The landscape of luxury real estate in Vero Beach extends beyond oceanfront estates; it now includes high-end accommodations for the vehicles that define the coastal lifestyle. A massive new development, MotorHaus 3.0, is currently rising on the mainland, promising a fortress-like sanctuary for the region’s most prized automobiles, boats, and RVs.
Located at 7420 U.S. 1, just 1.2 miles south of the Wabasso Causeway, this new complex is the latest venture from local engineer Joe Schulke and builder Vic Lombardi. The project is designed specifically to cater to residents of the northern barrier island communities, such as Windsor, Orchid Island, and John’s Island, who require secure, climate-controlled storage for their collections.
The demand for these “garage condos” has been overwhelming. According to the developers, 70 percent of the units were sold before the walls were even erected. Early this February, a massive 350-ton crane swung precast concrete walls into place, forming nine solid buildings that total 92,000 square feet.
Project Highlights and Specs:
- The complex features 78 units ranging from 920 to 1,440 square feet.
- Pre-construction prices ranged from $249,000 to $429,000.
- A unique “super-unit” measuring 2,300 square feet was listed for nearly $630,000.
- Construction utilized 20 million pounds of concrete, creating structures designed to withstand major storms.
While the primary function is storage, these units are often transformed into luxury lifestyle spaces. Owners in previous phases of the MotorHaus brand have customized their units with mezzanines, bars, and kitchenettes, turning them into “man caves” for socializing. The units come pre-plumbed for bathrooms and offer high ceilings suitable for car lifts, making them ideal for automotive enthusiasts who enjoy working on their vehicles in comfort.
The structural integrity of MotorHaus 3.0 is a major selling point for Florida residents concerned about hurricane season. The buildings are constructed with 8-inch-thick reinforced concrete walls and massive footings, offering a level of protection that rivals or exceeds many residential homes.
“Regardless of what is stored, whether it’s his and hers matching Maseratis, oriental rugs or antique furniture – possessions will be safe within the fortress-like buildings, which can withstand the fiercest storms.”
This is the third iteration of the concept by Schulke and Lombardi, following the success of AutoHaus on 12th Street and Indian River MotorHaus on U.S. 1. The partners noted that resale values at their previous “2.0” location have jumped significantly, with some units fetching $100,000 more than their original purchase price. This appreciation has turned the garage condos into an asset class of their own, combining utility with investment potential.
The strategic location near the Wabasso bridge was chosen specifically to reduce travel time for north island residents who previously had to drive further south to access similar facilities. The site also features a large conservation area and a pond, with over 400 trees relocated to create a park-like atmosphere at the southern end of the property.
Construction is moving at a rapid pace. The developers expect to complete MotorHaus 3.0 by September 2026, with owners moving their luxury coaches and classic cars into the units by October. As for the future, the team is already fielding inquiries that could lead to a potential “MotorHaus 4.0” if the right parcel of land becomes available near the island.
