Spotlight on: Brad Meltzer, Partner & President, Two Roads Development LLC

June 2025 — In an interview with Invest:, Partner and President Brad Meltzer of Two Roads Development discussed the Pendry Tampa groundbreaking, marking a significant step in Tampa’s luxury real estate growth. Strategic brand partnerships and disciplined financial planning continue to drive success, while Miami’s Edgewater and Brickell remain prime areas for expansion, he said. “Luxury real estate in South Florida will remain strong, and we’re expanding into new markets.”

What were the most significant achievements for Two Roads Development this past year?

Breaking ground on the Pendry project in Tampa was a significant milestone for us. It’s a project that’s been in the works for quite some time, and many were wondering when it would happen. We’re thrilled that it’s moving forward. The site is in a fantastic location within a developing neighborhood in downtown Tampa, and we’re very bullish on that market.

Pendry is a great brand under the Montage Hotels and Resorts umbrella. This project includes 200 residences and 222 hotel keys, plus all the amenities — ballroom, spa, fitness center, restaurants, etc. We believe it will be a great addition to the Tampa Bay area.

How is the luxury real estate market evolving in Tampa and Miami?

In Tampa, we’re seeing the bar being set higher for what luxury means. Between our project, the Edition, and the Ritz-Carlton that Related is developing, the market is shifting toward higher-end condominium living. For a long time, there were condos in Tampa, but not at this level. Now, people with the means have an option they didn’t before, and the market is beginning to fully embrace it.

In Miami, the trend is similar. I’ve been here for 28 years, and every time people question whether the market can sustain rising prices, it continues to meet or exceed expectations. Even during economic downturns, Miami has consistently bounced back stronger. The city’s maturation is just hitting its stride. When I first arrived, there was little in the way of cultural institutions, fine dining, or entertainment. Now, those aspects are thriving, and Miami continues to evolve into a world-class city.

We’re developing two Four Seasons residences — one in Las Vegas and one in the Bahamas on Paradise Island. These are high-end luxury products, consistent with our brand strategy. Vegas has been a surprising market for us. We didn’t expect it to be so hot, but it’s become one of our best-selling projects, and we are about to break ground there as well.

How do brand partnerships enhance Two Roads Development projects?

We gravitate toward hospitality brands because they define a lifestyle that buyers understand and desire. When someone stays at a Four Seasons, Edition, or Pendry, they know what to expect in terms of service, quality, and experience. We believe that the same expectation translates to residential living. As developers, we aren’t hospitality experts, so partnering with these brands brings an additional level of expertise. Their input helps us refine amenities and services, ensuring the residences deliver on the lifestyle promise. These partnerships have been incredibly valuable for us.

Which Miami neighborhoods show the most potential for growth?

Edgewater has been a major focus for us — I’ve been responsible for the construction of nine towers there in the last decade. It wasn’t even recognized as a neighborhood years ago; it was just the area east of Biscayne Boulevard between 20th and 36th Street. Now, it’s a thriving luxury residential district. 

Brickell has transformed into a highly walkable, vibrant neighborhood appealing to young professionals, families, and retirees alike. It’s no longer just a business district; it offers everything from retail and dining to entertainment and residential living. 

Looking ahead, areas like Allapattah and Little River are poised for growth. Miami’s development trajectory has moved from the Biscayne Corridor to Wynwood, and I believe it will continue expanding and creating new “pockets” within the city.

How is Two Roads Development adapting to changing buyer preferences?

Amenities have evolved beyond the basics like a gym or business center. Today, they’re an extension of a resident’s living space. If someone is downsizing from a large home, they don’t want to feel like they’re giving up lifestyle elements. That’s why we create lounges, libraries, and entertainment areas that function as extensions of a resident’s home. Instead of a 2,000-square-foot condo, they feel like they have access to a 22,000-square-foot living environment.

What opportunities do you see in waterfront and adjacent properties?

Waterfront real estate will always be in demand, but adjacency is also important. Brickell is a prime example — you don’t have to be directly on the water to have a premier location. Properties near parks, restaurants, and retail are gaining value, even if they aren’t waterfront.

We’re also seeing vertical development on the west side of Biscayne Boulevard, which previously wasn’t considered prime real estate. As Miami grows, these adjacent areas will continue to appreciate.

How is Two Roads Development approaching sustainability and smart technology?

Sustainability is no longer a trend but a requirement in all our projects. Everything we build in Miami meets strict sustainability standards. The challenge with technology is ensuring we focus on future-proofing technology, ensuring our developments are equipped for what’s next rather than just what’s current. For example, a few years ago, USB outlets in kitchens were a big selling point. Now, it’s USB-C. We work closely with our vendors and engineers to anticipate what’s coming next, so our buildings remain ahead of the curve when they’re completed.

How is the company mitigating risk in an uncertain economy?

Risk mitigation starts at the contract stage. We strive for “zero allowance” in our contracts, meaning every element of the project is selected before breaking ground. This locks in costs and prevents unexpected price increases.

We also buy out 95% of our contracts upfront, so we aren’t exposed to market fluctuations. For example, we’ve already purchased appliances, kitchen cabinets, and many other materials for our projects, eliminating cost uncertainty down the road. It requires discipline and extra effort upfront, but it ensures financial stability.

Tariffs are the biggest concern right now. The challenge is the lack of clarity — without a clear direction, it’s difficult to plan. We need certainty so we can adapt accordingly. Once the rules are established, we can strategize, but constant changes create unnecessary challenges.

How is Two Roads Development addressing labor shortages?

Long-term relationships with our trade partners are key. I don’t go for the cheapest bid; I go for the best, ensuring quality and reliability. The lowest price isn’t always the best deal. Certainty in execution, pricing, and scheduling is what matters most.

What are your top priorities for Two Roads over the next few years?

Luxury real estate in South Florida will remain strong, and we’re expanding into new markets. We have projects in the pipeline that we’ll be announcing soon, all in the luxury residential and hospitality sectors. Internally, our focus is on people. Development is a people-driven business, and we’re committed to cultivating the best talent, empowering our team, and fostering a strong, supportive culture. It’s incredibly fulfilling to drive around the city and see the projects we’ve built. Knowing we’ve contributed to Miami’s growth is a great feeling.