Opportunities for Developers in the South Florida Real Estate Market

In this episode of "Real Estate Law Unlocked," Real Estate attorneys Jorge Escobar and Tomas Castellanos sit down with Brian Pearl, principal and founder of Global City Development, for an informal look at the current state and future of the South Florida real estate market. Mr. Pearl traces his path from Wall Street equity analyst to Miami developer, explaining how navigating the 2008 financial crisis shaped his approach to risk, capital structure and deal-making. He describes why he launched Global City to focus on socially oriented, high‑design housing for the middle class and students, including workforce projects near Florida International University, financed with creative tools such as private activity bonds. The conversation explores how developers are managing higher interest rates, why discipline and deal‑by‑deal judgment are critical in the current cycle and how Miami's continued densification will require both spectacular luxury projects and attainable housing that supports a year‑round community.