What $200K Buys in Doral

Living in South Florida sometimes can come with a hefty price tag depending the location and type of property.  But by living in Doral, real estate is more affordable and makes it easy for first time buyers as well as investors to buy property.  With this in mind, we put together a list of what $200K buys in Doral real estate. 

For Sale at Eagle Cove

10953 NW 43^rd Lane, Eagle Cove, List Price:  $200,000

Here is an opportunity to buy a nice size 1,470 square foot townhouse in gated  Eagle Cove.  Inside, there is a ton of open living space along with two bedrooms and two baths.  Built in 1998, the kitchen has recently been remodeled.    Eagle Cove is close to shopping, restaurants, Doral golf courses and excellent schools.  Because this is a short sale, this is a great chance to buy property in an area where comparable properties are listed between the mid-$200s and the upper-$300s.  As for rental investments, monthly rates in range anywhere from $1,800 to about $3,000 depending on the size and location of the townhouse.  This is an excellent opportunity to get a great deal in a very well-sought after community.

For Sale at the Blue Hyatt

5300 NW 87^th Avenue, #1215, Blue Hyatt, List Price:  $200,000

A one-bedroom, one-condo at the Blue Hyatt is a perfect spot to spend the winters in South Florida.  This is a huge opportunity own real estate at one of Doral’s premier resorts.  Golfers have access to premiere golf courses with excellent shopping and dining close by for everyone else.  The unit is fully furnished with a gorgeous contemporary design with the balcony overlooking the golf course.  Property owners have the opportunity to put their unit in the rental pool for guests and have access to other amenities including a fresh water pool, 24-hour security, state of the art fitness center, concierge, in-room dining and other Hyatt hotel extras.  As an investment property, similar units have rental rates between $1,850 and $2,200 per month.  In terms of vacation property, this unit at the Blue Hyatt is a real possibility.

For Sale at Leeward

8432 NW 107^th Street, #3-35, Leeward, List Price: $200,000

Location is the word of the day with this townhouse located in Leeward.  East of the Turnpike and other traffic arteries into and out of Miami-Dade County, this Mediterranean-style townhouse, in one of the best communities in all of Doral – Islands at Doral, features a spacious living area along with a mix of flooring throughout both floors.  With almost 1,600 square feet and three bedrooms and two baths, this is an excellent property for first-time buyers as well as investors and families who want the ease of condominium/townhouse living.  Currently, of the four units for sale at Leeward, this is the largest and least expensive.  As a comparison, six similar properties at Leeward have sold in the past six months with sale prices between the upper-$100s to mid-$200s.  As the months have progressed, so have the sale prices.  This is also an excellent alternative to hotel living for professionals who spend decent lengths of time in Doral for business.

For Sale at Doral House

9725 NW 52^nd Street, #312, Doral House, List Price:  $199,000

Doral House is situated in one of Doral’s best areas – Doral Park.  This two-bedroom, two bath unit encompasses a split floor plan with just over 1,100 square feet and looks out over one of Doral’s top golf courses from the screen balcony.  Residents enjoy a community pool, a large clubhouse with gym and sauna as well as a playground for kids, restaurant, bar, tennis courts, 24-hour security, and more.  In addition to this unit being for sale, it is also listed as an available rental for $1,600 per month. 

For Sale at Doral Oaks

9735 NW 52^nd Street, #411, Doral Oaks, List Price:  $199,000

Doral Oaks is a premiere community in a premiere Doral neighborhood.  From the screened-in porch that provides lake and golf course views to the beautifully remodeled interior with Italian ceramic floors, granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen and so much more, this is a great unit to own.  It also includes a membership to Doral Park Country Club and its amenities including tennis courts, pool and other amenities.  One-bedroom units are rarely for sale in Doral Oaks and when they are, they sell quickly.  In terms of properties for sale, there is one other one-bedroom unit for sale.  While there are not any one-bedroom rentals currently available, the monthly rental rate should fall between $1,500 and $1,800.  

Look to Doral Real Estate

Doral is full of property priced around the $200K mark.  At that mark, condominium units are the most prevalent with single family homes starting in the mid-$200s.  Many condominiums have residences that have been remodeled with upgraded and modern fixtures and finishes start in the low-$200s.  For first time buyers, investors, and those who want to get more for their investment look to Doral real estate.

Top Five Islands at Doral Real Estate Listings

Living at the Islands at Doral is like living in a tropical paradise.  As one of Doral’s most prestigious and well sought-after neighborhoods, the Islands at Doral offers its residents a quality of life like no other.  Not only is the Islands situated where access to the Turnpike and other major thoroughfares are very close and easily accessible, it is close to some of the best golf courses Doral has to offer.  And with downtown Miami and the Coral Gable’s Miracle Mile under 30 minutes away, Doral is centrally located and close to most every popular attraction in South Florida.

Living in the Islands at Doral community affords its residents so much to do even though there is so much outside the community.  From the magnificent and huge clubhouse with fitness center, party rooms with full kitchen and meeting rooms to the large heated pool and children’s pool that are surrounded by a pool deck with pavilions and gazebos, living at the Islands at Doral is like living at a tropical resort all year long.   There are also tennis courts, a basketball court and walking trails that wind through the tropical landscaping around the entire neighborhood.

Despite the fact that there is a broad range of list prices for homes on the market, homes on the upper end of the spectrum are still very affordable when compared to comparable homes in other parts of Miami-Dade County.  Following are the top five Islands at Doral real estate listings:

7741 NW 111^th Court, Corsica, List Price:  $930,000

As the Islands at Doral’s top real estate listing, this home has all the bells and whistles a top listing should have.  The Mediterranean style exterior leads into a double-volume ceiling in the foyer and main living area with lots of windows that let in natural light.  Built in 2006, this home has over 3,100 square feet incorporating four bedrooms, four baths (each has its own bath) with one bedroom/bath on the first floor.  Other features include a private pool and Jacuzzi overlooking a peaceful lake, an automated system to control the air conditioning, cameras and built-in music system and so much more. Entertaining is a breeze with the partially covered outdoor living/dining area by the pool. Inside, the kitchen is large and roomy with granite counter tops, tons of cabinet space and stainless steel appliances, and opens up to a great family room.  This home is absolutely gorgeous and a lot of home for the investment.

11174 NW 78^th Lane, Corsica, List Price:  $849,000

Recently remodeled, this home has five large bedrooms and four baths of which one is on the first floor with a private bath creating a perfect guest room or home office.  There is also a great kitchen with granite counter tops, Sub Zero stainless steel appliances and a filtered water system.  Upstairs, a loft area overlooks the main living area and is perfect for a small sitting area or home office.  Four other bedrooms are situated upstairs with custom-built closets and private baths.  One of the biggest perks with this home is the fantastic laundry room with utility sink which is a necessity for a family with children.  Because this is South Florida, it is a bonus that there are accordion shutters and hurricane impact windows.  There is so much to enjoy living in this great home in an awesome neighborhood.

11391 NW 82^nd Terrace, Menorca, List Price:  $835,000

This wonderful and large 3,600+ square-foot home in Menorca backs up to a tranquil lake setting.  It features a wide open living area with a double-volume ceiling and windows galore that let in the beautiful Florida sunshine.  The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and beautiful custom cabinetry.  Outside there is a covered patio that looks out on the yard and lake.  With arched doorways throughout the home and hardwood floors upstairs, this is a great home in which to live the laid back Florida lifestyle.

11538 NW 84^th Street, Madeira, List Price:  $799,000

Another 3,600+ square-foot home, this Islands at Doral home also has the double-volume ceiling in the living room.  The large kitchen has stainless steel appliances and lots of room to prepare large family meals.  It opens up to a great family room that has French doors leading out to a private pool and covered patio that is ideal for an outdoor living area.  The master suite has an open and airy feeling as do the other bedrooms.  This five-bedroom, four and a half-bath home is ideal for families as it is situated across from a park-like green space with plenty of room to let kids run and play. 

11529 NW 84^th Terrace, Menorca, List Price:  $779,000

With so many great attributes, this home is a great value for the investment.  It was built in 2007 and has all the incredible qualities expected in an Islands at Doral home.  From the double-volume ceiling in the living room to the 

arched doorways to the open loft overlooking the living room, it is a beautiful home.  Here, the first floor bedroom has been converted into an office but with a private bath, it is ideal for a guest room.  Outside, there is a covered patio overlooking the manicured backyard.  And, like the other homes, with five bedrooms and four baths not to mention the green space across the street, it is a great home for large families.

An Ideal Family Community

The Islands at Doral is an ideal family community and offers Doral real estate some of the nicest Doral real estate.  From all the neighborhood has to offer to the wonderful homes throughout to the close proximity to excellent Doral schools, this is definitely worth heavy consideration when looking for a neighborhood in which to live.

Midtown Doral

Developers are at it again with more options for Doral real estate.  This time it is a new, huge development that almost a city within a city.  Midtown Doral is a pedestrian-friendly community centered around a spa-sized clubhouse.  It features six buildings that each have eight stories each housing (153) one, two and three bedroom units and retail/business on the first floor of each building.  In addition, plans call for four-story garages placed throughout the development.  Corridors and walkways flow from building to building each of the building in such a way to make getting around Midtown Doral very easy and quick. 

Midtown Doral is the area’s first development that LEED certified mixed used complex.  The brains behind this futuristic design come from a joint effort between Studio Architecture & Design, Optimus Developers, and Pascaual, Pérez Kilididjian.  Other Doral communities designed by any of these architectural masterminds include the Promenade at Doral, the Reserve and Milan Doral just to name a few.

Location of Midtown Doral

Does mid-town mean anything? Midtown Doral is located in the heart of Doral within close proximity to all that is in Doral.  First and foremost, it offers easy access to the Turnpike, Palmetto Expressway and Dolphin Expressway making it ideal for professionals and part time residents who want to get in and out of South Florida easily.

Additionally, if the shops and restaurants that will occupy the ground floors of each building are not enough, Dolphin and International Malls are short drives away as is Miami International Airport.  Avid golfers can be at the Doral Resort courses or any other in the area in a very short amount of time. 

Highlights at Midtown Doral

The plans will include a lot of extras to make living at Midtown Doral similar to being on vacation all the time.  Residents will have so much at their fingertips.  Probably the focus of the community is the Club House.  The grand entrance of this huge facility will lead to so many options inside.  Not only are there a lounge and bar, but residents and guests can enjoy dining at a restaurant or café inside the facility or outside where they can people watch and enjoy the warm Florida breezes.  Other extras at the Club House include a salon and spa, state of the art fitness center with the most up to date equipment and group classes, sports courts that accommodate various sports, and an outdoor pool with extensive pool deck and cabanas.  For those who work at home, there are meeting rooms and an office center.

Residence designs show unbelievably modern and gorgeous homes with floor to ceiling windows, impact resistant sliding doors and advanced smart building technology with ultra-high speed internet. Some of the smart technology features include automated window blinds that open or close based on the position of the sun, music throughout the house controlled from central panel, automated control panels for lighting, and keyless fingerprint door entry. 

Residences also have large balconies and terraces some that wrap around corner units, custom walk-in closets, and designer kitchens with quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliances, European cabinetry with self-closing drawers, and more.  The spa-like baths feature porcelain sinks, custom finished floors and walls, and frame-less glass showers. 

Real Estate

Construction at Midtown Doral is scheduled to tentatively start in the fall.  Midtown Doral residences will include one, two and three-bedroom units with square footage ranging between just over 1,000 square feet and over 2,000 square feet.  List prices start in the upper-$200s and climb to about $500K. 

This is a great community for investors acquiring rental property.  Rental rates are strong with one-bedrooms starting at about $1,400 and three-bedrooms topping $3,000.  Because Midtown Doral is such a unique property, rentals will be in high demand.

Payment Schedule

To purchase property at Midtown Doral, buyers must put down 50 percent of the purchase price broken down into five payments with the rest obviously due at closing.  It is important to note that the first building is almost sold out which highlights the interest in Midtown Doral.

No Other Doral Real Estate Compares

Midtown Doral is such a unique idea and planned community.  In fact, no other Doral real estate compares to Midtown Doral.  It is destined to be a leader condominium community that will definitely be duplicated and developed in other areas of South Florida as well as the rest of the country.  

Five Most Expensive Doral Real Estate Listings

Since Doral was established as a city in Miami-Dade County just over 10 years ago, the population has increased over 120 percent.  That increase has brought a demand in Doral real estate.  It offers so many benefits to those who live and work here because of its close proximity to major travel and transportation hubs as well as major arteries into and out of South Florida. 

For many buyers, luxury is of the utmost importance.  Throughout Miami-Dade, there are many properties that are considered luxury properties and come with the “luxury price tag.”  Doral real estate, however, offers some of the most luxurious homes that are comparable to other much more expensive.  Most of the luxury homes in Doral are priced well below $5 million.  We shared the list of the most expensive Doral homes in January but only two are still on the market which indicates a demand for luxury real estate in the area.  Following is the current list of the five most expensive Doral real estate listings, all of which are located in gated communities with lake and golf views.

For Sale at Doral Estates

9464 NW 52^nd Lane, Doral Estates, List Price:  $4,750,000

At over 11,000 square feet, this home is located in the exclusive Doral Estates and is one of only two homes still on the market from our previous list of top Doral homes.  It features 9 bedrooms and 10.5 baths in an open floor plan with high-end fixtures and finishes.  A large open downstairs area showcases a kitchen with tons of counter space, state of the art stainless steel appliances and a large breakfast nook that is connected to a huge family room.  Other amenities in this estate are a huge home theatre, gorgeous, landscaped swimming pool with waterfall and beautiful water views.  Built in 1982, it has been updated to reflect current styles and trends that are popular in today’s homes.

For Sale at Doral Isles

6923 NW 113^th Place, Doral Isles Mediterranea,  List Price:  $1,900,000

Situated in gated Doral Isles Mediterranea, this beautiful 3,800+ square foot home features five bedrooms and three and a half baths as well as a large gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, a center island, tons of cabinet space and stainless steel appliances.  Intricately arched doorways and other luxury fixtures and finishes are just some of the details in this spectacular home.  DoralIsles Mediterranea is located in the heart of Doral and close to shopping and entertainment along with main travel arteries and Miami International Airport.

6861 NW 113 Court, Doral Isles Mediterranea,  List Price:  $1,900,000

The other of the two homes from the previous list, this Doral Isles Mediterranea home offers five bedrooms and four baths along with so much more.  Situated on the lake, the home has bamboo wood floors on both stories, a huge kitchen with granite counter tops, state of the art stainless steel appliances and outstanding fixtures and finishes.  A beautiful master suite with spa like bath overlooks the pool and deck and offers panoramic views of the lake.  An outdoor living area with built-in barbecue completes the property and makes the owners feel like they are always on vacation.  

11101 NW 72^nd Terrace, Doral Isles Catalina,  List Price:  $1,890,000

The first word to utter when seeing this home is WOW!!”  Located in Doral Isles Catalina, this 2,800 square foot home offers beautiful lake views as well as the most exquisite fixtures and finishes with a contemporary, updated style.  Every detail exudes luxury including stairs with glass and aluminum and Italian porcelain floors.  The kitchen offers a sleek modern appearance with stainless steel appliances and contemporary lighting.  The home is also offered fully furnished for $2,100,000. 

For Sale at Doral Estates

4953 NW 94^th Doral Place, Doral Estates,  List Price:  $1,690,000

Built in 1980, this Doral Estates home has been updated and remodeled inside to feature an unbelievable design aesthetic.  With a beamed ceiling in the family room and a new kitchen with all the bells and whistles expected, it is necessary to see the inside to believe it.  It offers beautiful water views as well as golf course views of one of the greens on Doral Golf Resort’s Blue Monster Course.  It does not get much better than this slice of heaven. 

Affordable Luxury with Doral Real Estate

As the rest of South Florida’s real estate market begins to rebound, the demand on Doral real estate continues to climb as it has over the past 10 years.  For any high end real estate buyers, Doral real estate offers affordable luxury. The demand is evident with the ever changing lists of property listed and sold. 

Great Places to Enjoy the Fourth of July

We love the Fourth of July!  Families and friends always gather together for food, fun and fireworks with red, white and blue everywhere!  With so many fireworks displays across South Florida, we thought would make a few suggestions for Doral residents to plan a huge daylong event or head out towards sunset to watch the sky light up with tons of colors and spectacular fireworks displays. Our picks are easy to get to and geared towards families.

 

The City of Doral’s Independence Day Celebration, JC Bermudez Park.  For anyone who wants to stay close to home, the City of Doral has planned a huge celebration that not only celebrates the Country’s independence but also celebrates this city’s 10-year anniversary.  Over the years, Doral’s enormous event draws about 25,000 but is expected to be larger this year due to the extended celebration.  The celebration starts at about 7pm with live music from Boys Night Out and Orquesta America.  At about 9pm (after the darkness sets in), the city has a spectacular fireworks display planned.  Extra parking is planned with free trolley service to and from the park. 

While the “official” fun starts late in the day, a good idea is to head out early to let the kids run around the park and play on the playground while everyone picnics together.  This is such a great family-friendly event and one to which most Doral residents look forward.  While there are fireworks shows all over South Florida, it is a treat NOT to have to drive any distance to enjoy a great family-oriented event. 

Fourth of July Birthday Bash, Bayfront Park, Miami.  We must mention the annual Fourth of July Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park because of all that is planned.  There are few better ways to spend the Fourth of July with the whole family.  It is an all-day event with kids’ activities including pony rides and a petting zoo followed by a Miami Contra-Dance with live music from Dirty Dollars and the real reason everyone is there, a mammoth fireworks display starting at 9pm that can be seen from all over the Biscayne Bay area.  Although it is about 15-20 drive from Doral, with the crowds and parking, it is absolutely worth going to Bayfront Park if the plans are to spend the entire day and evening which is very easy to do with all of the planned activities.   

Old Fashioned Fourthof July in the Grove, Coconut Grove.  The 30-minute drive to “the Grove” is well worth it to spend the day in one of the loveliest spots in all of South Florida.  The day starts at about 11am at the Barnacle with an old-fashioned picnic.  Families can bring their own picnics or make it very simple and purchase “cookout food” including hamburgers, hotdogs, veggie burgers and more.  There are tons of kids’ games and crafts.  After the picnic ends, it is time to head over to Peacock Park for the continuation of the festivities.

Independence DayFireworks and Food Trucks Extravaganza, Coconut Grove.  Starting at 4pm, Peacock Park turns into the evening playground with tons of fun and festivities.  The kids have a huge kids’ zone and restaurants set up to offer their most popular dishes as well as drinks and libation for everyone in the family and live music.  The fireworks start at 9pm or as soon as it is good and dark outside.

Coconut Grove is the ideal place to spend the Fourth of July if you want a huge day of events.  It is a family-friendly event with loads to do and tons of fun to be had by all.  But keep in mind that it gets crowded as the sun goes down so get there early to find a place to spread out. 

Fireworks All Over South Florida

There are fireworks displays planned all over South Florida and there is no better way to guarantee a smile and a feeling of awe than watching fireworks.  Yes, the day requires a little planning but it is well worth the effort once the fun begins.  Look into these options or consider any one of the others all over the area.  We promise it will be filled with excitement.

Five Most Expensive Doral Homes Sold in 2013

The Doral real estate market is on fire.  Since the start of 2013, over 325 Doral properties have sold with the average number of days on the market at low levels. While most homes are priced between $300K and $600K with the average number of days on the market as low as low as 2-3 days, there are a handful of homes priced over $1 million that actually have sold in less than 100 days.   Following are the five most expensive Doral homes sold so far in 2013.

9445 NW 54^th Doral Terrace, Doral Estates, Sale Price:  $1,390,500

Like most homes in Doral Estates, this home is ideal for families with five bedrooms and five and a half baths under almost 5,500 square feet.  Situated on a lot that is over one-third acre, its highlights that draw potential buyers include a large family room, huge gourmet kitchen with everything any cook wants as well as a breakfast nook overlooking the pool area in the backyard, both formals and so much more.  Listed for just under $1.5 million, the home sold for 93 percent of the list price with the average number of days on the market for this sale was 88 days.  In 2007, the home sold for just over $1.5 million.

5453 NW 94^th Doral Place, Doral Estates, Sale Price:  $1,100,000

This Doral Estates home, built in 1984, is a one-of-a kind home with four bedrooms and three baths.  It has all the bells and whistles a million-dollar home in Doral should have including formals, a great family room and gourmet kitchen, an ideal pool and outdoor living area that features an automatic mosquito misting system and more.  It listed for $1.25 million and sold for almost about 12 percent below list price in just over 90 days.  The most favorable aspect of this sale price is that the last time the home sold in 2007, it sold for $425K and was remodeled to bring it to par with other Doral Estates homes. 

9445 NW 52^nd Doral Lane, Doral Estates, Sale Price:  $1,100,000

As one of the most contemporary homes in Doral Estates, this home has 6 bedrooms and 5 baths under over 4,500 square feet.  It was built in 1992 on a 0.39 acre lot.  Listed for $1.2 million, the home sold for about 8 percent below list price in just 32 days.  Last sold in 2003, the sale price was $650K.

5433 NW 94^th Doral Place, Doral Estates, Sale Price:  $950,000

A smaller home in Doral Estates, this Mediterranean style, 2,786 square foot home sits on a quiet street surrounded by larger multi-million dollar homes.  It features four bedrooms and three baths with a first-floor master suite and caged in-ground pool.  With all the luxury features of the other Doral Estates homes, it is the only home on our list of sold homes that sold for under $1 million at about 5 percent of list price and selling in just three days. 

Doral Estates Homes for Sale

As the most exclusive neighborhood in all of Doral, homes sell at a rapid rate in Doral Estates.  So far in 2013, five homes have sold with sale prices between $650K and just under $1.4 million.  Of the five homes, only one stayed on the market longer than 90 days with the other four selling in just over 30 days or less.  Doral Estates features beautiful estate homes with perfectly manicured lawns and golf course views.  Currently there are five homes on the market with list prices between $1.2 million and $4.75 million.

11365 NW 66^th Street, Doral Isles Riviera, Sale Price:  $1,000,000

This waterfront property encompassing almost 2,800 square feet sits in a gated neighborhood and has all the fixtures and finishes a million-dollar Doral home should have.  Listed for $1.1 million, it sold at 90 percent of list price in just 26 days.  In 2005, it sold for just over $800K. 

Doral Isles Riviera Homes for Sale

This neighborhood in exclusive Doral Isles features some of the most luxurious homes in Doral.  As a gated community Doral Isles offers some of the best amenities including a large state-of-the-art fitness center with spa, a restaurant, two large and really fun pools with waterfalls, and more.  Overall, thus far this year, four homes have sold in Doral Isles Riviera with sale prices between the mid-$600s to $1 million and an average number of days on the market at 81 days.  Additionally, for those who are interested in leasing, monthly rental rates range between about $3,300 to well over $4,000.  

Affordable Luxury

Doral real estate offers affordable luxury when compared to surrounding cities in Miami-Dade County.  What is bought here for just over $1 million can cost over $5 million elsewhere.  As the real estate market rebounds in South Florida, Doral properties continue to climb in value making them a very solid investment.

Five Fun Things to Do in Doral

With all the talk about Doral -- its consistent growth in popularity and affordable Doral real estate, it is always a good idea to talk about things to do in and around the area.  Doral is a very family-oriented city with lots of activities and venues for fun and excitement.  Following are five fun things to do in Doral.

Grapeland Water Park, 1550 NW 37^th Avenue, Miami

Technically located in Miami, Grapeland Water Park is situated just east of Miami International Airport within a 10-15 minute drive of most any Doral neighborhood.  As part of the City of Miami’s Parks and Recreation Department, Grapeland Water Park is full of fun for everyone.  From the smallest of toddlers to the tallest of grown-ups, there are activities and rides for everyone.  It is a favorite for parents because it is safe, easy to maneuver and, most of all, inexpensive (kids over 2 only $7 and residents age 14 and over only $12).  Young children love Shipwreck Island while the older ones have a blast at the Pirate’s Plunge.  Everyone congregates together at the Captain’s Lagoon and the Buccaneer River Ride.  For added fun, on the last Friday of every month, families come out to Family Friday and Dive In movies to splash around until sunset then get comfortable for a fun movie.

Cool de Sac, 11401 NW 12^th Street, Dolphin Mall, Doral

Cool de Sac is a great place for kids where the entire well being of everyone is taken into consideration.  This is one of the only places that the kids’ activities revolve around healthy activities and the parents can watch them while they enjoy delicious gourmet food from the in-house restaurant (seared tuna and hummus are a couple of popular requests).  Activities include an arts and crafts station to building tables with so more Legos than most kids have at home, a climbing station with ropes, bars and more on a multi-level play unit, a salon for playing dress up and more.  And, yes, there is a computer station with state of the art iMacs but only for fun, educational games (nothing questionable).  As for safety, every child and an accompanying adult get a coded wristband that is verified when leaving.  As for cost, the fee is $13.50 for kids 3-12 and $6.50 for kids under 3 years old.  Everyone gets in free.  This place is worth its weight in gold in terms of hours of fun. 

Golf Courses

We would be remiss if we did not mention anything about golf in Doral as this city is well-known for its championship golf courses.  From the Doral Golf Resort and Spa to Doral Arrowwood and the area public and private golf courses, it is easy to book a tee time and head out.  Many of the clubs offer clinics and lessons for those who want to learn or perfect their games.  And, it is always fun to simply go out for an hour or two to hit golf balls at the driving range on any of the courses.

Sky Zone, 5450 NW 82^nd Avenue, Doral

Located in the heart of Doral is another facility that is a blast for kids of all ages. Sky Zone is an indoor trampoline park with trampolines connected to each other across the inside of the facility.  This is a place that is great for hot summer days, rainy days or any time everyone just wants to go out and “do something.”   Not only do kids go home exhausted (makes for an easy bedtime) from jumping all over the place but adults can get fit at SkyRobics Boot Camp or by playing 3-D Dodgeball. This place is a blast!  Rates start at $9 for a 30-minute jump. 

Doral City Parks

For tons of fun and family time, there is nothing like a good city park.  The City of Doral has several from which to choose.  All offer shaded picnic areas and playgrounds, jogging trails and more so that families can spend an afternoon at the park playing games, swinging and sliding or just running all over the place.  For free fun and frivolity, there is nothing better than heading to one of the area Doral parks. 

A Family-Oriented Place to Live

Doral is definitely a family-oriented place to live.  In addition to these activities, there are so many more including packing the car up for the day and heading out to one of the area beaches.  It is so easy to see why Doral real estate is so popular and continues to expand and grow as the upswing in the economy revives and flourishes.

The Isles at Grand Bay

The Isles at Grand Bay is a master-planned community in progress in Doral.  Featuring two sections of single-family homes, the Presidential Estates and Executive Estates, and the Towns, an enclave of townhomes, it is an upscale gated community that is sure to be a well-sought after neighborhood for families and retirees. Architecturally, these homes have a Spanish flair with a mix of concrete block with stone accents and Spanish tile roofs. 

Developer

Known for other upscale developments in Doral and other parts of South Florida, not to mention being South Florida’s number one home builder, Lennar Homes has other premiere communities like Islands at Doral and Valencia at Doral under its belts.  With their successes, this is definitely going to be a great one.  Lennar has really hit the nail on the head with the Isles at Grand Bay as everything points to an exquisite neighborhood.

Location

Located is in the heart of Doral, the Isles at Grand Bay is close to 74^th Street and has easy access to the major thoroughfares.  It is also a short distance to Doral Golf Resort and Spa, excellent area parks, and popular shopping at Dolphin and Miami International Malls.  Additionally, major transportation hubs are within a short drive. 

The Isles at Grand Bay Amenities

When it comes to amenities, Lennar has thought of everything.  The extras that are considered “standard” are absolutely amazing.  It is a very appealing neighborhood to families because of the children’s playground, parks, large resort-style pool, and the mac-daddy kid’s aquatic splash zone.  For everyone else, the club house is outfitted with a large ballroom, entertainment bar, billiards room and more.  Other added amenities include a fully-equipped fitness center, aerobics studio, sauna, steam room, nature preserve, tennis courts and more. 

As for the homes, expect a high standard in terms of fixtures and finishes in terms of a great kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, sleek, high-quality cabinets and more.   The bedrooms are very spacious and elegant with walk-in closets and large baths that have granite or marble counter tops.  A favorite room in each home is the laundry room with large capacity washers and dryers as well as cabinetry above the appliances.

The Isles at Grand Bay Real Estate

The Doral real estate market continues to expand with new neighborhoods offering several options for buyers.  The Isles at Grand Bay is made up of three separate smaller communities – Presidential Estates, Executive Estates and Towns.  Homes in all the communities have a Spanish flair to the architecture and are very elegant sitting along the street.  While Presidential Estates and Executive Estates are all single family homes, the Towns is an enclave of townhouses. 

The prices of the townhomes at the Isles at Grand Bay start in the upper-$300s for properties that range from 1,600 to 1,900 square feet.   There are several that are under construction and will be ready for move-in over the summer.  For single-family homes, prices start in the mid-$400s and go to the upper-$500s with several elevations from which to choose.  Sizes range from just over 2,300 square feet to almost 2,700 square feet.  Lennar is in the process of having over 20 properties ready for move-in late this summer and into the fall.  As for Presidential Estates, list prices for quick move-in homes fall between the mid-$500s to the mid-$800s and will be ready in the fall.

Another Unique Doral Community

The Isles at Grand Bay is the perfect community for buyers interested in Doral real estate and, more importantly, new construction with upscale amenities.  What many consider to be upscale features, finishes and amenities are thought to be standard in Doral’s newest luxury community.  Our agents can provide the most up-to-date information to anyone wanting to look at new construction homes in the Isles at Grand Bay.

Most Affordable Doral Rentals

Doral is a part of Miami-Dade County that has seen major growth over the past 10+ years.  With the migration of domestic and international companies, Doral real estate continues to grow as developers see tons of potential in this up and coming community.  The biggest attribute is the amount of home for the investment.  As for rental property, those wanting more property for the money should take notice of property in Doral. On a cost per square foot basis, renters can get more property.  Following are the most affordable Doral rentals.

Doral Isles North Rentals

11455 NW 80^th Lane, Doral Isles North, Rental Rate:  $2800

This 2,800+ square foot coach home with a two-car garage is located in in Doral Isles North.  With travertine tile floors on the first floor and Brazilian cherry hardwood floors on the stairs and the second floor, this home has many detailed finishes to make this a wonderful place to live.  Rooms are large and offer tons of space and upgrades to make life easy.  The master suite is large and has a spa-like bath with a roman tub, large shower, and granite counter tops.  The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and lots of space to work on granite counter tops.  The community is filled with extras like a tennis court, kids’ playground, community pool and other amenities.  With a price per square foot at $0.99, this is definitely the most affordable rentals in one of the nicest communities in all of Doral. 

The Reserve at Doral 

7408 NW 107^th Place, The Reserve at Doral, Rental Rate:  $2,750

As one of the best homes in one of the most popular communities, this is definitely one of the most affordable Doral rentals.  This corner unit has a two car garage; a large kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and tons of space to prepare amazing meals; a large master suite with his and hers walk-in closets; and, spacious room under 2,673 square feet.  The Reserve at Doral has tons of amenities including a great resort-style pool, gated entrance, fitness center, great clubhouse and more.  With easy access to the major thoroughfares in and out of Miami-Dade, The Reserve at Doral is close to shopping, Miami International Airport and Downtown Miami.  This rental is one of the best deals in terms of location and price per square foot in Doral as well as The Reserve with a $1.03 price per square foot.

Costa Linda Rentals

5580 107^th Avenue, #1211, Costa Linda, Rental Rate:  $1,750

This annual rental is situated in Costa Linda - a neighborhood that sits across from Doral Park.  Close to area golf courses, shopping, and the major thoroughfares, this townhouse features three bedrooms and two baths, a nice updated kitchen, new carpeting and paint throughout and spacious living areas.  Community amenities like a nice clubhouse and pool make living here like living on vacation all the time.  The three-bedroom/two-bath residence has a cost per square foot at only $1.03 and no last month deposit is required at lease signing, this is a very affordable annual Doral rental.

Captiva Rentals

10770 NW 66^th Street, #508, Captiva, Rental Rate:  $2,600

As the largest unit in Captiva, this renovated condo sits on the lake in the community providing tranquil surroundings.  With stainless steel appliances, vaulted ceilings, arched doorways, hardwood and tile flooring, this three-bedroom/two-bath condo is located in a wonderful family oriented community.  Amenities include a community club house and pool, children’s playground, and more.  Located close to major thoroughfares and some of the best golf courses, this unit is priced at a mere $1.04 per square foot per month for an annual lease.

Doral Northeast Townhomes

11236 NW 56^th Street, Doral Northeast Townhomes, Rental Rate:  $2,050

Encompassing over 2,000 square feet of living space, this lovely townhome in the community of Sonoma offers three bedrooms and two and a half baths with a half bath on the first floor.  The home includes wonderful fixtures and finishes including a one-car garage, tile and carpet flooring, a large kitchen with tons of counter space and an island, large rooms and a traditional architectural style.  Community amenities include a guard-gated entrance, guest parking, children’s playground area, a community pool and more. Located in the heart of Doral, this community is close to excellent golf courses, shopping, dining and the major thoroughfares throughout Doral and Miami-Dade County.  This townhouse is available on a monthly basis and has a cost per square foot of only $1.07. 

A Wide Array of Doral Rental

There is a wide array of Doral rentals available with different attributes.  From smaller condominium units to elegant estate-like homes, the monthly price per square foot costs fall within a broad range of prices.  Unlike many other areas of Miami-Dade, Doral makes it easier to get larger properties for the investment.