Exclusive Luxury Magazine is honored to present an exclusive interview with Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, a name synonymous with luxury real estate in Miami. As Managing Partner and Principal of Cervera Real Estate, Alicia represents not only a storied family legacy but also the vision and innovation that have shaped Miami’s skyline.

 

Born in Havana and raised in Miami, Alicia grew up immersed in the world of real estate, watching her mother, Alicia Cervera Sr., transform a vacation town into a thriving urban center. With decades of experience, Alicia has built on this foundation to position Miami as a global hub for luxury living. In this feature, we delve into her journey, insights, and the legacy of Cervera Real Estate.

 

Q&A with Alicia Cervera Lamadrid

Cervera Real Estate has been a cornerstone of Miami’s luxury real estate market for over four decades. What has been your guiding vision throughout this journey?

Developing the city we have today has always been our guiding vision. When my family arrived in Miami, it was a small vacation town with incredible natural blessings—the ocean, weather, and light. My mother envisioned a vertical city where there was only a horizontal town, and she acted on that vision.

 

She started selling homes to make ends meet after we lost everything in Cuba. But one day, she realized it would be more practical to sell an entire building rather than just one home. That approach paved the way for our work with high-rises, which transformed Miami into the vibrant, international city it is today.

 

Since then, we’ve marketed over 130 buildings and 70,000 units, working with developers, architects, and designers from all over the world. Miami has become a global melting pot, much like New York during the Ellis Island era. The city thrives on the talent and capital people bring, whether they’re contributing ideas or working with their hands. It’s that collective effort that built the Miami we know today.

 

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about navigating Miami’s ever-changing real estate landscape?

If it isn’t illegal or immoral, and it sounds like a good idea, you should try it. That mindset has been key to innovation in real estate. Whether it’s a new marketing strategy, a financing structure, or a product type, the magic often lies in fringe ideas.

 

I believe in starting with a “yes.” Explore the possibilities and pivot to “no” only when necessary. That willingness to embrace the unknown is critical in a market like Miami, where transformation is constant.

Miami has seen explosive growth in luxury real estate. How do you describe the market today?

Miami is in a perpetual state of transformation. Every five years, the city seems unrecognizable to newcomers, which is a testament to how rapidly it evolves.

 

When I look at the skyline today, I’m reminded that most of the buildings I see didn’t exist when I arrived. Cranes have been a constant feature of the city for decades. Miami’s market is incredibly dynamic, fueled by local and international demand. Challenges arise, but solutions emerge just as quickly, whether through financing innovations or the arrival of new investors.

 

How do you balance honoring your family’s legacy with driving innovation?

The best way to honor a legacy is to keep doing the right thing for the right reasons. That doesn’t mean sticking to the same methods; it means adhering to core values while evolving with the times.

 

Legacy is also about resilience—continuing the work even when it’s exhausting or complicated. For my family, that meant embracing change while remaining true to our vision of a vibrant, inclusive Miami.

Neighborhoods like Wynwood and Edgewater have emerged as vibrant areas. How do they compare to traditional hubs like Brickell or Miami Beach?

Miami was once a city without true neighborhoods. Over time, distinct areas have developed, each with a unique personality. Wynwood, for instance, has evolved from a warehouse district into a creative hub. Edgewater and the Design District now attract those drawn to arts, culture, and modern amenities.

 

Traditional neighborhoods like Brickell and Miami Beach continue to thrive, offering luxury living and established infrastructure. What’s remarkable about Miami is the diversity within and between neighborhoods, both in lifestyle and price point. That mix creates a dynamic urban fabric.

Miami’s architecture has become a defining feature of its luxury market. What role does design play in the city’s appeal?

Architecture is integral to Miami’s identity. We’ve been fortunate to work with world-renowned architects who have elevated our skyline, from Bjarke Ingels to Antonio Citterio. Developers here understand the importance of creating iconic buildings that stand out, not just during the day but also at night through thoughtful lighting.

 

Miami’s zoning laws have allowed for the creation of supertalls in the urban core while preserving the character of neighborhoods like Coral Gables and Coconut Grove. The result is a cityscape that blends innovation with respect for its roots.

Sustainability is becoming a global priority. How is Miami addressing this in luxury real estate?

Sustainability is on everyone’s mind. We’re selling projects like The Residences at 1428 Brickell, which features solar panels covering its entire west facade. Innovations like rainwater collection systems and hurricane-resilient designs are also becoming standard.

 

Miami’s position as a coastal city brings unique challenges, but we’ve embraced forward-thinking solutions. For example, newer developments incorporate water management systems to mitigate storm surges. Sustainability is not just a necessity; it’s an opportunity to enhance the quality and resilience of our city.

 

What advice would you give readers considering a move or investment in Miami?

Do it now. Miami’s appeal only grows, and waiting often means paying more and missing out on all the city has to offer. Miami is like a great love affair—it only gets better with time.

What sets Cervera Real Estate apart in this competitive market?

Cervera Real Estate is deeply rooted in Miami. We’re locally owned and operated, which allows us to offer a level of personalized service that’s rare in an international city.

 

When you work with us, it’s not just about finding a home—it’s about finding your place in Miami. We help clients with everything from discovering the perfect property to connecting them with the community, whether that’s a great hairdresser or their next best friend.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

www.cervera.com

 

 

Writer: Lesley Bishin

Cover photo: © Jooks Productions