In the ever-shifting sands of Miami Beach real estate, the enduring partnership of Esther Percal and Jason Zarco of The Percal Zarco Group offers a beacon of seasoned expertise and deeply rooted local insight.
WRITTEN BY: RILEY KAMINERR
For those who have long navigated the sun-drenched shores of Miami Beach, the name Esther likely conjures images of answered real estate aspirations. And should one have the pleasure of encountering her impeccably mannered partner, Jason, consider yourself fortunate. Together, Esther Percal and Jason Zarco form The Percal Zarco Group, a formidable alliance boasting nearly half a century of collective wisdom and an abiding devotion to the city that nurtured them.
Their métier? Real estate, naturally. Their secret weapon? Enduring relationships, cultivated over years of dedicated service.
Esther Percal, a veritable doyenne of the Miami Beach property scene, established her reputation in a bygone era of landlines and unwavering commitment. Her dedication knew no bounds – calls answered at all hours, weekends, and holidays devoted to finding
the perfect address. The result? A level of esteem that transcends the ephemeral filters of social media.
In 2011, the narrative welcomed Jason Zarco, a Miami Beach native possessing the refined polish of the international hospitality sphere and a discerning eye for detail. Prior to joining forces with Esther, Jason honed his expertise opening prestigious Ritz-Carlton properties across the globe, ultimately serving as Director of Operations for the South Beach flagship. This inherent dedication to service remains his hallmark.
“Our endeavor extends far beyond the mere transaction of properties,” explains Jason. “It is about curating an experience of unparalleled service, ensuring our clients feel impeccably cared for from the initial inquiry to the final closing.”
And indeed, their approach resonates. Today, The Percal Zarco Group caters to a diverse clientele, from those embarking on their first homeownership journey to luminaries of the A-list, often spanning three generations within the same families. “It is not uncommon for us to have facilitated the sale of a grandparent’s estate, subsequently assist their children with an upgrade, and now be engaged in the property aspirations of the grandchildren,” Jason notes, underscoring the rarity of such enduring trust within the industry.
What distinguishes them within this competitive landscape? For one, their authentic local roots. “Many agents in Miami are transplants,” Jason observes. “However, Esther and I were both raised here. Our families arrived from Cuba in the early 1960s and remained. We possess an intimate understanding of the narratives woven into the very fabric of each neighborhood.”
This deep-seated knowledge has become increasingly vital in a market that oscillates between dazzling glamour and intricate complexities. “Currently, the ultra-luxury echelon, properties priced at $20 million and above, continues to exhibit remarkable velocity. Demand significantly outstrips supply,” Jason elaborates. “However, other segments of the market, particularly older condominium residences, are experiencing a softening.”
The impetus for this shift lies in recent state legislation enacted in the wake of the Surfside tragedy, imposing more stringent maintenance and reserve mandates on condominium buildings. “Certain buildings were ill-prepared for these requirements, necessitating substantial assessments,” Jason explains. “This is creating a bifurcation: newer, well-managed condominiums will likely flourish, while their older counterparts face considerable headwinds.”
Consequently, Jason strongly advises prospective buyers to engage the services of those with an encyclopedic understanding of the local terrain.
“Miami comprises a multitude of nuanced micro-markets. Superficial appearances of advantageous deals can be deceiving. This is decidedly not the juncture for a do-it-yourself approach to one’s real estate endeavors.”
Nevertheless, his outlook remains optimistic. With their distinctive fusion of impeccable service, astute market acumen, and enduring presence, The Percal Zarco Group offers more than mere property transactions. They provide the invaluable commodity of peace of mind.
