Chicago to Miami Guide to Buying Investment Properties and Second Homes

The Windy City's New Playground: Why More Chicago Residents Are Investing in Miami, Florida

Chicagoans are no strangers to harsh winters and bustling city life, but in recent years, a growing number of residents from the Windy City have been looking beyond the Great Lakes to a new kind of paradise: Miami, Florida. The allure of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and lucrative real estate opportunities has led to an increasing trend of Chicagoans buying second homes and investment properties in the Magic City. The Ben Lalez Team of Compass Realty has received more interest from Chicago Investors and past clients looking to purchase real estate in Miami and expects this trend to continue through 2024.  

The Miami Dream

1. Sunshine and Warmth: One of the most obvious reasons for the influx of Chicagoans into Miami is the weather. While Chicago endures cold winters, Miami enjoys year-round tropical temperatures. The promise of endless sunshine and warm days is a strong draw for those looking to escape the brutal Midwest winters.

2. Vacation Getaway: Miami is a premier vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, world-class dining, and a thriving arts and cultural scene. Chicago residents find that owning a second home in Miami not only provides them with a tropical retreat but also the opportunity to earn rental income from tourists seeking the Miami experience.

3. Cultural Fusion: Miami's unique blend of cultures, including Hispanic, Caribbean, and European influences, provides a diverse and dynamic atmosphere. It's not just the weather that's warm; the people are too. This cultural fusion offers Chicagoans a fresh perspective and an exciting change of pace.

Investment Opportunities

1. Booming Real Estate Market: Miami's real estate market has been on an upward trajectory for years. The city offers a wide range of investment options, from luxurious waterfront condos to trendy downtown apartments. Chicago residents see the potential for appreciation in property values, making real estate investments in Miami a lucrative prospect.

2. Favorable Tax Environment: Florida's tax policies are a significant attraction. The state has no income tax, no estate tax, and relatively low property taxes, making it an attractive choice for those looking to invest in real estate. Chicago residents can enjoy a lower tax burden while diversifying their investment portfolio.

3. Thriving Economy: Miami's economy is strong and diverse, driven by sectors such as tourism, finance, trade, and technology. The city is home to a growing number of startups and innovative businesses, offering promising job opportunities and a growing demand for rental properties.

4. Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals: Miami's popularity as a tourist destination has created a thriving short-term rental market. Many Chicago investors are capitalizing on platforms like Airbnb, earning substantial income from vacationers looking for a more authentic Miami experience.

5. Proximity and Accessibility: Chicago and Miami are well-connected by air, making it easy for Chicagoans to visit their second homes and investment properties in Miami regularly. The direct flights and short travel time make it a hassle-free journey.

Embracing the Miami Lifestyle

For Chicago residents, buying a second home, investment property, or even moving to Miami, it’s not just about owning real estate; it's about embracing a new lifestyle. Whether it's a weekend getaway, a retirement plan, or a savvy investment opportunity, Miami's sunny shores and flourishing real estate market are proving irresistible to those seeking a change from the Windy City. As more Chicagoans invest in Miami, they're not just diversifying their financial portfolios; they're adding a touch of sunshine and a dash of adventure to their lives.

Discovering Miami's Premier Condo Buildings: A Chicagoan's Guide to the 15 Best Condo Buildings in Miami

Chicagoans looking to escape the Windy City's winters and embrace the vibrant lifestyle of Miami have been increasingly drawn to the city's most sought-after condo buildings. Whether you're a fashionista, a financial guru, a business enthusiast, or an entrepreneur, Miami offers an array of neighborhoods and condo buildings to suit your lifestyle. Here, we've compiled a list of some of the top condo buildings in Miami to help you make an informed choice.

1. Brickell Bay Club Community: Brickell Address: 2333 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33129 Year Built: 1974 Total units: 452

Standing tall in Brickell, Miami's financial district, the Brickell Bay Club is an attractive option for professionals working in the heart of the city. With 31 floors, this building offers a range of amenities, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind in style.

2. Brickell on the River South Community: Brickell Address: 31-41 SE 5th St, Miami, FL 33131 Year Built: 2007 Total units: 327

Located in Brickell, the Brickell on the River South is a 46-story tower overlooking the Miami River. It's a prime address for those working in the Central Business District or the financial district, offering a blend of convenience and luxury.

3. The Club at Brickell Bay Community: Brickell Address: 1200 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami, FL 33131 Year Built: 2005 Total units: 643

Another gem in Brickell, The Club at Brickell Bay sits just a short stroll away from Brickell Avenue and the vibrant Shops at Mary Brickell Village. This 43-story building, built in 2005, boasts modern amenities and breathtaking bay views.

4. Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove Community: Coconut Grove Address: 3350 SW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33133 Year Built: 2001 Total units: 215

Surprisingly affordable, the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove offers a taste of luxury living without the expected price tag. With 215 residences in this 22-story building, it combines the Ritz-Carlton name with modern features and a prime Coconut Grove location.

5. Baltus House Community: Design District Address: 4250 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137 Year Built: 2015 Total units: 167

In Miami's Design District, the Baltus House stands 17 stories high, offering a boutique-style living experience with 167 units. It may be small in stature but is big on features, including a spa, oversized pool, and more.

6. The Loft II Community: Downtown Miami Address: 133 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132 Year Built: 2007 Total units: 495

The Loft II in Downtown Miami is one of two Loft buildings in the area. Built in 2007, it offers loft-style living with modern amenities. Its prime location, just a block away from the historic Alfred Dupont Building, adds to its appeal.

7. Loft Downtown I Community: Downtown Miami Address: 234 NE 3rd St, Miami, FL 33132 Year Built: 2005 Total units: 193

The Loft Downtown, or Loft 1, is the first of the two Loft buildings in Downtown Miami. Built in 2005, this 23-story building offers similar amenities to its counterpart. The convenient location and modern features make it a great choice for young professionals.

8. Vizcayne North and South Community: Downtown Miami Address: 253 NE 2nd St, Miami, FL 33132 Year Built: 2009 Total units: 849

The twin Vizcayne North and South buildings in Downtown Miami offer affordable living options. With 49 stories each, these towers provide a range of amenities and modern features, making them ideal for young professionals.

9. 50 Biscayne Community: Downtown Miami Address: 50 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132 Year Built: 2007 Total units: 528

Located on Biscayne Avenue, 50 Biscayne is perfect for professionals working in the CBD, Midtown, and Brickell. With units ranging from studios to three bedrooms, this 54-story building offers convenience and modern living.

10. Cite on the Bay Community: Edgewater Address: 2000 N Bayshore Drive 421, Miami, FL 33137 Year Built: 2004 Total units: 436

Cite on the Bay East and West Condos in Edgewater offer a waterfront lifestyle near Margaret Pace Park. These two buildings, with differing floor counts, are ideal for young professionals who love the water and outdoor fitness activities.

11. City 24 Community: Edgewater Address: 2347 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137 Year Built: 2007 Total units: 119

Nestled in Edgewater, City 24 is a mid-rise building located on Biscayne Boulevard. Despite its 17 floors, it offers a range of luxurious amenities including a fitness center, spa, and covered parking. With various unit configurations, from studios to 2-bedroom apartments, this building caters to modern living.

12. Platinum Condominium Community: Midtown Address: 480 NE 30th St, Miami, FL 33137 Year Built: 2006 Total units: 119

Midtown's Platinum Condominium, a 22-story residential building near Beverly Terrace, offers a less crowded atmosphere with only 119 units. It features a lap pool, fitness center, spa, and covered parking, making it a perfect fit for those seeking a balanced and modern lifestyle.

13. Meridian Lofts Community: South Beach Address: 2001 Meridian Avenue, Miami, FL 33139 Year Built: 2005 Total units: 111

Situated in the heart of South Beach, Meridian Lofts offers loft-style living in its 6-story building. Despite being in one of Miami's most popular and vibrant areas, it remains surprisingly affordable, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in South Beach.

14. Latitude on the River Community: Miami River Address: 185 SW 7th St, Miami, FL 33130 Year Built: 2007 Total units: 452

Latitude on the River provides easy access between Downtown Miami and Brickell, making it a prime choice for professionals working in either district. Situated on the banks of the Miami River, this 45-story tower offers a host of amenities that elevate the quality of life.

15. Ivy at the Riverfront Community: Brickell Address: 90 SW 3rd St, Miami, FL 33130 Year Built: 2008 Total units: 498

Ivy at the Riverfront, a 45-story tower on the banks of the Miami River, offers one to three-bedroom residences. With a range of amenities, including meditation gardens, game rooms, and picnic areas, it caters to those who work in Downtown Miami and want to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Brickell.

For Chicagoans seeking a slice of Miami's paradise, these condo buildings offer diverse living experiences in the Magic City. With varied locations, amenities, and lifestyle options, Miami's top condo buildings have something for everyone. So, if you're considering making the move from the Windy City to the sunny shores of Miami, these buildings are a great place to start your search.