Today is the 6th of March, 2026, and Monticello is buzzing with news in the real estate sector. A significant joint venture between Batson-Cook Development Company and Ventures Development Group has secured $52 million in bridge debt to refinance a newly built multifamily asset. This loan, provided by Monticelloam, is aimed at The Southerly at Orange City, an apartment complex that debuted in 2024.
The Southerly at Orange City boasts 298 units and is conveniently located at 1211 Parc Hill Boulevard, just 28 miles north of Downtown Orlando. This multifamily complex, consisting of 10 apartment buildings, offers an impressive array of community amenities including a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, electric vehicle charging stations, a lounge with a kitchenette, a dog park, a business center, a pickleball court, and even a billiards room. It’s a place that promises not just a home, but a vibrant lifestyle.
The Financing Details
The loan, structured with a three-year term and two 12-month extension options, was arranged by CBRE, with key figures like Robert LaChapelle, Blake Cohen, and Reed McGarity from the Atlanta office leading the transaction. Chris Hetzel, managing director at Monticello, emphasized that this deal reflects their extensive experience in multifamily lending. Meanwhile, Rob McConnell, principal of Ventures Development Group, pointed out that the property is located in a rapidly growing area near Orlando, highlighting the strategic importance of the site.
But what does this mean for the overall multifamily real estate market in Florida? As the state’s population is projected to exceed 23 million by 2025, driven by migration and a favorable business climate, the demand for multifamily housing remains robust. Urban centers such as Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville are experiencing sustained demand for multifamily units due to a shortage of affordable single-family homes.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
The multifamily real estate market in Florida has seen substantial growth over the past decade, and the outlook for 2025 remains optimistic. While rents have sharply increased in cities like Miami and Orlando, rising costs and labor shortages pose challenges for new developments. Nevertheless, many believe that the trend of “build-to-rent” communities—entire neighborhoods designed specifically for long-term renters—will gain traction.
As developers navigate these changes, they are increasingly focusing on markets outside major metropolitan areas and considering smaller, boutique developments to attract specific demographics. With a rising interest in sustainability and energy efficiency, new regulations may soon require that developers incorporate green building practices and resilience against climate change impacts, particularly in coastal regions.
The overall outlook for Florida’s multifamily market in 2025 is positive, but stakeholders will need to be mindful of rising costs and regulatory changes. Public-private partnerships and incentives for mixed-income housing are expected to play a critical role in addressing the ongoing challenges of housing affordability.
For more in-depth information on The Southerly at Orange City and the multifamily real estate sector, check out the original article on Commercial Observer and insights on market trends from Trinity Street Capital Partners.