YARDEN MEIDAR

Miami Beach is a 15-mile island in southern Florida that lies between bustling Miami to the west, and the vast blue stretch of the Atlantic Ocean to the east. In essence, it's a friendly, laid-back city with a lively arts scene that welcomes tourists, snowbirds, and year-round residents of all kinds. It's connected to the mainland by a series of bridges and is a cosmopolitan paradise, with pristine beaches, a year-round warm climate, and the most expansive collection of art deco architecture in the world -- more than 800 protected buildings, to be exact! The urban, self-sustained city of 90,000 is a melting pot of transients from around the world, creating a cultural island that's home to more than 150 ethnicities -- and a housing market just as diverse. There's a range of residential offerings at all sizes and price points, from luxurious manors to beachside bungalows. Being the demographically unique place it is, the biggest consideration buyers face when they buy a house in Miami Beach is choosing the right location -- for a few blocks' difference can determine whether you're right in the middle of the bustling nightlife or tucked away in a quiet, residential neighborhood. To get you the inside scoop on this hot place to be, we've spoken with local experts, including top agent Julie Sidorevskaya, who has 20 years of experience in Miami Beach real estate. In this how-to guide, we're covering all the important details you'll want to know to ensure you score your perfect dream home when you buy a house in Miami Beach.