Florida Airbnb Income Surged 75% Year-Over-Year To $450 Million In 2017 With $134 Million In Miami-Dade

Despite the ups, downs and legal battles that Airbnb has faced since launching in 2007, hosts in Florida have seen a surge in supplemental income, up 75% year-over-year in 2017. Florida hosts earned a combined $450 million in 2017 and hosts in Miami-Dade brought in $134 million. According to Airbnb there is now 40,000 hosts in Florida with the top 3 earning counties being Miami-Dade at $134.6 million, Broward at $45.7 million and Osceola at $39.6 million. Palm Beach County hosts pulled in $17.1 million. Miami-Dade is among the top 5 regions in the United States. In April 2017 PROFILEmiami reported that AirBNB has teamed up with 5 Miami homeowner hosts to sue the city of Miami and Mayor Tomas Regalado in order to stop Miami from enforcing bans and fines on short-term rentals in the city. The state of Florida passed legislature in 2011 which prohibits cities and counties from enacting ordinances that prohibit and/ or regulate vacation rentals. Airbnb later was able to work out tax agreements with 6 Florida counties including Miami-Dade and Broward earlier this year. Since Miami-Dade and Airbnb reached thei tax agreement which went into effect May 1, 2017, Miami-Dade has collected over $2 million in taxes from Airbnb guests.  In October, Miami-Dade passed a new ordinance regulating short-term rental companies including caps on occupancy at 2 people per room and hosts needing to apply for a Certificate of Use, register for a business tax receipt, screen for sexual offenders, and adhere to "vacation rental standards," amongst other regulations. Airbnb is an online marketplace and hospitality service founded in 2007 by Joe Gebbia and Brian Chesky. Airbnb does not own any properties, and brokers bookings between hosts and guests via their online platform. Since have grown the company to over 3,100 employees, 3 million listings, 65,000 cities, 191 countries and 200 million users. 

Florida East Coast Realty On Track To Begin Construction On KPF-Designed Supertall One Bayfront Plaza In Early 2019

Miami is set to get its first supertall in the fast emerging Downtown neighborhood, as Tibor Hollo's Florida East Coast Realty is gearing up to begin construction on the 1,049', 92-story, Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF)-designed One Bayfront Plaza in 2019. Demolition of an existing office building on the current site is scheduled for the first half of 2019. The tower will reportedly be grandfathered into old Miami zoning codes, allowing Florida East Coast Realty to avoid the 30,000 SF floorplate limit under Miami 21 and build at 36,000 SF floorplates, making the office space more attractive compared to other offerings on the market. The 1,049' design by KPF maximized the height approved by the FAA. One Bayfront Plaza will feature 902 apartments, 200 hotel rooms, 532,000 SF of Class A Office Space, 103,959 SF of retail, pedestrian bridge to the metromover and 1,055 parking spaces. The residences and hotel will feature a sky recreation deck which will have 2 pools, one being for residents and one for hotel guests. There will also be another amenity deck on the 40th floor. One Bayfront Plaza is expected to be delivered in mid to late 2022. 

Kobi Karp-Designed Residence Inn Miami Sunny Isles Beach Opens in Sunny Isles

Marriott has opened their new Residence Inn Miami Sunny Isles Beach at 17700 Collins Avenue. The Kobi Karp designed hotel rises 19-stories and features 194 studio suites targeted at business travelers. The project cost $65 million and is owned by Robert Finvarb Companies and operated by Marriott's Residence Inn brand. The hotel features 2 rooftop decks, a grocery delivery service, multiple conference rooms, pool, and Ocean View on Nine, the hotel's poolside restaurant. The hotel also is home to an extensive art collection curated by Dina Mitrani Gallery and showcases works by Vera Vladimirsky, Robert Braun, Peggy Levison Nolan, Andres Ferrandis, Yuri Tuma, and Rafael Blcazar. Other Residence Inn properties in the Miami area are located in South Beach and the nearby Surfside neighborhood.

53-Story Kobi Karp-Designed Hotel & Residences Proposed In Edgewater's Biscayne Corridor

The Downtown Miami and Edgewater transformation is showing no signs of slowing down or stopping as the downtown area of Miami is fast becoming a world-class metropolis city center. To further enhance the area, a new 53-story hotel and residences has been proposed on the Biscayne Corridor at the vacant lot between NE 17th Terrace and NE 18th Street at 1775 Biscayne Boulevard. The location is across from Publix and behind Melo Group's new Aria On The Bay as well as Quantum On The Bay, 1800 Club and Opera. The proposed tower, which is being developed by V Downtown Inc., will rise 633' with 1.22 million SF of total developed, mixed-use space. The Kobi Karp-designed tower will feature 444 residential units, 200 hotel rooms, 45,600 SF of retail and restaurant space, 64,800 SF of office space, 546 parking spaces and storage for 39 bicycles. The hotel lobby will be located on the 9th floor along with a restaurant and amenity deck. There will also be a private rooftop amenity deck for the residential units. The developers are in need of 6 waivers for the tower to be approved including a 30% parking reduction, a residential floor plate increase, driveway width reduction and an increase in lot coverage from 80% to 88%. The proposal will be reviewed by Miami's Urban Development Review Board today (November 29, 2017).

Check-Out The Newly Opened Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Planned For December 14

Tour the new, nautical-themed Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, which opened October 10, 2017, further cementing Fort Lauderdale Beach as a luxury area on the rise. The luxurious property, which features 290 suites located at 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, will officially open with a ribbon cutting ceremony on December 14, 2017. Units at Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach range from studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom layouts with 3 additional penthouse units. Units feature galley kitchens, touch screen stove tops and bathrooms that come complete with marble soaking tubs and rainfall showers. Nightly rates start around $330 with an additional daily resort fee of $35 per room per night that includes internet, 2 beach chairs and umbrella, 2-hours of bike rental time, and discounts at the spa. The property will also feature a 4,000 SF full-service spa and fitness center, a 6th floor Sky Deck with a heated freshwater pool, 10,000 SF of meeting space, and 4 restaurant and bar options including Terra Mare, a modern American kitchen with locally sourced ingredients led by chef Johan Svensson. As Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach is a condo-hotel in which individuals can purchase suites as private residences, Conrad Hotels offers a hotel program that will manage the privately owned units when the owner is out of town. 

Galwan Tabs Wyndham To Mange Arquitectonica-Designed Brickell Hotel As Wyndham Grand® and TRYP by Wyndham®

Wyndham Hotel Group has announced that they have signed a contract to operate one of the largest hotel developments in the Brickell district of Miami. The hotel, located across from Brickell Mary Village, is being developed by Brazilian developer Galwan and will rise 41 stories featuring 445-keys. When completed the Arquitectonica-designed hotel will be the largest hotel development in Brickell. Wyndham will use the property to showcase as a dual-branded hotel, leveraging a never-before-seen combination of the Wyndham Grand® and TRYP by Wyndham® brands. Both hotels will have a Miami vibe with the 200-key Wyndham Grand® being an upscale service-oriented brand and the 245-key TRYP by Wyndham® serving as a more localized, lifestyle brand. The hotels will share a lobby and lounge space on the first floor, an 8-story parking garage, a pool deck, a fitness center, rooftop restaurant and bar, and 8,000 SF of meeting space including a library, boardroom and flexible event spaces. Construction on the hotel has not yet started and the developers expect the hotel to be completed in 2019. Wyndham Hotel Group is a hospitality giant with an global portfolio of more than 8,300 hotels.

“With nearly 16 million visitors last year and projected increases for the years ahead, Miami continues to be one of the world’s most coveted travel destinations with a style all its own,” said Mark Kukulski, president of Wyndham Hotel Group’s management organization. “By combining our most worldly, destination-centric brands, we’re offering travelers a taste of Wyndham Hotel Group, Miami-style – with chic shared spaces, trendy dining options and their choice of brand experience via TRYP by Wyndham’s lifestyle flair or Wyndham Grand’s easy elegance.”

South Miami Votes Against The Zyscovich Architects-Designed Proposal To Redevelop The Shops at Sunset Place

After a year of developing plans with Zyscovich Architects to redevelop the Shops at Sunset Place with the addition of a hotel and 2 residential rental buildings, the South Miami City Commission has voted 3-2 against the project. PROFILEmiami first reported in October 2016 that Federal Realty Investment Trust, Comras Company and Grass River Property had acquired the aging Sunset Place mall for $110 million and and were planning a major redevelopment to reenergize the property. In October 2017 we reported that the Zyscovich Architects-designed proposal would include the addition of a 17-story hotel with 182 hotel rooms, and two 14-story residential rental buildings with 442 units total. That proposal was ultimately killed by the City of South Miami's Special Planning Board which was under pressure from worries that the project would open the door to immense development in South Miami. Mayor Philip Stoddard and Vice-Mayor Bob Welsh voted yes, while others voted against it. 

Apeiron at the Jockey Club Plans to Launch Sales Next Year After Winning Approval in North Miami

The Biscayne Shores Community Council voted unanimously on November 8th to approve the Apeiron at the Jockey Club, hotel and residential development at the existing 13-acre Jockey Club common grounds. The Jockey Club is located at 11111 Biscayne Boulevard near North Miami. The developers, Muayad “Mo” Abbas, Horst Schulze and Michael Bedner, plan to launch presales early next year. The project would include 120 condominium units, 90 hotel rooms, a 5-acre healthy and wellness facility, a 50-slip marina with deep water dockage, tennis courts, pools, dog park and beautifully landscaped grounds. The tower will be designed by Rafael Moneo. The developers purchased the land for $3.25 million in 2014 and secured $21 million in financing in December 2015. Since then the project has been tied up in litigation against residents of the Jockey Club from a suit filed in March 2016. A judge issued a final ruling in may to allow the developers the right to develop the property as well as control maintenance. 

Trendy, Art-Inspired CIRC Hotel in Downtown Hollywood to Open in Early 2018

A 111-room CIRC Hotel will open in early 2018 in Downtown Hollywood at 1780 Polk Street. The trendy, modern hotel was inspired by the areas growing art scene and is located across the street from The ArtsPark at Young Circle; which features a 10-acre park with amphitheater for concerts. The hotel will rise 12-stories and will feature a fitness center, 3,000 SF of meeting space and 3 eateries; Olivia, an Italian restaurant by Piero Filpi and Marcello Sindoni; Muse, a rooftop bar and lounge, and Presto Market & Coffee Bar. Pricing is expected to be set at under $200 per night. 

“CIRC Hotel was designed to reflect Downtown Hollywood’s unique, culture-centric personality. It will be the ultimate haven for business professionals, vacationers and social groups to indulge, relax and unwind,” said Kara Lundgren, CIRC Hotel’s GM.

Inside PROFILEmiami's Five Star Stay at The Residences at W Fort Lauderdale

W Fort Lauderdale Hotel & Residences

PROFILEmiami had the exclusive opportunity to stay at W Residences Fort Lauderdale, located directly on Fort Lauderdale's pristine beaches and the Atlantic Ocean. After a $60 million renovation overseen by Related Companies and Meyer Davis Studio, W Fort Lauderdale is one of the finest options on Fort Lauderdale's seaside A1A strip. The two-tower property features luxurious, nautical private condominium residences and hotel, all with direct ocean views. W Fort Lauderdale’s five-star amenities and services feature a high-end beach club, full-service pools, multiple restaurants and eateries, spa, fitness center, nightlife and full-service staff. Buyers at W Residences Fort Lauderdale are investing in the brand’s lifestyle offerings. They can enjoy the quality service, amenities and hospitality that W Hotels are internationally known for. Whether you are looking for a beachside weekend escape, full-time residence, part-time residence or rental-income property, W Residences Fort Lauderdale is a prime beachfront option. 

Living Room, Bliss Spa, WET Deck, Service & Amenities

W Fort Lauderdale features a slew of five-star amenities and services that will help you expand your living experience and keep your mind relaxed. Living Room, W Fort Lauderdale’s main lounge is the perfect place to gather to meet friends for drinks or enjoy one of the events hosted nightly on property. Living Room features a bar with creative drinks and bites as well as a Sushi Bar. The inside showcases Meyer Davis’ nautical designs and the outside features a sweeping deck with views of the Atlantic Ocean and A1A. 

There is no shortage of wellness amenities on the property whether it be the Bliss Spa, yoga classes, or fitness center, W Fort Lauderdale has it all. Bliss Spa will give you a relaxing, luxurious escape to kick back and let your worries escape you. We tried the deep tissue massage which was quite relaxing. The masseuse was professional and experienced in her craft. The staff throughout the spa was extremely professional and it was kept ultra-clean. Definitely worth stopping by for a massage, facial, nails, or any other treatment you could need.  

You will quickly realize that there is just simply nowhere better to spend your days in Fort Lauderdale than in the sun. W Fort Lauderdale gives residents two pool options, the WET Deck, which is the main pool on the hotel side of the property, as well as a toned down version on the residences side which offers a slightly quieter, more relaxing experience. The main pool is an architectural masterpiece though, allowing you to walk-up from the lobby and emerge from the lower hotel onto the pool deck by walking through a unique staircase that flows through the pool. Poolside is buzzing with action complete with a DJ and full-service staff that will get you anything you need from the WET Deck Bites Menu or the bar. The entire deck overlooks A1A and the Atlantic Ocean, seamlessly blending your poolside experience with the beach to create an unparalleled experience. 

Rooms & Residences

Designed by Meyer Davis, the private residences and hotel rooms at W Fort Lauderdale are some of the finest beachside turn-key options you will find. The property provides both luxurious hotel rooms, which are located in the east tower, as well as private residences, which are large suites located in the west tower. The condominium units can be occupied full-time or rented out as part of the Starwood-managed hotel program. All of the units feature ocean views. The units are spacious with furnishings curated by Meyer Davis to exude nautical vibes with sailing rope and knots, wood, gold, whites, blues, etc. which connect the building's style with the amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. Units also feature furnished balconies that feature views of the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Lauderdale skyline and Intracoastal Waterway. 

The unit we experienced was a two-bedroom Residence suite on the south side of the building and it was stunning. The entryway opened into the living room and kitchen with an island. The living room had its own private balcony which was flanked by a dining room, also with its own private balcony. Each bedroom had an ensuite, as well as a private balcony. The unit was definitely large and luxurious to be used full-time. The excellent thing about owning a W Residence is that you have the Starwood Hotel Program at your fingertips. One of the highlights of the stay was definitely the views, which sweep from the Atlantic Ocean, over to the Intracoastal Waterway and Fort Lauderdale Skyline. This unique exposure allowed us to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset over water, a rare feature that is a gem to enjoy. Not only did the furnished balconies allow us to enjoy the southern exposure, but also the floor-to-ceiling glass which allows spectacular views from every room, including the kitchen. The floor-to-ceiling glass sliders seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. From the living room and bedrooms you can open the glass sliders all the way to bring the “balcony inside.”

Restaurants

Sushi Bar

Located in the Living Room, there is essentially no better spot to grab a quick bite or appetizer with the ultimate easy-come, easy-go set-up. The Sushi Bar is the brainchild of Sushi Chef Shuji Hiyakawa, a protégé of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. The highly skilled chefs will make whatever you want to order and with extremely fresh fish for bite-sized treats with explosive flavor. Try the nigiri or sashimi to order or go for the Tuna Tataki and Yellowtail Jalapeno or King Crab California and Steamed Lobster with creamy avocado.

Steak954

Steak 954 has the familiar dark, intimate interior of a steakhouse, complete with an illuminating wall that serves as a jellyfish tank. A light ocean breeze flows through the rooms as guests walk in and out onto the beachside terrace. The 7-year-old eatery is owned by famed restaurateur Stephen Starr and features prime cuts and American Wagyu. Steak 954 broils their beef at 1,700 degrees, which is then brushed with clarified butter. Despite the expert focus on beef, Steak 954 has lots of fish alternatives as well. 

We dined on a Saturday night and were seated promptly at a candlelit table. Fresh gruyere cheese and chive popovers were brought out, still steaming. Our waiter guided us thoroughly through the menu and his service was polished and professional the entire night. For appetizers, we shared the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake ($19) and Lobster Bisque ($14). The crab cake was tender, not too fried, and was accompanied well by the apple slaw and tartar sauce. The lobster bisque was made with fresh creme fraiche and was smooth and creamy. For the main course, we had the Miso Black Cod ($39) and 22 oz. Prime Dry Aged Bone-In Ribeye ($57). The cod was an expert example of a perfectly poached, meaty piece of fish. It was served with maitake mushrooms and bok choy, swimming in a dashi broth. The ribeye was absolutely amazing, served with pickled onions and a side of béarnaise sauce. Cooked to perfection with tons of flavor, just like the name of the restaurant, if you are in the mood for steak, you will be impressed. For dessert, Steak 954 has had top pastry chef Sarah Magoon preparing her signature dishes like Key lime baked Alaska and ice cream sandwiches since opening its doors. We opted to try the ice cream sandwich trio. The sandwiches came sliced in half, easy for sharing. The brownie-mint stood out. Steak 954 was a great place to spend an evening out in Fort Lauderdale and will not disappoint no matter what your party chooses from the menu. 

Explore Related Group, Related Companies & Meyer Davis Studio's $60 million renovation of W Fort Lauderdale. 

Check-Out our PROFILE Exclusive Interview: Exploring W Fort Lauderdale & The Fast Growth of Fort Lauderdale Beach with ISG Principal Craig Studnicky