According to the New York Times, Palm Beach’s most precious commodity—undeveloped oceanfront land—is now at the center of one of the most high-profile real estate competitions in the country. With limited inventory and rising demand, a new wave of billionaire buyers and legacy developers are shifting the tone of the Palm Beach real estate market from exclusive to elite.
This surge of interest has captured national attention as major players like Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, and high-end developer Todd Michael Glaser make headline-grabbing moves. Ellison’s latest purchase, a waterfront teardown reportedly priced near $50 million, is a strategic expansion of his existing portfolio. Just a few years ago, he made national news for acquiring the famed Gemini estate on Palm Beach Island for $173 million—one of the highest residential transactions in U.S. history.
At the same time, Glaser has quietly and steadily built a legacy in the area, buying up properties along Manalapan, Palm Beach Island, and Ocean Blvd, turning dated estates into contemporary coastal showpieces.
Market Insight from a Proven Leader
Featured in the article is Elizabeth DeWoody, a Founding Compass Palm Beach agent ranked #1 at Compass Palm Beach, Top 10 on Palm Beach Island, and Top 0.01% in Florida and the USA for the last eight years, according to The Wall Street Journal / RealTrends 2025.
“This is not slowing down any time soon,” DeWoody told the New York Times.
“Buyers want what they want and can get what they want,” she added.
“And sometimes what people want might change.”
Her insight echoes what seasoned professionals across the island already know. Buyers aren’t just chasing lifestyle anymore. They’re looking for control, location, and long-term land positioning.
The Expanding Search Zone
While Palm Beach Island continues to command international attention, other prime pockets of Palm Beach County are seeing accelerated interest. Among the most-searched areas are:
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Manalapan, Florida – Private estates with sweeping ocean-to-Intracoastal frontage
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Flagler Drive – Historic homes and modern new builds with walkability and water views
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SoSo Neighborhood – A favorite for buyers seeking charm, character, and coastal lifestyle
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The Bristol Palm Beach – A top-tier tower with hotel-style services and panoramic views of the island
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El Cid – A historic West Palm Beach neighborhood known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture and proximity to the Intracoastal
- Belgrove – A new resort-style residential development in West Palm Beach offering pre-construction villas with club access and full-service amenities
According to keyword research and current web search trends, terms like palm beach real estate, manalapan florida, the bristol palm beach fl, waterfront condo for sale near me, and el cid palm beach are seeing consistent search volume. This signals strong buyer curiosity and continued demand for properties both on and off the MLS.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
If you’re considering listing, now is a strategic time. Even with fluctuating market conditions in other parts of the country, Palm Beach real estate is outperforming national trends. Cash buyers, low inventory, and international attention are all driving competition.
If you’re a buyer, especially one focused on development or renovation, off-market access and speed are key. High-level transactions like Ellison’s aren’t happening on public platforms. They’re happening quietly, within trusted agent networks.
Final Thoughts
Palm Beach is evolving. What was once a seasonal market has become a year-round hub for serious buyers, developers, and investors. Whether you’re preparing to sell, actively searching, or exploring your options, our team offers the insight and access to move strategically.
Want to know what’s available on Palm Beach Island, West Palm, or along the Intracoastal?
We have access to active, off-market, and upcoming opportunities throughout Palm Beach County.
From waterfront condos to estate homes to new construction, we know where the opportunity lies.
Let’s start the conversation.
Source: The New York Times – “In Palm Beach, Billionaires Battle for Oceanfront Land” Published July 30, 2025
