Coral Gables Rentals under $5,000 per Month

Coral Gables has always been one of Miami-Dade’s nicest and more desirable neighborhoods.  Once you spend some time here (just a day is all it takes), you see why it everyone loves it so much whether traveling through terrific neighborhoods, both new and established, or spending time in phenomenal restaurants and shops along the Miracle Mile.

Real estate in Coral Gables If you are not in the market to buy real estate but want to rent, here are several Coral Gables rentals under $5,000 per month:

1364 Alegriano Avenue, Coral Gables Country Club, Monthly Rent:  $5,000

What a wonderful opportunity to live in one of the most well established, upscale neighborhoods in Coral Gables.  This property, built in 1949, is classic Florida at its very best.  And it is huge – 4,155 square feet – with four bedrooms and four baths not to mention being situated on a corner lot. Inside, you can find ceramic tile floors throughout large and spacious rooms, high ceilings, a fireplace, one-car garage and spacious rooms.  This house is ideal for families and business professionals as it is located just minutes from the Riviera Golf Course and the Biltmore Hotel and Golf Course, and only a short drive from University of Miami.  Coral Gables Country Club is a fabulous neighborhood for families and those who desire space and homes with character but also want to be in a very walkable neighborhood.  Rental rates in Coral Gables Country club range from about $2,000 to $18,000 per month.  As for this property, it is the least expensive Coral Gables Country Club rental on a price per square foot basis at $1.20/square foot.

Available Coral Gables Country Club Rentals

1170 S Alhambra Circle, Gables Riviera, Monthly Rent:  $5,000

Ideal for a family with in-laws, this is a phenomenal four bedroom, three-bath home in Gables Riviera.  The main house boasts three bedrooms and two baths while the in-law’s suite features one bedroom and one bath on the other side of the garage.  In addition to a huge kitchen, this home has a large master bedroom and closet and tons more closet space throughout the house.  Gables Riviera rentals start at about $2,500 per month and often top $10,000 per month.  There are a handful of properties situated on South Alhambra Circle with this one being one of the more affordable ones as well as right in the middle of the pack overall. Gables Riviera rentals start at about $2,500 per month and often top $10,000 per month.   This one stands out as a top pick with the accents and characteristics found only in homes built during the 1950s and 60s. 

1100 S Alhambra Circle, Gables Riviera, Monthly Rental Rate:  $4,800

As a comparison, this home is situated a block from the previous listing and features just over 2,000 square feet. The house offers a very spacious living area with fireplace as well as an oversized dining room/Florida room combo that opens up to a large kitchen with granite counters, custom wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances.  The split floor plan places a large master in the front of the house and two other bedrooms in the back of the house along with a two-car garage. As another home on a corner lot, this home has been fully remodeled and is surrounded by lush landscaping. Like the aforementioned home, UM and excellent shopping are very close.

Gables Riviera Rentals

217 San Sebastian Avenue, Gables Craft, Monthly Rental Rate:  $4,800

411 Vittorio Avenue, Gables Rivera, Monthly Rental Rate:  $4,700

1123 Sorolla Avenue, Gables Granada, Monthly Rental Rate:  $4,700

There are tons of options for Coral Gables rentals whether single-family home or condominium all offering tons of space and amenities.  Coral Gables is a wonderful city rich in history and things to do – perfect for families, single adults, retirees and pretty much anyone who wants to live here.

Biltmore Parc – More Luxury Condominiums Come to Coral Gables

In February it was announced that Biltmore Parc, a new luxury Coral Gables condominium, would begin construction this summer.  In a more recent Miami-Herald article, it was stated that Biltmore Parc would begin construction in June and be ready to unveil in December 2016.  Here is some general information about Biltmore Parc.

The Basics of Biltmore Parc

The plans for Biltmore Parc show a five-story condominium with 32 luxury residences ranging in size from a little over 1,700 square feet to a little over 2,500 square feet.  Located just a mile from the Biltmore Hotel and a few blocks from the Miracle Mile, Biltmore Parc is situated in a pristine location in the heart of Coral Gables. 

Biltmore Parc’s Mediterranean-modern design will be developed by Alirio Torrealba and United Developers Miami with the architecture under the helm of Bellin & Pratt Architects. Interior design will be handled by Avazanto Design, a premiere Miami design firm that has designed commercial, residential and mixed-used properties all over the world including The Jewelry Boutique in Coconut Grove along with restaurants and other condominiums. 

Amenities at Biltmore Parc

Just like other luxury Coral Gables condominiums, the fixtures, finishes and amenities at Biltmore Parc will be top of the line.  From a full-time concierge to assigned parking, private elevators that open into each unit and NanaWalls folding glass walls that create an indoor/outdoor space with the balcony and living area, no expense will be spared.  Inside each unit, owners can expect to find 10-foot high ceilings, a European-style kitchen, baths with separate showers and baths and laundry rooms in each unit.  Oh and the condominium is pet-friendly. The best part is that with each sale, a one-year membership to the Biltmore Hotel for swimming, events and the spa.

Real Estate at Biltmore Parc

The 32 units in the boutique style Biltmore Parc consists of large two and three-bedroom units.  List prices currently start at $950K and climb to $1.6 million.  At this point, the information for the real estate at Biltmore Parc is very basic.  There are several units listed for sale.

More to Come

Coral Gables is such a beautiful place to live.  And, it looks like Biltmore Parc is going to add to the exclusivity of living in a luxurious Coral Gable condominium.  As more information comes available, we will report it here.

Classic Coral Gables Home Listings Built in the 1920s

Established in the 1920s during the land boom in Florida, Coral Gables has a claim to fame of being one of the first planned communities in Florida.  The city covered almost 10,000 acres with the architectural design being Mediterranean Revival throughout the city.  Following the boom, the market went bust (sound familiar?) and its founder, George Merrick, lost everything but the ancestral home.

Over the course of several decades, the home, called Merrick Manor, went through several hands and was occupied by different types of occupants.  Since about 1976, it has been in the hands of the City of Coral Gables which restored it to its 1925 style with décor, fixtures and finishes because it “best represented the Merrick family,” according to a recently featured article in Curbed Miami and is open twice a week for tours.

This got us thinking about Coral Gables real estate and how it has changed over the years.  While there are many new construction homes that have replaced some of the original homes built in the 1920s, there are still those that stand out as original Coral Gables properties with the unique characteristics of the architectural design. Here are five Coral Gables homes listed for sale and built in the early to mid-1920s that reflect the design of properties during that era while featuring modernized upgrades on the interiors that make these homes spectacular and ideal for those who love the uniqueness to original “old Florida” style.

920 Coral Way, List Price:  $2,495,000

This gorgeous home located just very short distance from the Coral Gables Merrick House consists of the best of the old with truly modern updates.  Built by George Merrick in 1922, this historically designated house is constructed with coral rock and still has the original hardwood floors, terracotta tile floors and other classic details along with newer, remodeled upgrades like a fabulous walk-in closet, new kitchen with updated stainless steel appliances and so much more.  A screened-in porch that runs the across the rear of the house features exposed coral rock walls and posts with the terracotta tile floor and the original tongue and groove plank ceiling. On top of this, in addition to four bedrooms and four baths includes a library with a wet bar, large living and dining rooms, and a Florida room just off the kitchen and family room.  One really nice attribute is the pool house (with bath) that accommodates guests. The entire property encompasses three lots and is filled with tropical landscaping and fruit trees.

Coral Gables Country Club Listings

1046 Almeria Avenue, List Price:  $999,000

This Spanish-style villa, built in 1923, features the epitome of “classic Florida” with a two-bedroom, two-bath main house and a one-bedroom, one-bath guest residence above the garage.  Situated on a 10,000+ square foot corner lot, the home was designed by renowned architect, Walter DeGarmo and features the original Dade County pine and terracotta floors throughout the house as well as modern upgrades and remodels to bring the house to its updated state.  These updates include a fabulous chef style kitchen, a large master bedroom with unbelievable closet space and a master bath, and impact-resistant windows and doors.  In the back is a wonderfully large brick-paver patio perfect for entertaining.  The location is just one block to Salvadore Park and only a short walk (or drive) to the Biltmore Hotel.

1248 Aguila Avenue, List Price:  $568,000

Located in one of Coral Gables most established neighborhoods, this Gables Granada house was built in 1924 and features the best of both worlds in terms of old and new.  The home recently went through a huge remodel to update while still keeping the unique charm of this original Gables home.  It offers two bedrooms, one bath and an artist studio with a wall of arched windows as well as beautiful wood floors, a living room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a family/sunroom.  The kitchen and bath have been totally remodeled with contemporary fixtures and cabinets and stainless steel appliances.  A loggia opens up to a beautiful courtyard and patio.  This is a truly spectacular home.  Real estate listings in Gables Granada feature list prices starting as low as the mid-$400s and climbing into the millions.  This is a fantastic neighborhood for families.

1232 Palermo Avenue, List Price:  $1,499,000

This is a 3,600+ square foot home built in 1924 and located in the Coral Gables Country Club neighborhood.  It showcases a Spanish-style architectural design with lots of room to house the five bedrooms and four baths.  The main floor has a split floor plan with two master bedrooms one featuring a spa-style master bath with marble walls and floors and a large walk-in closet.  Original hardwood floors have been refinished and other rooms have been modernized and updated.  The rear of the home opens to a beautiful pool area with brick paver deck and lots of lush landscaping that spreads over the entire 12,000+ square foot lot.

1416 Medina Avenue, List Price:  $689,000

This home screams history as it is one of the original homes built by George Merrick in 1925.  It offer three bedrooms and two baths under almost 2,000 square feet as well as a detached garage that easily be transformed into a perfect in-law’s suite or pool house.  Inside, there are travertine and tigerwood floors throughout and a large recently remodeled gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, custom cabinets and granite counter tops not to mention new contemporary baths – the master bath has marble, and a Jacuzzi tub.  The master bedroom includes a walk-in closet and pool access. On top of that, there is new central A/C and a new garage roof.

Gables Granada Real Estate Listings

Everything Under One Roof

There is nothing like history kept in its original state even when you want to remodel or update property.  In the neighborhoods within a short radius of The Merrick House showcase so many homes like this that feature everything under one roof.  When considering a home in Coral Gables, be sure to consider the older homes as they have the character of classic Florida combined with newer upgrades in terms of appliances and all the conveniences of modern day.

Choices Café – A Choice Location in Coral Gables

Vegan seems to be more than just a fad.  Whether it is because of health reasons or simply a preference, everywhere you go more and more people prefer a vegan menu. And in Miami, that means only one place – Choices Café.  And now, Choices has finally come to Coral Gables.  Opened since January, this place has become a favorite to those who know about it as well as anyone who stumbles upon it. 

Centrally Located in Coral Gables

Voted top vegan restaurant in Miami, the owners of Choice Café said in a Miami New Times article they chose Coral Gables for a location because “so many people begged them to open here.”  Ponce de Leon Boulevard (2626 Ponce de Leon Boulevard) is the perfect spot for this Miami favorite (just off the Miracle Mile) that features a detailed fare that is “100 percent vegan and 95 percent organic.”  Even those who do not profess to be vegans (or vegetarians for that matter) always find time to stop in any of the three locations to have a snack or meal. 

Real estate in the area around Choices Café is predominately condominiums as it is situated in the middle of the business district of Coral Gables.  List prices start in the mid to upper-$200s at Ten Aragon; the mid-$300s at Gables Tower Condo; and, the mid-$400s at Ponce Tower. These condos are considered to be very “walkable” as they are centrally located to the Miracle Mile and the businesses around it. Even neighborhoods like Gables Granada and Coral Gables Country Club are close enough that residents can make a plan to walk to Choices, enjoy a healthy meal and walk home – you can’t get much better than that! For single family homes in these neighborhoods, list prices start in the low to mid-$400s and climb into the multi-millions. 

Coming Soon to Coconut Grove

June seems to be the target month for another “choice location” for Choices Café if the permits and zoning come thorough.  Just like the Gables location, the owners say that they “didn't choose the Grove, the Grove chose us. That's kind of how we operate; we let the universe guide us," in a recent Miami New Times article.  The location in an historical building on McFarlane Road is the brainchild of a Choices customer who owns the building.  This location has a huge front patio which is ideal for a restaurant like this one. 

Mutiny Park Condo and Sonesta Coconut Grove are situated on McFarlane Road and feature units starting in the mid to upper-$300s.  Just a couple of blocks away and within a short walk of McFarlane Road are Yacht Harbour Villas and Lofts at Mayfair with units also starting in the mid to upper-$300s. 

What to Eat

The favorites seem to be the Mental Lentil and Kind Slam as well as their smoothies and the No Capitan Wrap.  The menu is large enough that you can easily eat there several days a week to try everything and discover your favorites.  Some say it is a little pricey but for an organic, vegan fresh meal, it isn’t too pricey. 

More Healthy Options 

If there were more healthy options like Choices Café, maybe we would be a lot healthier.  But for now, we’ll just have to enjoy one of the three Choices locations and patiently wait until the summer for the fourth one to open in the Grove.

Small Tea – Coral Gables Newest Tea Room

Whenever anyone from the UK has something that is consuming their thoughts or day, they typically like to “have a cup of tea” while they figure things out.  They always have tea in the afternoon and at night.  For them, tea is a part of their daily existence.

This tradition seems to have come across the Atlantic.  Although tea is now touted as a miracle elixir for the body, it is also very relaxing to sit down and have a cup of tea.  And there is no place better to have that tea than at Small Tea in Coral Gables.

Small Tea is a relatively new café on Aragon Avenue just off Ponce de Leon Boulevard and only a block off the Miracle Mile.  It is a modern twist on a classic tea room that offers a wide selection of popular and rare teas as well as a delicious menu filled with breakfast, lunch desserts and snack options that go perfectly with their teas.  From the basics like English Breakfast Tea to an absolute decadent Matcha tea, there is something for everyone. 

One of the most appealing features of Small Tea is the way that people simply want to go there.  In addition to simply serving tea and food, they have board games and cards so that people can enjoy an hour (and buy more tea) relaxing with a game of Scrabble or a good game of Gin Rummy.  There is also a smelling bar where anyone can smell different teas to help decide which one to choose. 

Coral Gables has an eclectic feel to it where people love to come and meander around the Miracle Mile.  Small Tea adds the perfect ambiance to the neighborhood either as a way to start your day or a little late afternoon pick me up to finish the day.

Much of the charm of living in the Gables is that everything is within walking distance.  Whether living in a close by neighborhood or in a condominium, being able to walk everywhere makes living here so enjoyable. 

Condominiums feature a broad spectrum of list prices from those starting in the low to mid-$200s at the David William Hotel/Condo to well over $1 million at Segovia Tower.  Mid-priced condos like Coral Gables Tower, 55 Merrick and others offer properties from the mid-$300s and to the mid-$700s or higher. 

As for Coral Gables single-family home neighborhoods, there are several within walking distance (a little more than a block or two).  Most list prices start in the mid-$300s and climb to the multi-millions. 

Small Tea caters to tea lovers of which many live in the Miami-Dade area.  The reviews are stellar – locals love that there is a great place to get tea in Coral Gables. One local said that Smart Tea is “A petite dim lighted place near a corner in Ponce de Leon, not in the mainstream avenue, but in a place that at first sight could look as behind the action, just nailed it” when rating it on Yelp.  

The café is also bringing people out from Miami who want to sit and, you guessed it – have a cup of tea saying that   “OK, this is probably the coolest place that has opened up in Coral Gables in years!!!”

If you love tea and have not been to Small Tea, make sure you visit.  We promise you will come back almost every day!

Nutrition Empire -- Welcome to the Neighborhood

To be positioned on the same block as Epicure Gourmet Market is what most any small retailer wants when opening up shop in a new location and that is just what happened to Nutrition Empire.  Located in the newly built Gables Ponce apartment complex on Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Nutrition Empire is in a position to succeed. 

Nutrition Empire is situated on the ground floor of the newly built phase of Gables Ponce – a new apartment complex on the corner of Ponce de Leon and Granello Avenue. The location is ideal for this health and nutrition specialty store as it is just one block from the Village at Merrick Park and Equinox Fitness in addition to being less than a mile from the University of Miami. It features nutritional supplements and health and wellness products as well as offers superb customer service by trained athletes who have are very well educated in nutrition and healthy living. 

Growing Part of Coral Gables

Most often, when you think of Coral Gables, the Miracle Mile is the first thing that pops into your head but as real estate development continues to expand, the neighborhoods and condominiums around this part of the Gables is primed and ready to grow.  Gables Ponce is an upscale apartment community built in three phases of which the first two are completed and the third is in the works.  It offers residents five-star living in a resort-like atmosphere with high end fixtures and finishes in each apartment as well as community amenities on par with most tropical resorts. 

In addition to Gables Ponce, the Residences of  Merrick Park, another apartment community, is just a block away and provides the same type of luxury apartment living.  This community is comprised of one, two and three-bedroom apartments that are open and airy with nice, spacious balconies to enjoy Florida breezes. 

AVIVA is yet another luxury apartment rental community that is situated on the other side of The Village at Merrick Park.  It has the same tropical feel that Gables Ponce and Residences of Merrick Park have and gives residents the ability to live in high end residences.      

For those who wish to own Coral Gables real estate in this vicinity, the area is 

primarily comprised of single-family home neighborhoods with multi-family housing mixed into the areas.  List prices for homes start in the mid to upper-$400s for homes in Gables Rivera and Coral Gables Country Club neighborhoods and climb into the millions.  As for condominiums, One Village Place is a short walk and features list prices between the mid-$300s and about $600K.  There are several condominiums with properties ranging in the low to mid-$200s to $500K at condominiums like Villa Capri and University Inn Condo located a short drive away.

Coming Alive

One telltale sign that an area is truly coming alive is the retailers that set up shop there.  With high-end markets like Epicure and the shops opening in the Village at Merrick Park, the area around Gables Ponce is destined to continue to show growth.

As for now, residents who are very conscious about their health are so glad to see Nutrition Empire open up to help them make smart choices for nutrition – before and after they work out at Equinox.

Tips for Buying Coral Gables Vacation Property

The Florida real estate market has come back with a vengeance and is clipping along at a fantastic pace.  Prior to the market collapse, many were seriously considering buying vacation homes.  Those who bought at the time have already reaped the rewards of increased value to the property they purchased while others decided to wait.   For those who waited, the dream of owning a vacation home is back on this list of possibilities. 

If you are ready to dive into the home buying waters and considering a vacation home, here are several tips for buying Coral Gables vacation property to make sure you make an informed decision:

Decide How You Want to Use It.  The first thought that comes to mind when buying a vacation home is to decide how you want to use it.  Do you want to keep it strictly as a home for you to stay at your discretion (your friends too) or do you want to buy a vacation home as a rental investment?  In this part of Florida, there is a huge market for rental property especially during the winter when the “snowbirds” fly south to escape the cold – the past couple of winters in the winter have been brutal.   It is common for vacation home owners to only use their property for as little as a couple of months a year so the idea of using it as rental property may be a great way to make it more affordable.

Choose the Type of Property.  Prior to buying a vacation home, you need to choose the type of property you want – single-family or condominium.  Much of this is based on whether you want to use it as a vacation rental.  Coral Gables condominiums and single family homes are always appealing to second home buyers because of the rental potential.  There are several advantages to owning vacation property in condominiums including the ability to put your property in a vacation management pool within the condominium for greater rental possibilities and built-in amenities like a pool, a marina, reserved and valet parking and more. Single-family homes draw those who want more privacy and an atmosphere similar to being at home.

Rent First.  Before you buy a vacation home, be sure that you rent in the neighborhoods or condominiums in which you are interested.  You can speak firsthand about staying there to potential guests and decide if you will enjoy your time there.  Renting always helps you know your likes and dislikes.  

Ask About the Rental History.  If you are considering a second home for investment purposes, ask about the rental history.  You want to know what you are getting with your investment.  For properties that have not been used as rental property, you can look at comparable properties that do have rental histories to see the potential income.

Consider the Additional Financial Obligation.  A second home will have additional financial obligations especially at the beginning.  That is why it is important to know a general idea of the expenses that accompany your new home – initial expenses during the purchase as well as the monthly expenses that any homeowner pays, taxes and insurance.   Even if you buy a second home with an established rental history, rental income typically does not cover ALL of the expenses involved. 

Work with a Local, Experienced Realtor®.  Probably the best thing anyone thinking about buying Coral Gables vacation property is to work with a local, experienced and Florida licensed Realtor®.  A Realtor® that knows which neighborhoods or condominiums best meet your needs as a resident (and rental property owner) provide you with a wealth of information and knowledge to help you make an informed decision. 

Top Five Coral Gables Real Estate Sales in 2014

In the years immediately following the recession, the most expensive properties listed for sale simply sat there.  Finally, 2014 saw a big upswing in the real estate market and that meant the mammoth residential properties were part of the mix.  Here are the top five CoralGables real estate sales in 2014:

41 Arvida Parkway, Gables Estates, Sale Price:  $25,000,000

Yes – this property seems to set the record for the largest residential real estate sale in Coral Gables at $25 million.  Set on a corner lot facing Biscayne Bay and Key Biscayne, this property is luxury at its very finest.  It has a large dock that accommodates large vessels and offers a wide deep canal on one side with the Bay on the other side.  Sold in June 2014, there is absolutely no stone left unturned with this home.  In terms of the details, the home has nine bedrooms and eight and a half baths under 13,000+ square feet.  The sale price per square foot was $1,843 – which is pretty typical in Gables Estates.  So if you wonder what $25 million buys you in Miami-Dade County, here you go. By the way, the property was sold furnished. 

For Sale in Gables Estates

4 Tahiti Beach Island, Tahiti Beach Island, Sale Price: $18,000,000

As the second most expensive Coral Gables property sold in 2014, we mentioned this property in a blog in September 2013.  This 21,000+ square foot home sold in July for $18 million ($848/square foot).  And we can tell you, it has everything any home of this caliber should have.  It sits on the most beautiful Bayfront lot with the most amazing views of water.  And inside this palatial estate is as beautiful with a huge chef’s kitchen, high ceilings, media room with theatre seating, and so much more.  On top of all this, it features a large deep water dock that accommodates large vessels and a private Tahiti Beach is probably Coral Gables most exclusive neighborhood with a guard gated private entrance and even more privacy with individual secure gated entrances.  Homes may take slightly longer to sell as they attract a specific buyer.  In 2014, there were two home sales in Tahiti Beach.  This property took a little over a year to sell.  Currently, there is one property for sale in Tahiti Beach listed at less than half of this one although the price per square foot is comparable. 

Tahiti Beach Real Estate Listings

5 Tahiti Beach Island Road, Tahiti Beach, Sale Price: $11,500,000

July was a big month for home sales in Tahiti Beach!  Next door to the previous listing is another top sale of 2014.  This home is a gorgeous Mediterranean style home has the most luxurious features throughout the home from the marble and hardwood floors to the enormous gourmet kitchen to the elegant pool area that rivals any five-star resort.  There is no detail that is omitted at this estate.  It also sits on a private lagoon that opens up to Biscayne Bay giving its residents all the privacy they want.  As for the details, the property features nine bedrooms and 11 baths under 11,500+ square feet and sold for $954/square foot.  When comparing this one and the other property that sold this year, the only current Tahiti Beach property for sale has a list price per square foot that falls in the middle of the two sold properties.

444 Arvida Parkway, Gables Estates, Sale Price:  $9,000,000

Gables Estates is a much higher priced neighborhood when comparing neighborhoods on a sale price per square foot basis.  This home is no exception at $1,045 per square foot.  Taking about a year to sell, the 8,613-square foot has five bedrooms and six and a half baths. It is open and airy, and sits on the widest lagoon in Gables Estates with direct access into the Bay.  High-end appliances and luxury details make it obvious why it made the top five list.  Currently there are 10 properties for sale in Gables Estates with list prices from about $8 million to almost $20 million – the price per square foot ranging from about $675 to over $1,800 per square foot.  It is worth noting that the most affordable on a price per square foot basis is a new home still under construction although it is not a waterfront property. 

200 Leucadendra Drive, Gables Estates, Sale Price:  $8,500,000

Driving through the gates of this gorgeous 9,180 square-foot Mediterranean estate is breathtaking.  Located in Gables Estates, the eight-bedroom, seven-bath home was fifth most expensive Gables residential sale in 2014.  Like the others, it has the most beautiful finishes including marble and wood flooring, great built-ins, and tons of green space.  Best of all, the lot is large (47,000 square feet) and includes 240 feet of water with no bridges to the Bay.  The sale reflected a slightly lower price per square foot compared to other sales in Gables Estates at $954 per square foot and took just over eight months to sell. 

SHOWING ITS MUSCLE

The past year was finally the shot in the arm we all needed as the real estate market really showed its muscle.  Now we see that 2015 is already showing it may continue on its upward course as six $1 million-dollar plus Coral Gables real estate sales have already taken place since the start of the year.  

Design District Miami

Over the past couple of years, the Design District in Miami has become a true hot spot of the tropical metro area.  High end restaurants like Hermes, Armani and Cartier have opened retail locations here.  Restaurants are abundant.  Rundown warehouses have been converted into galleries, retail, restaurants and more.  It is such a cool area to visit and live.  Bordered by 36^th and 42^nd Streets on the north and south and Federal Highway and Miami Avenue on the east and west, the Design District is one of the newer neighborhoods in Miami that people are gravitating to live. 

Business in the Design District

In addition to high-end retail, the Design District is a hub for – you guessed it – design.  Here you can completely outfit a new residence from some of the most unique furniture at retailers like Baltus, Boffi and others as well as designer showrooms with room ideas, furniture, fixtures, lighting and so much more.  It is amazing and so easy to spend a day, or two, or even three going from showroom to showroom and store to store meandering about in total amazement at some of the most beautiful interior design ideas and offerings on the market.

There are tons of restaurants throughout the Design District.  Dining in the Design District is kind of like traveling the world to eat different foods in various countries from Italian café delacies and pastries at Mercato to perfectly prepared seafood with an Aegean twist at Mandolin Aegean Bistro to good old American fares at Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink. 

Design District Real Estate

Design District real estate is mainly commercial; however, there is plenty in surrounding Miami neighborhoods Wynwood, Midtown Miami and Edgewater as well as those north of the Design District (and just south of Little Haiti) are the neighborhoods like Buena Vista and Brentwood with homes built in the early to mid-1900s.  These home feature lots of character in their design and finishes and offer lots of opportunity for investing in real estate that shows lots of promise and opportunity for quick equity.  Some need tons of work and others simply need some TLC but one thing is for sure – these properties are oh so close to the Design District and have the potential of welcoming its look and style.  There are tons of opportunities to invest in residential real estate in neighborhoods surrounding the Design District that are priced up to about $800K depending on their proximity to this neighborhood and other popular Miami neighborhoods.  Most of these properties are mid-sized homes with square footage ranging between 1,000 and 2,500 square feet. 

As for condominiums, Baltus House is a new condominium in the Design District that should be completed early this year. Baltus House is a boutique 

condominium with only 167 units on 15 floors of which over half water views. 

Each residence features high-end fixtures and finishes highlight the living areas.  The large kitchens feature European cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and tons of counter space – exactly what you expect in the Design District.  Additionally, there are tons of community amenities including a large reflective pool on the seventh floor overlooking Biscayne Bay, fully-equipped fitness center, spa, and more.  Currently, two-bedroom residences are listed for sale with prices ranging within the $500s.

More Appealing

The Design District is definitely a neighborhood on the upswing.  There is a definite vibe that gives it an appeal that is different from any other neighborhood.  The surrounding real estate opportunities that allow home owners to walk into their purchase with equity make the Design District and the neighborhoods within walking distance more appealing.    

Burgerfi®: The Best Burger on the Miracle Mile

Eating clean is becoming more popular than ever. For many, it is a way of life in an effort to have a healthy lifestyle. Every once in a while there is nothing like a good burger and a plate of fries. But, what if you could have the best of both worlds? 

Burgerfi^® is the answer to getting a great burger made from wholesome ingredients. It is located on the Miracle Mile in Coral Gables and is a hot spot on the radar of so many people visiting and living in Coral Gables and Miami. Think fresh, think organic -- local 100 percent ground beef with no antibiotics or hormones, organic potatoes. Think all beef hotdogs, freshly made custards and more. Think no additives and preservatives. 

Inside Burgerfi^®, the concept of taking the idea of a 1950s-60s burger joint and bringing it today’s standards. As one of the most innovative and cool franchises, Burgerfi^® caters to those who want a great hamburger at lunch, dinner and even late night. The minute you walk into the restaurant you are instantly in a good mood. Then once you take your first bite into the best tasting burger you will ever eat, you are transported to a state of nirvana. You know what we mean – there is nothing like eating that perfect burger and this is it.

The reviews, for the most part, are stellar with praises going to several burgers, the fries and the onion rings.  On top of that, they have a nice selection of craft beers and the cokes come in the old style little Coke bottles.  Our favorite burger has to be the All Day Breakfast Burger.  Who would ever have thought to put a fried egg, hash browns on a burger with bacon and the usual stuff!  And, although it is probably not the healthiest of burgers, holy cow it is good! 

Living Near the Miracle Mile

Coral Gables condominiums and neighborhoods are full of residents who can easily walk to the Miracle Mile. That is one of the most appealing characteristics about living here. No matter what time of year, people enjoy strolling through the quaint, established areas of the Gables.

In this area, Coral Gables condominiums list prices start in the mid-$200s and climb to well into the millions.  Within walking distance are several buildings that attract different buyers from first-time buyers to investors and those downsizing or buying second homes. 

With the holidays on us, more and more people are flocking to the heart of Coral Gables for shopping and eating out with friends and family.  The Miracle Mile is the bull’s eye for so much of the crowds.  Be sure to put Burgerfi^® on your list.  You won’t be sorry.

Opera D’Arte: The City Beautiful’s Chicest Bridal Gallery on Bridal Row

With Thanksgiving upon us, you can see that the Christmas season has finally arrived as well.  Luckily, in sunny Florida, we only experience the holidays with timing and decorations instead of the dismal weather in the north. 

While most people shop for toys, clothing, and other things that their friends and family want, there are those shoppers who buy the bling – ring bling to be exact.  The holidays are a time where the question is popped and the answer is a resounding YES!  When this happens, it means only one thing…it is time to shop for the dress and there is no better place to shop for the dress than along “Bridal Row”  on the Miracle Mile in Coral Gables.

Bridal Row is a section of the Miracle Mile that is home to over three dozen shops that cater to every single part of a wedding from the dress to the cake to the event planners who make the whole occasion happen.  This is where so many brides start the fun of planning “the most important day of their lives.” 

As for bridal gowns, one of the most elegant shops on the Miracle Mile’s Bridal Row is Opera D’Arte.  This boutique has some of the most beautiful dresses to make any bride feel a princess for the day and takes bridal gown shopping to a new level. 

Not only do they help brides find the perfect gown, they host events throughout the year to showcase their designers and offer guests the opportunity to spend time with a designer’s representative and the store’s staff being fitted for a wedding gown.

Coral Gables is well known for its beauty and elegance which makes it the perfect backdrop for a destination wedding which makes sense since there is an entire area along the Miracle Mile devoted to this important and festive occasion.  The Biltmore Hotel and the Women’s Club of Coconut Grove are just a couple of the more popular venues where unbelievable wedding days culminate.

As Coral Gables real estate experts, we work with a lot of people who are relocating to the area as they begin to plan the biggest day of their lives.  So why not exchange vows in the City Beautiful?  We always send them to Bridal Row to begin the planning process.  As for the dress, which let’s face it, is the thing that every bride treasures most, Opera D’Arte is our favorite.  We know that once any bride steps in this sophisticated and graceful boutique, the feeling will be mutual.

Opera D’Arte has trunk shows coming up including designer Riki Dalal, December 5-7 and Cotin Sposa, January 23-25, 2015.  Be sure to call for your private appointment. 

“Boutique” Coral Gables Condominiums

One of the most types of popular condominium properties is the “boutique” style condominium.  This term is commonly used in the real estate industry representing a more exclusive, smaller condominium with fewer units.  Real estate buyers tend to gravitate towards boutique condominiums because of the relaxed atmosphere, lower condo fees due to typically having fewer amenities and somewhat tighter leasing regulations within the condominium covenants.  Typically with boutique condominiums, there tend to be fewer units on the market as property owners lean towards staying put as well. 

Coral Gables is an affluent part of Miami-Dade that appeals to a more buyers who want to step back from the excitement and glitz of Miami’s more progressive neighborhoods.  Boutique condominiums lend themselves well to tranquility and exclusive nature of Coral Gables.  Here are a handful of highly sought after boutique Coral Gables condominiums with listings.

Century Village Park, 1650 Galiano Street.  Century Village Park is a gorgeous boutique-style condominium built in 2010 and centrally located in a beautiful and established part of the Gables that is close to parks, golf courses, and shopping and dining on the Miracle Mile.  With only 41 units on eight floors, Century Village Park offers residents the choice of a one-story condominium unit housing one or two bedrooms or two-story townhouse with three bedrooms. The most appealing characteristics of Century Village Park are its Mediterranean style architecture on the exterior and the interior details that make this condominium stand apart from the pack.  Fixtures and finishes on the inside lend themselves to a more high-end residence with marble and hardwood flooring, elegant baseboard and crown molding throughout the home and update yet classically styled kitchens and baths.  List prices usually start in the upper-$200s and climb over $500K for single-story condominium units and the mid-$500s to mid-$700s for townhouses.  Investors can expect to garner anywhere from $2,500 per month for a one-bedroom unit to almost $4,000 per month for a three-bedroom townhouse. 

CENTURY VILLAGE PARK LISTINGS

The Nevis, 2650 SW 37th Avenue.  Located a mere two miles from the University of Miami, The Nevis is a nine-story condominium that houses only (41) one or two-bedroom units.  This is an ideal property for first-time buyers and those who are interested in second or winter homes.  Sizes range from just under 800 square feet for one-bedroom units to over 1,200 square feet for two-bedrooms and feature updated kitchens and baths along with extended balconies.  Amenities include an outdoor pool, assigned covered parking, 24-hour camera security and a fitness center with sauna.  List prices start at about $200K and climb to the mid to upper-$300s depending on the size and location of the unit. 

FOR SALE AT THE NEVIS

Villa Calabria, 20 Calabria Avenue.  Villa Calabria is a six-story condominium with only (31) two-bedroom units ranging between 1,200 and 1,400 square feet in size.  It is ideally located just a few blocks from the Miracle Mile as well as area parks and top golf courses.  Units are open and spacious with updated fixtures and finishes along with extended balconies.  Amenities include a well-equipped fitness center, covered parking and a pool.  Currently there are two listings with list prices falling between the mid to upper-$300s even into the low-$400s.  Annual leases are allowed but there are none available.  This is an excellent option for those in need of a second home for business or spending extended time in Coral Gables and south Florida. 

VILLA CALABRIA LISTINGS

Villa Isabella, 322 Madeira Avenue.  Villa Isabella is a boutique condominium in the truest sense of the term with five stories and only 29 units with one or two bedrooms.  Built in 2004, it is a standout condominium with its unique Mediterranean architecture that is very common in this part of Miami-Dade. It features beautifully finished residences updated kitchens, spacious bedrooms and living areas along with an elegant balcony.  List prices fall from the upper-$200s to upper-$300s depending on the size and location.  Square footage ranges between about 750 and just over 1,500 square feet.  As for amenities, there is a gym as well as a beautiful roof top terrace, assigned parking and a secured entrance. Villa Isabella is centrally located within walking distance to the Miracle Mile and other areas that are very popular with Gables residents.  There is only one unit listed for sale which speaks to its popularity.  As for rentals, annual leases are allowed with rental rates typically falling between $2,000 and $3,000 per month. 

VILLA ISABELLA LISTINGS

Villa Zamora, 118 Zamora Avenue.  Unlike many other boutique Coral Gables condominiums, Villa Zamora is ideal for home buyers interested in second or vacation homes as each property owner receives a complimentary membership to the Biltmore Hotel.  In terms of what is featured at Villa Zamora, amenities are similar to those in upscale condominiums and include 24-hr security cameras, covered parking, gated entry, a private elevator lobby, full-size washer and dryer, and impact glass windows.  Inside each residence, owners have a spacious kitchen with granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry, an open living area, full laundry room, a large bedroom with double vanity master bath and so much more.  List prices range from the low-$500s to mid-$600s.  Rental rates typically fall between about $2,500 and $3,200 per month with two rentals allowed each year. 

FOR SALE AT VILLA ZAMORA

Offer Lower Condominium Fees

Boutique condominiums are very popular in South Florida especially in Coral Gables.  They offer an exclusive atmosphere where everyone knows everyone in the building with a bonus of lower condominium fees.  The key to being lucky enough to purchase a property in a boutique condominium is to grab it before it is gone as they sell quickly.