Proposed Boutique Hotel and Penthouse Conversion for Historic Courthouse
A proposed conversion of the historic Miami-Dade County courthouse at 73 W Flagler St. could introduce new dining and architectural landmarks to the Downtown area.
Historic Conversion Plans
A proposed project to convert the historic Miami-Dade County courthouse at 73 W Flagler St. into a boutique hotel and high-end penthouse conversion could introduce new dining options and a distinct architectural landmark to the area. The building, which features Neoclassical and Mediterranean Revival elements with a ziggurat-style roof, was constructed between 1925 and 1928.
At the time of its completion, the courthouse stood at 361 feet, making it the tallest structure in South Florida. It was designated a local historic landmark in 1985 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. In 2020, Miami-Dade County expanded protections for the site to include the lobby, atrium, and six courtrooms.
Auction and Development
The property is currently being auctioned through GovDeals. The auction is scheduled to close on August 28, with a minimum bid of $35.41 million and a $100,000 deposit. According to reports from Miami Today, a boutique hotel was judged a great future use of the county courthouse.
While the site is a significant historical landmark, its potential transformation into a hospitality and residential space could impact the local landscape for nearby residents. GFO Acquisitions LLC, led by Russell Galbut, previously submitted a bid of approximately $53 million for the property.
Impact on Nearby Real Estate
For owners and prospective buyers in the nearby Edgewater area, the addition of a boutique hotel and high-end residential units could influence the local atmosphere and walkability. The proximity to the historic site provides a unique backdrop for the neighborhood.
Nearby inventory remains active across several buildings. Bay House currently has 7 active listings starting from $810,000, while Icon Bay has 13 active listings starting from $635,000. Other nearby options include The Crimson with 5 active listings from $510,000, and Onyx On The Bay with 5 active listings from $620,000.
Additional nearby options include Aria Reserve, which has 43 active listings starting from $1.15M, and 601 NE 23rd St with 4 active listings starting from $560,000. As of August 27, 2026, Edgewater has 326 active condo listings with a median asking price of $944,500.
Sources Miami Today — https://www.miamitodaynews.com/2026/08/26/boutique-hotel-judged-a-great-future-use-of-county-courthouse/
Frequently asked questions
What is the proposed use for the historic Miami-Dade County courthouse?+
The building is proposed to be converted into a boutique hotel and high-end penthouse conversion. This project could also introduce new dining options to the area.
What are the auction details for the property at 73 W Flagler St?+
The property is being auctioned through GovDeals with a minimum bid of $35.41 million and a $100,000 deposit. The auction is scheduled to close on August 28.
What are the architectural features of the historic courthouse?+
The building features Neoclassical and Mediterranean Revival elements with a ziggurat-style roof. It was constructed between 1925 and 1928.
What is the median asking price for condos in the nearby Edgewater area?+
As of August 27, 2026, the Edgewater area has a median asking price of $944,500 for active condo listings.
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