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Remodeling: Dollars and Sense
by Ron Wetherington
Columnist
Many homeowners remodel not just to improve the condition of their biggest asset, but also to improve the salability of said asset. Experience proves that some projects are better for improving your bottom line than others.
DO upgrade kitchens and bathrooms, as these rooms are most likely to get scrutinized by potential buyers. New countertops and appliances and sparkling fixtures will be a memorable aspect of your showings.
DO improve exterior features, too ń first impressions count! Some of the most valuable work you can do is to add new siding, or to pressure clean or replace old dingy siding. Another outdoor biggie: decks. Most everyone loves relaxing outside, so adding or improving this amenity not only adds style to your lifestyle right now, but also increases your home's real and perceived value.
DO realize that the biggest return on your remodeling investment will come from more costly repairs, such as replacing windows or installing new air and heating units. If your home is in need of such improvements, it makes sense to do it now, before it costs more later.
Finally, DON'T turn your home into the neighborhood's priciest palace. You'll end up turning off potential buyers who will see other homes around the block offering more affordability. It's a delicate balance, but your home should offer the greatest value when compared with similar offerings.
I am a Realtor-Associate with Beachfront Realty, the second largest privately owned real estate company in the state of Florida. We provide advice, services, a mortgage company, a title company, and an in-house marketing department.
Call 305-868-5516 or email sirron7@bellsouth.net .
Museum Plaza Celebrates Grand Opening as
Downtown Ft. Lauderdale's First and Only Office Condo
 
Museum Plaza , is making its debut as the first and only office condo in Downtown Fort Lauderdale , opened its doors to buyers is now open onsite this week, hosting an elegant cocktail party , designed to showcase its luxury office space . NR Investments, Inc. in conjunction with exclusive sales agent The Campins Company (TCC) welcomed nearly 200 VIPs from the business community at 200 South Andrews Ave., off Las Olas Blvd. Guests were treated to elegant hors d'oeuvres, signature Museum S plash cocktails and music at the fountain court y ard and in the newly renovated lobby designed by Perla Lichi .
 
 
Throughout the evening, tours were provided for a preview of Museum Plaza 's a Class - A office space and the adjacent, one story building consisting restaurant/retail space. The 11-story building offers three ground-floor retail spaces. Floors two through nine contain offices and the top two floors make up a magnificent penthouse office.
Museum Plaza is being converted by North Miami Beach-based NR Investments Inc.
For more information , call 954-562-1977 or 954-562-1971 or visit www.thecampinscompany.com.
PHOTO IDS
1. Tom Kates, president, Stiles Realty Co; Katrina Campins, founder & principal, The Campins Company; Ted Harris, Parmenter Realty Partners
2. Jeff Wolfe, senior vice president Commercial Real Estate, City National Bank; Joshua Dobin, project manager, Museum Plaza; Lynda Napolitano, marketing manager Real Estate Lending Division, City National Bank
3. Chris Wren, director, Fort Lauderdale D.D. A.; Jolie Spergel; Benjamin J. Genet
4. Katrina Campins, founder of The Campins Company, with TCC's marketing & sales team
5. Nir Shoshani, principal, NR Investments; Charles Torres, Real Estate Executive, City National Bank; Ron Gottesmann, principal, NR Investments
6. Karel Lens, Great Florida Bank, vice president, Business Solutions Consultant ; Sonya Cañas, vice president Business Banking, Great Florida Bank; Tony Esses, HSBC
7. Rodney Levi; Jodi Edwards; Adina Dicu; Gustavo Hamui; Richard Edward
8. Basia Abbott with Perla Lichi of Perla Lichi Design, Interior Designer for Museum Plaza
When in Doubt by Ron Wetherington
Columnist
Home values have been rising, and while some homeowners have been able to capitalize, others are suffering from ěsticker shockî when they see their property tax bill.
Property tax--the biggest source of income for most local governments--is the biggest expense for most homeowners outside of mortgage payments. Lenders may keep a portion of your payments in escrow to pay those taxes on your behalf, so you might not be aware of the impact. However, you should be aware of how your tax is determined, and whether it's accurate.
Because there are various ways to calculate property tax, errors can sneak in. The National Taxpayers Union claims that up to sixty percent of property may be over-assessed, but only one in fifty owners ever challenge their appraisal.
It's wise to confirm the data upon which the tax is based, like your home's square footage and number of bedrooms. Make an appointment or check online with the assessment office. You can check your property card, compare your neighbor's cards, and get an explanation of how your home's value is calculated.
A good place to start is with the National Taxpayers Union ( www.ntu.org ) booklet on fighting property taxes. Then it should just take a few hours to figure out if you have a case for reassessment. It's time well spent if you have any doubts.
I am a Realtor-Associate with Beachfront Realty, the second largest privately owned real estate company in the state of Florida. We provide advice, services, a mortgage company, a title company, and an in house marketing department. It would be my pleasure to help you with your residential or commercial property needs.
Call 305-868-5516 or email sirron7@bellsouth.net .
SBI Realty Commissioned as Exclusive Sales and Marketing Agent for The Breakwater, Chic South Beach Hotel-Condo
In yet another impressive feat, South Beach Investment Realty (SBI) has been commissioned as exclusive sales and marketing agent for The Breakwater, a $60 million hotel-condo on South Beach. Under the direction of Diane Lieberman , the seasoned team will operate from the firm's Ritz-Carlton office at 828 Washington Ave. before moving onsite to 10th Street and Ocean Drive in early January.
The ever-growing brokerage firm also currently represents The Mayfair Hotel and Spa. Previous sellouts include The Domicile , The Sage, The Skylark Condominium and Montclair Lofts.
The Breakwater is an Art Deco landmark originally built in 1939. It is being completely renovated and will reopen as an all-suite hotel-condo, featuring ultra modern, Euro styling and 95 fully furnished units, priced from $399,900. The ground floor will be home to the elegant Italian restaurant Bice, which will attract the hip and upwardly mobile, while residents and guests will be privy to personal Beach Butlers, housekeeping and room service, as well as a luxurious showcase of amenities.
SBI Realty President Diane Lieberman attributes the imminent spring occupancy as well as ëstraight to contract' approach as selling features.
ěThis project is a trend-defining one,î noted Lieberman, who founded SBI in 1999. ěFor our firm, it offers us exposure in our own backyard. For South Beach, The renovation of The Breakwater will reconfirm the neighborhood's stature as an ultra chic and highly coveted destination.î
SBI Realty is a preeminent real estate agency o ffering integrated sales and marketing to developers of luxury residential and commercial properties. Lieberman and husband, Alan, develop multi-million dollar luxury homes and own boutique hotels and rental properties in Philadelphia, Manhattan, and Miami Beach.
To register to be included on the VIP list, email breakwater@sbirealty.com , call 305-532-7771 or visit www.SBIRealty.com .
PHOTO IDS
1. Diane Lieberman
Infinity at Brickell Breaks Ground
Developers Celebrate Milestone with Unveiling of
Goodwill Program ěClothesline of Infinite Hopeî
In a meaningful and momentous celebration, Colonial Development Group broke ground on Infinity at Brickell, a high-end condominium being built in Miami's thriving financial district. The developers hosted an elegant ceremony onsite to commemorate the milestone and officially start construction of the 56-story tower. Completion is expected by spring 2007. In attendance were Colonial Development Group's Chairman Lawrence Duprey and CEO John Yanopoulos along with City of Miami Mayor Manny Diaz and City of Miami Commissioner Johnny Winton . Also among the 300 VIP guests were architect Reinaldo Borges of Borges + Associates, representatives from Corus Bank and general contractor Hunt Construction.
A special part of the ceremony included the unveiling of a ěClothesline of Infinite Hopeî--a showcase of personalized t-shirts designed by 1,000 Miami children as a message of hope for the youngest victims affected by Hurricane Katrina. These T-shirts will be packed in gift bags stuffed with toys and candy and sent to children in New Orleans. The program was created in conjunction with Threads of Hope, an organization that is an outgrowth of the City of Miami Office of F.A.C.E.
Yanopoulos and Mayor Diaz presented children involved with the relief effort with mini groundbreaking shovels as a token of appreciation for their monumental outreach.
ěWe are extremely proud to be aligned with a community of this caliber. The children in particular are exemplary role models,î noted Yanopoulos. ěWhile we're building the homes of the future, this generation is setting the tone for the future, demonstrating that each person can make a difference.î
Taking shape at 60 SW 13th Street, off Brickell Avenue, Infinity at Brickell will offer 459 studios, one, two and three-bedroom residences, in flat or loft layouts. The units will feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls, private, wrap around terraces and unobstructed views of downtown Miami and the surrounding waters. Prices for remaining inventory range from the low $500s to over $1.1 million.
The luxury tower will also house a rooftop terrace, its own signature restaurant onsite, and an option to join the ultra-exclusive ěClub Infinity,î in addition to other upscale amenities.
Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Colonial Development Group, LLC, specializes in the development of hotels; resorts; luxury high-rises, residential condominiums; and retail and mixed-use projects. Colonial is renowned for the implementation of quality real estate projects, which successfully meet bottom-line financial, aesthetic and operational objectives. The company prides itself on building exceptionally attractive, functional and highly successful developments that are appropriate to their locale and are innovative to the market.
For more information, visit the sales center at 20 SW 13th Street, call 305-400-6144, or log on to www.infinityatbrickell.com.
PHOTO IDS
1. Bruce Wylam, Hunt Construction; Bill Palmer, Hunt Construction; City of Miami Commissioner Johnny Winton; City of Miami Mayor Manny Diaz; Lawrence Duprey, Chairman, Colonial Development Group; John Yanopoulous, CEO, Colonial Development Group; Jim Dow; Reinaldo Borges, Borges + Associates Architects
Love is Par for the Course
Cabi Developers' Circle of Love Golf Tournament Raises $110,000 Benefiting Children with Cancer
A hundred and fifty golfers including City of Miami city officials, VIP guests, volunteers and sponsors turned up at the Westin Diplomat Country Club in Hallandale to help raise the ambitious goal of $150,000 to benefit the Circle of Love of South Florida, a charity that makes its mark by supporting children helping children with cancer. This year, the Cabi Developers Circle of Love Annual Golf Tournament raised more than $110,000 that will be used to send 50 children afflicted by cancer to Camp Fiesta, a special camp for young cancer patients that offers a much-needed opportunity to ěfeel like a kid again.î
Title sponsor Cabi Developers along with Mississippi-based Yates Construction, underwrote the tournament costs to allow for 100 percent of all proceeds raised to go directly to the Circle of Love charity. In light of the recent tragedy that has affected the Gulf Coast, a portion of this year's proceeds will also go to benefit children with cancer in that region.
ěCircle of Love is an amazing charity and its work can truly be felt throughout South Florida,î notes Jacobo Cababie , CEO of Cabi Developers. ěAs the builders of the community, it is our responsibility to support the organizations that make our communities the types of places where neighbors can depend on each other when needed.î
A day of friendly competition brought together a slew of VIP guests and golf foursomes that included City of Miami City Manager Joe Arriola and Steve Shapiro , the distinguished on-air news personality for WSVN Channel 7 of Miami, amongst others.
A generous group of sponsors were involved with the tournament this year including The Development Group of Florida, Mellon Bank and Baker Concrete, among many others. Mercedes of Miami sponsored a luxury vehicle for the hole-in-one competition; Coldstone Creamery treated the crowd with ice cream; and Rockstar and Select Vodka provided drinks and refreshments to all the players.
A well-stocked raffle drawing also drew in additional proceeds for the charity with prizes donated by King's Jewelers, Starbucks, The Westin Diplomat Resort and the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Other raffle prizes included tickets to the Florida Panthers games, an autographed Marlins baseball bat and dinner certificates at many fabulous South Florida restaurants.
Circle of Love is a non-profit organization that takes a unique approach to helping children and families cope with and battle the disease, and is based on the concept of ěkids helping kids with cancer.î Through the program, the primary source of emotional and social support provided to the patients comes from peers who have been educated about cancer, its treatment and its life altering effects.
This year, the charity has set a goal to raise funds to help send 50 children to Camp Fiesta ń and Cabi Developers is helping to make this a reality. Cabi Developers, who is developing both Everglades on the Bay and Capital at Brickell in downtown Miami, aligned itself with the Broward-based organization earlier this year.
For more information on Circle of Love of South Florida or to make a donation benefiting the Camp Fiesta initiative, call 954-583-2020, or log on to www.circleoflove.org . For more information on Cabi Developers, call 305-466-1810, or log on to www.gicsa.com.mx .
PHOTO IDS
1. Misha Mladenovic, Vice President of Development, Cabi Developers; Joe Arriola, City Manager, City of Miami; Hector Torres, Senior Project Manager, Cabi Developers; Mario Sariol, Chief Financial Officer, Cabi Developers; Alberto De Armas, Assistant Project Manager, Cabi Developers
Directing Many Roles
by Ron Wetherington
Columnist
You wouldn't choose a surgeon to diagnose your car's engine. Nor would you ask your accountant for a physical exam. Every professional specializes in a different field of knowledge.
Buying or selling a home requires the services of several professionals. The first may be your accountant, who can explain the tax implications of a real estate transaction.
Your attorney also plays an important role, researching the title to the property you are purchasing, uncovering any possible flaws, and assuring you of receiving a good and marketable title.
You may also need a surveyor, since mortgage lenders usually require a physical survey of a property's boundaries. Licensed surveyors ensure that you receive title to the exact property for which you contracted.
So what role do real estate professionals play in a property transaction? They act as a marketing agent for sellers, developing strategies to identify and attract likely buyers for the property.
For buyers, real estate agents provide a variety of services: suggesting lenders, researching available homes, and setting appointments to show property. Once a contract is produced, they oversee the closing activities and coordinate the roles of the other professionals involved.
Real estate agents will not give you legal or accounting advice, nor attempt to survey your property, but they will provide a wide range of services to those planning to buy or sell real estate.
I am a Realtor-Associate with Beachfront Realty, the second largest privately owned real estate company in the state of Florida. We provide advice, services, a mortgage company, a title company, and an in-house marketing department. It would be my pleasure to help you with your residential or commercial property needs.
Call 305-868-5516 or email sirron7@bellsouth.net.
Diane and Alan Lieberman Host
MOCA’s POP 10 Kickoff Party at Catalina + Beach Club
The ultimate South Beach host and hostess, Alan and Diane Lieberman recently welcomed 300 of the art crowd’s most stylish partygoers at the kickoff party for POP 10, the upcoming birthday bash and benefit for the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), at one of their South Beach Group hotels, The Catalina + Beach Club.
Guests mingled with Grey Goose martinis in hand in the hotel lobby as a DJ spun tunes. The Dame of South Beach real estate was quoted saying, “It is a thrill for us to be part of the thriving cultural scene on Miami Beach. A critical part of our success is due to the unyielding support of the community, so it is our honor to give back.”
POP 10 will be held on January 28, 2006 and will benefit MOCA’s Permanent Collection Acquisition Fund. The event will feature an interactive exhibit by the Miami artist collaborative Friends with You. The Liebermans are the honorary chairs of POP 10, along with Channel 7’s Belkys Nerey.
The Museum of Contemporary Art is located at 770 NE 125 Street in North Miami. Since its opening in 1996, MOCA has earned an international reputation for its innovative exhibitions and programs, and has amassed a permanent collection of nearly 500 works of art under the direction of Chief Curator and Director Bonnie Clearwater.
Founded by Diane Lieberman in 1999, SBI Realty is a preeminent real estate agency offering integrated sales and marketing to developers of luxury residential and commercial properties. Catalina is one of the Lieberman’s signature ‘South Beach chic’ properties. It is strategically located at 1732 Collins Ave., across from the celebrity-frequented Delano. In addition to the slew of Art Deco hotels in South Beach, the Lieberman’s develop multi-million dollar luxury homes and own boutique hotels and rental properties in Philadelphia and Manhattan.
SBI Realty is responsible for the impressive sellouts of The Domicile, The Sage, The Skylark Condominium and Montclair Lofts and currently represents The Mayfair Hotel and Spa, and The Breakwater exclusively. The company currently employs over 90 agents in three Miami offices.
For more information, call 305-751-6850 or visit www.SBIRealty.com.
PHOTO IDS
1. Soledada Juncadella, POP 10 Co-Chair; Marty Karvelis and Susie Karvelis of Stanford Group Company and Corporate Sponsor of POP 10; Diane and Alan Lieberman
BAP Newleaf and Kraft Construction Company Host
Onsite Pre-Bid Conference for the Cypress Club
Even before ground work begins, The Cypress Club site in downtown Fort Myers was active. Earlier this month, BAP Newleaf and Kraft Construction hosted a pre-bid conference for subcontractors. Over 100 companies turned out to bid for contracts to build the luxury condominium.
In addition to signifying the imminent start of construction, the event was encouraging to the developers because of the response.
“We are very excited to be moving forward toward construction,” stated Brian Fenster, BAP Newleaf principal, to the crowd. “The Cypress Club represents a genuine interest in the community, and we appreciate your eagerness to bring the project to fruition, and ultimately lend to the revitalization of the historic downtown area.”
Bidder Gary Bullock of the local D&J Architectural Precast, noted, “It is wonderful to be involved with a project as well organized and promising as this. You don’t see an event like this very often, and we are appreciative of the opportunity.”
The bidders were treated to a luncheon onsite at The Cypress Club Sales Center at 2601 First Street. Sales of the 292 residences and 14 live/work lofts are currently underway there. Residences are priced from the mid $400s to over $4 million.
The upscale Cypress Club, located on the Caloosahatchee River, will comprise two 32-story towers. Each will have SMART building features with WiFi access and PRISM, in-residence concierge panels. Units will flaunt oversized terraces, private elevators and foyers, and private pools in select models.
Amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, steam room, and spa; infinity-edge pools, one in each building, overlooking the river; a reading room and library; and a theater. Residents will also have access to Dean’s River Park and promenade, as well as Verandah, a private golf club community on the Orange River.
BAP Realty, a division of BAP Development, is handling sales. Call 239-334-3472, toll free 866-647-7300 or log onto www.thecypressclub.com.
PHOTO IDS
1. Subcontractors gather at The Cypress Club’s sale center for pre-bid conference
EHK Interiors Named Designer
for Ocean Reserve Sunny Isles Beach
EHK Interiors has been selected to design the common areas, which include the lobby, elevator cabs, hallways and five model residences of Ocean Reserve Sunny Isles Beach, a 398-unit condominium debuting for sale in Sunny Isles Beach.
Under the direction of EHK founder Eun Hee Kim, the design firm will redesign the lobby to give it a resort spa feel, redo the elevator cabs and hallways and is also consulting on the upgrade of the fitness center. In addition, she will enhance the pool area furnishings which will feature new cabanas and teak lounges. The five model residences will each have a signature identity to appeal to different tastes and lifestyle needs.
“The developers are looking to create an ambiance of casual elegance,” Kim says. “I am going to give the public spaces an airy, light feeling.”
Ocean Reserve Sunny Isles Beach is located across from the beach at 19370 Collins Avenue. Spacious and view-commanding one, two and three-bedroom residences are sized from 1,000 to 2,500 square feet. They include floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and glass balconies, spacious kitchens with ample cabinet space, large walk-in closets, high ceilings and central heat and air.
Building amenities include a resort-style heated swimming pool, lighted tennis court, state-of-the-art fitness center and 24-hour business center with Internet access. Services include 24-hour valet, full-service concierge and attended gatehouse. The ground floor houses a dry cleaners, mini-mart and beauty salon. The condominium is also pet-friendly.
Ocean Reserve is being converted in a joint venture between The Feurer Companies and Jos. Cacciatore & Company, two Chicago-based real estate companies.
Prices will range from the high $200s to over $1 million. The units will be available for immediate occupancy. Kirschner Realty International (KRI) is the exclusive sales agent. The sales center will be located onsite.
For information, call 305-682-2342 or visit www.oceanreserve.com.
The Related Group: Building the New South Florida as it Supports Community Involvement in the Arts
 
It would be simple if you just described The Related Group as “the builders of South Florida in this 21st century.” But, this company’s spread has now gone nationwide and its potential market of condominium ownership has become a global phenomena.
Established in 1979, The Related Group of Florida is the nation’s leading builder of luxury condominiums and one of the country’s premier multi-family real estate development firms. According to the National Association of Home Builders’ Builder Magazine May/2005 edition, The Related Group of Florida ranks first in 2004 gross revenue among all multi-family builders; and second in number of units built in 2004.
For more than a quarter of a century, The Related Group has created innovative residential developments that have dramatically changed South Florida’s urban landscape. Since its inception, the privately-held company has built and managed more than 55,000 condominium and apartment residences in major markets throughout Florida. Founded by Chairman and CEO Jorge M. Pérez, The Related Group has earned a national reputation for its visionary design and development of luxury condominiums, mixed-use center and affordable rental properties – often in emerging or undiscovered neighborhoods. The Related Group ranks as Florida’s top multi-family developer and is also the largest Hispanic-owned business in the United States. The Related Group of Florida has been a leader in residential development for more than 25 years, and its current development portfolio includes projects valued in excess of $10 billion, with reported sales of more than $2.1 billion for 2004.
Today, The Related Group has over 450 employees throughout South Florida and Las Vegas, Nevada. In addition to its core business of real estate development, the company operates its own real estate financing, sales and property management subsidiaries.
The success of The Related Group is understandable, its fans say. The Related Group builds for the way people live today – with functional living spaces and exceptional amenities.
Giving credit to others, the firm’s communication staff says its developments are often distinguished by groundbreaking partnerships with world-renowned architects, designers and artists to create residential developments that are truly urban landmarks. Its commitment to art, design and culture extends beyond its buildings into the community, through generous contributions and community support of arts and culture initiatives.
Insiders say much of The Related Group’s fame and reputation is because of the man who founded the firm and the strong team of executives he has within the firm.
Jorge M. Pérez is the founder, Chairman and CEO of The Related Group of Florida, one of the country’s premier real estate development firms. In August of 2005, TIME Magazine named Mr. Pérez, one of top 25 most influential Hispanics in the United States.
Under his direction, The Related Group has redefined the South Florida landscape. Since its inception, more than a quarter of a century ago, the firm has built and/or managed more than 55,000 apartments and condominium residences. The Related Group is Florida’s top multi-family developer and the largest Hispanic-owned business in the United States. In 2004, the company reported sales of more than $2.1 billion; its current portfolio represents assets under development of more than $10.7 billion.
While The Related Group is best known for its luxury high-rise developments and visionary mixed-use urban centers, Pérez made his first impact on South Florida’s affordable housing market. He started out in the late 1970s, building in neighborhoods like Miami’s Little Havana and Homestead. Even then, his attention to detail and commitment to creating quality living environments distinguished him within the marketplace.
Pérez has been at the forefront of South Florida urban evolution, often being the first developer to enter emerging or undiscovered neighborhoods. Among the Related Group’s most recognized properties in South Florida are Portofino Tower, Murano at Portofino and Murano Grande, a trio of luxury high-rises that helped define a hot, new emerging neighborhood on South Beach. In West Palm Beach, The Courtyards in CityPlace and The Tower Condominium at CityPlace have added a dynamic residential element to the shopping and entertainment center in the heart of this city. And in Miami, Pérez helped lead the new downtown urbanism movement, developing One Miami on one of the last pieces of waterfront land at the intersection of the Miami River and Biscayne Bay. He is also part of the transformation of Sunny Isles from a sleepy seaside town into a chic waterfront address, with the luxurious condominiums of Ocean I, II, III and IV and the three Trump Towers.
His passion for vibrant urban centers is reflected in his community involvement in the arts and cultural affairs. An avid collector of Latin American art, he serves on the Board of Directors of Miami Art Museum, and is spearheading the capital campaign for its new Museum Park location in Miami’s Bicentennial Park. Pérez also serves a vice-chair on the Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council and is a director of the Miami Film Festival. He also serves on the Board of the Miami Downtown Development Authority. Pérez is a member of the University of Miami’s Board of Trustees. The University’s new architecture center, designed by Leon Krier and set to debut this fall, will bear his name. Similarly, the Miami Wellness Center has been named after Pérez and his wife Darlene.
He has received numerous awards for his professional and philanthropic achievements, including Builder of the Year, from Multifamily Executive; Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year; the Hispanic Achievement & Business Entrepreneurship Award from Hispanic Magazine; Champion of the Community Spirit Award from The Wellness Community; Citizen of the Year from The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce; and Developer of the Year from several other associations and publications.
Pérez was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina to Cuban parents. Pérez graduated from C.W. Post College, summa cum laude, and received a Masters in Urban Planning, with highest honors, from the University of Michigan. He is married and has four children.
The Related Group Projects Under Development 2005
APOGEE/ Miami Beach - 67 Condominium units
AQUAZUL/ Lauderdale by the Sea - 80 Condominium units
AVENTURA MARINA/ Aventura - 378 Condominium units
50 BISCAYNE/ Miami - 529 Condominium units
500 BRICKELL/ Miami - 633 Condominium units
CITYPLACE TOWER SOUTH/ West Palm Beach - 314 Condominium units
THE COURTYARDS AT CITYPLACE/ West Palm Beach - 264 Condominium units
HALLANDALE BEACH CLUB – 1,253 Condominium units
HARBOR HOUSE/Miami Beach - 457 Condominium units
ICON/ Las Vegas - 457 Condominium units
ICON/ Miami Beach - 289 Condominium units
ICON BRICKELL/Miami - 1,800 Condominium units
LAS OLAS BEACH CLUB/ Ft. Lauderdale - 148 Condominium units
MARINA VILLAGE AT BOYNTON BEACH - 349 Condominiums & Townhomes
OASIS/ Ft. Myers - 1,079 Condominium units
OCEAN FOUR/ Miami Beach - 281 Condominium units
ONE MIAMI - 896 Condominium units
ST. REGIS-BAL HARBOUR/Miami Beach - 302 Condominium units
THE PRADO/ West Palm Beach - 304 Condominium units
THE LOFTS/ Miami - 197 Condominium units
THE LOFTS, PHASE II/ Miami - 496 Condominium units
THE MOORINGS AT LANTANA - 378 Condominium units
THE PLAZA ON BRICKELL/ Miami - 1,000 Condominium units
THE RESIDENCES AT MIRAMAR - 348 Rental units
THE SLADE/ West Palm Beach - 197 Condominium units
TRUMP TOWER I, II, III/ Sunny Isles - 1,200 Condominium units
THE VENTURE AT AVENTURA - 500 Condominium units
VILLA LOFTS/ West Palm Beach - 38 Condominium units
PHOTO IDS
1. The Related Group’s Jorge Pérez
2. Trump Towers
3. Oasis
4. Icon Brickell
Trump Enters Ft. Lauderdale Market with
Luxury Condo/Hotel on the Beach
Trump International Hotel & Tower will debut as a five-star, 298-unit condo/hotel on the ocean in Fort Lauderdale. Behind the project is real estate mogul Donald J. Trump and prominent New York-based developer Roy Stillman in partnership with internationally recognized resort and hotel development company Bayrock Group.
Construction will begin in April at 551 N. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Blvd. just north of Las Olas Boulevard. with completion scheduled for February 2007. Fully furnished and outfitted deluxe studios, one and two-bedroom suites will average approximately $1,000 per square foot.
Flaunting a distinctive, curved shape, new to the Fort Lauderdale beachfront, the 24-story tower, designed by renowned Architect Michael Graves and Associates in collaboration with Oscar Garcia Architects, will resemble a 1925 luxury cruise liner in look and feel.
“We are thrilled to be entering this market with such a presence. We’ve found the best location in which to offer the finest and most luxurious five-star experience. This will truly be a landmark on Fort Lauderdale Beach,” says Donald J. Trump.
Roy Stillman, managing member of Stillman Bayrock Merrimac LLC, adds, “Our combined expertise in development will ensure a level of architectural innovation not seen in South Florida.”
“Our alliance with two leading development firms creates a tightly woven infrastructure of finance, operations and development aptitude that buyers will recognize and the city will benefit from,” commented Tevfik Arif of Bayrock Group, co-managing member of Stillman Bayrock Merrimac LLC.
To exemplify Trump’s signature level of luxury, Trump International Hotel & Tower Fort Lauderdale will have the most elegant interior finishes and features. Italian marble flooring and top-of-the-line appliances, unparalleled amenities and white-glove service, a health club and spa, world-class restaurant, concierge, valet, room service and 24-hour security will be among them.
Trump conceived the condominium hotel concept in New York with Trump International Hotel & Tower on Central Park West, which is currently rated the number one hotel in the United States by Conde Nast Traveler. Two major advantages of Trump’s condo/hotel concept are that condominium owners have the option to allow a premier hotel management company to maintain and rent their units when not occupied, and that they are offered among the most favorable rental programs found in the marketplace today.
Donald J. Trump established The Trump Organization in 1980 as the umbrella organization for all of his real estate developments and other corporate affiliates. The Trump Organization is currently developing residential, hotel and golf club projects in Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Miami, Toronto, the Caribbean, Westchester, New York, Bedminster, New Jersey and Seoul, South Korea.
Stillman, Principal of the Stillman Organization, Ltd. is a prominent real estate developer with projects in New York, Connecticut and Florida. The projects range from land planning to residential and commercial developments that include luxury condominiums and hotels. Stillman has most recently completed The Metropolitan, a high-rise luxury residential tower in Manhattan.
Bayrock Group LLC is an international real estate investment and development company specializing in luxury residential, commercial, resort, hotel and mixed-use projects. Currently in the United States, Bayrock is developing projects in New York, Florida and Arizona. Bayrock has also developed and owns five luxury resorts on the Mediterranean Sea and throughout Europe, which are managed under Rixos, a subsidiary of Bayrock.
The temporary sales center is located at the Galleria Luxury Collection at 954 E. Las Olas Blvd., with the onsite sales center scheduled to open in April. For information, call 866-TRUMP-01 (866-878-6701) or visit www.trumpfortlauderdale.com.
Marc R. Friedman Named Sales V.P. at Centerline Homes
Marc R. Friedman has been promoted to Vice President of Sales at Centerline Homes, an award-winning land development and homebuilding company, currently building Cobblestone Creek in Boynton Beach. Friedman is charged with recruiting, training and managing sales personnel, in addition to determining product pricing and meeting sales pro-forma projections.
The native New Yorker joined Centerline in 2001 after obtaining a real estate license and quickly emerged as a top producer. Friedman’s sales and customer service expertise is traced back to the textile industry. He founded Dolphin Trimming Inc., which became one of the largest textile firms in the southeastern US. In 1997, his company was recognized by Nike, Inc. as the number one textile supplier.
Coral Springs-based Centerline Homes is an industry leader recognized for building impressive single-family and townhome communities. Since its inception more than 11 years ago, Centerline has completed more than 30 communities, comprising several thousand homes. The company is presently planning 20 new communities, representing another 4,000 homes. Centerline also operates a Central Florida Division, based in Orlando.
For more information about a Centerline Homes' community, call 954-344-8040 or visit www.centerlinehomes.com.
Colonial Development Announces Plans to Develop W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel & Residences
Colonial Development Group, LLC has announced plans to develop W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel & Residences at 435 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. The oceanfront edifice is the W brand’s first venture in Florida and inaugural advance into the hotel condominium arena, with a projected sellout of $180 million.
The 4.5-acre development comprises two towers, one with 171 condo/hotel residences and the other with 346 units, reserved exclusively for hotel rental. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. will manage the property, which is scheduled to open in 2006.
“W has established a devout following throughout the world,” notes Jerrold Krystoff, principal and COO of Colonial Development Group. “The company name carries a tremendous amount of clout—we are pleased to introduce Florida to the brand and to expand the W corporate portfolio here with the hotel condominium concept.”
W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel & Residences offers buyers the opportunity to purchase a luxury hotel condominium residence and experience the full complement of services and amenities on which W has built its reputation. Residents of the 23-story tower also have the option of renting out their units while away on vacation, and are granted homeowner rates and VIP privileges at other W Hotels worldwide.
Onsite amenities include an ocean-view signature bar and shared living room that provides snacks, drinks and an area for socializing. There is also a grand ballroom with seating for more than 300 guests, and there are two heated swimming pools and sundecks with lounge chairs and grills. Gourmet dining is offered oceanfront, both indoors and out. A world-class spa features in-house personal styling, a nutritionist and W’s signature Whatever/Whenever 24/7 service. For fitness, the W offers a club with the latest strength and aerobic equipment, personal training, free weights, yoga, Pilates, a steam room, sauna and whirlpool.
Individual residences are custom-designed with one or two bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, large balconies, and gourmet kitchens. They range in size from 804 to 1283 square feet and are priced from $900,000 to over $1 million.
Homeowners and hotel guests all have signing privileges in the restaurant, spa and bars, and access to 24/7 concierge services, room service, security and in-house maintenance. Other optional signature W standards include: grocery shopping and delivery, personal chefs, limousine transportation, housekeeping packages, laundry service, pet care, child care and plant care.
W Fort Lauderdale is situated in a flourishing, oceanfront community, close to business districts, convention centers, shopping, dining and nightlife. Las Olas Boulevard, with trendy shops and lively atmosphere all night at the Riverfront, is just five minutes away.
Colonial Development Group, LLC, developer of W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel & Residences, is one of South Florida’s most prominent development companies, specializing in hotels and resorts, luxury high-rise residential condominiums, and retail and mixed-use projects, both domestically and internationally.
For information, visit the onsite sales center or call 954-462-1633 or 877-462-1633.
Southwest Florida Hispanic Chamber Gets Chance to Know the Cypress Club
The Cypress Club recently hosted the Southwest Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Seventy members turned out to hear prominent developer Willy A. Bermello speak. The president of BAP Development spoke about his goals of building a luxury condominium that further promotes the current revitalization of the historic downtown area by creating a sustainable community. As guest speaker, he attracted the attention of Latin media, who filmed the luncheon for future broadcast.
The event was held on the site of the two-tower development IN Fort Meyers. The afternoon began with an introduction from Keynote Speaker Veronica Culbertson, Hispanic Chamber Board President.
“We have worked tirelessly as a team to design a project that reflects the highest quality and synergizes with the architecture of the area,” said Bermello, who is also an award-winning architect. “As a $220 million endeavor, it was important we deliver something everyone here is proud of.”
The Cypress Club is being built in a joint venture under the entity BAP-Newleaf. It will front the Caloosahatchee River, and will feature 306 residences. . The first tower is 93% sold and the recently launched second tower is currently at 50 percent. Bermello anticipates a groundbreaking in the fall of 2005 and future projects to follow.
The Cypress Club residents will enjoy an array of amenities, including a pier, a heated infinity-edge pool, Jacuzzi, state-of-the-art fitness center and spa; and PRISM, the in-residence concierge panel. BAP-Newleaf is also developing a waterfront park and promenade adjacent to the property, and residents will have access to Verandah, a private golf club community on the Orange River.
BAP Realty, a division of BAP Development, is handling sales. For more information, visit the onsite sales center, call 239-334-3472 or log onto www.thecypressclub.com.
BAP-Newleaf is a joint venture between Newleaf LLC, an investment and development company based in Ft. Myers, and BAP Development, Inc., a Miami-based real estate development company specializing in mixed-use urban in-fill projects throughout South Florida. BAP’s portfolio of current projects represents 3,200 condominium units, valued at $1.5 billion. Currently contributing to neighborhood revitalization efforts are Onyx and Onyx 2 in Miami, and Opera Place and 610 Clematis in West Palm Beach.
Grovenor House Tops Off
CMC Group’s Grovenor House, a new upscale residential tower project in Coconut Grove, has topped off. Keeping with tradition, Ugo Colombo set a ceremonial palm tree atop the 32-story structure in September. Delivery is scheduled for January 2006.
Veronica Cervera of Cervera Real Estate is responsible for the sell out of the project. CMC Construction was the general contractor and Revuelta Vega Leon was the architect.
“This milestone represents the fruition of many dreams, for buyers and for us as a developer,” said Colombo, President, CMC Group. “We have worked hard to deliver on time, and we are now elated to see it take shape as we envisioned.”
When Grovenor House opens its doors, it will feature 166 luxurious residences boasting panoramic vistas of Biscayne Bay and the Miami city skyline. Residences feature grand family and entertainment rooms and stately dining rooms with gourmet eat-in kitchens, designed by Snaidero. Penthouses feature wine cellar rooms, interior gallery spaces and “Grovenor Link,” an integrated in-residence concierge service, which remotely accesses local restaurant reservations, theater and movie tickets, as well as directly connecting the residents with building amenities and services.
For information on Grovenor House, call 305-854-1223.
H&H Development Acquires Site in Downtown West Palm with Plans to Build Mixed-Use Condominium
H&H Development Co., a Coral Gables-based real estate firm, closed on a 1.825-acre site at 430 Hibiscus in West Palm Beach. The developers purchased the land from Buck and Richard Limehouse and the Foundation for the Advancement of Cardiac Therapies under the entity 430 Hibiscus LP, a partnership between H&H and The Carlyle Group. First National Bank and Trust provided an acquisition loan of $10.9 million.
The property is located across from CityPlace, bordered by Iris and Hibiscus streets, S. Quadrille Blvd. and S. Dixie Highway.
A mixed-use development, City Palms, is proposed for the site. The project is planned to incorporate 288 residential condominium units and 24,000 square feet of retail space in a 10-story building. Sales are expected to begin within 90 days, with the start of construction slated for late 2005.
H&H Development Co. is a real estate investment and development company specializing in affordably priced luxury condominiums in strategic urban locations. The company has completed or currently has under development $825 million of projects representing over 1,600 units. Its current projects include Mondrian in the Miami Arts District, Solaris in Brickell Village and Central Parc in Dadeland.
For more information on H&H, call 305-740-0819 or visit www.hhdevelop.com.
Mei—58th and Collins—Sets a 2007 Completion
Mei—a high-end oceanfront condominium which will overlook the beach and ocean at 5875 Collins Avenue—Is set to be completed sometime in 2007.
It is being called the last parcel of oceanfront land in Miami Beach and a lavish development with residences priced from $1 to $2 million.
Ground was broken in November on the luxury project with city officials joining Propety Markets Group, LLC (PMG) and TGI Construction executives.
“We’ve begun pouring concrete on the foundation,” said Michael Roark, president of TGI, located in Hollywood. He added that construction would be “going vertical in early 2006.”
Roark, who has built some 500 projects I Florida, explained that since their residences all begin at the fifth floor or higher, every homeowner will enjoy unobstructed views of the Atlantic. The property adjoins the Bath Club, a two-story historic building on the north, and a low rise building on the south.
Incorporated into the design of their condo development are a unique set of Asian-themed amenities, including a tea lounge and library, a spa and fitness center and a pool deck with a bridge over a lagoon. Services will include 24 hour attended lobby with valet and concierge, and “SMART” technology in its 134 units.
Mei is being co-developed by Property Markets Group LLC -- whose principals include Kevin Maloney and Mitchell Schneiderman as well as local developer Bruce M. Goldsteiri of Hollywood,
PMG was founded in 1992 and today is recognized as a leading real estate and development firm with diverse holdings and a comprehensive portfolio that includes hotel, resort, residential and commercial properties.
Developers say the Asian name represents infinite beauty and grace.
International Sales Group is handling sales on site. Call 305-868-0081 for additional information or to schedule a private appointment to see floor plans.
MCZ/Centrum Announces Plan for Sian
MCZ/Centrum, the Chicago-based partnership that has enjoyed a trio of successes with Hollywood condominium conversions, has announced plans for Sian, a multi-phase community that will stretch nine acres from the ocean to the Intracoastal on South Ocean Drive in Hollywood Beach.
The first phase will include the conversion of a 16-story rental building fronting the ocean at 4001 S. Ocean Drive, which the developers acquired in late 2004. The developers also plan to convert the Ambassador Resort into a condo/hotel, located on the Intracoastal waterway at 3135 S. Ocean Drive. MCZ/Centrum acquired the site of the Ambassador in July 2005.
The 309-unit hotel began renovations in August. Renovations on the oceanfront building began in June, and are slated for completion in the fall of 2006. Sales for both buildings are underway.
Units at the condo/hotel will span 452 to 904 square feet and will be priced from the $200s, while the condominium will feature 221 one and two-bedroom residences, spanning 812 to 1,355 square feet and priced from the $300s. Each flaunts exceptionally spacious floor plans, breathtaking ocean and Intracoastal views from private balconies with glass railings and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors.
At the condominium, an elegant porte-cochere entrance gives way to an array of luxury amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center; a seasonally heated swimming pool with expansive sundeck; a private beach club offering direct beach access; and a pet friendly policy.
The condo/hotel will feature a resort-style pool; state-of-the-art fitness center; world-class board room; full-service restaurant; room service; and access to the private beach club. Both offer valet and concierge services.
Other MCZ/Centrum projects include The Tides on Hollywood Beach, located directly adjacent to the condominium conversion; The Wave on Hollywood Beach, Regent Park at Young Circle and Cité, located in the Miami Arts District. The company has also found success in Central Florida with Serenata-Metrowest, one of their most recent projects located in Orlando.
For more information on Sian, call 954-455-5191 or visit www.sianbeachclub.com.
BAP Development Launches Sales of Tower II at Opera Place
After much anticipation, Tower II of BAP Development’s Opera Place is now open for sale in West Palm Beach, The second tower in this arts-inspired condominium in downtown offers 268 one, two and three-bedroom condos, studios, lofts and two-story penthouses priced from $400s to the $4.5 million. Tower I, with 95% of the units sold out in four months.
“The response has been overwhelming,” noted Willy A. Bermello, president of BAP Development. “Designed as a duo, the towers at Opera Place mirror each other, offering buyers a new opportunity to purchase a luxurious residence at what promises to be the city’s premier residential destination.”
Each unit will be outfitted with PRISM, an in-residence concierge panel, which accesses the building’s amenities and services with the touch of a finger. In terms of technology, the developers have gone a step further. Homes will also be pre-wired for high-speed Internet and wireless access, and the condominium’s common areas have WiFi access points, so they’re never out of touch.
Both stately towers will share luxury amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center with spinning and yoga rooms, stretching areas, personalized cardio theater, and sauna and steam rooms. Relaxing and social options include an infinity-edge pool with cabanas, a sunset garden, beauty salon and massage suite, and a movie theater. Plans for the ground floor include a public retail arcade.
The sales center is open onsite at 419 Lakeview Avenue. For more information, call 561-805-5355 or visit www.operaplacewpb.com.
BAP Development, Inc., a Miami-based real estate development company specializing in mixed-use urban in-fill projects throughout South Florida. BAP’s portfolio of current projects represents 3,200 condominium units, valued at $1.5 billion. Currently contributing to neighborhood revitalization efforts are The Cypress Club in Fort Myers, Onyx and Onyx 2 in Miami, and 610 Clematis in West Palm Beach.
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