The Art of Selling Real Estate with Miami’s Ida & Minette Schwartz

The Art of Selling Real Estate with Miami’s Ida & Minette Schwartz

Recognized as the most distinguished art fair worldwide, Art Basel landed in Miami in 2002 and has helped influence a cultural renaissance in the city ever since. Rich in cutting edge art, culture and a highly sought-after quality of life, South Florida has rightfully earned its place among the best cities worldwide. Mother-Daughter duo Ida and Minette Schwartz with The Schwartz Team at Compass call Miami home–and as one of the leading real estate teams in the community with a unique multigenerational approach–have seen it evolve into the world class city it is today. On the heels of Art Basel’s 20th anniversary, the nationally ranked duo talks the intersection of art and real estate, and how the renowned fair has made its mark on the Magic City.

How has Art Basel influenced the real estate market in South Florida?

Ida: I started in real estate before Art Basel first landed in Miami, so I’ve had the opportunity to really see how it has taken off and pushed the city forward culturally. It is one of the incredible lifestyle components that has helped transform the way people see and experience our city. Art Basel and all of the satellite events throughout the week became somewhat of a living advertisement for Miami, drawing people in–and what ends up happening is they fall in love and never want to leave.

Minette: Art week is a great time to create and deepen relationships with past and future clients. As with art sales, often real estate transactions are hush hush. Many realtors will take advantage of the week by hosting exclusive events at off-market properties in partnership with an artist/art gallery in order to promote both. All eyes are on Miami so big developers will also align announcements of new projects to coincide with the week - sometimes coordinating an elaborate event to tie in art week.

Are there any areas or neighborhoods that are on the rise due to the growing art scene? 

Minette: The Art Deco District is continuing to see a resurgence thanks to the critically acclaimed art show SCOPE and the independent airfare Untitled. During Art Basel,  people walk the roads and the beach looking at beautiful art and these shows in particular are on the up in terms of popularity and prestige. Nearby, the residential neighborhood of South of Fifth, better known as the crown jewel of Miami Beach, is one of the hottest markets in South Florida and home to some of the most luxurious buildings and best restaurants including Joe’s Stone Crab, Carbone and the incoming Catch that Robert Rivani just signed at the Continuum, which happens to be one of our favorite buildings in the area.

The Design District has also become one of the most sought after places for brands to host during Basel. The neighborhood is known for its high fashion boutiques and sleek modern architecture. Just east of the Design District lives the gated community of Bay Point. Over the last 20 years, prices have skyrocketed and homes are going for upwards of $55 million. Edgewater is another area on the rise. It’s a gorgeous strip of waterfront property facing Biscayne Bay. The neighborhood has undergone a complete transformation and now features new developments from Missoni Baia to the recently launched Edition Residences. This strip of land is one of the last vestiges in Miami with unobstructed direct water views.

Some would say selling real estate is an art form. How are you positioning your listed properties to sell?

Ida: Every listing is unique and we evaluate the best way to display and market the property based on the potential buyer. For some homes, it involves furniture or art staging, exclusive real estate previews and targeted marketing across digital print and social media. For our team, discretion is everything and we have a number of high profile clients who prefer to sell off-market. In those cases, we have specific tactics and marketing strategies that we leverage for maximum exposure among a targeted buyer pool.

How important is art in the staging of a home?

Minette: Art elevates a property. When you walk in and a buyer notices a recognizable artist, or art that brings the home alive, it creates a connection. This connection allows the buyer to envision themselves living at that home.

What are your favorite shows to visit?

Ida: We love Design Miami. It’s located directly next door to Art Basel at the convention center. The show features beautifully designed pieces that work in the most discerning of homes. The inspiration for interior decor from Design Miami is felt for the entire year until the next show.

What are some insider tips for surviving Art Week in Miami?

Minette: It’s about finding the perfect balance between work and play. Spend the first day or two enjoying the art, work a little, play a little, then dive right into the events and parties throughout the weekend. We typically make sure to leave plenty of space for showings and connecting with clients.