David Marom is a visionary real estate developer behind 9900 West Drive Condominium, a luxury 23-residence waterside condominium development in Miami’s sought-after Bay Harbor Islands being developed by his Horizon Group. His story begins on the sun-kissed beaches of Tel Aviv, Israel where David grew up and later transitioned to  New York City where he made a name for himself as a leading real estate developer before bringing his vision down South to Miami.

In this captivating interview, David shares how the unforgettable experiences from his youth and the lifelong lessons from his father-in-law have sculpted him into the exceptional developer he is today, constantly striving for innovation and excellence in each project he undertakes. He delves into the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the Horizon Group’s growth and reputation, while also revealing the personal values, principles, and goals that drive him to create stunning communities.

David, can you tell us a little about your journey into real estate development and what
inspired you to establish The Horizon Group back in 1985?

In 1979 I moved from Tel Aviv, Israel to the United States. A few years later, I met my wife in
New York City. Her father immediately accepted me and taught me everything about the
construction industry.

My father-in-law was a developer since the 1960s and primarily focused
on developing apartment buildings in Brooklyn and single-family homes on Long Island. I
eventually supplemented his teachings with classes at NYU. But almost everything I have
learned over the past several decades has been from hands-on experience while working in the
field.

The Horizon Group started as a small construction company based on Long Island and
today, we are a real estate development and construction firm throughout NYC and Miami.

What have been the most significant milestones in your career as the owner of The
Horizon Group, and how have they shaped the company’s growth and reputation?

2011 was a milestone year for my company. We transitioned from developing single-family
homes on Long Island to multi-family buildings in New York City. It was a big learning curve for
our company, but we loved the challenge and started establishing our brand in the big city.

As a successful developer in the New York City real estate market, what motivated you
personally to venture into the South Florida market with the 9900 West Condominium
project?

Everyone had their eyes on Miami during the pandemic. The real estate market was thriving,
and people moved here in droves. My wife and I spent most of the winter in Miami as well. We
really started to appreciate the lifestyle, and during that period of uncertainty, we were very
grateful to be able to spend a lot of time outside. I always considered developing in Miami and
all of these factors motivated me to go for it.

With your extensive experience in real estate development, how do you feel your
personal touch and vision have influenced the design and concept of 9900 West
Condominium?

I always pride myself for being hands-on throughout the entire development process from the
initial acquisition, to design and construction and eventually sales or leasing. I like to be involved
at every stage because I want to make sure we are building something unique and beautiful that
will stand the test of time.

Can you share a memorable experience or anecdote from your personal life that has
significantly influenced your approach to real estate development, particularly in the
case of 9900 West Condominium?

I grew up on the beautiful beaches of Tel Aviv. It’s a small city so I was constantly surrounded
by water. When I’m in Miami, I love seeing the ocean every morning when I wake up and then
having the ability to work on a project that is surrounded by the beautiful Biscayne Bay. This is
all so new for my team so we’re very energized and excited about the opportunity.

David, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance while managing a successful real
estate development firm like The Horizon Group, and how has that balance influenced
your perspective on luxury living in projects like 9900 West Condominium?

The Horizon Group is a family business. Those who aren’t family by blood are also my family.
Having an experienced and trustworthy team in place allows me to have a healthy work-life
balance; I travel often and go back and forth between Miami and New York.

Due to my Israeli roots, I have always favored Miami’s warm humid weather over the cold
winters in New York. NYC will always be my home and where my family lives, but I love having
access to both cities. It’s been such a pleasure to see the ocean every day and take conference
calls while walking on the beach.

Since this lifestyle is so new for me after decades in NYC, I probably appreciate it more than
others who have lived in Miami for many years. I’m using this fresh perspective to build
something special and unique at 9900 West – a place where people can live luxuriously while
enjoying all of their beautiful surroundings.

What are some personal values or principles you hold dear that have guided your
decision-making process throughout your career and in the development of 9900 West
Condominium?

When evaluating a potential property, I always research what the surrounding neighborhood can
offer future buyers in terms of lifestyle, schools, shopping, etc. I know residents at 9900 West
will have a fantastic quality of life which is why I am so confident about this project.

How do you envision the South Florida lifestyle and your own experiences influencing
the amenities and features offered at 9900 West Condominium, such as private boat slips
and outdoor recreational facilities?

The South Florida lifestyle is relaxing, luxurious, stylish and scenic. It’s an iconic vacation spot
for tourists so it’s obviously a great place to live! We incorporated these characteristics into
9900 West by designing spacious apartments and outdoor amenities like our luxurious saltwater
pool, expansive lounges and private boat slips.

Can you share some personal insights into the importance of location and community
when selecting a site for a project like 9900 West Condominium?

Location and community are key considerations when acquiring new properties. 9900 West is
located in an idyllic setting – it’s a thriving community, near the beach and walking distance to
excellent shops and restaurants. What more could you ask for?

What personal and professional advice would you give to aspiring developers looking to
follow in your footsteps and build successful careers in the real estate industry?

If you want to work in real estate, start by studying engineering in school so you can learn about
the construction side of the business. This will allow you to understand real estate from the
inside out.

With a passion for real estate development, how do you stay motivated and inspired
when working on projects like 9900 West Condominium, and what excites you the most
about this particular project?

I stay inspired and motivated because I love what I do. At this point, I don’t even look at it as a
“job” because real estate development is my passion.
It’s important to always network with others in the industry and stay up-to-date with the latest
trends and developments. What excites me the most about this project is knowing that I’ll be
able to offer future residents beautiful homes and an excellent quality of life.

 

David, what are some hobbies or interests outside of real estate that have positively
impacted your approach to development and your vision for projects like 9900 West
Condominium?

I’m a big fan of sports that take place outside – swimming, tennis, pickleball, water sports, etc.
At 9900 West, we’ll offer residents plenty of outdoor activities including a saltwater pool,
expansive sun terrace, lounging areas, trellis-covered lounge area overlooking the water,
summer kitchen, and breathtaking sunset views. I want to create a community where residents
can have a healthy work-life balance.

Looking towards the future, can you share some personal aspirations or goals for The
Horizon Group, whether in South Florida or other markets?

I love being able to develop in two markets at once (NYC and Miami) and will continue to do so.

Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave behind with your work at The Horizon Group
and with projects like 9900 West Condominium in the Bay Harbor Islands community?

I want to create beautiful and welcoming communities for families and several generations to
come.