Author: Florida Real Estate News

A significant financial milestone has been reached for Brickell Starlite, a new luxury residential project in downtown Miami. A joint venture between Focus and Group Fox has secured a $250 million construction loan, paving the way for the development of a 517-unit tower. Affinius Capital provided the financing, with Cushman & Wakefield facilitating the transaction. Key Takeaways A $250 million construction loan has been secured for the Brickell Starlite project. The development will feature 517 luxury rental units in downtown Miami. Completion is anticipated by 2028. Brickell Starlite Project Details The Gensler-designed Brickell Starlite is slated to rise 39 stories…

A Tampa-based real estate investment firm, RAD Diversified REIT Inc., is currently under investigation by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office for alleged violations of the state’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The probe centers on claims that the company and its owners, Brandon “Dutch” Mendenhall and Amy Vaughn, may be pocketing investor funds instead of using them for real estate purchases as advertised. Key Takeaways Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office is investigating RAD Diversified REIT Inc. and its owners. The investigation focuses on potential violations of the Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. Allegations include the firm…

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is spearheading a significant proposal aimed at eliminating property taxes for primary residences across the state. This ambitious plan, which would require voter approval in 2026, seeks to alleviate the financial burden on homeowners, particularly in light of rapidly increasing property values. The initiative, however, has sparked debate regarding its potential impact on local government funding and services. Key Takeaways Governor DeSantis aims to eliminate property taxes for homesteaded residents. The proposal requires a 60% voter approval on the 2026 ballot. Potential impacts include shifts in revenue sources for local governments and possible increases in property…

Jonathan Blum, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in media and real estate, has launched JonathanBlum.Miami, a new brand aimed at transforming clients into savvy investors. The initiative seeks to redefine wealth building through property in South Florida, moving beyond traditional sales to a consultative, educational approach. Key Takeaways JonathanBlum.Miami focuses on empowering clients with data, education, and strategic planning for real estate investments. The brand offers a 360° approach, integrating traditional brokerage with high-level consulting, including financial structuring, legal insights, and tax optimization. Blum’s background includes leadership roles at major media companies and a partnership…

South Florida’s real estate market is poised for a dynamic year in 2026. While the region continues to attract new residents, experts anticipate a market correction, particularly in certain areas. High-end sales remain robust, showcasing the enduring allure of luxury coastal living, even as broader market trends suggest a recalibration. Key Takeaways Several Florida housing markets, including Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, are identified as having a high risk of price decline. Despite potential corrections, Florida’s overall population growth is expected to sustain housing demand. The luxury segment saw significant transactions in 2025, with multi-million dollar estates changing hands.…

Miami’s Urban Development Review Board has given the green light to a transformative $2 billion master plan for Midtown Park. This ambitious, multi-phase development promises to reshape the urban landscape, introducing a vibrant mix of residences, offices, retail, and extensive public green spaces, fostering a new era of walkable urban living. Key Takeaways A $2 billion mixed-use development, Midtown Park, has received city approval. The project aims to enhance walkability and connect Wynwood and the Design District. It will feature residential units, office space, retail, public plazas, and a significant racquet and padel club. A New Urban Hub Emerges The…

Broward County is at the center of a heated debate over proposed property tax reforms that could significantly impact municipal revenue and essential services. As the Florida Legislature prepares for its 2026 session, various proposals aim to reduce property taxes, prompting concerns about the long-term sustainability of local government functions and public safety. Key Takeaways Proposed property tax reforms in Florida could lead to a "dramatic erosion of municipal revenue" in Broward County. Property taxes are the primary funding source for local governments, accounting for an average of 48% of a city’s general fund in Broward. Significant revenue losses could…

The eccentric and iconic "Honeymooners" star, Jackie Gleason, once owned a truly unique property that has resurfaced on the real estate market. Known for his comedic genius and rumored fascination with UFOs, Gleason’s former residence in the Florida Everglades was designed to resemble a flying saucer, reflecting his otherworldly interests. This distinctive home offers a rare peek into the private life of a beloved entertainer. A Home Designed for the Stars (and Aliens) The property, located in the Florida Everglades, was custom-built for Jackie Gleason and is famously known as his "UFO Home." Its distinctive, circular design, complete with a…

A Florida property investor has filed a lawsuit accusing a real estate broker of misappropriating over $121 million. The investor alleges the broker used her managerial role in several companies to divert substantial investment funds into her personal accounts. Key Takeaways A property investor claims a Florida real estate broker stole $121 million. The funds were allegedly diverted from investment distributions to the broker’s personal accounts. The broker is accused of exploiting her management positions within several companies. Allegations of Embezzlement The lawsuit, filed in state court, details accusations that the real estate broker systematically siphoned funds intended as investment…

South Florida’s real estate market is experiencing a dynamic period, marked by significant luxury home sales, the groundbreaking of new residential projects, and the emergence of innovative investment advisory services. The region continues to attract high-net-worth individuals and investors, driving activity across residential and commercial sectors. Key Takeaways South Florida’s luxury real estate market saw numerous high-value transactions in 2025. New residential developments are underway, particularly in Miami Beach’s North Beach (NoBe) district. A new real estate brand is focusing on empowering investors through education and strategic guidance. Record-Breaking Luxury Sales The year 2025 has been a landmark year for…