Incorporated in 1946, Bal Harbour has become the new “hot spot” for the Jewish Orthodox.

Here’s why: It’s the lifestyle. Within a one-mile radius one can find five shuls, nine (soon to be 11) of the best kosher restaurants, a kosher bakery, a kosher grocery store, Publix, a post office, a $5 million water park, The Shops of Bal Harbour, a marina, tennis courts, a children’s park and five world-class hotels, and the community is completely serviced with a Shabbat eruv.

All the new condominium projects have Shabbat elevators and the many of the older ones are moving in that direction.

But wait, there’s more… What really makes this area special are the rabbis. Each one, in his own way, has enhanced the growth of the community. If one had to single out one rabbi for special recognition, it would have to be Rabbi Sholom Lipskar. And while the other rabbis are special, all would agree that Bal Harbour would not exist if not for Rabbi Sholom Lipskar.

Additionally, there is a French Morrocan shul and the Maguen David, which is Syrian. The newest shul to be built is the Young Israel of Bal Harbour with its incredible stained glass windows.

There are chazanim, rabbonim, shiurim and all forms or Jewish activity 24/7/365.

While many people think that Bal Harbour is only for the rich and famous, and it certainly has many in this category, one can find houses and condos for sale from $184,000 to $19 million.

In other words, there’s something for everyone!

By nature, I am very conservative in my recommendations. My first thought is, “The time to buy is when you have the money and it’s convenient for you.”

That said, I am telling all my friends and clients that if you are thinking Bal Harbour is where you are interested in buying, now is the absolute best time to buy, for three reasons:

The Shops of Bal Harbour just got approved to expand by 74 percent. All the best stores are coming or already here.

The Shul of Bal Harbour is doubling in size. They are adding more classrooms and a catering hall for 700 people.

While new construction starts at around $1,500 per square foot, a lot of the older “classic” buildings are remodeling, upgrading and contemporizing their general areas and services. With prices starting as low as $300 per square foot, many are opting for this option.

Lastly, I am seeing all my best clients who have lived further south sell and move into the Bal Harbour community.

Come to Bal Harbour to visit, to enjoy, to vacation, to live!

By Leon Weinschneider