Vanessa de Formanoir’s Complete Homebuying Guide for Brickell

It can be difficult to know what to search for or where to start when undergoing the homebuying process, even if you’ve bought a home before. Read through this homebuying guide to learn why Brickell is such a great place to live and what steps to take when you’re ready to make the move.

Brickell and Downtown Miami have become a hub of international finance, as well as a prime spot for entertainment and dining. Although its skyscrapers and luxury condos may make it seem like a truly contemporary locale, this city’s origins date to the early 1900s as the first place of development in Miami along the bank of the Miami River. Brickell’s history is commemorated in buildings like the Freedom Tower and the DuPont Building.

Those searching for Brickell real estate will find several luxury condo complexes and luxury apartments with a generous offering of amenities and great views of Downtown Miami, Biscayne Bay, and Miami Beach. As a dense urban center, single-family homes are less available but can still be found, often with amenities that rival those of condos and apartments in the area.

Although none of the properties in Brickell are directly on the beach, there are several close beaches to visit if you want to see the ocean up close. South Beach is a popular choice for residents and visitors alike, while North Beach is a great location for a quieter experience. Sunny Isles Beach is an ideal locale for those who like fishing. Before getting into how to buy a home, here are some additional perks in Brickell that make it a great place to buy.

A popular shopping area in Brickell is Mary Brickell Village, located in the heart of the city. This outdoor mall provides several sophisticated and fun shopping spots with specialty retailers and services to suit all of your needs. On hot or stormy days, residents can visit Brickell City Centre, an indoor mall that spans over nine acres and is a mix of retail stores with upscale brands, luxury condos, and a five-star hotel.

Since Brickell is such a lively city, new restaurants abound in the area. Residents looking for fine dining can reserve a table at one of the local hotspots such as Dirty French or can visit other high-end dining spots such as Cipriani, Casa Tua, La Petite Maison, and Zuma. If you’re looking for a chic rooftop bar, check out Sugar atop Hotel East. Brickell is a foodie paradise with ever-expanding fare, so whatever type of cuisine you’re craving, Brickell has it.

Although business may rule the day, there’s plenty of fun to find at night, with several bars, clubs, and sidewalk cafés to enjoy the community or find a new niche. Residents can visit the luxurious W Miami rooftop bar, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering outstanding views of Biscayne Bay. Or visit Conrad, a glass skyrise hotel that also boasts views of the bay and offers guests a wide range of innovative cocktails to choose from.

Location is the only part of a home you can’t change, which is why it’s crucial you love the place you’re buying in. Brickell is a great place for homebuyers searching for beautiful city views, proximity to the beach, and a large selection of dining and entertainment opportunities. Follow the rest of this homebuying guide when completing your home transaction.

First, decide if you're personally and financially ready to buy a home and make a move. The homebuying process includes costs like a down payment, a mortgage payment, closing costs, and costs of moving. Even if budget isn’t an issue, it’s still important to plan out how much you’re willing to spend on a property. When you’ve considered the financial side of moving, review your personal reasons and possible constraints to moving, such as family obligations, a current or future job, and how your current neighborhood does and doesn’t fulfill your needs.

When you’re sure about buying a home, partner with a knowledgeable and local agent like Vanessa de Formanoir. An agent will know what types of properties in the area meet your needs and can schedule showings for you to attend. They’ll also have a deep understanding of the local real estate market, which is helpful in pricing and timing your offer. Along with being well-informed, they’re also well connected and have contacts with professionals like home inspectors, title companies, and home appraisers.

Before starting your search, list out what you want from the property and location. This may include space for a home office, proximity to great entertainment, or a walkable area. Then, work with your agent to visit several different properties before deciding on the one you like. It may take a while to find the one, but it’s important not to get frustrated since this can lead to a hasty decision.

When you’ve found a property you love, make an offer and negotiate terms with the seller. Your agent will be helpful since they can negotiate aspects of an offer like contingencies and pricing. Then, get a home inspection to uncover any hidden problems, and renegotiate or decline your offer if necessary. When you and the seller have come to an agreement, complete closing steps like a home appraisal, a final walkthrough, and any necessary paperwork.

Brickell is a lively city next to Downtown Miami, making it a great place to start your home search. When you’re ready to buy a property in the area, contact local agent Vanessa de Formanoir to guide you through the process.