South Beach Real Estate & History

South Beach Miami also known as America's Riviera, or The Beach or even SoBe, South Beach is one of the hottest destinations in Florida. Not only is it known for all of the famous movies and television shows that take place here, such as Scarface and CSI Miami, it's also known for its parties, shopping and dining. Simply put, it's one of the hottest travel destinations in the U.S., as well as one of the most affluent places to live.

South Beach real estate encompasses the area from 23rd Street South to South Pointe Park. It is about twenty three city blocks that separate the Atlantic Ocean from Biscayne Bay. The area is known for everything luxurious including luxurious hotels, condos, nightclubs and shopping. It is also near the heart of fashion and music. South Beach is the center of everything that's hot in Miami from the people to their homes.

Another popular feature of South Beach is the art deco design of the area. It's hard to believe that a place such as South Beach was actually once farmland owned by Henry and Charles Lum in the late 1800s. The area was actually used for coconut farming and was named by Charles Lum's daughter Taylor as "The South Beach."

It wasn't until 1920 that the Miami Beach land development boom began. At this time, the main streets of South Beach were laid out, including Ocean Drive, so that they were suitable for driving vehicles on. The population grew quickly and several millionaires came to the area including Harvey Firestone and J.C. Penney. Even President Warren G. Harding would make his way to South Beach and stayed at the Flamingo Hotel.

South Beach real estate was always more valuable for the developers because it offers zoning for high-rises. City officials are planning to implement their vision of creating a modern affluent community dominated by tall, high-end residential towers. Investments into an oceanfront construction guarantees future prosperity. People who buy early are saving because prices on beach front properties are going up. As buyers see the value of the new developments rising, they want to get in on the increases. It creates more demand and indeed may increase the cost of the pre-construction residential units.

In the 1930's, the city came alive with art deco designs, Streamline Modern and Nautical Modern architecture all becoming very popular in the area. In fact, to this day, South Beach real estate is the world's largest collection of Streamline Modern art deco architecture.

The 60s were also popular for South Beach, as the famous Jackie Gleason brought his variety show to the area. Later, more shows and movies would be filmed here including the popular television show Miami Vice. Prior to Miami Vice, South Beach was considered to be one of the poorest and highest crime areas, but today, it's considered one of the wealthiest.

You'll love calling the America Riviera home and you'll love the ultra-chic condos that you'll find on Ocean Drive, such as Continuum South Beach, Icon South Beach, Murano South Beach, Apogee and the most famous Fisher Island. The best feature of these condos is that you're almost guaranteed a beautiful view of the Atlantic from these amazing condos. We offer several options for those looking to call South Beach home. Please contact our office today!

• Get Directions
• Full Map