Centro Lofts Miami

There are a lot of condominiums under construction and even more in the works in Downtown Miami and the surrounding neighborhoods right now.  Each has its own architectural flavor that adds to the Miami skyline and appeals to different buyers who want to experience living in Miami.

Centro Lofts epitomizes today’s urban life in one of the most exciting tropical cities in the world.  Officially under construction and set to be completed in late 2015, the 36-story, 352-unit project is an edgy, new Downtown Miami condominium project with loft loft-style residences and a vibe that is unlike any other in the city – in the entire southern quarter of the US.

People Bringing the Ideas to Life

The people bringing the ideas to life include some of the development world’s most innovative developers, architects and designers.  Newgard Development Group is the genius behind wanting to develop Centro and has partnered with Seiger Suarez Architects and forward-thinking designer Yves Behar to create one of the most urban-influenced condominiums.  One of the other major condominiums for which they are involved is Brickell House.   

Location of Centro Lofts Miami

Centro is located in the heart of Downtown Miami at 151 SE 1st St Miami, FL where residents who want an urban pedestrian-friendly lifestyle in the center of everything.  Gusman Center for the Performing Arts, Bayfront Amphitheatre, and the American Airlines Arena are all within a short walk in addition to the upcoming Museum Park, Brickell, and the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. restaurants, shopping, and the beautiful Bayfront Park and Biscayne Bay.  On top of this, the major transportation hubs of Miami are less than 15 minutes from Centro.     

car2Go – Miami’s Only Hub

Centro Lofts is the first designated car2go hub in Miami.  car2go is a new approach to metro transportation where customers have access to vehicles via a mobile app or internet to use to simply reserve it, drive it and park it.  With 240 vehicles set to be available at the company’s newest hub, car2go Miami will be the eighth US city to jump on board with this innovative idea of transportation.  There is no need to own a vehicle when living at Centro – when residents want to go anywhere that is a bit far to walk, car2go is a great way to go.

Centro Lofts Amenities

Just as anyone would imagine, a property like Centro is going to have the coolest amenities and with Yves Behar designing the interiors, the plans go all out.  Not only does it have the first dedicated hub of car2go in Miami, the plans show a condominium that is sustainable and environmentally conscious.  Community amenities include:

• Triple-height lobby entrance
• 24-hour reception desk
• Full-service valet parking
• Ground floor Anchor restaurant
• Secured key-fob entry access
• High-speed controlled elevators
• Outdoor pet area with secure, access controlled entry/exit
• Two-story Penthouse recreation area
• Fully equipped fitness center with spa
• Skyline residents lounge
• Resort style pool with panoramic city and Bay views

As for residence amenities, the plans show that each residence has a loft design with dramatic effects that give Centro its contemporary style – think high ceilings and open living areas.  Several of the amenities include:

• 10-foot exposed elevated ceilings
• Floor to ceiling energy-efficient and sound-reducing windows
• Concrete flooring
• Oversized closets
• Custom kitchen and bathroom fixtures with modern flair and design
• Stainless-steel appliances that are energy-smart
• Stone counter tops and back splashes
• Italian kitchen and bathroom cabinetry
• Separate showers and soaking tubs in select units
• High-efficiency air conditioning

Centro Lofts Real Estate

Even with so many options and amenities, the idea behind Centro is to make them more affordable so that they appeal to the type of buyers who want to live in the center of all of the action for which Miami is known. 

Construction is tentatively slated to be complete by the end of next year – 2015.  The most recent photos show that they have gone up three floors with construction so far.  At this point, there are currently 10 units listed for sale with list prices between the upper-$200s and upper-$400s for one and two-bedroom lofts.  Centro is perfect for first-time buyers as well as investors in the market for Downtown rental properties.

A New Twist to Miami Real Estate

Without a doubt, Centro Lofts Miami offers a new twist to Miami real estate to bring a contemporary element to what is considered one of the most exciting cities in the country or world.  Buying at Centro Lofts is the perfect opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a new idea which will become more prevalent throughout the area. 

What to Do During the Holidays in Miami

Even though it is 75 degrees outside and we all wear shorts and flip flops, the holidays are alive and well in Miami.  The lights, decorations and general spirit of everyone around show that it is the most magical time of the year.  As the season kicks in, following are a few of our favorite events for anyone who is wondering what to do during the holidays in Miami.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest, Tropical Park, Now Through January 5

Even though it opened at the end of October, Santa's Enchanted Forest is the holidays maxxed out.  As the world’s largest Christmas theme park, there are lights everywhere, over 100 rides, shows, games and attractions – let’s not forget South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree.  This is a place where people come from all over the state and elsewhere to take in -- one of those places that you have to see to believe.  Open daily from 5pm to midnight (it has to be dark to see all the lights), tickets are $19.63 for kids age 3-9 and seniors 65+, and $28.97 for Adults age 10-64.  Now, if you think you might go more than once it is worth looking into a season pass with prices at $49.53 for ages 10-64 and $39.25 for kids 3-9 and seniors. Season pass holders do not have to wait in line which makes it worth every penny.  Parking is free. For more information, call (305) 893-0090.

Bayfront Park Tree Lighting, Bayfront Park, Friday, November 29, 5-9pm

Next Friday is the official kick-off of the holiday season in Downtown Miami.  With Biscayne Bay as the backdrop, nothing is as beautiful as the huge tree when the lights come on for the first time.  This free event is fun for the whole family and the perfect way to enjoy some true holiday spirit.  The Food Truck Invasion will be on site starting at 5pm with some of our favorite food trucks including Main Stop Grill, Miami Pizza Truck, Sweet Sensations, Burger and Beer Joint and more.  The tree lighting is at 7pm so make sure to be there on time to watch the twinkling lights shine out over the bay while enjoying everyone’s favorite holiday songs.

Miami Outboard Club's 16th Annual Holiday Boat Parade, Saturday, December 14, 6 – 10pm

One of the most awesome sights is watching the boats travel along Biscayne Bay during the annual Miami Outboard Club’s Holiday Boat Parade.  We may not have snow in Miami but who wants it when you can have this  magnificent display of lights!  Boats of all sizes are decorated with colorful lights and decorations in a holiday theme that is so much fun to see.  The food trucks are set up with their food and drinks, and there is music, kids’ activities and to cap the evening off, a large fireworks display.  Yes, in Miami, we shoot off fireworks for most every major holiday.  This event is a spectacular showcase of holiday spirit and definitely one of our favorite holiday events.

The Nutcracker, Miami City Ballet, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, December 19 -24

What would the holidays be without seeing The Nutcracker?  This is the ultimate holiday tradition and the performance by the Miami City Ballet is unbelievable.  From the grace and flow of classical ballet to the beautiful costumes and excitement of the story itself, this is always a must-see every year.  And, seeing it at the Center for the Performing Arts takes it to the next level.  Downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods (Brickell, the Design District and others) are all about excitement and activity.   The Nutcracker is sure to please.  Ticket prices for the performance range from $25 to $79 and are available online.  The best part about Miami City Ballet’s Nutcracker is that if you cannot make it to one of the performances in Miami, you have several other chances to see it either in West Palm Beach at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts or at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale during the couple of weeks after Christmas. 

Many More Holiday Events

While these are the most popular things to do at this time of year, there are many more holiday events in the neighborhoods throughout Miami and the surrounding areas.  Even though it is warm outside, it is still easy to get into the holiday spirit with all of these holiday activities.  We just get to wear shorts and flip flops!  Trust us – it is a lot better this way!

Parc Lofts Miami

Built in 2005, Parc Lofts is a boutique condominium of loft-style residences that are some of the coolest properties in all of Miami.  The six-story building is comprised of 72 units in which ceilings are 15 to 20 feet high ranging in size from 750 to over 4,300 square feet.  Over the years, as the newer neighborhoods in Downtown have begun to emerge, Parc Lofts has truly grown in popularity when it comes to Miami condominiums.  With its industrial look and exposed walls and pipes, Parc Lofts is an authentic loft condominium that is contemporary in design. 

Location

Located in the Performing Arts District of Miami, Parc Lofts is perfectly situated between Downtown Miami and the new and hip Design District.  It is very close to many of the area’s favorite spots like the Carnival Center for the Performing Arts, American Airlines Arena, and Bayside Marketplace which are within several blocks as well as being only minutes from Brickell, South Beach, Coral Gables and other popular spots around Miami-Dade.  On top of all that, the major transportation hubs are a short drive from Parc Lofts.

Amenities at Parc Lofts

Parc Lofts is an amazing place to live.  Location is first and foremost one of the best amenities to living here.  From there, all of the residents have the ability to enjoy a state of the art fitness center, outdoor pool surrounded by a beautiful and tropically landscaped sundeck, indoor parking with an optional hydraulic lift for a second car, 24-hour security, doorman, a huge freight elevator and so much more.  And, let’s not forget the lenient pet policy that has no restriction to size at all – can we say pet friendly?

Inside each loft, there are exposed steel and concrete beams and columns in wide open areas, spacious and large walk in closets, terraces with aluminum railings, modern stainless front paneled kitchen with high-end appliances, poured concrete counter tops and Dellacasa cabinetry.  Additionally, each residence is pre-wired for telephone, fax, computer, and cable’s most advanced technology and has unique fixtures and finishes that add to the appeal of the entire condominium.  Basically, they are really cool lofts that have so much character.

Real Estate at Parc Lofts

Units at Parc Lofts are a hot commodity.  When one comes on the market, it is snapped up at a fairly quick pace.  Since there are only 72 total units in the condominium, there are never more than a few for sale at one time. 

Currently there are only three one-bedroom lofts listed for sale with list prices falling in the mid-$400s.  In fact, only three properties have sold thus far in 2013 with sale prices between the low-$200s and high-$300s (all one-bedrooms) and an average number of days on the market at about 75 (just over two months).  In 2012, only five sold within the entire year with an average number of days on the market at 96 days. 

As for Parc Loft rentals, the units that are offered as annual rentals go quickly as well.  There is currently only a one-bedroom rental available with a monthly rate of $2,400.  In considering the list and sale prices along with the rental rates, Parc Lofts are a great investment. 

Cool Living at its Best

Living at Parc Lofts is cool living at its best.  There is no doubt that these loft units have their own style.  The best part is that each owner has the ability to make his/her loft individually.  Parc Lofts is a solid investment in Miami real estate with a huge WOW factor as a bonus!  

Most Popular Marinas for Miami Boat and Yacht Owners

With so many miles of waterways and canals in the Miami area, it is no wonder that boating and yachting are favorite pastimes of Miami residents and visitors.  From cruising around one of the area canals to the Intracoastal Waterway and out into the Atlantic Ocean, boating in the warm Florida sunshine and pristine blue waters is something that everyone enjoys.  While many owners have the ability to dock their vessels along their private docks, others living in Miami condominiums or non-waterfront homes choose to moor their vessels at area marinas and yacht clubs.  Whether privately-owned or city-owned, there are more than several from which to choose depending on where you live.  Following are three of the most popular city-owned marinas in Miami along with available Miami real estate.

Downtown Condos for Sale

Miamarina at Bayside, 401 Biscayne Boulevard

Owned by the City of Miami and situated in Downtown, this is probably one of the most popular marinas in the area.  Located adjacent to Bayside Marketplace and all of its shopping and dining, it is close to everything.  Area condominium residents can easily keep their vessels here with no concern.  It is situated on the ICW with no fixed bridges at the west end of the Government Cut and features 130 slips that accommodate vessels up to 150 feet in deep water slips.  One of the nicest advantages is that Miamarina dockage is available on a transient, long-term or commercial basis which is great for those wanting to enjoy Miami by boat.  With attractions like the Miami Children’s Museum, American Airlines Arena and others so close to the marina, this is a very popular marina for many area boaters and yachters. 

In terms of downtown real estate that is close by, some of Miami’s most famous downtown addresses are a short walk or drive from Miamarina with list prices ranging from the mid to upper-$100s for a studio or one-bedroom at the Lofts Downtown and Capital Lofts to luxury multi-million dollar penthouses at condominiums like Ten Museum Park, Marquis and 900 Biscayne, there is definitely a Downtown Miami condo to fit every budget.

For Sale in South Beach

Miami Beach Marina, 300 Alton Road

Miami Beach Marina is located on the southwest tip of South Beach at the east end of the Government Cut just across from Fisher Island.  Accommodating up to 400 boat slips for vessels up to 250 feet, this marina offers fresh water, electricity, telephone, and cable hook ups for each slip as well as a control tower with state of the art weather service and 24-hour dock attendants and security.  It also features a heated swimming pool, laundry and shower facilities, air conditioned restrooms and washers and dryers.  With taxi service to world-famous South Beach activities and entertainment, this is an outstanding Miami marina.  

South Beach real estate features a number of condominiums in SoFi and other parts of South Beach that are close by so that boat and yacht owners are near their prize possessions.  Overlooking the marina are condominiums like Icon South Beach, Murano Portofino, Yacht Club at Portofino, and Murano Grande with list prices starting in the mid-$600s at Icon South Beach to the multi-millions at Murano Portofino and Yacht Club Portofino.  Just a short distance from the marina are some of the most exclusive SoFi condominiums including Portofino Tower, Apogee, South Pointe Towers and Continuum.  These condominiums sit on the southernmost point of Miami Beach and feature some of the most unbelievable panoramic views of all of Miami, the ICW and the Intracoastal Waterway.  List prices in these condominiums start in the mid to upper-$700s and low-$800s for a studio or one-bedroom unit at South Pointe Tower and Continuum and climb to over $20 million for a penthouse residence at Apogee. 

For Sale in Coconut Grove

Dinner Key Marina, 3400 Pan American Drive, Coconut Grove

So much history surrounds Dinner Key Marina beginning with its location in Coconut Grove.  It was originally developed as a naval air station in 1917 then served as a base for Pan American’s famous Clippers, and again as a naval air station during the World War II.  Surrounded by much of what historically was Pan American Airways terminals and other historical sites, today, it is a popular City of Miami-owned marina for Coral Gables and Coconut Grove residents as well as those visiting the area.  It is close to historical sites like Villa Vizcaya, a museum and former home of International Harvester founder James Deering as well as a short walk to the center of Coconut Grove village and CocoWalk. 

Comprised of 582 slips and long-term moors, the marina is Florida’s largest wet slip marine facility and features modernized mooring for many sizes of yachts and vessels.  It also houses a mooring facility just off shore where high-quality steel moorings provide additional space for boat and yacht owners who berth their vessels at the Marina on a long-term basis.

In terms of Coconut Grove real estate, several area condominiums close by include the Grovenor House, Cloisters on the Bay, Mutiny Park, and the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove where list prices start in the mid-$100s at Mutiny Park and climb to the multi-millions at Grovenor House and the Ritz.  As for single family home Coconut Grove neighborhoods, some of the most exclusive neighborhoods are within a very short drive and have list prices from the upper $600s to the multi-million dollar level.

Many Other Marinas

Because of the extensive waterways, there are so many other marinas in and around Miami that it would take forever to list and describe every one of them.  From public marinas where visitors can dock for a day or a week to private yacht clubs with marinas and private slips, any boat or yacht owner interested in Miami real estate has the ability to find the perfect residence as well as the perfect marina.  After all, it is Miami!

SLS Brickell Update

On the heels of other successful Brickell condominiums going under construction, the Related Group recently announced its plan for a new hotel/condominium building in Brickell.  The SLS Hotel and Residences Brickell is officially on the books and tentatively slated to start construction late this year.  The Daily Business News said in a recent article that “Brickell is experiencing a demand for hotel rooms.”  This new project is a new project that will answer those demands by designing a luxury boutique hotel with luxury condominiums.   

SLS Hotel and Residences Brickell Details

The Related Group and Philippe Starck are embarking on the SLS Hotel and Residence Brickell that will include a 52-story building with three restaurants – Katsuya, Bazaar by Jose Andres, and another restaurant by Michael Schwartz (Michael’s Genuine Kitchen) as well as a luxury boutique hotel occupying the 3^rd through 9^th floors; and 451 condominium residences from the 10^th to the 51^st floors (11 units per floor).  The condominium residences will consist of one, two, and three-bedroom residences with square footage ranging from 717 square feet to just over 1,500 square feet.   Arquitectonica, the architectural firm behind the likes of the Miami Museum of Art, the South Miami Cultural Arts Center and more, will design this spectacular building. 

Location

The SLS Hotel and Residences Brickell’s address is at 1300 South Miami Avenue which his adjacent to Infinity in the heart of Miami’s fianancial district.  Also close to Brickell Village and CitiCentre which is also under construction, the views from SLS Brickell showcase Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline.   Brickell real estate is situated in the hub of Miami action where residents have access to every part of the entire metro area including the Design District, Wynwood Arts District and the beaches.  

Amenities

Residents at the SLS Hotel and Residences Brickell have access to all of the hotel amenities most of which plan to be on the 8^th floor and include the hotel swimming pool along with access to the Hyde Lounge, Ciel Spa, state of the art fitness center, executive business center and grand ballroom.  On top of that, amenities slated are a 3000-sqare-foot business center with private meeting rooms; a roof-top exclusive pool and lounge area exclusively for residents of the condominiums; floor to ceiling windows; top of the line appliances; valet and concierge services; and more. 

Real Estate at SLS Hotel and Residences Brickell

Since its announcement, the reception has been unbelievable!  In fact, the number of allowed pre-reservations has been met and the developer has created a waiting list.  At the time the applications go to contract, those on the waiting list will be given the opportunity to purchase a residence should a potential buyer opt out of the pre-reservation.  If a potential buyer on the waiting list receive an opportunity to opt-in, at that point, the deposit must be made (10 percent of the sale price). 

The pricing has been adjusted from what was first announced and is as follows:

Line#	Type	AC/SF	Location	Approx. Starting Price
01	2BR/2BA+Den	1,486	NE Corner	From the $700s
02	2BR/2BA+Den	1,290	East	From the $600s
03	1BR/2BA+Den	971	East	From the $400s
04	1BR/1BA+Den	813	East	From the $400s
05	3BR/2.5BA+Den	1,505	SE Corner	From the $800s
06	1BR/1.5BA+Den	1,332	SW Corner	From the $600s
07	1BR/1BA	717	West	From the $300s
08	1BR/1BA+Den	734	West	From the $300s
09	2BR/2BA	1,137	West	From the $400s
10	2BR/2BA+Den	1,362	NW Corner	From the $500s
11	2BR/2BA	942	North	From the $400s

Construction is expected to start in November with a payment schedule for buyers as follows:

• 10% with Reservation (April 2013)
• 10% at Contract (July 2013)
• 10% at Groundbreaking (November 2013)
• 10% at 25^th floor (9 months after groundbreaking - August 2014)
• 10% at Top off (June 2015)
• 50% at closing (mid-2016)       

As we said before, the Miami skyline is being transformed in response to the huge demand for Brickell real estate by real estate investors and buyers who are actively searching for property in this and most other parts of Miami.  Over the next year, more and more luxury condominiums are slated to take shape throughout the area.  As SLS Hotel and Residences Brickell begins to come together, its demand will continue to grow.  One thing is for sure, Miami real estate is in high demand and will continue to grow.  

Lofts 1 and 2 Downtown Miami

For the hip, upwardly mobile professional living in or moving to Downtown Miami, lofts are becoming a very chic and cool place to live.  Probably one of the most popular condominiums with loft-style units is Loft 1 and Loft 2 Downtown. They combine the chic lifestyle of South Beach with the urban feel of a metropolitan loft.  Built in 2006 and 2007, respectively, Loft 1 and Loft 2 Downtown are the products of forward thinking developer, The Related Group and the architecture firm, Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa and Associates.  Loft 1 has 24 stories with a two-story lobby and 196 residences in the building (only nine per floor).  In Loft 2, the building hosts another two-story lobby and 36 stories with 496 units.

The Groups Involved in the Lofts

Miami developer, The Related Group, was behind the concept and development of the Lofts 1 and 2 Downtown and enlisted Cohen Freedman, Encinosa and Associates to design the buildings.  The Related Group has developed some of the area’s most well-known residential condominiums including Icon Brickell, 50 Biscayne, My Brickell, and Icon Bay (currently about to begin construction).  Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa and Associates have designed such condominiums as Brickell on the River, Uptown Lofts and other landmark buildings.

Location

These urban lofts are located in the heart of Downtown Miami with Loft 1 Downtown at 234 3^rd Street and Loft 2 Downtown at 133 2^nd Avenue.  In the center of everything, The Lofts are a block away from Bayfront Park and within walking distance to most everything in Downtown Miami including the Performing Arts Center, Bayside Market  and more. Situated adjacent to Miami’s Metro Mover system, residents can live in Miami without owning a car.

Downtown Miami is a thriving cultural mecca with so much going on.  As a prosperous part of the city, it offers the best of metropolitan living in a tropical paradise. 

Amenities of the Lofts 1 and Lofts 2 Downtown

The Lofts 1 and Lofts 2 Downtown have so much to offer their residents. Each building is a “smart” building that is pre-wired for high-speed internet and cable television; tinted, energy efficient and impact resistant windows; state of the art fitness centers with a sauna, steam room; outdoor pool; 24-hour concierge and valet service; and, so much more.

Inside each studio, one and two-bedroom homes, while the spaces are smaller than many other condominium residences, each has a wide open space with 10-foot ceilings and an interior design that has an authentic loft feel.  Updated appliances in open, eat-in kitchens and large areas make living at the Lofts easy and comfortable.  In addition to designer fixtures and finishes, homeowners enjoy a contemporary atmosphere with unique concrete floors and ceilings as well as panoramic city and Bay views.  Some homeowners have installed hardwood flooring to create their own aesthetic. 

Real Estate at the Lofts 1 and 2

Lofts 1 and 2 real estate features studios and one and two-bedroom homes.   At the Loft 1, the building is somewhat smaller with only 196 units on 22 floors (nine per floor) while Loft 2 has 34 floors with 396 units (about 12 per floor).  In Loft 1 there are only nine units for sale (as of this writing) that are priced between about $165K and the mid-$300s while 14 units on the market priced between just under $200K to almost $400K. 

Over the past six months, there have been 22 sales in Loft 1 Downtown with sale prices between $110K and $210K while in Loft 2 Downtown, there have been 50 sales with sale prices between $110K and about $340K.  The average number of days on the market range between just over 20 days and almost 90 days.  Because these are much more affordable, offer so much for the price tag and are so popular, they sell quickly.

As for Loft 1 and 2 Downtown rentals in either of the buildings, monthly rental rates fall anywhere between about $1,300 and $2,600.  With these kinds of rental rates and the reasonable sale prices, this is an excellent opportunity for investors. 

Excellent Real Estate Opportunities

The Lofts Downtown 1 and 2 are excellent real estate opportunities for many different buyers from first time buyers to investors to international buyers who are frequently come to Miami for business.  With all that the buildings offer as well as what is in each unit, it is truly understandable why these sell so quickly.