Inside The 2nd Annual PROFILEmiami Spec Home & Ultra Luxury Real Estate Summit 2025

The 2nd Annual PROFILEmiami Spec Home & Ultra-Luxury Real Estate Summit, held last week at the state-of-the-art Lighting Loft in Midtown Miami in partnership with LUC Electric and Tidelli, was a resounding success—bringing together more than 150 of South Florida’s most influential developers, financiers, brokers, architects, designers, and luxury service providers for an evening defined by insight, connection, and elevated dialogue.

Guests consistently praised the exceptionally high caliber of attendees, noting the Summit’s unique ability to foster meaningful, long-term business relationships across every facet of the ultra-luxury and spec home ecosystem. With representation spanning Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach, the event reinforced PROFILEmiami’s position as a leading platform for convening the decision-makers shaping South Florida’s most prestigious residential market.

The evening featured two powerhouse panels that explored both the creative and commercial forces driving today’s ultra-luxury homes. The Design & Development Panel placed a strong emphasis on wellness-driven living, advanced smart home technology, and privacy-focused design, underscoring how health, performance, security, and discretion have become non-negotiable pillars of high-end residential demand. Panelists discussed everything from clean-air and wellness systems to lighting, automation, and security solutions that enhance both lifestyle and long-term value.

The State of the Market Panel delivered a forward-looking perspective on the region’s luxury real estate landscape, with speakers expressing clear optimism in the continued growth and resilience of South Florida’s market. Panelists cited sustained buyer demand, demographic and wealth migration trends, and the region’s expanding global appeal as key drivers supporting the ongoing strength of the spec home and ultra-luxury sector.

Insights were shared by some of the industry’s most respected voices, including top-producing brokers Jordan Karp of JK Real Estate and Lourdes Alatriste of Douglas Elliman—both ranked among Miami’s Top 20 producers by sales volume in 2025—alongside architect Ralph Choeff of Choeff Levy Fischman; spec home financier Zack Simkins of Vaster Capital; developers Pascal Nicolai of Sabal Development, Jose Boschetti Jr. of Boschetti Group, and Kirk Ivy of IVEY Punch / IVEY Design Build; developer and interior designer Kathy Samaan of Samaan Design Group; and smart home leader Ross Samanchuk of LUC Electric. Together, the panelists offered candid insights into pricing dynamics, development strategy, design evolution, and what defines success at the highest end of the market.

Complementing the panels, the Ultra-Luxury Real Estate Showcase brought together the top brands and service providers powering South Florida’s most exceptional homes, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the craftsmanship, innovation, and technology behind today’s premier residential projects. The evening featured PROFILEmiami’s signature cocktail networking soirée powered by Cala Bennati wine, creating an environment intentionally designed for high-level, bespoke networking. The event was followed by a private VIP Dinner for the panelists hosted at the Tidelli Outdoor Living Miami furniture showroom by Tidelli Miami and LUC Electric.

The 2nd Annual Summit builds on PROFILEmiami’s legacy of hosting industry-leading real estate events that combine education, insight, and curated connection. As South Florida’s ultra-luxury market continues to evolve, the Spec Home & Ultra-Luxury Real Estate Summit remains a defining forum for the leaders shaping the region’s most remarkable homes—celebrating the artistry, ambition, and collaboration that drive the market forward.

Please check out our sponsors LUC Electric for smart home and lighting design, Tidelli Outdoor Living furniture, Vaster Capital mortgages and lending, Ero Lighting lighting design, Samaan Design Group interior design, IVY Punch for buyer inspection and punch list expertise, The Lighting Loft lighting showroom, Modern Stones marble and stone, CPS Outdoors pool systems and Cala Bennati Wines.

VIP Dinner at Tidelli Miami

For more information about upcoming PROFILEmiami Events please check out our events page here or fill out the form below:

Inside The Second Annual PROFILE Design Summit 2025 Presented by Pedini by Daruso Designs at Flexform Miami

On February 12, 2025, PROFILEmiami hosted the second annual PROFILE Design Summit Presented by Pedini by Daruso Designs at Flexform Miami. The lush setting of the Flexform furniture showroom in Midtown Miami became a bustling hub and a memorable evening for South Florida's top minds in design and real estate, which brought together over 300 industry professionals creating an atmosphere charged with creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

The evening kicked off with an hour of bespoke networking and real estate showcase, as guests sipped cocktails powered by E11EVEN Vodka and absorbed the ambient sounds of local DJ San_Dee. Attendees enjoyed creative pop-ups from Design and Real Estate Showcase brands including a 360-Photo Studio by Pedini by Daruso Designs; and other interactive pop-ups by Modern Stones, Edge House Miami, Resurface Architectural Wraps, Doda Space, Cetta Group, C&E Cleaning Elevated and La Cuisine Appliances.

The highlight of the summit was an engaging panel discussion featuring an all-star cast of panelists who delved deep into the complexities and nuances of architecture and interior design in Miami. The panel was moderated by interior designed Mayela Rojas from Amazed ID: Interior Design & Development Firm who led an insightful discussion with iconic Miami-based architect Kobi Karp, architect-to-the-stars Ralph Choeff, and acclaimed interior designers Alison Antrobus of Antrobus Design Collective and Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma.

Each of the panelists shared their personal journeys into the design realm, detailing their inspirations, key projects, and passion for creating spaces that resonate with Miami's unique culture and environment. Ralph Choeff of Choeff Levy Fishman discussed his newly revealed design for a Palm Beach estate which just listed as one of the most expensive homes in the country at $285 million. Ralph also discussed working with Alex Rodriguez and with interior designer Alison Antrobus on their recently collaboration designing David Beckham's Miami home. Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma gave background on his work with Miami-staple restaurant’s Queen and Lafayette Steakhouse and the legendary Kobi Karp gave insight on developing with sustainability and how architects can continue adding value to communities.

As the discussion unfolded, guests were invited into the personal design philosophies that shape the work of each panelist. The dialogue took a fascinating turn as the panelists explored the influence of South Florida's geography and climate on their designs, emphasizing how they creatively harness local elements while addressing the reality of hurricanes and rising sea levels. Sustainability emerged as a vital theme, with discussions around materials and practices that minimize environmental impact, particularly relevant in Miami's delicate ecosystem. The panelists also shared their insights on current trends shaping the future of Miami's skyline, emphasizing the integration of technology in their design practices.

The challenges posed by the regulatory environment in South Florida were also candidly discussed, providing attendees with a glimpse into the complexities faced by designers and developers alike. Through community engagement, the experts conveyed the significance of public input in their projects—highlighting a collaborative approach that fosters relationships and understanding.

As the panel discussion wrapped up, thoughts on the future landscape of Miami’s architecture were shared and the panelists offered invaluable advice to the next generation of designers, emphasizing the importance of staying adaptable, engaged, and continuously learning. The audience was invited to participate in a Q&A session before the opportunity to interact with panelists 1-on-1.

Following the panel guests continued to network and discuss, apparent that the PROFILE Design Summit 2025 had not only sparked conversations but had also fostered connections that would flourish long after the evening officially concluded. The takeaways were rich, leaving attendees with insightful knowledge and inspiration to carry into their future projects.

Design Showcase

Image credit @PROFILEmiami

Inside the PROFILEmiami Spec Home & Luxury Real Estate Networking Dinner at Lafayette Steakhouse

On November 6, real estate media powerhouse PROFILEmiami hosted its Spec Home & Luxury Real Estate event at the sophisticated Lafayette Steakhouse in Brickell. The brainchild of Mr. Hospitality and CEO/Founder Mathieu Massa, Lafayette Steakhouse seamlessly blends the nostalgic allure of a classic American steakhouse with the refined atmosphere of a London speakeasy.

Guests networked over custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and gourmet bites by Lafayette Steakhouse, and heard from leading spec home architect Ralph Choeff of Choeff Levy Fischman, powerbrokers Nelson Gonzalez and Dora Puig, top spec home developer Pascal Nicolai of Sabal Development, interior designer Thomas Diverio from Dunagan & Diverio Design Group and spec home developer Mathieu Massa from Massa Construction Group.

Afterwards guests stayed for a three-course networking dinner presented by Title EQ, LUC Electric and Modern Stones, alongside the leaders of the Miami real estate industry. The exclusive chef-curated menu boasted a selection of decadent choices: appetizers like the Prime Beef Filet Carpaccio, Fried Jumbo Shrimp, or Smoked Kurobuta Pork Belly BBQ; mains included a 6-oz Filet Mignon, Lafayette Cheeseburger, or Pan-Seared Striped Bass; and dessert options feature Half-Baked Cookie, America French Toast, or Dulcey Chocolate Popcorn Sensation. This exquisite dinner offered a perfect close to a night of elite networking and culinary delight.

PROFILEconnect brings together Miami’s real estate industry and business professionals to network and connect outside of a business setting. Guests have the opportunity to network and share their experiences in South Florida through thoughtful discourse, while forging new relationships with industry leaders.

Inside PROFILEconnect: A Royal Retreat - Hospitality Real Estate in Miami at Queen Miami Beach

On May 21 PROFILEmiami hosted the sold-out PROFILEconnect: A Royal Retreat An Exploration into Miami Hospitality Real Estate, bringing together Miami’s hottest hospitality real estate developers, owners and operators for a lavish cocktail, PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded Bespoke Real Estate Networking and panel experience at Mr. Hospitality’s iconic Queen Miami Beach.

The panel explored hospitality real estate in Miami, namely investing in, developing and operating commercial real estate assets with a focus on hospitality including hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, private clubs, golf courses, etc. The panel Miami’s top developers and owners Ronny Finvarb - Finvarb Group, Michael Simkins - E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development, Mathieu Massa - Mr. Hospitality / QUEEN, Alex Witkoff - Witkoff, Robert Rivani - Black Lion Investment Group and moderated by Christian Charre - Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality.

Attendees sipped custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and Esquisito Tequila, plus Bennati Wines and Tripping Animals Brewery, plus indulged in bites of modern Japanese cuisine by Queen’s executive chef Mitchell Hess, while taking in QUEEN’s opulent ambiance, followed by a panel discussion. Attendees included developers Camilo Miguel Jr. Ricardo Dunin, Harvey Hernandez and Pascal Nicolai; as well as real estate celebrities Terek El Moussa and Heather El Moussa. Additionally Miami Beach Commissioner Joseph Magazine and local luminaries Andres Asion, Mike Tamzil and Simon Mass were also in attendance. This was not just a networking event; it was an experience.

Watch the full panel on YouTube:

Thank you to our sponsors:

Event May 21: Royal Retreat at Queen - Exploring Hospitality Real Estate in Miami

Join us for an exclusive hospitality event on May 21 where PROFILEmiami will take over the iconic Art Deco landmark and Miami hot spot, QUEEN. PROFILEmiami has teamed up with QUEEN Miami Beach to bring you an exclusive cocktail and exciting panel discussing hospitality real estate with Miami’s top developers and owners Ronny Finvarb - Finvarb Group, Michael Simkins - E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development, Mathieu Massa - Mr. Hospitality / QUEEN, Alex Witkoff - Witkoff, Robert Rivani - Black Lion Investment Group and moderated by Christian Charre - Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality.

Attendees will sip custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and Bennati Wine plus indulge in bites of modern Japanese cuisine by Queen’s executive chef Mitchell Hess, while taking in QUEEN’s opulent ambiance, followed by a panel discussion. This is not just a networking event; it's an experience.

Part of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series, the event will bring together Miami’s top real estate industry and business professionals, influencers and fitness enthusiasts, for a fun evening with industry leaders.

Date: Tuesday, May 21 from 5 - 8 PM

Location: Queen Miami Beach, 550 Washington Ave., Miami Beach

Panelists:

• Mathieu Massa, Mr. Hospitality / Queen

• Michael Simkins, E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development

• Alex Witkoff, Witkoff

• Robert Rivani, Black Lion Investment Group

• Ronny Finvarb, Finvarb Group

• Christian Charre, Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality (Moderator)

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Thank You To Our Sponsors

Event May 9: PROFILEconnect: Bespoke Networking 'A Moment in Miami Real Estate' at Giselle

Join us for a real estate Bespoke Networking Happy Hour on May 9 at 6 PM at Downtown Miami’s hottest rooftop, Giselle. PROFILEmiami has teamed up with The Restaurant People and E11EVEN Miami to launch Giselle’s new rooftop happy hour at the Downtown Miami hotspot. Regarded as the leader in Miami real estate networking, PROFILEconnect Bespoke Networking concept is set to bring together real estate’s hottest developers, brokers, financiers and designers together for a high-energy evening of cocktails and music overlooking the fast growing Downtown Miami.

Attendees will sip custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and indulge in light bites by Giselle’s executive chef Gustavo Zuluaga while getting an up-close look at the fast moving construction at E11EVEN Hotel & Residences. This is not just a networking cocktail event; it's an experience.

Part of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series, the event will bring together Miami’s top real estate and business professionals and influencers, for a fun evening with industry leaders.

Date: Thursday May 9 @ 6 PM

Tickets: $75 (Includes 1 Cocktail & Light Bites)

Table Reservations: host@gisellemiami.com

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Thank You To Our Sponsors

Inside PROFILEconnect 'A Night at The Museum' Real Estate Impact Conference at the Coral Gables Museum

On April 11, 2024, PROFILEmiami hosted PROFILEconnect: A Night at the Museum, the inaugural annual real estate impact conference bringing 3 panels and PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded Bespoke Real Estate Networking to the iconic Coral Gables Art Museum. PROFILEmiami teamed up with ONEsir, Constellation Group, MG Developer, Banesco and Contempo Space to host a sophisticated afternoon exploring real estate markets, design and development; followed by bespoke networking and enjoying cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka with some of the largest and most active real estate developers, investors and brokers in Miami.

The event was kicked off by a VIP Lunch hosted by Diego Torrealba of MG Developer at Coral Gables hot-spot Zucca. VIP guests enjoyed a chef’s menu alongside active Coral Gables’ developers Eduardo Otaola of Constellation Group, Alirio Torrealba of MG Developer and Diego Torrealba of MG Developer.

Following the lunch attendees gathered at the Coral Gables Museum for the Women in Real Estate Panel, the first of three panels kicking off the speaking component of the event. Vanessa Stabile of ONEsir, Cassie Resnick of Mast Capital, Alicia Lamadrid Paysse of Cervera Real Estate, Katya Demina of PROFILEmiami and Amelia Rodriguez of Banesco discussed how they have navigated their careers as women in the male dominated real estate world. They also discussed how the city has evolved and how they have taken advantage of the growing real estate market to stand apart and advance their careers.

The women’s panel was followed by the Coral Gables Design and Development Panel, which featured Eduardo Otaola of Constellation Group, Diego Torrealba of MG Developer, Raymond Fort of Arquitectonica, Scott Sherman of Torose Equities and Scott Wadler of Berkadia discussed how Coral Gables Mediterranean revival architectural requirements impact development and the valuation of real estate in ‘The City Beautiful.’ Developers Diego Torrealba and Eduardo Otaola touched on how they worked with the Coral Gables design codes to plan projects that enhance the quality of the community while Scott Wadler discussed the differences between Build to Rent vs Build to Sell. Scott Sherman also discussed how companies such as Apple are moving into Coral Gables and bringing their high-paying employees, pushing both residential and commercial rent rates higher.

The afternoon was capped off with The Legends Panel, featuring Edgardo Defortuna of Fortune International Group, Bernardo Forte Brescia of Arquitectonica and Carlos Rosso of Rosso Development. The trio had all previously worked on projects together and discussed their experiences developing the city into the world-class metropolis it is today including projects such as The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sunny Isles Beach and Miami’s Paraiso District. They also discussed how a quality design and understanding of the buyer is so important to development and the success of a project. They also discussed how they started their own companies and took their brands global. The legends also gave insight on how their was opportunity for aspiring developers to team up with established developers to learn from them before undertaking projects on their own.

Following panels guests gathered outside on the museum veranda for Bespoke Networking and Sunset Cocktails featuring bites from Zucca and cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka. Guests got to network with the panelists as well as other real estate heavyweights such as Alirio Torrealba of MG Developer, Nelson Stabile of Integra Investments, Rainer Viete of Vietmar, Daniel de la Vega of ONEsir, Jose Boschetti of Boschetti Group and Michael Hamaoui of Pagani Residences.

Part of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series, the event brings together Miami’s real estate industry and business professionals to network and connect outside of a traditional business setting. Guests will have the opportunity to network and share their experiences in South Florida through thoughtful discourse, while forging new relationships with industry leaders as they discuss the industry’s most pressing topics.

TWO MICHELIN STARRED CHEF TO OPEN SEREIA IN COCONUT GROVE

Renowned Portuguese chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, famous for his two-Michelin star restaurant Alma, has unveiled his latest culinary endeavor, Sereia, located in Miami's Coconut Grove. This venture signifies the beginning of a collaboration between Sá Pessoa and Sault Hospitality, a partnership established by Miami hospitality experts Jourdan Binder, Sven Vogtland, and Alan Drummond.

Sereia is a modern, seafood-forward restaurant inspired by the Iberian coast and Sá Pessoa’s travels, a cumulation of flavors from his rich culinary history paired with a lifetime of experience working in some of the best restaurants around the world.

Sereia's culinary focus is its seafood offerings, presenting a diverse selection of imported and locally-sourced catches. From the coveted Carabineiro (Scarlett Prawn) sourced from the deep, cold waters off the coast of Algarve in Southern Portugal, served with seafood rice, to the classic Cataplana fish stew, seafood takes center stage on the menu. Guests can indulge in main courses such as the suckling pork confit featuring black pigs from the Iberian peninsula or visit the crudo bar for an interactive experience, allowing chefs to guide diners through a thoughtfully curated tasting menu.

The bar program showcases expertly crafted cocktails that reflect the essence of Sá Pessao’s menu, incorporating key ingredients. The 'Iberian Mist' is a blend of Croft Brandy, Madeira, peach, and cinnamon, with a tableside presentation finished using an Iberico Ham essence made from reduced Iberico trimmings. Embracing the significance of port wine in Portuguese culture, the 'Blue Port and Tonic' features white port wine, celery, Blue Magik powder, bitter orange, and elderflower tonic.

Located in the heart of Coconut Grove on Main Highway, Sereia's 125-seat venue includes indoor and outdoor dining, a full bar, a private dining room for up to 12 guests offering curated chef’s tasting menus, and a crudo bar, embodying simplicity, approachability, and an underlying elegance. Sereia will be open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, 6-11 pm. Address: 3540 Main Highway, Miami, FL.

Images via World Red Eye & Nuno Correia

March 13, 2024: PROFILEconnect: Workout With Baby Momma Fit at Kobi Karp's Office

Join us on March 13th at Kobi Karp's Wynwood headquarters to energize your body with a high-intensity workout led by celebrity fitness trainer Starr Hawkins, popularly known as @babymommafit. Network with Miami's elite real estate and business professionals while enjoying nutritious refreshments courtesy of Carrot Express and energizing drinks from GORGIE and E11EVEN Vodka. Relish in exclusive wellness with industry leaders and take home a luxurious goodie bag featuring a 5-minute journal by Intelligent Change, a premium Taja Collection candle and kava drinks by Surenitea. Don't miss this chance to connect, get fit, and unwind with peers. Secure your spot now for a memorable fitness experience!

Part of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series, the event will bring together Miami’s top real estate industry and business professionals, influencers and fitness enthusiasts, for a fun wellness evening with industry leaders.

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Step into an exhilarating world of fitness and networking with PROFILEmiami's "PROFILEconnect: Workout with Baby Momma Fit" at Kobi Karp's office. This isn't just an exercise session; it's a gateway to connection with like-minded peers. Reserve your tickets now and be ready to:

• Ignite Your Fitness Journey: with a dynamic HIIT workout session curated by celebrity trainer Starr Hawkins, aka @babymommafit, to elevate your strength and spirit.

• Network with Industry Leaders: Mingle with Miami's real estate leaders and business visionaries in an atmosphere where every stretch and sprint builds more than just muscle.

• Gourmet Refreshments: Delight your palate with an array of premium refreshments:

  • Wholesome culinary creations from Carrot Express

  • Invigorating GORGIE Energy Drinks

  • Surenitea's soothing kava blends for a calm post-workout

  • The refined taste of Zeroe Caviar, pairing luxury with wellness

  • E11EVEN Vodka's spirited infusions for a celebratory toast

  • Environmentally friendly hydration by Kopu Water

• Indulge in Exclusive Goodies: Every attendee will be pampered with a take-home goodie bag, including:

  • The "5-Minute Journal" by Intelligent Change, to foster positivity and productivity in your daily routine

  • A luxurious $39 candle from the Taja Collection, infusing your space with the scent of serenity

  • A medley of other hand-picked giveaways, ensuring the memory of the evening lingers long after

This is not just an event; it's an experience crafted to blend vitality with networking, set within the pulsating heart of Miami. Don't let this opportunity slip by—lock in your spot today for a night of fitness, fellowship, and fun.

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Thank You To Our Sponsors

Inside the PROFILE South Florida Capital Markets Summit at E11EVEN Residences Miami

On Wednesday February 7, 2024 PROFILEmiami hosted its inaugural, sold-out South Florida Capital Markets Summit at the E11EVEN Residences Beyond sales gallery in Downtown Miami’s fast growing District 11 and Miami Worldcenter. The luxurious event featured PROFILEmiami’s highly regarded Bespoke Networking powered by E11EVEN Vodka and an engaging panel exploring the current state and future of how real estate in Miami is valued, financed, and transacted with South Florida’s top real estate and finance executives. The exclusive panel featured industry leading developers Dan Kodsi of Royal Palm Companies, Juan Pedro San Martin of Merrimac Ventures and financiers Raul Llanes of City National Bank, Michael May of Silverstein Capital and Justin Oates of Cain International; moderated by Matt Einheber of TitleEQ.

Panelists had a comprehensive discussion about the current capital stack in commercial real estate deals and explored strategies that sponsors can employ to optimize their capital structure. The discussion also delved into the market's underwriting standards and loan-to-value ratios, uncovering their influence on loan approvals; as well as a spectrum of financing options, from debt and equity to mezzanine financing and EB-5, and grasp typical terms offered. The industry leading panelist also shared stories about their past experiences and how they navigated their careers to get to where they are today.

Part of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series, the event brings together Miami’s real estate industry and business professionals to network and connect outside of a traditional business setting. Guests enjoyed E11EVEN Vodka and an open bar powered by Title EQ as well as Zeroe Plant Based Caviar.