interior, the living room is announced from the clean-cut, entrance foyer with magnificent wood louvers and sparkling ponds. This part of the house features a bespoke wall panel, crafted in Italy, which reveal a hidden television nook. The dining space lines the living room, with a floor-to-ceiling brass-covered gas fireplace, with LED lighting. This ultra-modern and meticulously-planned home even boasts a dedicated entertainment lounge, bedecked in gentle overtones. This space also has a classic black and gold bar for perfect hosting occasions.

            However, the heart of this dwelling is potentially its $500 000 Fendi gourmet kitchen. It basks in chocolate lacquer, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and champagne leather paneling. It also has a breakfast area, which supplements the formal dining room. A kitchen island, pantry but also high-end modern appliances are among the installations. These are: a built-in oven, dishwasher, ice maker, microwave, refrigerator, dryer and washer.

            An Ipe wood staircase leads to the upper level of the house, from the Italian-tiled foyer. On this floor of the mansion, there are has 6 spacious bedrooms of gray overtones matching the exterior slabs. They also feature soft, organic coverings which complement the cloudy flooring and Cavalli walls. The master bedroom is a grand 1490 square feet, with Cantilevered wood ceilings up to the balcony. It has a romantic sitting area, which opens up on an angular, glass-framed terrace and stunning scenery of the Biscayne Bay. It also has a midnight kitchen and fireplace, ideal for lyrical evenings. All rooms are fitted with the most avant-garde and roomy walk-in closets.

            Attached bathrooms are succinctly paved in beautifully-veined marble, with glass-encased showers and superior-grade fittings. The master bedroom’s private bathroom comes with a custom-made vanity, where the floating Boffi tub is an absolute treat. Two of the other larger bathrooms on this floor are fitted with a zero-edge spa shower, steam and scent ventilation.

            On this level, there is also a pajama lounge, which an intimate space to enjoy lazy mornings or breakfast ‘almost’ in bed. It faces an external glass atrium, providing pleasant backdrops to this indoor stretch.  The house also boasts a larger theater for the full-fledged recreation of family and friends. Additional provisions include a separate area for the live-in house help.

            The entire estate gorges on 18,000 square feet, with the exterior dotted with contemporary gray limestone. There are relaxing reflecting ponds and other aquatic installations which enhance the property’s proximity to the water. In addition to the aesthetics, the home is also fully automated, with an integrated Savant technology system. There is also a residential-grade elevator, which services all three levels of the property.

            The mansion previously belonged to London investor Dean Carr and his wife Melissa. Their original buying price of the house was of $6.5 million in 2014. It was their undertaking to appoint Choeff Levy Fischman for the refurbishing and redesigning – a project which was only completed in 2019. It is the 3rd property to be selling on Palm Island in recent weeks, an indication that the COVID-19 pandemic has not quite hampered luxury property deals in the area. These sales demonstrate buyer and investor confidence, as well as the buoyancy of the industry through testing times.

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            Coconut Grove: The Bohemian Village of Miami

            Coconut Grove Neighborhood: The Bohemian Village of Miami

            Coconut Grove has a different spirit to the rest of Miami. Locally known as the ‘The Grove’, it has a groove of its own, with a more bohemian atmosphere along its pretty parks and lanes. Coconut Grove sits on the Biscayne Bay, not far from Downtown Miami and Brickell. It is a bit of a picture-postcard neighborhood, with boats lazing in the bay and residents leisurely strolling along the streets. ‘The Grove’ remains popular with those seeking to move to this part of Miami precisely for this ambiance that sets it apart from other more high-flying areas. It is on par with other localities for great recreational amenities in its parks and marinas. It also boasts wonderful food and trendy eateries around the village, as well as charming artistic corners and galleries. This is the place for those who would like a bit of nice and quiet, all the whilst being within short distances of the more animated parts of South Beach.

            Coconut Grove Boating: The Sailing Capital of Miami

            Locals in Coconut Grove are always on the water. This is their way of life. Whether it’s sailing or paddling a board, you will never find yourself too far from the sea. The village has a history closely linked to seafaring. due to a neighboring light-house, it became known to be a favorite stop or sailors in need of freshwater. Nowadays, there are a number of marinas available to residents of the locality. These include Dinner Key Marina, Grove Harbour Marina, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club and the Coral Reef Yacht Club. This surviving tradition of nearly a century must be the reason why the Grove is nicknamed ‘The Sailing Capital of Miami’.

            Recommended: The ongoing transformation of Coconut Grove

            Coconut Grove Restaurants, Shopping & Entertainment

            Being near the sea means seafood will be the main theme of many of Coconut Grove’s dining options. But the catch of the day goes many ways in this little village, which gets top marks on creativity. You will be spoilt for choice between a succulent ceviche or the more adventurous alligator ribs. A walk around the Main Highway or Commodore Plaza will give residents plenty of mouth-watering restaurants. There are also cafés sprawling alongside pavements for those who just want to sit and sip the cool and calm atmosphere.

            Shopping in Coconut Grove

            Coco Walk is a good start for those who want to explore. It’s a popular stop for shopping enthusiasts, with trendy and niche boutiques. The Old Grove is another well-visited area, especially for those looking for the more eclectic or artsy type of goods, including natural and sustainable fashion creations.

            What to do in Coconut Grove

            Coconut Grove’s Fashion + Art + Music Night every first Saturday of the month from October to April is a must-attend event. Shops host artists during these special Saturdays, but there’s also a variety of live music performances to be enjoyed. There’s so much more to see around the village, however, such as the magnificent Vizcaya, a historical hacienda with great gardens. There are a few other historical houses which are worthy of a visit, retracing West Indian settlement in the area. The city also has lovely parks and gardens overlooking the Biscayne Bay and offers splendid walks along the marinas.

            Coconut Grove Schools

            You are in safe hands in Coconut Grove when it comes to your children’s education. The area has plenty of top-of-the-list private and public schools. Among the best private schools are the Brito Miami Public School, Immaculata-La Salle High School and Ransom Everglades School. Notable public schools include Coconut Grove Elementary, Frances S. Tucker Elementary and George Washington Carver Middle School.

            The History of Coconut Grove

            The village was founded in the 19th century. It has since been a creative den and secret garden for many of the free spirits who chose these shores. The area was a stop for sailors looking for supplies, particularly in freshwater. Its tropical abundance and natural maritime landscape made it irresistible then and even later, for the likes of Tennessee Williams and Robert Frost. This is how the Grove has kept its distinction for being a vigorous and freethinking community.

            The region was first inhabited by Tequesta native Americans. As the Cape Florida Lighthouse opened in 1825, its staff adopted the place, as did artisans who salvaged ships around the area. It was one of the pioneer residents, Dr. Horace Porter, who lived around the present Barnacle State Park, who came up with the name Coconut Grove after seeing a bunch of coconut palm trees in the vicinity.

            A few decades later, attracted by the generous homestead laws, an influx of settlers from the Bahamas arrived in the region. Their descendants remain to the day, particularly around Charles Avenue. Some of the founding figures of the Grove, Ralph Munroe and the Bahamian Peacock brothers, formed the first hospitality institutions of the area. This attracted a lot of visitors who eventually decided to settle locally. Soon there was to be a school, church and other various clubs.

            Moreover, the arrival of the railway nearby in 1896 ushered in a new era. Rich families chose the secluded locality to settle in, creating a millionaire’s row in its midst. Coconut Grove also neighbored a U.S. Navy airbase. With all of these developments, the Grove was soon annexed to the City of Miami, as its real estate market soared.

            Coconut Grove Real Estate

            Real Estate in Coconut Grove can be categorized in the following specific neighborhoods: North Grove, South Grove, Center Grove or West Grove. We therefore have a Coconut Grove real estate database which is dedicated to this very popular area of Miami, Florida. We update our database on a daily basis so that you can have access to all of our Coconut Grove listings. This database is the key to your dream property, whether luxury condos, townhomes, gated estates or luxury waterfront mansions.