Best condominium buildings for buyers and renters based on location and amenities
MIAMI, FL (April 30, 2013) – Global real estate portal Condo.com has identified 10 condominium buildings in Miami as being among the best high-rises to own or rent a condo unit – for current residents or for those looking to move to Miami. Most of these gems are in the downtown Miami and Brickell area, known as one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in Miami. These towers have made the list based primarily on overall value with respect to location, lifestyle amenities and personal services that make them fun places to live. Their locations give residents easy access to all the best nearby destinations, from art galleries and major entertainment venues, to shopping areas and the world-renowned playground of Miami Beach. Residents also enjoy long, sweeping views over Miami, Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Collectively, these and many other reasons make such high-rise destinations a place of interest when exploring buildings in Miami as a place to live.
Below is the list of some of the top 10 residential buildings:
1. Emerald at Brickell: Located in the heart of the popular Brickell neighborhood, this 27-story tower has a rooftop pool and spa, gym and social room that make this a choice for anyone seeking a lifestyle of elegance and sophistication. Condos for sale are listed between $340K to $1.2 million, while rentals start at $1,500. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, there are also rentals as high as $10,000 per month.
2. Flamingo South Beach: One of the most well-known buildings in Miami Beach, the Flamingo is a hot spot for young people looking to experience the true Miami lifestyle, while having the envious reputation for hosting some of the biggest pool parties in South Beach. That’s no surprise as amenities here include a 15,000-square-foot fitness center, two pools, a rooftop basketball court, beach volleyball, a restaurant, convenience store, deli and concierge services. It’s also located within close walking distance to Lincoln Road, the beach, Whole Foods, and sought-after restaurants that offer vegan and other health-conscious options. Monthly rentals range from $1,500 to $10,000, with condos for sale from $160,000 to $1.29 million.
3. ICON South Beach: This is one of Miami Beach’s more expensive buildings but is a good example of “you get what you pay for.” Whether looking for the ultimate in high-end of luxury with a six-bedroom penthouse currently listed for $14.9 million, or wanting to settle in to an annual rental from $2,800 a month, ICON South Beach fits the bill. ICON is all about comfort and luxury, which is perhaps why Jennifer Lopez and her then-hubby Marc Anthony bought a unit in the three-tower complex a few years ago. Then there is the iconic Viceroy Miami Hotel, the boutique hotel for discerning visitors and residents. Both are centrally located near downtown, the financial district, and just minutes from South Beach. In addition to the potential of living the celebrity lifestyle and being in a prime location, residents enjoy cafés, pool bars, lounges and grills all overlooking the bay.
4. Marina Blue: This residential building in Miami is popular for anyone seeking the excitement and allure of living right across from Bayside Marketplace, American Airlines Arena, Museum Park and The Center for Performing Arts. The 60-story tower downtown has apartments for sale from $270,000 upwards to $1.6 million, and rentals from $1,800 to $3,900 a month. There is a beach and boardwalk, two pools, an outdoor lounge, putting green, volleyball court, fitness center and a party room.
5. Opera Tower: Located within the Performing Arts District, residents of Opera Tower like the easy walk to galleries, shopping and restaurants. Condos are listed from the high $100s, which makes it a top choice for those who want the Miami lifestyle at a more affordable price tag. Rentals range from $1,350 to $3,200 a month. South Beach is only about 10 minutes away, and for those who do not want the hassles of driving can grab a taxi right next door at the hotel. Back home, residents gather with neighbors at the heated pool with lounge area, fitness center, clubroom, shops and sidewalk cafe with sushi bar. Those who enjoy a very social building with amenities to the max find the Opera Tower an ideal place to live.
6. Quantum on the Bay: Residents who want trendy lofts and luxurious penthouses surrounded by bay views move to Quantum on the Bay, located in the art district. This is also a popular choice for people who want the nearby convenience of tennis, volleyball and open green space for pets at Margaret Pace Park. There are two towers with condos for sale from $200K up to $875,000, with monthly rentals from $1,450 to $4,500. Residents enjoy a tropical pool, sauna, club room, theater, business center, fitness and sports center, and concierge services.
7. The Floridian: Sunset watching and panoramic views from private balconies in this 47-story tower make The Floridian a top choice for those want to be close to galleries and shops in the heart of South Beach. There are a few units currently available for sale, with prices from about $300,000 to $890,000, and many others available for rent for up to $3,500 a month. For fun and games for people of all ages, amenities include two pools, a fitness center, tennis court, sauna, steam room, valet and concierge services, and a convenience store.
8. The Loft II Downtown: Residents who work in downtown Miami find The Loft II to be a great location. They can walk to Miami-Dade Community College and other destinations as well, such as Bayside Marketplace and American Airlines Arena. There are also some fabulous little restaurants that are off the beaten path. Lofts and penthouses for sale range from $175,000 to $375,000, and rental prices run from $1,400 to $2,700 monthly. The 36-story building’s rooftop amenity center has a nice vibe for those who want to hang out and play billiards in the club room, or get together in the heated pool and spa. Sweeping views of Biscayne Bay can be seen from the fitness center on the 35th floor.
9. The Plaza on Brickell: This is another favorite spot for anyone who wants to be centrally located on Brickell Avenue. Like many residential buildings in Miami, residents are attracted to the pool, cabana and lounge beds, along with a spacious club room and fitness center. Here’s an extra-added attraction that many people may not know about: The community’s two towers along with a neighboring building form a triangle that has created a nice open-air entertainment plaza for meeting people, casual dining and just relaxing. Plus, 30,000 square feet of retail and commercial businesses on the street level that make for a dynamic lifestyle. Here’s another tidbit from Condo.com that is not to be overlooked: Restaurant hot spots that include El Gran Inka and Sushi Siam. Condos at The Plaza run from just over $310,000 up to almost $2 million. Rental units range between $1,700 to $3,500 per month.
10. Vizcayne: Events such as “Carnival Under the Stars,” inspired by Brazil’s Carnival festival atmosphere, make this downtown Miami building a place of interest for anyone who likes a party. Viscayne’s complex of twin
49-story condos includes a four-story clubhouse on the roof with spa services, soaking tubs, a sauna, gym and lounges. Outside are four pools and a cafe, all within 2 acres situated 200 feet above ground. Listings start from about $231,000 to $1.75 million. Rentals range from $1,450 to $6,900 a month generally, but there is one penthouse rental listed for $18,500 a month.
Real estate agents say it is clear that these condos in Miami have sought-after attributes that attract both newcomers to the city as well as those who are already there and want a change.
“What makes these ‘select’ buildings in Miami is the resort-style amenities and prime locations that put residents close to the area’s most intriguing events, activities, entertainment and nightlife,” said Charles Brown, National Sales Manager at Condo.com. “From the National Basketball Association Champions Miami Heat, to art walks, theater, major concerts and an international gourmet cuisine, it’s no wonder that the downtown Miami and Brickell areas continue to be the top choice.”
About eReal Estate Holdings LLC
eReal Estate Holdings LLC owns and / or operates the category-defining portals Condo.com, Houses.com, Property.com and Location.com. These real estate portals are the world’s largest online marketplaces for real estate with more than 30 million properties for sale, rent and vacation in the United States and 70-plus countries around the world. The sites receive more than 1.5 million visitors per month, and cost-effectively deliver exposure and qualified leads to builders, real estate professionals and homeowners. The privately held eReal Estate Holdings LLC is headquartered in Miami, Florida.
