Since this video was posted in 2012, a lot has happened in Little Havana, and for that matter Miami overall, related to commercial real estate. These changes are evidenced in the changing demographic and economic data for Little Havana zip codes 33125, 33128, 33130, and 33135, and in the ever higher prices for commercial property in the same zips 33125, 33128, 33130, and 33135.
In recent weeks, Little Havana was put on the National Trust for Historic Preservation list of America’s most endangered places (another article here) as development has ramped up dramatically of late. This development has been driving by upward trends in rents and values in multifamily and office properties in Miami and nearby Coral Gables. These trends are causing developers to see parcels with old single story cigar shops and coffee houses as well short of their highest and best use.
It hardly seems fair to suggest that properties retain use cases that cause them to not realize their full value potential, unless the National Trust wishes to write a check, of course. Nevertheless, many would suggest it seems worthwhile for city planners to make some effort to retain the area historical character.