Pagani Residences and Prestige Imports Launch Auto Privata Automotive Concierge
A white-glove automotive program sets a new benchmark for ultra-luxury living in North Bay Village
Pagani Residences has announced the launch of Auto Privata, a first-of-its-kind automotive concierge program created in partnership with Prestige Imports. Designed exclusively for residents, the bespoke service introduces an entirely new layer of luxury living—where collector-grade automotive care is seamlessly integrated into the residential experience.
The program further elevates Pagani Residences’ positioning as one of South Florida’s most distinctive boutique luxury developments, blending architecture, design, and automotive culture into a unified lifestyle offering.
Automotive Living, Reimagined for Collectors
Auto Privata was created for residents who view automobiles as works of art, engineering, and personal expression. Fully managed through the Pagani Residences mobile app, the program delivers on-demand, white-glove automotive care—ensuring each vehicle is secured, maintained, detailed, and road-ready at all times.
“This partnership brings our philosophy directly into the home,” said Brett David, CEO of Prestige Imports. “Whether it’s preparing a car for a Sunday drive or sourcing a one-off from across the globe, our goal is to make every moment with these automobiles effortless and unforgettable.”
Auto Privata Concierge Services
Core Automotive Concierge Features
Residents gain access to a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Valet parking by trained automotive ambassadors
- Monthly digital vehicle condition reports
- Maintenance and service scheduling
- Personalized recommendations based on vehicle history and preferences
- Concierge access via dedicated app or direct line
All services, reports, and scheduling are accessible through the Pagani Residences mobile app, providing a seamless balance of digital convenience and high-touch service.
Subscription and À La Carte Offerings
Auto Privata offers flexible membership tiers and customizable packages tailored to both daily drivers and serious collectors, including:
- Climate-controlled storage with biometric access
- Professional detailing and restoration services
- Door-to-door enclosed transport within Florida and nationwide
- Pre-arrival vehicle preparation (fueled, charged, and detailed)
- Discreet sourcing of rare, limited-production, and off-market vehicles
- Custom modifications and personalization through certified partners
All care is delivered in alignment with manufacturer specifications and collector-grade standards.
Lifestyle & Administrative Support Beyond the Garage
Beyond hands-on vehicle care, Prestige Imports provides lifestyle and administrative services designed for discerning collectors. These include registration and tag renewals, insurance coordination, mileage tracking, and discreet delivery to private airports, restaurants, or social events.
Collectors also benefit from brokered access to rare vehicles through Prestige Imports’ global network, complete with pre-purchase inspections and provenance verification.
A Strategic Partnership Driving Luxury Innovation
According to Mikael Hamaoui, founder and CEO of Riviera Horizons, Auto Privata reflects how South Florida continues to redefine ultra-luxury residential living.
“Pagani Residences is about living at the intersection of art, engineering, and design,” Hamaoui said. “Partnering with Prestige Imports ensures our residents’ vehicles receive the same care and craftsmanship as their homes, delivering peace of mind and the freedom to enjoy their collections at their highest level.”
The Prestige partnership is the latest addition to the Pagani Residences Luxury Lifestyle Program, which curates bespoke services across design, hospitality, and automotive experiences.
Pagani Residences at a Glance
Located on Harbor Island in North Bay Village, Pagani Residences is a 30-story boutique waterfront tower comprising just 70 all-corner residences, including two duplex penthouses and four Sky Residences.
- Interiors: Curated by Pagani Arte, founded by Horacio Pagani
- Architecture: Designed by Revuelta Architecture
- Residences: Two-to-four bedrooms with panoramic waterfront views
- Pricing: Starting from $3.7 million
- Address: 7940 West Drive, North Bay Village, FL 33141
Amenities include private ensuite elevators, a waterfront lobby, 24-hour concierge service, valet and porte-cochère, a 240-foot boardwalk, and marina frontage along Biscayne Bay.
Why Auto Privata Signals the Future of Ultra-Luxury Living
Auto Privata highlights a growing shift in the ultra-luxury real estate market: residences are evolving into fully curated lifestyle ecosystems. By embedding a comprehensive automotive concierge directly into the residential experience, Pagani Residences positions itself at the forefront of this next generation of luxury living—where architecture, service, and personal passions converge seamlessly.
Cassia Residences at Coral Gables Tops Off
A New Milestone for Cassia Residences at Coral Gables
Cassia Residences at Coral Gables has officially topped off, signaling the completion of its main structural construction and marking a major milestone for one of Coral Gables’ most anticipated new residential developments. The topping-off ceremony confirms that the project remains on schedule as it moves into its final phases of development.
What Does a Topping-Off Mean for Buyers?
A topping-off milestone represents the moment when a building’s structural framework is complete. For buyers and future residents, this is an important sign of progress—moving the project beyond construction and closer to completion, interior finishes, and eventual move-in. At Cassia, this milestone reflects not only construction momentum but also the craftsmanship and planning behind the project.
Prime Coral Gables Location Near Merrick Park
Located just steps from Merrick Park, Cassia Residences places future residents in the heart of Coral Gables’ most desirable lifestyle corridor. From luxury shopping and fine dining to walkable streets and tree-lined avenues, the neighborhood continues to attract both end-users and investors seeking long-term value in a supply-constrained market.
What’s Next for Cassia Residences?
As the building structure is now complete, attention turns to the interior details that will define daily life at Cassia. From refined architectural finishes to thoughtfully designed residences, the project aims to deliver a boutique living experience that blends elegance, comfort, and convenience—hallmarks of Coral Gables luxury real estate.
First Look: Miami Design Residences, a 25-Story Condo Tower by David Chipperfield
Miami’s architectural landscape is set to welcome a major new addition with Miami Design Residences, a design-driven condominium tower rising in the heart of the Miami Design District. Designed by David Chipperfield, the project marks the Pritzker Prize–winning architect’s first residential development in Florida.
The tower brings a refined, internationally influenced architectural vision to one of Miami’s most creative and globally recognized neighborhoods.
A 25-Story Condo Tower Focused on Architecture and Livability
Miami Design Residences will rise 25 stories and comprise 143 condominium homes, offering one- to four-bedroom floor plans. True to Chipperfield’s design philosophy, the tower emphasizes proportion, restraint, and long-term architectural relevance rather than overt ornamentation.
The residences are designed to integrate seamlessly with Miami’s climate and lifestyle, featuring generous terraces, natural light, and a calm, understated material palette that reflects both modernist principles and the tropical urban context.
Located in the Heart of the Miami Design District
Set within the Miami Design District, the project places residents steps from world-class fashion, art, dining, and cultural institutions. The neighborhood has evolved into a global destination known for its architecture, luxury retail, and curated public spaces—making it one of the most desirable and design-centric areas in Miami.
Miami Design Residences is positioned to benefit from this unique setting while adding a new residential landmark to the district’s skyline. The development will also include a 12-story hotel to complement the residential component.
An International Development Team
The project is led by an experienced and globally recognized development team, including Raycliff Capital, Fort Partners, Miami Design District Associates, and Constellation Hotels Holding Ltd. Together, the group brings deep expertise in luxury residential, hospitality, and design-forward real estate.
Why Miami Design Residences Matters
Miami Design Residences represents a continued shift toward architect-led luxury development in Miami—where global design talent plays a central role in shaping the city’s future skyline. With David Chipperfield’s involvement, the project signals long-term architectural significance rather than trend-driven design.
As Miami continues to attract international buyers, architects, and developers, projects like this reinforce the city’s growing reputation as a serious global design destination.
Ken Griffin and Goldman Properties Buy 545 Wyn Office Building for $180 Million
Billionaire Ken Griffin, founder of global investment firm Citadel, has teamed up with Miami-based Goldman Properties to purchase the 10-story office building 545 Wyn in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood for approximately $180 million. This high-profile acquisition underscores continued investor confidence in South Florida’s office market and adds to Griffin’s expanding local real estate footprint.
A Strategic Partnership in Wynwood’s Office Market
The acquisition of 545 Wyn at 545 Northwest 26th Street — also referred to simply as 545wyn — involves a collaboration in which Goldman Properties will manage the asset while Ken Griffin provided the bulk of the capital. The sellers were Chicago-based developer Sterling Bay, which developed the building in 2020/2021 after purchasing the land from Goldman Properties several years earlier.
At roughly 298,000 square feet of office space plus more than 26,000 square feet of ground-floor retail, 545 Wyn is one of Wynwood’s most prominent commercial properties. Tenants include major brands like Sony Music Group, PwC, architecture firm Gensler, cryptocurrency exchange Gemini, and crypto-backed mortgage lender Milo, reflecting the diversity of the building’s tenant roster.
Features That Raise the Bar for Wynwood Offices
Beyond its prime location, 545 Wyn offers a suite of tenant amenities that enhance its competitive edge:
- Private outdoor amenity deck (~18,000 sq ft)
- Tenant amenity floor (~14,000 sq ft)
- Indoor-outdoor lounges
- Covered parking for ~441 vehicles
These features contribute to Wynwood’s reputation as one of Miami’s most dynamic environments for technology, creative, and finance companies — a neighborhood increasingly in demand by both tenants and investors.
Ken Griffin’s Growing Miami Portfolio
This purchase is the latest in a series of high-value Miami investments by Griffin since relocating Citadel and Citadel Securities from Chicago in 2022. In recent years, Griffin has:
The Wynwood acquisition complements these moves by strengthening Griffin’s presence in Miami’s commercial and urban core.
Goldman Properties’ Return to Wynwood Roots
For Goldman Properties — led by CEO Scott Srebnick — the deal represents a strategic return to Wynwood. The firm originally sold the development site that became 545 Wyn, helping catalyze Wynwood’s transformation from its industrial past into one of the region’s most vibrant business and cultural districts.
What This Means for Miami’s Office Sector
Miami’s office market has continued to attract national and international investors, even as similar markets grapple with uncertainty. The 545 Wyn transaction highlights:
- Continued demand for flexible, amenity-rich office space in urban districts.
- Premium rents and leasing activity in neighborhoods like Wynwood, where Class A assets remain attractive to both tenants and buyers.
- Strategic confidence from deep-pocketed investors, signaling belief in Miami’s long-term commercial real estate prospects.
As Miami evolves as a global business hub, high-profile deals like this one continue to shape the narrative of office space investment and urban development across South Florida.
Court Orders Developer to Fully Restore Biscayne 21 After Failed Termination Attempt
Developer’s Termination Plan Ruled Invalid
In a significant win for Biscayne 21 condominium owners, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court in Miami-Dade has declared the developer’s attempt to terminate the condominium invalid. The court vacated prior orders that had favored the developer, effectively halting any plans to terminate and redevelop the property. Biscayne 21 is located in Edgewater, a waterfront Miami neighborhood that has seen increasing redevelopment pressure in recent years.
Rather than simply blocking the termination, the court went a step further and imposed affirmative obligations on the developer.
Source Document: Biscayne 21 Court Order (Jan 2026 Restoration Order).
Court Mandates Full Restoration of the Property
The highlight of the ruling is that the developer is now legally required to restore the Biscayne 21 condominium and all affected units to their original condition as of May 2023. This includes reinstating utilities, services, and common area maintenance at the developer’s expense, with no additional costs to the unit owners.
Implications for Unit Owners
For the condominium’s residents, this decision means they retain ownership of their units and can expect the building to be brought back to a habitable and fully functional state. The court has ensured ongoing oversight, requiring regular status reports to guarantee compliance.
Gianluca Vacchi’s GV Development Group Sues Partner Michael Stern for Fraud
A Legal Battle with Major Implications
In a surprising turn of events, Gianluca Vacchi’s associated company, GV NBV LLC, has filed a lawsuit against his partner Michael Stern and his associated entities. The lawsuit (click to view the full PDF) was filed by GV NBV LLC, naming Michael Stern, 6345 JV LLC, and 6345 Manager LLC as defendants. Although unrelated, this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for one of Miami’s most high-profile developments — 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana.
The Core of the Lawsuit
The complaint, filed on December 17, 2025, alleges that Michael Stern and his related entities engaged in fraudulent activities tied to a real estate development at 6345 Collins Avenue, known as the Casablanca Project. In the lawsuit, GV NBV LLC is seeking damages in excess of $750,000, underscoring the significant financial stakes involved. According to the filing, Stern allegedly misrepresented the value and safety of the investment, provided false or misleading documents, and concealed material facts from the plaintiff. In essence, the lawsuit claims these actions were part of a deliberate scheme to defraud GV NBV LLC.
A History of Allegations Against Michael Stern
Notably, this is not the first time Stern has faced legal troubles. The complaint references a series of other lawsuits where Stern has been accused of similar fraudulent conduct in other real estate projects. These past cases paint a broader picture of ongoing legal challenges for Stern, adding weight to the current allegations.
The JDSPulse Connection
It’s worth noting that a website known as JDSPulse has been dedicated to exposing alleged misconduct by Michael Stern. While we are not affiliated with this platform and cannot verify all of its claims, it does exist as an independent source focused on Stern’s business practices. This lawsuit adds a new chapter to that ongoing narrative.
Implications for 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana
Perhaps the most pressing question is how this legal battle will impact the 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana project. Gianluca Vacchi and Michael Stern are co-developers of this high-profile Miami development. With their partnership now in question, one must wonder how this lawsuit will affect the project’s future and their working relationship. Will this lead to delays or changes in the development? Only time will tell. Notably, the first hearing in this case is set for March 19, 2026 at 8:15 AM, marking the next major step in this unfolding story.
Conclusion: A Story to Watch
As this case unfolds, it will be important to watch how it impacts both the individuals involved and the broader Miami real estate landscape. For now, this lawsuit marks a significant rift between two major players and raises many questions about what comes next.
Miami Rail Expansion Hit by Steep Cost Increase and Funding Uncertainty
Plans to build a much-anticipated heavy rail line from Downtown Miami to Hard Rock Stadium have encountered a major setback as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) now estimates the project will cost approximately $4.2 billion — nearly double earlier projections. This dramatic increase threatens the viability of the project by undermining its competitiveness for critical federal support and raising fresh questions about the timeline and funding strategy for expanding mass transit in Miami-Dade County.
Rising Costs Put Federal Funding at Risk
The FDOT’s recent figure marks a steep escalation from earlier estimates that placed the project’s price tag well below $2.5 billion. This jump mainly reflects added infrastructure components — including a planned light maintenance facility — and refinements to the rail design, driving up overall capital costs.
One of the most significant consequences of the higher expense is its impact on the project’s cost-effectiveness rating with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The FTA, which provides a large portion of financing for major transit projects, scores proposals based on cost per passenger trip; rail options with lower costs are far more likely to secure funding than those with higher per-trip expenses. At an estimated $54.47 per passenger trip, the North Corridor’s numbers may fall well outside the competitive range needed to attract federal dollars.
Timeline and Project Scope in Flux
Originally conceived as part of Miami-Dade’s Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program, the heavy rail extension along NW 27th Avenue would connect downtown with key northern destinations and major activity centers, including Hard Rock Stadium. FDOT and regional planners envisioned an elevated rail line with multiple stations and park-and-ride facilities.
However, with the latest cost estimates, the project’s timeline has grown uncertain. Officials no longer provide a firm start or completion date, and discussions are underway about staging construction in phases — building northward from downtown incrementally rather than as one large, single project — in hopes of improving its financial feasibility.
Why Costs Are Increasing
Several factors have contributed to the ballooning price tag:
- Expanded scope: Additions like the maintenance facility and station enhancements contribute directly to higher capital costs.
- Long planning horizon: The North Corridor has been in the planning phase for years, with design, environmental analysis, and public input adding complexity and cost. The FDOT’s project development and environment (PD&E) study continues to refine how best to deploy heavy rail in the corridor.
- Inflation and construction markets: Like many infrastructure projects nationwide, recent inflation in labor, materials, and construction services plays a role in driving up estimates.
What This Means for Miami’s Transit Future
The North Corridor project remains a priority for regional mobility planners because it promises to expand access to rapid transit for underserved communities and reduce traffic congestion along a heavily traveled corridor. But at its current projected cost, securing competitive federal funding — essential for moving forward — will be challenging without adjustments.
Local leaders and transportation planners will need to explore cost-reduction strategies and potentially rethink how to phase the work to make the project more financially realistic while still delivering meaningful mobility benefits to residents and visitors.
Tech Billionaire Larry Page Drops $173.4M on Two Miami Coconut Grove Estates
In a headline-grabbing real-estate move, Google co-founder Larry Page — widely ranked as the second-wealthiest person in the world — has just spent a staggering $173.4 million on two ultra-luxury homes in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal.
A Major Luxury Real Estate Buy in Miami
According to The Wall Street Journal, Page’s recent purchases include:
- A 4.5-acre Biscayne Bay waterfront estate that previously belonged to restaurateur Jonathan Lewis, acquired for $101.5 million after being listed at up to $135 million.
- A 17,000-square-foot nearby estate with seven bedrooms, bought for $71.9 million from Sloan and Roger Barnett on Jan. 5, 2026.
These two acquisitions bring Page’s Coconut Grove real-estate expenditures to $173.4 million, underlining the strength of Miami’s ultraluxury market.
Why Miami? Tax Policy and a Billionaire Migration
Real-estate insiders tell The Wall Street Journal that Page’s deals are part of a broader migration of Silicon Valley elites to Florida. This trend has accelerated amid debate over a proposed California wealth tax, which would impose a one-time 5% levy on billionaire assets retroactive to Jan. 1, 2026 — prompting some wealthy individuals to relocate to more tax-favorable states like Florida.
Miami’s appeal extends beyond taxes, though. The city’s luxury housing market has seen record-breaking sales, particularly in the nine-figure range, reflecting national demand among ultrawealthy buyers seeking waterfront estates, privacy, and investment upside.
Coconut Grove: A Hotspot for High-End Buyers
Coconut Grove stands out as one of South Florida’s premier luxury markets, boasting historic estates, deep water access, and lush privacy. Page’s high-profile purchases add to a growing list of elite transactions in the area — including several above $100 million in recent years — cementing the neighborhood’s reputation as a billionaire magnet.
The Bigger Picture: Florida’s Luxury Market Surge
Miami and the broader Florida luxury market continue to outperform many traditional high-end real-estate hubs:
- In 2025, Florida recorded 19 sales above $50 million, outpacing New York and California.
- Miami alone had four transactions exceeding $100 million, underlining fierce demand at the top tier.
For sellers and brokers alike, the influx of billionaire buyers is reshaping South Florida’s property landscape, with estates in Coconut Grove and beyond achieving unprecedented prices.
What This Means for Buyers and Investors
Whether you’re tracking ultra-luxury trends or contemplating your next investment or relocation:
- Tax policy matters: State tax differences are increasingly influencing where high-net-worth individuals put down roots.
- Miami remains a global magnet: With elite buyers like Larry Page making significant commitments, the city’s luxury market shows no sign of cooling.
- Record sales set benchmarks: Transactions in the nine figures are resetting expectations for waterfront property values across South Florida.
Viceroy Brickell Launches 7% Leaseback Program for New Buyers
A new leaseback incentive is coming to Brickell — and it’s one that will immediately catch the attention of both lifestyle buyers and real estate investors.
Viceroy Brickell has officially announced a 7% Leaseback Program, offering buyers professionally managed rental income during a fixed leaseback term while maintaining ownership of their residence.
This limited-time program applies to new sales contracts only and is designed to provide predictable income, simplified ownership, and a reduced upfront deposit structure.
What Is the Viceroy Brickell 7% Leaseback Program?
The Viceroy Brickell Leaseback Program allows purchasers to lease their residence back to the developer under a fixed-term agreement after closing.
In return, owners receive quarterly payments equal to 7% annually of the purchase price, paid in arrears over a two-year term.
Key features include:
- Fixed lease payments, not tied to nightly rental performance
- Professional management through the Viceroy rental program
- No short-term rental management required by the owner
This structure is particularly attractive for buyers seeking passive income without day-to-day operational involvement.
Program Highlights at a Glance
According to the official program details:
- 7% annual leaseback, paid quarterly
- Two-year lease term
- Available for new contracts only
- Residences are professionally managed by Viceroy
- Owners retain responsibility for:
- Maintenance fees
- Insurance
- Real estate taxes
Example Provided by the Developer
- Purchase Price: $900,000
- Annual Lease Payment: $63,000
- Total Leaseback Income Over Two Years: $126,000
Reduced Deposit Structure: Just 20% Until Closing
In addition to the leaseback incentive, Viceroy Brickell is offering a total-deposit structure of just 20% until closing, allowing buyers to lock in a contract with significantly less capital tied up during the pre-construction phase.
This is a notable advantage compared to many Brickell developments that require 30–40% in staged deposits prior to delivery.
Why This Matters for Brickell Condo Buyers
Brickell remains one of Miami’s most competitive submarkets, but rising prices and interest rates have made predictable income strategies increasingly important.
The Viceroy Brickell Leaseback Program appeals to:
- Buyers who want income certainty rather than market-dependent rentals
- Out-of-state and international buyers seeking hands-off ownership
- Investors looking to offset carrying costs during the first two years of ownership
Because payments are fixed and contractually defined, this program removes short-term rental volatility from the equation.
Pricing and Delivery Timeline
- Residences start in the $600,000s
- Estimated delivery: Q1 2026
This positions the project as one of the more accessible branded condo opportunities in Brickell, particularly when combined with the leaseback and reduced deposit structure.
Important Disclaimer for Buyers
As noted by the developer:
Participation in the leaseback program is voluntary
The program is offered for a limited time
Leaseback terms must be finalized prior to contract execution
Payments are not a guarantee of future rental performance after the leaseback term ends
Buyers should review all program terms carefully and confirm eligibility before signing.
Final Thoughts
The Viceroy Brickell 7% Leaseback Program stands out as a strategic incentive in today’s Brickell condo market — blending brand-backed management, predictable income, and lower upfront capital requirements.
For buyers seeking a balance between lifestyle ownership and short-term income stability, this program is worth a closer look.
If you’d like full pricing, floor plans, or a breakdown of how the leaseback compares to traditional rental scenarios, feel free to reach out.
