What do the Florida Keys tells us about commercial real estate?

I just got back from an unforgettable getaway in the Florida Keys, and let me tell you, the experience was more than just sun, sand and sea.

It got me thinking about the commercial real estate scene down there, and boy, do I have some stories to share. So grab a mojito and join me as we unravel the lessons I learned from Ernest Hemingway’s haunts, Harry Truman’s hideaways and the breathtaking beauty of the Keys.

Papa’s way

Picture this: Sipping a daiquiri at Sloppy Joe’s in Key West, where Hemingway himself used to hang out. It’s a reminder that in commercial real estate, location reigns supreme, just like Papa’s favorite watering hole.

Those prime waterfront properties? They’re like Hemingway’s prose — timeless and always in demand.

The Old Man and the Sea

Hemingway once said, “A man can be destroyed but not defeated.”

That resilience is evident in the Keys, where they’ve built structures strong enough to weather hurricanes and rising sea levels. It’s a lesson in resilience for commercial real estate professionals: adapt or be swept away by the tide.

Hospitality, Truman style

Did you know Harry Truman used to vacation in the Keys? His Little White House in Key West is a testament to the region’s hospitality legacy.

The home is a reminder of the lucrative opportunities in the hospitality sector, where commercial properties cater to guests seeking a slice of paradise.

Preservation vs. progress

Just like Hemingway’s love for adventure and Truman’s love for relaxation, the Keys balance preservation with progress.

It’s a delicate dance in commercial real estate, where developers must tread carefully to honor the region’s natural beauty while meeting the demands of a growing market.

Truman’s Legacy

Truman’s time in the Keys wasn’t just about leisure — he also laid the groundwork for the region’s military and research facilities.

This was a a reminder to me that commercial real estate opportunities extend beyond tourism, with potential in sectors like healthcare, education and technology.

Riding the waves, Key Largo style

Key Largo, with its vibrant coral reefs and laid-back vibe, is a metaphor for the commercial real estate market — constantly changing yet always captivating. By studying the historical market trends of the Keys, investors can navigate the waves with the confidence of a seasoned sailor.

As I bid adieu to the Florida Keys, I was reminded of Hemingway’s spirit of adventure and Truman’s steadfast leadership. Their legacies, intertwined with the breathtaking beauty of the Keys, offer valuable insights for commercial real estate professionals.

So, here’s to the lessons learned from Papa’s haunts, Truman’s hideaways, and the timeless allure of the Florida Keys. Cheers to the next adventure in commercial real estate!

Allen Buchanan is a principal and commercial real estate broker at Lee & Associates, Orange. He can be reached at 714.564.7104 or abuchanan@lee-associates.com.

Source: Orange County Register