In Conversation with Fabio Faerman on Miami's Evolution as a Global Real Estate Hub

Written by:

Steve Marcinuk

Date:

11 Mar 2025

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In the dynamic landscape of South Florida real estate, few stories embody the region’s transformative potential quite like that of Fabio Faerman, CEO of FA Commercial, the commercial team at Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate. From his beginnings as an architect in Argentina to becoming the number one top-producing agent at Fortune for seven consecutive years, his journey parallels Miami’s own evolution into a global real estate powerhouse.

Building on Professional Foundations

“I was working as an architect in Argentina, but always decided to come to the States because I knew I could produce more and have a better, more predictable life,” Faerman reflects on his decision to leave Argentina in the early 2000s. This architect’s eye for detail and commitment to professional excellence would become the cornerstone of his approach to real estate.

The transition from architecture to brokerage wasn’t planned but proved natural. After partnering with a local broker to establish a commercial division, Faerman’s expertise caught the attention of Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate, where he was brought on to develop their commercial presence. “We began doing everything – retail, office, land development, industrial, and multi-family,” he explains, describing the diversified approach that would become his trademark and earn him both the Platinum and Centurion Circle Awards for outstanding performance.

A Legacy of Trust

With over a billion dollars in transaction volume and more than 800 properties sold across asset classes, FA Commercial’s success stems from a distinctive philosophy. “The name is the most important thing that you have,” Faerman emphasizes, describing how his firm operates more as partners than traditional brokers. “We work like partners with the buyers and sellers, feeling that we own the property with them.”

This approach has led to remarkable client loyalty, with Faerman having sold some properties three or four times to different buyers, each transaction generating significant returns for investors. As a commercial real estate investment advisor and Broker Associate, his focus on long-term client success has become a hallmark of his practice. “Everybody’s making a lot of money, and this is the most important thing for us,” he notes.

Miami’s Global Appeal

FA Commercial’s perspective on Miami’s market is particularly valuable given their experience working with international investors. “We have about 70-80% of the buyers coming from 80 different countries,” Faerman reveals, noting a recent shift toward a more balanced mix of domestic and international investors, currently trending toward a “50-50 or 60-40” split.

This global appeal, combined with Florida’s business-friendly policies and infrastructure resilience, positions the region favorably against other major markets. “Florida and Texas are the two essential markets, but Florida, I think, is better positioned because of the influx from the entire world,” Faerman observes.

Market Insights and Future Trends

Despite current market challenges, Faerman remains optimistic about South Florida’s trajectory. He notes that the pandemic accelerated existing trends: “What we see in the last 20 years after the pandemic is only an acceleration of the process… Instead of being in 2020, we are in 2028.”

Key market observations include:

• Strong retail performance with very low vacancy rates
• Continued office demand in urban cores, particularly in Brickell and downtown areas
• Growing interest from domestic investors, especially from New York, California, and Chicago
• Emerging opportunities in affordable housing development under new legislation

Innovation and Future Growth

Looking ahead, FA Commercial is embracing technological innovation while maintaining its relationship-focused approach. “We’re introducing AI as well, like everybody,” Faerman notes, describing efforts to streamline processes and identify off-market opportunities for clients. Under his leadership as CEO, the firm continues to expand its reach and capabilities within the Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate network.

The firm’s future includes a strategic focus on:

• Expanding their role in bringing premier hospitality brands to Miami
• Developing affordable housing solutions
• Strengthening relationships with international developers
• Enhancing customer service through technological integration

The Next Generation

As FA Commercial looks to the future, leadership transition is already in motion, with Faerman’s son, a University of Miami business graduate, positioned to carry forward the firm’s legacy. This succession plan exemplifies the firm’s long-term commitment to the South Florida market and its clients.

The story of FA Commercial and Fabio Faerman reflects the broader narrative of South Florida’s real estate market – one of transformation, resilience, and sustained growth. As the top-producing agent at Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate for seven consecutive years, Faerman’s success is a testament to his vision and approach. Drawing a parallel to Silicon Valley’s evolution, he concludes: “I see Florida like California in the 80s or 70s… and it will continue growing in the next 20 years.”