Lionel Messi to Extend Inter Miami Contract Through 2028, Reports Say

In a major development for Major League Soccer and Miami sports fans, Lionel Messi is reportedly set to extend his contract with Inter Miami through December 2028, according to multiple sources. The Argentine superstar, who joined the club in July 2023, would be 41 years old when the new deal expires.

Messi’s extended stay is a massive win for both Inter Miami and MLS, further solidifying the league’s global relevance and Miami’s growing stature as a premier destination for world-class athletes. Since his arrival, Messi has transformed the club’s fortunes on and off the pitch—helping Inter Miami secure its first-ever trophy and drawing record-breaking crowds, viewership numbers, and commercial deals.

This new contract reportedly keeps Messi tied to Inter Miami for an additional three seasons beyond his current agreement, which was originally set to expire at the end of 2025. The extension would ensure that Messi continues to be a central figure during the anticipated debut of Miami Freedom Park, Inter Miami’s new 25,000-seat stadium expected to open in 2026.

The news also hints at Messi’s long-term commitment to shaping soccer in the United States. His continued presence could be pivotal for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host alongside Mexico and Canada, offering a perfect stage for Messi to act as a cultural ambassador of the sport.

While Inter Miami has yet to make an official announcement, the reports mark a thrilling chapter for South Florida sports. With Lionel Messi in pink and black until 2028, fans can expect more unforgettable moments—and an even brighter spotlight on Miami’s global influence.

Florida Expands Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday to Full Month of August

Florida families will see major relief this back-to-school season thanks to a newly expanded and now permanent month-long sales tax holiday, announced by Governor Ron DeSantis. Starting August 1 and running through August 31, 2025, Floridians will not pay state sales tax on a wide variety of school-related and tech items, marking a significant expansion of what had previously been a shorter-term holiday. This change, enacted as part of the state’s $2 billion tax relief package, aims to reduce the financial burden of back-to-school shopping while boosting retail activity statewide.

During the holiday, shoppers can purchase a range of qualifying items tax-free. This includes school supplies priced at $50 or less per item, clothing and footwear priced at $100 or less per item, and learning aids or educational toys priced at $30 or less. Even bigger-ticket items qualify, such as personal computers and related accessories priced at $1,500 or less, provided they’re intended for non-commercial personal use. That means families can purchase laptops, tablets, monitors, printers, flash drives, and other essential tools without paying sales tax. However, smartphones, video game consoles, and similar entertainment electronics are excluded from the holiday.

This updated policy is part of a broader restructuring of Florida’s sales tax holidays under House Bill 7031. Instead of multiple short-term holidays scattered throughout the year, Florida will now feature two extended seasonal tax holidays: the newly permanent back-to-school holiday in August and a separate Hunting, Fishing, and Camping Sales Tax Holiday set to run from September 8 through December 31, 2025. These changes are designed to simplify the system while delivering more impactful savings to residents. The back-to-school holiday alone is expected to generate $450 million in tax savings as part of the larger budget plan for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.

Governor DeSantis emphasized that the month-long holiday gives families more flexibility to plan their purchases without having to rush into a narrow time window. Retailers across the state, including big-box chains and local stores, are also preparing to offer special promotions aligned with the tax holiday. According to Lorena Holley, vice president and general counsel of the Florida Retail Federation, the extension of the holiday is expected to significantly boost foot traffic and help families stretch their budgets during one of the most financially demanding times of the year.

While the program has received widespread support, some tax policy experts caution that sales tax holidays tend to disproportionately benefit higher-income households, who are better positioned to make large purchases during promotional periods. Still, supporters argue that Florida’s expanded holiday provides more consistent and predictable relief than in previous years—especially for essential purchases like laptops, uniforms, and educational supplies that directly support student learning and preparedness.

Florida’s effective sales tax rate can exceed 7% in many counties when local surtaxes are included, making the potential savings substantial. For example, a family spending $1,500 on a tax-exempt laptop and $500 on school supplies and clothing could save more than $140 during the month of August. These savings, paired with strategic shopping, make the extended holiday a welcome development for both families and small businesses.

In summary, Florida’s newly restructured Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday now runs every August, offering substantial, month-long savings on essential school items, clothing, tech, and more. The move signals a long-term shift in how the state delivers tax relief and reaffirms Florida’s commitment to supporting families during key seasonal spending periods.

Uber-Rich Continue Spending as Surf Club Four Seasons Racks Up $74M in Sales This Month Alone

While South Florida’s broader real estate market has slowed considerably this summer, the ultra-luxury segment continues to operate in a different stratosphere. Case in point: this month alone, three condos at The Surf Club Four Seasons in Surfside sold for a staggering combined total of $74,300,000, underscoring how the world’s wealthiest continue to target Miami’s most prestigious addresses—even in the midst of seasonal market doldrums.

The biggest of the three transactions was a record-setting purchase in the South Tower of The Surf Club Four Seasons. On July 25, Daniel Nadler, a billionaire artificial intelligence entrepreneur and founder of the medical AI company OpenEvidence, paid $38,200,000 in cash for Penthouse S-PH2, according to The Wall Street Journal. The five-bedroom, 8.5-bathroom residence spans 5,675 interior square feet and sold for an eye-popping $6,731 per square foot. This marks Nadler’s first known real estate purchase in South Florida. Per WSJ, OpenEvidence is currently valued at $3.5 billion, making Nadler one of the newest billionaire buyers to invest in Miami’s high-end property market.

Also closing on July 25 was Unit S-1003, another South Tower residence, which traded for $18,350,000, or $4,333 per square foot. The 4-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom unit spans 4,235 interior square feet and was represented by Compass’s Miltiadis Kastanis on the listing side and Bryan Halda of Gray & Associates for the buyer. The identity of the buyer has not been publicly disclosed.

Earlier in the month, on July 14, Unit N-719 in the North Tower sold for $17,750,000, or $5,267 per square foot. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath, 2 half-bath condo spans 3,370 interior square feet. The buyer in that transaction has also not yet been disclosed in public records.

These blockbuster deals highlight a persistent trend in the Miami real estate market: while activity in the mid-range and even general luxury sectors has cooled, the ultra-luxury market remains on fire, fueled by global billionaires, low inventory, and a continued flight to quality in legacy-branded properties.

Developed by Fort Partners and operated by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, The Surf Club Four Seasons has become a magnet for the ultra-wealthy, blending historic charm with contemporary beachfront luxury. The development’s consistent demand—and ability to command record-breaking price-per-square-foot figures—is a testament to Miami’s growing status as a global destination for elite real estate investment.

Mexican-Inspired Steakhouse Toca Madera Coming Soon to Brickell

Amid Brickell’s already sizzling fine dining scene, a bold new player is preparing to make its debut: Toca Madera, a high-end, Mexican-inspired steakhouse from hospitality powerhouse Noble 33. The restaurant is rising from the ground up in a newly constructed three-story building directly south of the iconic Brickell Flatiron tower, as confirmed by signage on the construction fence.

Known for its sultry design, theatrical flair, and bold, elevated take on Mexican cuisine, Toca Madera has become a go-to destination in cities like West Hollywood, Las Vegas, and Scottsdale. The Brickell location will mark the brand’s first Miami location—but not Noble 33’s first foray into the Magic City. The hospitality group already operates two highly popular restaurants in Wynwood: Sparrow Italia, known for its coastal Italian flavors, and Casa Madera, an immersive, high-energy dining experience. Both have quickly gained traction among locals and visitors alike.

Toca Madera Brickell is being developed as a ground-up, three-story flagship restaurant—an increasingly rare move in a dense urban district where most eateries adapt existing spaces. The site itself carries historical significance: it was previously home to the sales gallery for Brickell Flatiron, the 64-story luxury condo tower developed by Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group. The gallery once served as a stylish pre-sales hub for what would become one of Brickell’s most architecturally distinctive towers. With the sales center gone and the lot cleared, the space has now been reimagined as one of the neighborhood’s most anticipated new dining destinations.

While details about the restaurant’s interior design and rooftop potential are still under wraps, Toca Madera is expected to follow the brand’s signature format—complete with dramatic lighting, immersive décor, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant, upscale energy that often transitions seamlessly into nightlife. Given the building’s scale and positioning within the Brickell core, this new location is likely to become a hotspot for upscale dinners, evening celebrations, and weekend indulgence.

No official opening date has been announced, but construction appears to be progressing rapidly. As Noble 33 expands its Miami footprint, the arrival of Toca Madera promises to raise the bar for Brickell’s evolving dining landscape.

Demolition Underway at Future Site of 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana

A major milestone has been reached for 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana, one of Miami’s most anticipated ultra-luxury condo developments. Demolition has officially begun at 888 Brickell Avenue, where the existing building—now fully wrapped and prepped for teardown—will soon make way for what is set to become the tallest residential tower in Brickell. The start of demolition signals real momentum for this high-profile project, which has already generated significant buzz for its fashion-forward branding, sky-high amenities, and record-setting pricing.

888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana is being developed by JDS Development Group, the New York–based firm behind other prominent South Florida ventures like Monad Terrace in Miami Beach. The tower will rise 1,049 feet and span 90 stories, establishing itself as a defining feature of the Brickell skyline. In a rare collaboration between high fashion and real estate, the project will be the first residential tower in the world fully branded and designed by Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana. The interiors, furnishings, and aesthetic direction of the residences and common spaces are being curated by the fashion label, infusing the building with signature opulence and craftsmanship.

Architecture for 888 Brickell is being led by Miami-based Sieger Suarez Architects, working alongside Studio Sofield, known for its ultra-luxury designs including Manhattan’s 111 West 57th Street. The tower will offer 259 branded residences, along with a members-only club, full-service spa, gourmet restaurants, and an expansive pool deck with cabanas and ocean views. Units range from one to four bedrooms, with prices starting at $2.2 million and the 3-story, crown-jewel penthouse asking $88 million.

With demolition now underway, 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana is one step closer to transforming this iconic stretch of Brickell Avenue. As vertical construction approaches, the tower promises to raise the bar for luxury living in Miami and establish a new benchmark for branded residential real estate.

8 South Florida Hotel Restaurants Make OpenTable & KAYAK’s Top 100 List

Hotel dining has officially entered a new era—one where travelers are booking stays not just for the rooms, but for the restaurants. According to OpenTable and KAYAK’s newly released Top 100 Hotel Restaurants in America, several standout eateries in South Florida are leading the charge, earning national acclaim for their exceptional cuisine and memorable experiences. The curated list, based on over 10 million OpenTable diner reviews from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, celebrates a wide spectrum of culinary excellence—from opulent fine dining to breezy brunch spots.

Among the South Florida honorees, Gianni’s at the Former Versace Mansion in Miami Beach remains a favorite for both its storied setting and upscale Italian fare. Located in the heart of South Beach, Gianni’s offers an elegant, fashion-imbued dining experience that blends historic charm with modern luxury. Just north in Sunny Isles Beach, Il Mulino New York continues to impress with its refined Italian menu and beachfront sophistication, offering diners an indulgent escape with views to match the cuisine.

Another notable inclusion is Lido Restaurant at The Surf Club in Surfside, part of the Four Seasons Hotel. Lido exemplifies Mediterranean refinement in a timeless oceanfront setting and is a favorite among culinary travelers seeking coastal luxury. For a more laid-back yet flavor-packed experience, Limonada Bar + Brunch in Miami Beach delivers colorful décor, Latin-inspired dishes, and a festive brunch atmosphere that resonates with both tourists and locals. Not far from there, Palace in South Beach has built a reputation for its high-energy vibe, inclusive atmosphere, and modern American fare, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a vibrant Miami dining experience. Also earning a spot on the prestigious Top 100 list is The Roof at Esmé, perched atop the boutique Esmé Hotel on Española Way. This intimate rooftop oasis blends coastal-Mediterranean flavors with boho-chic charm, offering curated cocktails, fresh seafood, and panoramic views of South Beach—ideal for sunset dinners or weekend brunches under the stars.

Venturing north to Delray Beach, Akira Back at The Ray Hotel stands out for its bold fusion of Korean and Peruvian flavors, crafted by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back. Its sleek interior and daring menu have made it a destination in its own right. Meanwhile, Henry’s Palm Beach offers classic American fare with a modern twist, catering to Palm Beach’s upscale crowd with timeless charm and warm hospitality.

According to the report, hotel restaurants are increasingly driving travel decisions. In fact, 47% of surveyed Americans admitted to choosing travel destinations based specifically on restaurant offerings. KAYAK’s data supports the trend, showing a 51% year-over-year increase in travelers filtering hotels by on-site dining options. Furthermore, 73% of travelers said an exceptional hotel dining experience would influence their decision to return—proof that memorable meals are now just as important as luxury accommodations.

For South Florida, these accolades signal more than just culinary excellence—they underscore the region’s growing role as a national dining destination. From the cultural fusion of Miami Beach to the refined palettes of Palm Beach, hotel restaurants across the region are setting new standards for hospitality and cuisine alike. Whether you’re a traveler looking to dine with a view or a local in search of a weekend splurge, these celebrated spots prove that hotel dining in South Florida is not just back—it’s better than ever.

Jewelry Brand Ildico Buys Corner Retail Gem in Miami Design District for $35M

A prime retail property in the heart of the Miami Design District has changed hands in a major off-market transaction. The two-story commercial building located at 3800 NE 2nd Avenue sold for $35 million, reflecting the continued strength and desirability of Miami’s luxury retail corridor. The buyer, Beverly Hills-based jeweler Ildico, acquired the property through an entity tied to its CFO, Mikhail Cohen. The deal represents a significant expansion for the high-end jewelry brand as it plants deeper roots in the South Florida market.

Built in 1926, the building spans 9,445 square feet and is currently home to luxury retail tenants including Listone Giordano, L’Atellier Paris Haute Design, and CNCPTS Miami. The $35 million purchase price equates to approximately $3,701 per square foot, underscoring the premium investors are willing to pay for flagship-quality real estate in the Design District. The sellers—veteran Miami investors Sam Herzberg, David Herzberg, and Richard Do—originally purchased the building in 2015 for $11.4 million, making this transaction a 208% increase in value over a ten-year period.

This transaction further solidifies the Miami Design District’s status as one of the nation’s top-tier luxury retail destinations. Home to internationally renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Hermès, the neighborhood has been strategically transformed by development firms such as Dacra, Brookfield, and L Catterton. As demand for retail space in the district continues to climb, so do prices—both in terms of lease rates and sale values.

The deal was brokered by Joe Fernandez, Tony Arellano, and Devlin Marinoff of DWNTWN Realty Advisors, who have facilitated more than 40 deals in the Design District over the past 15 years. Their deep understanding of the area’s market dynamics played a key role in bringing the off-market deal to fruition.

Located at the intersection of NE 2nd Avenue and NE 38th Street, the 3800 NE 2nd Avenue property sits just one block from Palm Court and within walking distance to the district’s most trafficked luxury boutiques and art installations. The building’s strategic corner location and historic character further elevate its value in a district known for architecturally significant properties and experiential retail environments.

This sale also comes amid a broader wave of investment activity in the area. Just blocks away, plans have been filed for a 20-story residential and retail tower, while nearby developments such as Cassi—a $125 million luxury apartment and retail project—signal ongoing momentum in the district’s evolution.

With this acquisition, Ildico joins a growing list of private and institutional investors targeting the Miami Design District for long-term positioning. As retail trends continue to favor experiential, luxury-driven environments, properties like 3800 NE 2nd Avenue are proving to be some of the most valuable and resilient assets in Miami’s commercial landscape.

Miami Tops Altrata’s 2025 Report as the Global Epicenter for Ultra-Wealthy Second Homes

According to Altrata’s newly released Residential Real Estate 2025 report, Miami has officially cemented its position as the top destination in the world for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals seeking second homes. With over 13,200 UHNW individuals owning secondary residences in the Magic City, Miami now outranks all other U.S. cities—including New York and Los Angeles—in this category. Globally, it ranks #1 as the most popular second-home destination for the ultra wealthy, a testament to its rising global status and appeal among elite buyers.

Several factors continue to make Miami an irresistible draw for the ultra-wealthy. Florida’s tax-friendly policies—particularly the absence of a state income tax—have long made Miami a haven for wealth preservation and strategic investing. But beyond financial benefits, Miami offers a lifestyle that few global cities can match. Its year-round sunshine, vibrant arts and culture scene, thriving culinary destinations, and pristine beaches combine to create an ideal environment for both full-time living and seasonal retreats. Furthermore, Miami’s geographic location and international airport offer unmatched access to Latin America, Europe, and key financial hubs, making it a practical and prestigious base for international UHNW individuals.

The report also places Miami among the top five cities worldwide in total UHNW residential footprint, alongside global heavyweights like London, Hong Kong, New York, and Los Angeles. This reinforces a growing trend: the ultra wealthy are increasingly viewing Miami not just as a vacation destination but as a cornerstone in their global real estate portfolios. As the global UHNW population is projected to grow by more than 33% over the next five years, Altrata anticipates that demand for high-end residential real estate will follow suit—and Miami is poised to absorb a significant portion of that surge.

For Miami’s real estate professionals, developers, and investors, the data presents clear opportunities. Demand is expected to skyrocket for luxury condos, waterfront estates, and gated communities—particularly in neighborhoods like Miami Beach, Brickell, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables. New development projects that prioritize privacy, design sophistication, top-tier amenities, and global branding will have a distinct edge in this new landscape. Additionally, marketing strategies must be tailored to UHNW sensibilities, highlighting security, exclusivity, and long-term asset value.

Looking ahead, Miami’s luxury real estate market is entering a new era of international significance. With the UHNW population projected to grow rapidly and Miami emerging as a clear favorite, we can expect a rise in upscale development, increased buyer competition, and a greater emphasis on properties that deliver both lifestyle and legacy value. For agents, investors, and developers, now is the time to double down on Miami’s unprecedented momentum.

The Residential Real Estate 2025 report from Altrata doesn’t just confirm what many in the industry already suspected—it quantifies it. Miami isn’t just hot. It’s global, it’s elite, and it’s leading the charge in the future of luxury residential real estate.

Donald Soffer, Visionary Developer of Aventura, Dies at 92

Donald Soffer, the visionary real estate developer who transformed a stretch of North Miami-Dade swamp into what is now the thriving city of Aventura, passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in 1932 in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, Soffer attended Brandeis University on a football scholarship and began his career building shopping malls for his family’s company, Don Mark Realty. His early projects included South Hills Village, Pittsburgh’s first indoor mall, completed in 1965.

In 1967, Soffer made what would become a transformative investment: he and a group of investors purchased 785 acres of undeveloped land in South Florida for $6 million. Recognizing the potential for something extraordinary, Soffer set out to develop what would become Aventura—a name chosen because it means “adventure” in Spanish. Over the years, he oversaw the dredging, rezoning, and master planning of the area. By 1970, high-rise condo towers began to rise, and by 1977, the area boasted 4,000 residential units and a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones.

Following a split with Arlen Realty in 1977, Soffer founded Turnberry Associates and expanded his vision. Among his signature projects was the development of Aventura Mall, one of the largest and most successful shopping centers in the country. His portfolio grew to include the Turnberry Isle Resort, JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, and a variety of luxury condominium and hotel projects. Through his companies, Soffer helped redefine luxury living and shopping in South Florida.

Soffer’s legacy is also carried forward by his children. Jackie Soffer now leads Turnberry Associates, which retains ownership of Aventura Mall and several high-profile hotels, while Jeffrey Soffer runs Fontainebleau Development and is involved in major residential and resort developments. Donald Soffer was also a noted philanthropist, donating $15 million to Brandeis University in 2008—the largest gift in the school’s history at the time—and supporting numerous institutions including the University of Miami and local Jewish organizations. His name is immortalized in South Florida landmarks such as the Don Soffer Aventura Charter High School and the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center at the University of Miami.

Soffer’s vision and business acumen allowed him to buy land for as little as $5,000 an acre and sell it for millions, forever changing the landscape of Miami-Dade County. His work not only created a city but fostered a community that continues to thrive. On Monday, July 21, 2025, a memorial service celebrating Donald Soffer’s life and contributions will be held at 10:00 a.m. at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center—a fitting tribute to the man who built so much of what surrounds it.

Donald Soffer will be remembered not only for his developments, but for the community and legacy he leaves behind. His passing marks the end of an era for South Florida, but the skyline and neighborhoods he helped create will stand as a living testament to his enduring impact.