South Florida is often described as one market, but Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties feel quite different to live in. For a referring agent, the most useful thing is not a ranking but a way to match your client's priorities to the right area before they start touring. This guide offers a simple framework and the questions to ask.
A side-by-side overview
The descriptions below are general orientation, not a substitute for a neighborhood-level conversation. Each county includes a wide range of communities and price points.
| Miami-Dade | Broward | Palm Beach | |
|---|---|---|---|
| General character | The most urban of the three, with dense high-rise neighborhoods alongside residential areas | A mix of coastal cities and suburban communities between Miami and Palm Beach | Coastal towns and spacious suburban and country-club communities to the north |
| Often considered by | Clients who want an urban, international lifestyle | Clients who want access to both Miami and Palm Beach | Clients who prioritize space, a quieter pace, or seasonal living |
| Typical property types to discuss | Condominiums, new construction, single-family homes | Single-family homes, condominiums, waterfront properties | Single-family homes, community and club living, condominiums |
| Questions to explore | Building amenities, association rules, commute | Neighborhood fit, waterfront access, commute in both directions | Community rules and memberships, seasonal use, travel distance |
Matching questions to ask your client
- Do they want to walk to restaurants and culture, or prefer a quieter residential setting?
- Will this be a primary home, a second home, or an investment?
- How important is being near an international airport?
- Do they need space for family, home offices, or guests?
- Are condominium association rules (rentals, pets, renovations) a concern?
- How often will they actually be in South Florida?
What to research before committing
Whatever the county, your client should review association documents, insurance quotes, flood zone information, and any rental restrictions for a specific property. Current prices and costs change, so we discuss them for each client's situation rather than in general terms.
Next steps
Our Markets page lists the communities we work in across all three counties. When your client is ready, an introduction lets us start with a conversation about their priorities.
Explore our marketsHow to refer a clientIntroduce a clientThis guide is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Referral eligibility and compensation are subject to brokerage approval, written agreement, and applicable requirements.