Florida has long been a popular destination for real estate investors, thanks to its sunny climate, tourism-driven economy, and consistently strong housing demand. With over 20 million residents, Florida has one of the largest populations in the U.S. and has seen rapid growth in recent years. Major cities like Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville have thriving real estate markets that attract investors from across the country. Here is an overview of some of the top real estate investment companies active in Florida as of 2020.
The Blackstone Group – A global giant with major Florida investments
The Blackstone Group is one of the largest real estate private equity firms in the world, with over $330 billion in assets under management. Blackstone has been highly active in Florida real estate, investing over $8 billion in various projects across the state as of 2020. Major investments include a portfolio of 17,000 rental homes purchased for $240 million, multiple large apartment complexes in South Florida, and various hotel and retail properties.
Related Group – Leading condo developer based in Miami
Founded in 1979, The Related Group is the largest real estate development firm in Florida, focused primarily on multifamily condominium projects. Headquartered in Miami, Related Group has developed and managed over 100,000 condo and apartment units across Florida. Recent projects include luxury towers like Icon Bay in Miami and Gran Paraiso in Miami Beach.
Greystar – Major apartment investor and operator
South Carolina-based Greystar is one of the largest apartment owners and managers in the U.S. In Florida, Greystar currently owns and operates over 50 multifamily communities comprising more than 17,500 apartment units. Greystar has invested heavily in Florida apartment markets including Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville and South Florida.
Starwood Capital Group – Active in luxury hotels and resorts
Connecticut-based Starwood Capital Group is a private investment firm with over $60 billion in assets under management globally. In Florida, Starwood has acquired several high-end hotels and resorts including the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, the Ritz-Carlton Naples, and the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach. Starwood also owns over 5,000 apartments in Florida.
Waterton Associates – Focused on value-add multifamily
Chicago-based Waterton Associates is a private equity firm specializing in multifamily investments. In Florida, Waterton has acquired and renovated dozens of Class B apartment communities, implementing value-add strategies to reposition the properties. Recent Florida investments include complexes in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville and Miami.
Florida’s warm climate, tourism economy and strong migration trends make it an attractive market for major real estate investors. Companies like Blackstone, Related Group, Greystar, Starwood Capital and Waterton Associates have deployed billions in capital across various sectors of Florida real estate, including residential, hospitality, retail and office.