M
ichael Stern, a real estate developer, is facing an anonymous website's claims of being a fraud who deceives investors and business partners. Stern denies these allegations and has filed a lawsuit to unmask the website creator. Despite this, he has a history of lawsuits from former business partners, investors, contractors, and even his mother.

    Stern's career has been marked by high-profile projects in New York City, including the "world's skinniest skyscraper" in Manhattan and the tallest tower in Brooklyn. He is currently developing luxury projects in Miami with Italian packaging heir Gianluca Vacchi, including a $1 billion Mercedes-Benz residential tower and one of Dolce & Gabbana's first branded real estate ventures.

    Stern has been sued at least 30 times since starting JDS Development in 2002, but he denies any wrongdoing. He attributes the lawsuits to the nature of his business and the high-stakes projects he undertakes. Despite this, Stern remains focused on his legacy and wants to inspire people with his buildings.

    Stern's personal life has also been marked by controversy, including a lawsuit from his mother and a divorce that resulted in him losing control of some signature projects. However, he has continued to build his career, partnering with PMG to develop Walker Tower, which became one of the most expensive condos in New York City.

    In Miami, Stern's first major project was Monad Terrace, a 14-story waterfront building designed by Jean Nouvel where condos started at $3 million. The building quickly became popular among billionaires and CEOs, but residents have since complained about construction issues. Stern is currently waiting for city approval to rezone the adjoining property so he can build a 400-foot condo building.

    Stern's partnership with Vacchi has also been marked by controversy, including a lawsuit from a consultant who warned them that the Mercedes-Benz Places project could go significantly over budget. Despite this, Stern remains bullish on his firm's future in Miami and expects to elevate the high-end residential market with dynamic and iconic projects.

    Gil Dezer of Dezer Development, a friend of Stern's, believes that Stern is on his way to being considered a top Miami developer despite the challenges he has faced. "You have to get at least five buildings under your belt," Dezer said. "There's a lot of one-hit wonders in this town."