Meet the Founder of a Black-Owned Real Estate Firm Buying Back the Block in Miami Gardens’ Historically Black Neighborhoods

As gentrification reshapes South Florida, Shamise Smith, the Founder and CEO of 305 Miami Houses, a Black-owned real estate company, is taking bold steps to preserve the cultural and economic legacy of Miami Gardens and surrounding historically Black neighborhoods. 305 Miami Houses, a community-focused real estate brand, is on a mission to “buy back the block,” revitalizing homes and offering short-term rental stays that support Black ownership, local pride, and generational wealth.

Led publicly by Shamise Smith, a Miami native and Superhost across platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and VRBO, the company offers a growing portfolio of stylish short-term rentals that allow travelers to experience the authentic flavor of Miami Gardens—without sacrificing comfort or culture.

“This is about more than real estate,” said Smith. “305 Miami Houses exists so we can preserve our neighborhoods, create economic opportunities, and keep our history alive—one property at a time.”

A Purpose-Driven Movement Rooted in Community

Miami Gardens, a culturally rich community with deep Black roots, is rapidly changing. Outside investors are purchasing properties at record pace, pushing out longtime residents and reshaping neighborhoods without regard for their heritage. 305 Miami Houses is flipping that narrative.

Instead of flipping homes for profit or selling out to large corporations, the company is acquiring and renovating properties with intention—making them available as short-term rentals while ensuring ownership stays within the community.

Their properties are not only beautifully furnished and centrally located near major attractions like Hard Rock Stadium, they’re also reinvesting in local pride and neighborhood stability.

More Than a Place to Stay — It’s a Movement

Currently offering three vacation rentals with plans to expand, 305 Miami Houses welcomes guests from all over the world through its direct website, 305MiamiHouses.com, as well as Airbnb, Booking.com, and VRBO.

Guests can expect spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and close proximity to some of Miami’s biggest events, concerts, and cultural hotspots. But the impact doesn’t stop at hospitality.

By booking with 305 Miami Houses, guests are directly contributing to:

• Preserving Black Homeownership in historically Black communities

• Creating Economic Opportunities for local contractors, vendors, and service providers

• Empowering a Narrative of Ownership in the face of widespread displacement


“This isn’t just about providing a beautiful stay,” added Smith. “It’s about proving that we can thrive, grow, and build within our own communities.”

How to Get Involved

Supporters, influencers, and guests are invited to become part of the movement. Here's how:

• Book a Stay at 305MiamiHouses.com, or a partner site

• Partner or Collaborate with the brand on events, content, or strategic growth

• Share the Mission by telling others about this grassroots movement for community ownership


About 305 Miami Houses
305 Miami Houses is a Black-owned real estate brand committed to preserving community wealth and ownership in historically Black neighborhoods throughout South Florida. With short-term rentals located in Miami Gardens and nearby cities, the company blends modern hospitality with purpose-driven investment to ensure Black families and neighborhoods remain rooted and empowered.

For press inquiries, interviews, or collaboration requests, please contact 818-808-9080 or lakeisha@elevatedigitalmedia.com

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