Diego Rosero Calad is a sales associate with RealtedISG working in Miami.

Every week, we ask a real estate professional for their thoughts on some of housing’s most pressing issues. This week, we talked with Diego Rosero Calad, a sales associate with RelatedISG.

Miami Agent (MA): In what ways has your international background assisted you in serving Miami’s market?

Diego Rosero Calad (DRC): As a professional inline skater for Colombia, I traveled the world for a long time before settling down in Miami. I had the opportunity to learn about many different countries and I can tell you from experience, there is nothing that compares to this city. Because I’ve seen what’s out there, I can appreciate this beautiful place in its entirety. I am in love with Miami and I can surely tell my clients, in great detail, why they would be lucky to buy a little piece of this paradise.

MA: In a recent article, we discuss a growing emphasis on healthy living, including higher demand for walkability, green spaces and access to healthy food. Have you noticed this trend, and if so, what do you think is driving it?

DRC: Healthy living, sports, good food; that is what Miami is all about. Everywhere you go you see people running, cycling and out on the water with paddleboards or kayaks. I think the world has realized that taking care of your body not only makes you healthier, but also helps with all your mental activities. Miami is promoting this recent trend and helping to create a different way of living.

MA: A review of homeowner association (HOAs) from Trulia found that Miami has the second highest rates in the nation for the priciest 10 percent of properties. Why are the area’s HOAs so high, and have you found it to be a deterrent for people purchasing in the city?

DRC: Miami has become a “resort” kind of living destination. Most buyers, looking for either a second home or a principal residence, are expecting to have year-round amenities like pools, spas, gyms, gorgeous landscaping and the list could go on and on. Community developers, therefore, strive to meet these demands. Developers will create an amazing value within the neighborhood with great perks, but it will be expensive. In my experience, buyers know the costs of living in Miami and they will invest in those resort-type amenities.