Enzo Rosani: Why Miami Is the Global Capital Where Lifestyle Meets Investment

We had an interview with Enzo Rosani, Managing Director and Partner at BARNES Miami, whose career spans Paris, Chicago, and now the dynamic Miami market. With a background in sports and entertainment, Enzo brings a unique ability to understand the needs of high-profile clients while maintaining impeccable market knowledge and uncompromising standards. In this interview, he reflects on Miami’s rise as a global destination for real estate investment, the evolving profile of buyers, and the neighborhoods shaping the city’s luxury landscape.

Question: What makes Miami a compelling proposition for global investors beyond lifestyle appeal?

Enzo Rosani: Miami stands as a global hotspot where lifestyle and financial opportunity meet. With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, a cosmopolitan culture, and no state income tax, the city offers more than just a beautiful backdrop, it’s a secure and rewarding place to grow wealth. Investors are drawn to Miami’s booming economy, diverse industries, and strong rental demand, which together provide exceptional potential for both short- and long-term returns. Add in Miami’s position as the gateway to Latin America and a hub for international business, and it becomes clear why the city consistently ranks as a premier destination for savvy investors.

Question: How would you characterize today’s buyer profile—do local purchasers dominate, or is the market still largely international?

Enzo Rosani: Miami is one of the most international real estate markets in the world. While domestic buyers from New York, California, and other U.S. states are increasingly relocating here, international clients remain a cornerstone of the market. Latin American and European buyers, in particular, see Miami as both a safe haven for capital and a lifestyle destination. The result is a unique blend of cultures and backgrounds, with locals and international buyers contributing equally to the city’s vibrant real estate landscape.

Question: Are buyers predominantly senior executives, seasoned professionals, or emerging entrepreneurs—and which sectors tend to be most represented?

Enzo Rosani: Miami’s buyer profile is distinctly high-end and entrepreneurial. Many are CEOs, successful business owners, investors, and young entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic environment that matches their ambitions. Buyers are often involved in finance, technology, real estate, and hospitality, reflecting the city’s growing status as a hub for innovation and commerce. With Miami attracting top talent and global executives, the market naturally leans toward individuals with strong purchasing power who value both investment security and lifestyle.

Question: Are purchasers primarily seeking investment vehicles, primary residences, or discretionary second homes?

Enzo Rosani: Buyers in Miami pursue a mix of goals, but the majority are drawn to investment opportunities and second homes. International clients often purchase as a secure way to diversify their assets, while also enjoying the property for seasonal stays. Domestic buyers relocating from other states, on the other hand, are more likely to purchase primary residences, motivated by Miami’s tax advantages and quality of life.

Question: Which neighborhoods align best with different buyer archetypes and objectives?

Enzo Rosani: Miami offers a neighborhood for every lifestyle. UHNWI clients and international investors are naturally drawn to Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles, and Miami Beach for their oceanfront prestige. Professionals seeking an urban, walkable lifestyle choose Brickell, Edgewater, or the Design District, where culture and business collide. Families searching for tranquility and top schools often favor Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, or Pinecrest. For those looking at value and growth potential, Doral and Aventura present attractive opportunities.

Question: How is safety perceived across Miami’s prime areas, and how does it influence purchasing decisions?

Enzo Rosani: In Miami, safety is strongly tied to lifestyle and location. High-end neighborhoods, luxury towers, and gated communities are designed with security in mind, offering concierge services, private access, and 24/7 surveillance. For many international buyers, this creates confidence and peace of mind. Like any major city, Miami has areas with varying safety levels, but in the neighborhoods most popular with investors, the perception of safety is high and continues to improve as the city invests in infrastructure, community spaces, and urban development.