2025 stood out as a defining year for South Florida real estate — marked by record-breaking transactions, billionaire-driven development, pivotal legal decisions, and the continued evolution of the region into a global capital destination. From Miami to Palm Beach, the market demonstrated both resilience and transformation at the highest levels.
Billionaires Redefine South Florida’s Power Map
Billionaire influence remained a central force shaping the region in 2025.
Steve Ross, through Related Ross, solidified his position as the dominant office landlord in West Palm Beach, signing major leases and reinforcing the city’s rise as a financial and business hub.
Meanwhile, the Ortega family office — tied to Amancio Ortega — expanded its South Florida footprint with strategic office acquisitions in Brickell, signalling sustained international confidence in Miami’s commercial core.
In Miami, hedge fund titan Ken Griffin advanced plans for a transformative $2.5 billion bayfront supertall project. The development is set to house Citadel and Citadel Securities, alongside cultural and civic elements that will permanently reshape the skyline.
On the residential side, high-profile buyers such as Russell Weiner continued assembling trophy properties across Miami Beach and Palm Beach County, reinforcing South Florida’s appeal among ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
Record-Breaking Land and Waterfront Transactions
2025 delivered some of the most expensive real estate deals in South Florida history.
A landmark moment came with a $520 million waterfront assemblage in Brickell, acquired by Oak Row Equities and OKO Group, marking the priciest development site sale the region has ever seen. The property is slated for a luxury hotel and residential project, setting a new benchmark for land values in Miami’s urban core.
Palm Beach also captured headlines with ultra-exclusive, off-market transactions. A 2.3-acre oceanfront parcel reportedly traded for more than $160 million as part of a broader assemblage exceeding $350 million — underscoring the continued demand for irreplaceable coastal land.
Legal Battles Shape Condo Redevelopment
Not all major stories centred on growth and expansion.
One of the most closely watched legal disputes of the year involved the attempted buyout of Biscayne 21, a condominium in Edgewater. The case concluded with the Florida Supreme Court declining to intervene, effectively affirming earlier rulings that favoured unit owners.
The outcome sent a clear message to developers and associations alike, reinforcing the complexities of condo governance and signalling that aggressive buyout strategies may face significant legal resistance in South Florida’s maturing market.
Losses That Marked the Industry
The industry also paused to reflect on notable losses in 2025.
Luxury agent Darin Tansey was remembered for his influence, mentorship, and contributions to South Florida’s high-end residential market.
The passing of Donald Soffer, the visionary behind Aventura, marked the end of an era. His legacy remains deeply embedded in the region’s urban fabric, having shaped one of South Florida’s most successful master-planned communities.
Multifamily Shifts and Construction Momentum
The multifamily sector experienced mixed conditions throughout the year. Rising construction costs and financing challenges led some developers to place sites on the market. At the same time, new construction loans for select projects signalled cautious optimism.
Developments such as the Brickell Starlite project reflected renewed confidence among lenders and developers willing to bet on long-term population growth, urban density, and sustained housing demand in South Florida.
Looking Ahead
By the end of 2025, one theme was clear: South Florida real estate has firmly established itself as a global arena for capital, ambition, and long-term investment.
As the market moves into 2026, billionaire-led development, record-setting land values, legal precedent, and selective construction activity are expected to continue shaping the region’s trajectory — reinforcing South Florida’s position not just as a lifestyle destination, but as a serious, enduring real estate powerhouse.
Source: TheRealDeal.com
