You Can Build It.. But Will They Come?

In the years following the tragic collapse of Champlain Towers South, the future of the property has been a sensitive topic for both the local community and the association industry.

The site was purchased in 2022, just one year after the collapse that claimed 98 lives, by Dubai based developer Damac Properties. Their plan is an ultra luxury oceanfront condo called The Delmore, with construction underway and a projected completion in 2029.

Fast forward to today, and while the project is moving ahead, it has not been without challenges. Sales launched in January 2025, but more than a year later, not a single unit has sold. Residences start around $15 million for four bedroom homes, marketed as “mansions in the sky,” with some expected to go well over $100 million.

On paper, it checks every box. High end amenities, a private dining experience, a floating pool, and a meditation garden. It is built to be one of the most exclusive properties in the area.

But the reality is a little more complicated.

From the start, redevelopment of the site has been controversial. Many locals and families impacted by the tragedy feel strongly that the land should be a memorial, not luxury housing. That feeling, combined with the weight of what happened there, super high asking prices and some market hesitation, has made selling these homes a challenge.

It is a unique situation and a reminder that real estate is not just about location or amenities. It is also about history, perception, and how people feel about a place.

For boards and managers, the takeaway is simple. Properties carry more than financial value. They carry stories, and how those stories are handled can shape long term success.