Neology Life's No.17 Residences Allapattah Locks Down $31.456 Million Refinancing

Berkadia has secured a $31 million loan to refinance No.17 Residences Allapattah, a 192-unit attainable luxury apartment rental building in the Fruit Packing District of Allapattah. Senior Managing Director Charles Foschini, Managing Director Christopher Apone, and Associate Director Shannon Wilson of Berkadia South Florida secured the financing on behalf of Neology Life Development Group, a lifestyle-driven residential and commercial real estate firm, led by Lissette Calderon, that specializes in the transformation of overlooked and undervalued communities into vibrant urban neighborhoods. Fannie Mae originated the 10-year loan with five years of interest-only.

"Lissette Calderon and her company, Neology, have once again demonstrated their exceptional vision and expertise in transforming the Allapattah neighborhood with the refinancing of No.17 Residences. It's been a remarkable journey working alongside Neology Life on this project. Lissette Calderon's dedication to 'attainable luxury' and the development's success in the heart of Allapattah truly stand out, aligning perfectly with the community's needs.”

Located at 1569 NW 17th Avenue, No.17 Residences Allapattah was completed in April 2021 and leased up in record time. It offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 600 square feet to 1,125 square feet. Individual units feature smart home technology, open floor plan kitchens, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, washer and dryer, full-length windows, balconies, and walk-in closets. Building amenities include an expansive urban park, lobby lounge with co-working and social spaces, a TV lounge area, art-inspired pool deck, pool side cabanas, indoor/outdoor clubroom, fitness center, on-demand virtual fitness classes, a rooftop garden with a summer kitchen, an outdoor movie theater, bark park, bike storage, electric car charging stations, a zoom room, on-site parking, and 24-hour secure package rooms.

The property is situated in Miami’s centrally located Allapattah neighborhood, which is just a short walk, bike ride, drive or public transit trip from some of Miami’s largest employment centers, including the Health District, Civic/Government Center, Downtown Miami, Wynwood and the Brickell Financial district, and offers easy access to the Dolphin Expressway and I-95. As home to the flagship location of Superblue, the Rubell Museum and El Espacio, Allapattah has quickly become an important arts and culture destination.

Inside PROFILEconnect: State of the Market Miami 2023 Presented by The Lighting Studio

On September 21 PROFILEmiami hosted the sold-out ‘PROFILEconnect: State of the Market Miami 2023 Presented by The Lighting Studio’ at Eclectic Elements Miami showroom in Wynwood featuring some of the biggest names in the Miami real estate industry. Attendees came out in record numbers to hear from Fortune International’s Edgardo Defortuna, Gil Dezer, Douglas Elliman’s Jay Phillip Parker, Kobi Karp, ONEsir’s Daniel de la Vega, Ronny Finvarb, Royal Palm Companies’ Dan Kodsi, and others as they discussed current and future state of Miami’s commercial and residential real estate markets. The evening featured two engaging panels matched with a trendy evening soirée of bespoke networking and cocktails.

Guests were immersed in a high-energy atmosphere, which featured cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka, live art installations, sounds by Miami-based DJ DAKAP and a chance to explore the newly revealed Rolls Royce Spectre, the first fully electric Rolls Royce which was on display by Braman Rolls Royce. The evening was highlighted by two engaging panels exploring the ‘Residential State of the Market’ & ‘CRE State of the Market’. The evening was hosted by Demetri Demascus and Katya Demina of PROFILEmiami; Monica Suleski of Eclectic Elements and Sexy Bedding; and Gustavo Tello and Vivian Sanchez of The Lighting Studio.

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

Thank you to our sponsors:

The Residential Panel

The ‘Residential State of the Market’ Panel explored pricing and availability across South Florida, luxury real markets, new developments, where are the buyers coming from, factors impacting pricing and demand, mortgages, how new technology is impacting real estate and future market outlook. Panelists include Edgardo Defortuna of Fortune International Group, the developer of St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach; Gil Dezer, the developer behind Bentley Residences Miami and Porsche Design Tower; Jay Phillip Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman FL; Daniel de la Vega of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty; Nelson Stabile, Principal of Integra Investments and co-developer of St. Regis Residences, Miami; moderated by Simon Mass of The Condo Store.

Watch the full panel on YouTube below:

The Commercial Panel

The ‘CRE State of the Market Panel’ offered an immersive discussion exploring current commercial real estate markets, which asset classes are poised for growth, entertainment & hospitality, capital markets and how are they impacting commercial real estate prices and future market outlooks for multifamily, office, retail, hospitality and industrial real estate. Panelists include hotelier Ronny Finvarb of Finvarb Group, hotel and multifamily developer Dan Kodsi of Royal Palm Companies, multifamily developer Lisette Calderon of Neology Life, financier Scott Wadler of Berkadia, commercial investor and developer Ron Bloomberg of Bloomberg Equities, and legendary architect Kobi Karp.

Watch the full panel on YouTube below:

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Meet Our Commercial Panelists For "PROFILEconnect: State of the Market Miami 2023 Presented by the Lighting Studio"

On September 21 PROFILEmiami is set to host our largest event yet as the next installment of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series will bring together some of the top developers, investors, financiers and architects in Miami to discuss the state of South Florida’s real estate markets. The 'State of the Market Miami 2023 Presented by The Lighting Studio’ will feature both a residential panel and a commercial panel matched with a trendy evening soirée of bespoke networking and cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka.

The ‘Commercial RE State of the Market Panel’ will offer an immersive discussion exploring current commercial real estate markets, which asset classes are poised for growth, entertainment & hospitality, capital markets and how are they impacting commercial real estate prices and future market outlooks for multifamily, office, retail, hospitality and industrial real estate. The commercial panel brings together some of the most active developers, investors and financiers in commercial real estate, moderated by one of the leading hotel architects in Miami. Highlighted panelists include hotelier Ronny Finvarb of Finvarb Group, who is currently developing The Thompson South Beach and recently delivered the Kimpton Palomar South Beach; commercial real estate investor Robert Rivani, who has invested over $100 million into world-class restaurant and retail properties in Miami; hotel developer Alex Witkoff of Witkoff Group, who is currently redeveloping The Shore Club Hotel & Residences and Shell Bay; multifamily developer Lisette Calderon of Neology Life, whose developments include Pier 19 Residences & Marina and The Julia; leading financier Scott Wadler of Berkadia who have overseen $2.6 billion in volume and recently oversaw a $270 million loan for 152 NW 8th Street in Downtown Miami and a $215 million construction loan for Wynwood Plaza; and legendary architect Kobi Karp who has recently designed 1Hotel in Miami Beach, and Panorama Tower and The River District in Brickell.

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Meet Our Panelists:

Ronny Finvarb, Principal at The Finvarb Group

Ronny Finvarb, Principal of the Finvarb Group, develops and owns award-winning hospitality projects, including multiple Marriott-branded hotels in Florida, Texas and Arizona, the Kimpton Palomar South Beach and the highly-anticipated, nearly complete Thompson South Beach, among others. Ronny also recently acquired the iconic Macy’s South Beach, the Landon Bay Harbor, including The Palm restaurant, and an assemblage in Deerfield Beach, including JB’s on the Beach, among others.

Ronny holds B.B.A. and J.D. degrees from the University of Miami and is a member of The Florida Bar. He previously served as Executive Director of Business & Legal Affairs for two publicly-traded companies, including a division of General Electric (NYSE: GE), and also for one of the largest privately-held media, entertainment, telecommunications, technology and consumer products organizations in the world, the Cisneros Group.

The Finvarb Group is a real estate development and investment company specializing in developing quality mixed-use hotels in premium urban locations and in emerging and underserved markets throughout the United States. The Finvarb Group owns, develops and invests in areas with strong demand growth and which appeal to both business and leisure travelers alike. The Finvarb Group's hotels are linked by a common thread of excellence, distinctiveness and a passionate commitment to deliver outstanding quality.

Ronny is an active member of YPO, the premier leadership organization of chief executives in the world. In addition, Ronny serves on the following Boards:

• Board Member of the University of Miami Master of Real Estate Development and Urbanism (MRED+U) Advisory Board

• Tulane University School of Architecture Dean’s Advisory Council

• Board Member of the University of Miami Citizens Board

• Founders Board of Mount Sinai Medical Center

Robert Rivani, CEO at Black Lion Investment Group

Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion Investment Group, is an American entrepreneur, retail entertainment innovator and real estate visionary. Born in 1990, Rivani sold his first company–a footwear business–for $150,000 when he was only a teenager. From there, he went on to participate in day trading, only to lose most of his earnings. It was this first foray into the stock market that taught him patience and deliberation when it comes to investing. During the economic downturn of 2008 and 2009, Rivani worked at his family’s property management firm. He soon realized that there were opportunities in buying, flipping and re-selling inexpensive buildings in areas in need of development. He began doing this in Georgia, and then expanded to Wisconsin, Illinois and Texas.

Over time, he would perfect his business model and the art of the 1031 exchange. Rivani became increasingly interested in finding vacant or abandoned sites and transforming them into thriving retail and entertainment destinations. Throughout each process, Rivani always made it a goal to create ways to benefit the community. In 2014, Rivani created Black Lion Investment Group. He named it Black Lion because he feels he is the trend-bucking black sheep of the real estate world, and the lion is his favorite animal. To date, the company has transacted on over $500 million in real estate deals across the United States. Year over year, Rivani and Black Lion have consistently doubled their growth.

“I’m not your typical developer and owner, and never wanted to be. We have strong ambitions as a company, and are not afraid to take risks in this burgeoning new climate for entertainment and lifestyle real estate. As we begin to expand our portfolio, we are going to change the way it's done. I don’t follow trends. I want to set them to ensure future success,” says Robert Rivani.

Rivani sees the overlap of retail, entertainment and dining as a new frontier in real estate. Inspired by Miami’s high energy lifestyle, Black Lion presently focuses on entertainment-focused endeavors spanning from Brickell, Edge Water, Downtown, South Beach and all ever-expanding social scenes in South Florida. Through his company, Rivani has recently acquired the restaurant SLS Brickell, SLS LUX tower featuring the hot new restaurant Gekko with famed restaurateur David Grutman, Amara at Paraiso, One Thousand Museum, One Ocean, Marea and Continuum– all high profile restaurant spaces.

Furthermore, Rivani also has also developed a one of a kind property located in the heart of Wynwood, Miami’s famed creative hub. He acquired the property Wynwood Jungle to achieve this dream by dynamically changing the façade, look and feel of the center including building a 10,000 SF rooftop, all of which garnished 100% occupancy within 12 months of acquisition.

Rivani plans to invest another $100+ million into South Florida in the next year, as companies and individuals alike continue to relocate to the area from across the country. Rivani’s plans are certainly not limited to South Florida as Black Lion Investment Group has owned properties in 14 states. A historical and current profitable business model continues to be the retail power centers. Black Lion Investment Group currently owns a 300K+ SF center in New Jersey and a 100K SF center in Arizona. An early riser and a dedicated athlete (namely tennis and basketball), Rivani credits his disciplined routine for part of his success. His interests in life include spending time with his wife, traveling the world, and enjoying culinary adventures. Rivani has recently enjoyed his move to make Miami his primary home.

Alex Witkoff, Co-CEO at Witkoff Group

Alex Witkoff is responsible for overseeing all aspects of Witkoff’s development activities and operations from strategic development and conceptualization through execution. During his tenure at Witkoff, he has earned a reputation for consistently executing creative strategies across diverse asset classes. He is a key driver behind Witkoff’s mission to create dynamic, multi-faceted spaces that connect people and enrich their communities.

Among other projects, Mr. Witkoff is currently overseeing the development of One Highline, which features 236 residences and a flagship 120 key Faena New York hotel in Manhattan’s West Chelsea neighborhood; the former Diplomat golf club into a private golf club designed by Greg Norman, 100 branded residences, and a boutique hotel; 700 North Miami Avenue, a transit led residential development adjacent to MiamiCentral Station and Miami World Center; the revitalization of the historic Shore Club in Miami Beach; and The Park Santa Monica, a new neighborhood concept in Downtown Santa Monica that combine residential towers, retail, and public spaces. In all cases, Mr. Witkoff created a holistic vision for a new brand that inspires and informs every facet of property development, from architectural and design treatments to amenities and experiences.

In addition to his Witkoff role, Mr. Witkoff serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Miami. Mr. Witkoff is also a part of Milken Institute’s Young Leaders Circle, which recognizes intellectually curious and philanthropic young professionals, and is a member of United Way’s Tocqueville Society.

Prior to joining the company, Mr. Witkoff honed his expertise in real estate and private equity as a real estate investing analyst at Morgan Stanley.

Mr. Witkoff graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where he received a B.S. in Economics with a concentration in Finance and Real Estate.

Lissette Calderon, CEO at Neology Life

Lissette Calderon is founder and CEO of Neology Life Development Group, a lifestyle-driven residential and commercial real estate firm that specializes in the transformation of undervalued communities into sought-after neighborhoods. Calderon’s rapid rise in South Florida’s highly competitive real estate industry began with her ability to see the potential in overlooked waterfront land along the Miami River, and more recently, the Allapattah neighborhood.

In 2002, with the introduction of her pioneering and trend setting loft-style residential building NeoLofts, and her subsequent building concepts Neo Vertika and Wind by Neo, Calderon is credited with transforming the Miami River District into one of the city’s hippest, most sought-after neighborhoods. With her most recent project on the Miami River, the 199-unit Pier 19 Residences & Marina, Calderon solidified her reputation as the “Queen of the Miami River” and one of South Florida’s most visionary developers.

Today, Calderon is spearheading the revival of another historic Miami neighborhood: Allapattah. Neology completed its first Allapattah residential community in 2021: the 192-unit No. 17 Residences Allapattah. The firm’s second and third Allapattah projects –The Julia, a 323-unit mixed-use apartment and retail project named after Miami’s founding mother Julia Tuttle, and Fourteen Allapattah Residences, delivering 237 apartments to NW 36th Street – will deliver in early 2024. Further up the Miami River– across the street from the future site of Miami Freedom Park – Calderon’s firm is also developing a new 1,200-unit mixed-use, waterfront community on seven acres of land, scheduled to break ground in late 2024.

Neology’s current ownership portfolio consists of 1,200+ apartments recently built or under construction in Miami’s urban core, with another 1,600 apartment units in the predevelopment phase and a pipeline of 2,000 additional units in South Florida and beyond. Combined with 2,000 condo units previously built and sold, this represents a multifamily portfolio of nearly $2 billion.

A first-generation Cuban American, Calderon was born and raised in Miami and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree Cum Laude from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She launched her career in real estate at the Related Group, where she eventually was appointed president.

Calderon serves on The University of Miami’s Master of Real Estate Development + Urbanism Advisory Board and is also on the Advisory Board of the SE Florida/ Caribbean Urban Land Institute (ULI) and a member of the International Women’s Forum of Florida. Calderon is involved in numerous community organizations including Amigos for Kids, a nonprofit organization serving the needs of South Florida’s abused, abandoned, and neglected children. She also sits on the Board of the SAM Elimu Charity, an organization that supports the education and lives of children in poverty with high academic potential in Kenya. Today, the organization supports the lives and education of 140 children, including dozens of orphans. Calderon is also the publisher of a lifestyle magazine focused on the Allapattah neighborhood – AllaWay – which she launched in 2022.

Calderon has a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and is an equestrian enthusiast. She and her husband live in Coral Gables with their three daughters and three dogs.

Scott Wadler, Managing Director at Berkadia

Scott Wadler is a Managing Director in the Miami office of Berkadia. He is primarily responsible for originating debt and equity placement transactions throughout the southeastern United States, focused across multiple asset classes including office, retail, residential, and lodging. Recent transactions include a $270 million loan for 152 NW 8th Street in Downtown Miami, a $215 million construction loan for Wynwood Plaza, a $165 million debt fund loan at The Dorsey Miami and $50 million of LP equity for Block 45 in Downtown Miami.

Prior to joining Berkadia, Scott was with HFF for ten years. Before joining at HFF, Scott held positions at Related Group of Florida and Fortune International, two of the largest residential developers in Florida.

Moderator: Kobi Karp, CEO of Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design

Kobi Karp is the Founder and Principal of the Wynwood-based Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design, Inc (KKAID), a full-service architectural and interior design firm providing a vast array of services, ranging from high-rise condominium and hospitality projects to low-rise residential and commercial structures. His restoration design techniques have contributed to a renaissance Miami Beach’s internationally recognized Art Deco District. Kobi’s designs include the Kimpton Palomar South Beach, The Four Seasons at The Surf Club, Palazzo Del Sol Fisher Island and the Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale.

About PROFILEconnect: State of the Market Miami 2023 Presented by The Lighting Studio

On September 21 PROFILEmiami is set to host our largest event yet as the next installment of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series will delve into the 'State of the Market Miami 2023 Presented by The Lighting Studio’. The experience will feature two panels featuring some of the biggest players in Miami’s real estate industry as they discuss the state of Miami’s commercial and residential real estate markets, matched with a trendy evening soirée of bespoke networking and cocktails.

Immerse yourself in Wynwood’s high-energy atmosphere at the luxurious Eclectic Elements Showroom for bespoke networking and cocktails highlighted by two engaging panels exploring the ‘Residential State of the Market’ & ‘Commercial RE State of the Market’. The relaxed and open PROFILEconnect setting provides an amazing opportunity to network with Miami’s top industry leaders and market makers, continuing post-panel with cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and sounds by local Miami-based DJ DAKAP.

PROFILEconnect brings together Miami’s real estate industry and business professionals to network and connect outside of a business setting. PROFILEconnect is attended by Miami’s top investors, developers, business professionals, brokers, financiers, architects and designers. Guests will have the opportunity to network and share their experiences in South Florida through thoughtful discourse, while forging new relationships with industry leaders.

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Lissette Calderon's Neology Life Tops Off 'The Julia' Allapattah Multifamily Development

Neology, led by Lissette Calderon, has topped off construction of “The Julia” a $100 million, 14-story residential tower that will deliver 323 upscale one- and two- bedroom apartments to Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood in downtown Miami in February 2024. Inspired by Miami’s original real estate visionary, American businesswoman Julia Tuttle, The Julia will embrace a “tropics-meets-metropolis” aesthetic combining elements of Art Deco with 1950s-style glam. The project was designed by Behar Font Architects, with interior design by designBAR and landscape architecture by Witkin Hultz Design. JAXI Builders, Inc. is overseeing construction.

Located at 1625 NW 20th Street, just a few blocks west of the main entrance to Jackson Memorial Hospital, The Julia is located in the heart of Allapattah, a historic neighborhood that includes Miami’s Health District and borders Wynwood. Allapattah has quickly become one of Miami’s most sought-after neighborhoods. It features a cluster of elite cultural institutions (including the Rubell Museum and Superblue) as well as many new businesses, restaurants and nightlife establishments. It’s also situated just a few blocks from Neology’s first Allapattah apartment community, No. 17 Residences, which opened in May of 2021 and leased up in record time. Neology’s third Allapattah community, “Fourteen Allapattah Residences,” broke ground in August 2022 and will deliver 237 apartments, along with 5,000 square feet of ground-floor retail, in early 2024.

“We are thrilled to be approaching our goal of introducing The Julia to Miami – offering one-of-a-kind, curated living experiences with cutting-edge amenities, spectacular city skyline views and design features to appeal to a diverse cross-section of today’s urban renters,” said Lissette Calderon, President and CEO of Neology. “There is incredible demand for high-quality housing in downtown Miami thanks to the more than 50 companies that have relocated to or expanded in Miami in the last year.”

The pet-friendly property will offer a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments ranging from 600 to 1,000 square feet featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, 9-footceilings, walk-in closets, and balconies in every apartment. Apartments will also have energy efficient, stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, European-inspired kitchen cabinetry, and in-unit washer and dryers.

Interior common areas will feature neoclassical elements such as brass accents, wood details and colorful mosaics alongside bright, botanical patterned wallcoverings and other fun, punchy colorful elements for a mood that is romantic, sophisticated and timeless.

The Julia’s ninth floor “Sky Lounge” will be a destination in itself, featuring a resort-style pool deck with shaded gardens and cabanas, an indoor/outdoor club lounge with gourmet kitchen, a wellness center with virtual fitness, and a starlight dining terrace. The property will also include co-working areas with private offices, a dog park and spa, a children’s play area, high-speed fiber optics throughout the building to meet today’s technological needs, 15,000 square feet of street-level retail space, along with curated artwork throughout the exterior and interiors.

The Julia is centrally located just a few blocks from the Civic Center Metrorail Station, the University of Miami Health System, Jackson Memorial Hospital, and Miami-Dade College Medical Center. The property is just a short car or public transit ride away from both Brickell and Downtown, home to several large employers and dining and shopping destinations, along with popular attractions such as Marlins Park, American Airlines Arena, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Perez Art Museum Miami and Frost Museum of Science, and the new Brightline commuter rail station connecting Miami to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and eventually Orlando.

Neology’s current ownership portfolio consists of 1,200+ apartments recently built or under construction in Miami’s urban core, with another 1,600 apartment units in the predevelopment phase and a pipeline of 2,000 additional units in South Florida and beyond.

Neology Life Development Group Locks Down $57.5 Million Construction Loan For 'Fourteen Residences Allapattah'

Lissette Calderon’s Neology Life Development Group has locked down $57.5 million in construction financing for Fourteen Residences Allapattah, a two tower, 237-unit apartment community located in Miami, Florida. Senior Managing Director Charles Foschini, Managing Director Chris Apone and Senior Analyst Shannon Wilson of Berkadia Miami secured the financing on behalf of Neology Life Development Group, a lifestyle-driven residential and commercial real estate firm led by Lissette Calderon. The property is located in a Qualified Opportunity Zone in the historic Allapattah section of downtown Miami.

Churchill Real Estate’s direct originations platform, led by Jeff Rosenfeld and Sean Robertson, originated the 24-month loan with two extension options.

“Our client Neology continues to dominate the Allapattah skyline with an innovative team and projects whose ‘attainable luxury’ concept serves the needs of the community and integrates nicely within it,” said Foschini. “While the market continues to be extremely volatile, the lender recognized the strength of the sponsor, Neology’s track record in Allapattah, where this is its third project, and Lissette Calderon’s personal vision for the evolution of the Allapattah community.”

“This deal further solidifies Churchill’s commitment to support the development of workforce housing in Miami,” added Robertson, Churchill’s Director and Co-Head of Originations. “We are thrilled to execute this deal with Neology amid unstable market conditions.”

“Churchill continues to build on, and augment, its presence in the greater South Florida market,” added Rosenfeld, also Director and Co-Head of Originations at Churchill. “Despite macro headwinds, South Florida continues to benefit from favorable factors that give us the confidence to double down in this market.”

Located at 1470 NW 36th Street, Fourteen Allapattah Residences will consist of a 14-story building with 180 apartment units connected via a pool deck to a five-story building with 57 apartments including ground floor walk ups. It will offer studio, one- and two-bedroom units ranging 450 to 900 square feet. Apartments will feature European-inspired cabinetry, quartz countertops, energy efficient kitchen appliances, in-unit washer and dryer, energy efficient AC and heating systems, and smart home technology adaptors. Lifestyle amenities will include curated original artwork, a multipurpose lobby, media lounges and living rooms, a rooftop pool and clubhouse, poolside cabanas, coworking spaces, conference rooms, outdoor movie screen, an indoor and outdoor fitness and wellness center, with a yoga and cardio studio, dog park with dog wash area, bike storage, virtual concierge and smart package lockers, and a parking garage with electric car charging stations as well as a ride share lobby.

The property, which will open in early 2024, enjoys a highly visible location on NW 36th Street just 5 minutes west of Wynwood and 10 minutes east of the Miami International Airport, close to the health district, which is the country’s largest concentration of medical and research facilities after Houston. It is just a short walk from the Allapattah Miami Metrorail Station, the Rubell Museum, and SuperBlue.

Neology’s portfolio now consists of more than 1,500 apartment units completed or under construction in Miami’s urban core, including The Julia, an upscale apartment community that will open in 2023, and Neology’s flagship Allapattah project, No. 17 Residences Allapattah, which opened in 2021 and leased up in record time.

Lissette Calderon's Neology Life Locks Down $78 Million Construction Loan For Allapattah Multifamily

Lissette Calderon’s Neology Life Development Group has locked down a $78,197,393 construction loan for The Julia, a 323 unit apartment building with ground-floor retail space in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood. The loan was secured by Berkadia and provided by Trez Capital, a private real estate lender helping to build better communities across North America. Trez Capital Managing Director Ben Jacobson originated the loan, which closed on October 12, 2021. Bilzin Sumberg and GT Law provided legal counsel.

Construction has already begun, with the project set to be delivered in mid-2023. The general contractor for The Julia is JAXI Builders, Inc.; the architect is Behar Font Architects; interior design is by designBAR; and Witkin Hultz Design is the landscape architect.

“Lissette Calderon is a pioneering developer who has been extremely successful revitalizing the Miami River district and now breathing new life into Allapattah, one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods,” Jacobson said. “We are delighted to partner on this exciting project by providing financing for a development that is sure to capture intense interest from the public.”

The Julia is Neology Life’s second, lifestyle-driven residential community in Miami’s historic Allapattah neighborhood. Formerly No. 16 Residences, The Julia is a $100 million, 14-story residential tower that will deliver 323 upscale one- and two- bedroom apartments to one of the city’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods. Located at 1625 NW 20th Street, The Julia is situated just a few blocks from Neology’s first Allapattah apartment development, No. 17 Residences, which opened in May of 2021 and leased up in record time.

Allapattah sits just northwest of downtown Miami and abuts the famed Wynwood district to the east, offering easy access to major highways and employment centers. Allapattah, which includes Miami’s Health District, has quickly become one of Miami’s most sought-after urban territories, boasting a cluster of new cultural institutions (including the Rubell Museum and Superblue) as well as many new small businesses, restaurants and nightlife establishments.

“The Julia will offer a curated, one-of-a-kind modern residential living experience with cutting-edge amenities that will appeal to a diverse cross-section of today’s urban renters,” said Lissette Calderon, President and CEO of Neology Life Development Group. “The building has been thoughtfully designed, inside and out, to reflect the area’s unique history and character, and we hope as a result it will become a beloved and integral piece of the community’s fabric for many years to come.”

“This is an exciting milestone for Allapattah,” added Miami City Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla. “High-quality housing options are key to our community’s success and projects like The Julia provide that. Moreover, Lissette Calderon and her team at Neology are experienced in building authentic, vibrant communities, and have a deep appreciation for Allapattah’s history, culture and mom-and-pop businesses. They will be valued, long-term partners in helping us achieve measured growth that benefits and inspires all Miamians.”

Calderon added, “Over 20 years ago, I started on this journey to deliver quality lifestyle-driven attainable luxury living to Miamians who were being priced out, and to help some of Miami’s most overlooked neighborhoods realize their full potential. I’ve had the honor of watching this transformation unfold in the Miami River District, where we started, and we see the same potential in Allapattah, one of Miami’s last remaining authentic urban neighborhoods. We chose to name our second Allapattah development after Miami’s founding mother, Julia Tuttle, who is a personal hero of mine – and because we hope it stands as a beacon to every young woman with big dreams. With hard work, grit and sacrifice, they can achieve anything.”

Inspired by Miami’s original real estate visionary, American businesswoman Julia Tuttle, The Julia will embrace a “tropics-meets-metropolis” aesthetic combining elements of Art Deco with 1950s-style glam. Interior common areas will feature neoclassical elements such as brass accents, wood details and colorful mosaics alongside bright, botanical patterned wallcoverings and other fun, punchy colorful elements for a mood that is romantic, sophisticated and timeless.

The property will offer a mix of one- apartments and two-bedroom apartments ranging from 600 to 1,00 square feet. Unit interiors will feature energy efficient, stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, European-inspired cabinetry, in-home washer and dryers, expansive views, and balconies in all units.. Amenities at The Julia will include a ninth-floor Sky Lounge with resort-style pool deck, clubroom, and wellness center, and 15,000 square feet of street-level retail space.

“When we evaluate lending opportunities, we focus on the needs of a community and the track record of the developer,” Jacobson said. “Partnering with Lissette and understanding her vision, we think Allapattah is perfectly positioned to attract nearby working professionals and families who desire a certain level of luxury living but are priced out of places like Brickell, downtown and Wynwood.”

The Julia is centrally located just a few blocks from the Civic Center Metrorail Station, the University of Miami Health System, Jackson Memorial Hospital, and Miami-Dade College Medical Center. The property is just a short car or public transit ride away from both Brickell and Downtown, home to several large employers and dining and shopping destinations, along with popular attractions such as Marlins Park, American Airlines Arena, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Perez Art Museum Miami and Frost Museum of Science, and the new Brightline commuter rail station connecting Miami to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and eventually Orlando.

Neology intends to break ground on a third Allapattah residential community in the coming months, bringing its portfolio up to 1,200 apartments throughout Miami.

The multifamily market continues to sizzle in South Florida, with rent increases expected to grow between 8% and 9% over the next year, according to CoStar Group. Another report from Realtor.com says South Florida is the third-fastest growing rental market in the U.S.

Neology Life Development Group Delivers The First Lifestyle Driven Multifamily Tower In Miami's Allapattah Neighborhood

Neology Life Development Group, led by Miami’s leading Hispanic female developer Lissette Calderon, has delivered No.17 Residences Allapattah. Located in Allapattah, bordering the western edge of Miami’s Health District and the Miami River, the residential development at 1569 NW 17th Ave is a 192-unit attainable luxury rental apartment building in Miami’s richly historic and newly rediscovered Fruit Packing District. 50% of the units were preleased at the time of delivery and residents have begun move-ins.

No.17 Residences Allapattah is developer Lissette Calderon’s first ground-up residential project delivered in the area. The project was designed by Behar Font Architects and construction was led by Jaxi Builders.

“Much like we did 20 years ago when we pioneered the renaissance of the Miami River, we are excited to be at the forefront of reimagining this neighborhood and bring Allapattah back to life,” said Lissette Calderon, president and CEO of Neology Life Development Group. “As Miami’s last original, authentic neighborhood yet to be revitalized, Allapattah made sense for us to write its next chapter and we’re excited to make the vision a reality beginning with the opening of No. 17 Residences.”

Apartment units at No. 17 Residences Allapattah feature energy efficient, stainless-steel appliances, designer cabinetry, quartz countertops, in-home washers and dryers, expansive City and River views and balconies in select units. As additional amenities, residents will also have access to smart package lockers including valet dry cleaning, coffee bar, complimentary wi-fi, covered parking garage, bike storage and digital access control throughout the premises. In addition, No. 17 Residences Allapattah will include seven unique ground-floor, work and live walk-up units with 12 to 18-foot ceiling heights.

Units at No. 17 Residences range from studios, one-, two-, and three-bedrooms ranging from 500 SF to 1,300 SF in size and will feature spectacular sweeping views of the Miami River and the city skyline. Rental rates start at $1,300 per month.

As a special nod to the area’s cultural appeal, Neology Life commissioned two prominent local artists to deliver street and mural art designs throughout the interior and exterior of the building including the Bollee Patino’s signature exterior marquis mural fittingly named “Rise Above.” Welcoming residents in the lobby is his 15-foot mural, “Be Yoursel Ballarina,” internationally acclaimed contemporary mix-media artist, Bollee’s first piece in Miami. The project also features signature murals by established Miami artist, Carlos Navarro, throughout the building including his piece “Strength.”

Amenities include a ground floor The Urban Park, which features an expansive green area with a children’s playground, a dog park and landscaping as well as a rooftop sky lounge with city and riverfront views. Other amenities include a movie screen on the 14th level and a swimming pool, outdoor living room with a summer kitchen, cabanas and sun deck on the fifth floor, a ground level features a fitness and wellness center including virtual classes, as well as a private zoom room and lobby living room with resident lounges for coworking and socializing.

The delivery of No. 17 Residences ushers in a new era for Allapattah, which is experiencing significant investments in real estate, arts and culture. New York-based Pace Gallery announced it chose Allapattah as the location of Superblue Miami, the immersive installation that will encompass an abandoned, 50,000SF warehouse opening this spring. The installation will be located near the Rubell Museum, home to 7,200 art pieces and the fine-dining restaurant Leku, which relocated from Wynwood after 26 years there. The neighborhood has also attracted new dining concepts such as New York staple Hometown BBQ, which chose Allapattah to make its Florida debut, and the recently opened Tayrona Restaurant + Patio from the owners of Wood Tavern in Wynwood.