Introduction to Michael Comras
Background and Career Overview
Michael Comras is a prominent figure in the real estate world, serving as the president and CEO of The Comras Company. Based in South Florida, he has made significant contributions to the commercial real estate landscape. His company specializes in representing innovative retailers and developers across some of the trendiest neighborhoods in the region, such as the Design District, Wynwood, and Brickell. This expertise has positioned him as one of the key players in the industry.
Comras gained notoriety for his role in high-profile transactions, notably the successful $370 million sale of an entire block on Lincoln Road, which included popular brands like Apple, Nike, and Gap. Further demonstrating his business acumen, he orchestrated a $200 million purchase of CocoWalk and Sunset Place in Coconut Grove and South Miami (Haute Residence).
His influence extends beyond mere sales figures. Comras actively engages with the community and participates in discussions about the future of key neighborhoods. He has been featured as a panelist at various events discussing ongoing growth and the importance of preserving local charm (PROFILEmiami).
Through The Comras Company, Michael Comras has played a pivotal role in the transformation of sought-after commercial destinations in South Florida. From Lincoln Road to Wynwood and Coral Gables, his company continues to shape the region’s real estate landscape while attracting high net worth individuals looking to invest in prime locations. For more information about high net worth individuals, check out our article on high net worth people.
Notable Real Estate Ventures
Michael Comras has made quite an impact in the Miami real estate market through several notable ventures. His strategic investments and developments have contributed to the city’s vibrant landscape, especially in retail and community spaces.
Lincoln Road Block Sale
One of Comras’s most high-profile deals was the sale of an entire block on South Beach’s Lincoln Road for an astounding $370 million. This transaction, completed in September 2015, was made to the billionaire founder of Zara, Amancio Ortega. It stands out as one of the priciest retail sales in the history of Miami-Dade County (Commercial Observer, The Real Deal).
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Sale Price | $370 million |
| Buyer | Amancio Ortega |
| Date | September 2015 |
| Location | Lincoln Road, Miami Beach |
This sale not only solidified Comras’s position as a leading figure in retail development but also highlighted the increasing demand for prime retail space in urban Miami.
Revitalization Projects in Miami
In addition to his significant sales, Comras has played a pivotal role in revitalizing urban spaces in Miami. Alongside partners such as Federal Realty Investment Trust and Grass River Property, he invested $87.5 million in purchasing a majority interest in the CocoWalk retail complex. The goal was to attract visitors and provide alternatives to online shopping (The Real Deal).
Comras has also focused on developing urban retail environments that create a unique lifestyle and sense of place. His efforts in areas like Midtown Miami have transformed corridors into thriving destinations, such as the popular restaurant row featuring Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill. These ventures demonstrate his commitment to enhancing the Miami experience for both locals and visitors (The Real Deal).
These notable real estate ventures showcase Michael Comras’s influence and prominence in Miami’s evolving retail landscape, drawing attention from both local communities and broader commercial interests. For more on high net worth individuals making an impact in the area, check out our features on high net worth people, such as Louis Birdman, Jim Fried, and Ronald Krongold.
The Comras Company
Company Overview
Michael Comras is the President and CEO of The Comras Company, a prominent real estate firm known for its innovative approach in representing retailers and developers in some of South Florida’s most vibrant neighborhoods. This company has established a reputation for excellence, particularly in areas like the Design District, Wynwood, Brickell, Coconut Grove, and Aventura. Under Michael’s leadership, The Comras Company has successfully navigated high-stakes transactions and has cemented its position as a key player in the commercial real estate market.
The company specializes in strategic negotiations and real estate consulting, focusing on cutting-edge retail opportunities and high-profile developments. To illustrate The Comras Company’s successful ventures, the following table summarizes some of its notable transactions:
| Property/Project | Location | Sale Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Entire Lincoln Road Block | Lincoln Road | $370 million |
| CocoWalk | Coconut Grove | $200 million |
| Sunset Place | South Miami | Included in CocoWalk Sale |
These significant dealings highlight The Comras Company’s ability to engage in lucrative transactions, solidifying its influence in the competitive Miami real estate market.
Successes and Projects
The Comras Company has transformed numerous commercial destinations into thriving business districts in South Florida. Some of these areas include South Beach, Lincoln Road, Wynwood, and Coral Gables. The company’s expertise and understanding of market trends have allowed it to represent a diverse group of clients, ranging from cutting-edge retailers to upscale developers.
Michael Comras and his team have significantly influenced the area’s landscape by actively participating in revitalization projects and leasing activities. The company’s clientele features several well-known brands and businesses, ensuring that The Comras Company remains at the forefront of the region’s real estate scene.
For more insights into other influential figures in this space, you can explore our articles on Louis Birdman, Jim Fried, and Ronald Krongold. These individuals, like Michael Comras, have played vital roles in shaping the commercial real estate industry in Miami. For anyone interested in learning about other high net worth people and their contributions to California’s wealth landscape, it’s worth taking a closer look.
Community Involvement
Michael Comras not only makes a significant impact in the real estate industry but also dedicates a considerable amount of his time to community involvement. He is affiliated with several key associations and boards, and actively participates in various charitable initiatives.
Associations and Boards
Michael Comras is actively involved in various industry organizations that shape the real estate landscape. Some notable affiliations include:
| Association/Board | Role |
|---|---|
| International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) | Active Member |
| Realtor Association of Greater Miami and the Beaches | Active Member |
| University of Miami Real Estate Advisory Board | Board Member |
| Lincoln Road Marketing Association | Former Chairman |
| Coconut Grove BID | Board Member |
| Lincoln Road BID | Board Member |
| Miami Beach Mayor’s Blue-Ribbon Task Force on Tourism-Retail-Nightlife/Dining | Participant |
His leadership roles in these organizations highlight his commitment to enhancing the real estate market and the local community.
Charitable Activities
Michael Comras also participates in several philanthropic initiatives. His involvement spans various charitable organizations aimed at improving lives and supporting local communities. Some of the organizations he supports include:
| Charity Organization | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| AIR Society of National Jewish Health | Health and Research |
| Women of Tomorrow | Education and Mentorship for Young Women |
| The Bass Museum | Arts and Culture |
| Mount Sinai Medical Center | Healthcare Services |
| Jackson Health | Diverse Health Initiatives |
| Nicklaus Children’s Hospital | Pediatric Healthcare |
Through his charitable activities, Michael contributes to making a positive difference in the Pismo Beach community and beyond. His efforts exemplify the spirit of giving back while balancing his successful real estate career. Those interested in exploring more about high net worth individuals may find insights into others like Louis Birdman, Jim Fried, and Ronald Krongold useful.
Michael Comras’ Influence in Miami
Transformative Projects
Michael Comras has played a significant role in transforming various commercial landscapes in Miami, particularly through his development initiatives. Known for his eye for potential in urban spaces, he has successfully completed significant real estate ventures that have revitalized neighborhoods and elevated Miami’s reputation in retail and commerce.
One of his most notable projects was the sale of an entire block on South Beach’s Lincoln Road for an impressive $370 million in 2015. This deal, involving high-profile tenants like Apple, Nike, and Gap, marked one of the priciest retail sales in the region’s history (Commercial Observer).
Moreover, Comras revitalized Coconut Grove through a partnership with Federal Realty Investment Trust and Grass River Property to renovate CocoWalk. This project added a luxury office component and resulted in a fully leased 350,000-square-foot commercial space within a year of its completion in 2021 (Commercial Observer).
The impact of his work is evident across several key areas in South Florida, with transformative projects located in:
| Location | Notable Projects |
|---|---|
| Lincoln Road | Sale for $370 million |
| Coconut Grove | Revamped CocoWalk, $200 million purchase |
| South Beach | Retail developments including major brands |
| Wynwood | Various commercial projects |
| Downtown Miami | Retail and office spaces |
| Coral Gables | Commercial leasing and development |
| The Design District | Boutique and upscale retail |
| Aventura | Retail expansions and developments |
Key Clientele and Locations
Comras’s influence extends to his diverse clientele and the locations he has impacted. His company, The Comras Company, has established relationships with high net worth individuals and major retail brands seeking prime commercial spaces in Miami. His impressive portfolio includes deals with noteworthy clients who appreciate his expertise in retail development and leasing.
Some of the key players in the Miami real estate scene alongside Michael Comras include:
- Louis Birdman
- Jim Fried
- Ronald Krongold
Comras’s ability to identify and cultivate lucrative opportunities in prominent areas has solidified his status as a leader in Miami’s real estate market. Through his projects and connections, he continues to shape the commercial environment, making Miami a vibrant and dynamic hub for high-end retail and business.
Personal Insights
Lifestyle and Values
Michael Comras has made a name for himself in the commercial real estate market. Despite his high-profile achievements, including the substantial sale to Amancio Ortega, he maintains a lifestyle that is surprisingly down-to-earth. Comras does not place significant emphasis on material possessions; instead, he focuses on his work and aims to create engaging retail environments that enhance community interaction. His values reflect a dedication to improving the urban landscape rather than accumulating wealth for its own sake (The Real Deal).
Balancing Work and Success
When it comes to balancing work and personal life, Michael Comras exemplifies a methodical approach. Although he has achieved immense success in his career, he keeps his priorities aligned with his values. Comras believes that his work should correlate with his passion for transforming spaces and making a meaningful impact in the real estate sector.
This balance allows him to manage his various ventures while remaining connected to his community. He understands that success is not solely measured by financial gain but also by the positive changes he can bring about. His career is a testament to the fact that pursuing one’s passion often leads to both personal fulfillment and professional success.
For more insights on other notable high net worth individuals in the area, consider checking out profiles on Louis Birdman, Jim Fried, and Ronald Krongold to see how they balance their lives and careers.