New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Annie Clark

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to providing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of Global Real Estate Advisor Annie Clark to our West Valley Office.

For those dreaming of owning a home in Arizona or drawn to the people, culture, and lifestyle that make the Valley so special, Annie Clark is an advisor who brings a personal touch to every real estate journey.

As a Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty advisor, Annie is committed to delivering exceptional client care and meaningful results. While she has a strong connection to North Phoenix and the surrounding Valley, her dedication to serving clients extends beyond any one neighborhood. Whether working with first-time homebuyers, returning homeowners, investors, property sellers, or those looking to lease their properties, Annie approaches every opportunity with care, attention, and a genuine desire to help people reach their goals.

Annie’s path into real estate began in 2018, when she and her husband purchased their first home. The experience left a lasting impression, thanks in large part to the dedicated buyer’s agent who guided them through the process. That personal experience helped shape Annie’s understanding of just how important the right advisor can be during one of life’s biggest milestones.

Before entering real estate, Annie spent more than 20 years living in the East Valley, from her high school and college years through the beginning of her career in fashion and customer service. Her diverse background helped develop the people skills, relationship-building abilities, and client-focused mindset she brings to real estate today.

Annie’s story is shaped by a love for people, meaningful connections, and the experiences that make a place feel like home. She describes herself as a San Francisco Bay Area native, a New England sports fan, and a nature-loving former resident of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Outside of real estate, Annie serves part-time on her church staff and enjoys the one-on-one conversations that allow her to connect with others on a deeper level. Her faith, client relationships, family values, and cherished coffee time are important parts of the life she leads and the perspective she brings to her work.

For Annie, real estate is about more than properties and transactions. It’s about understanding people, respecting their dreams, and helping them navigate important life decisions with confidence.

Whether you’re preparing to purchase your first home, searching for an investment opportunity, selling a property, or exploring the Arizona lifestyle, Annie is honored to be part of your journey. With a commitment to excellent service, a heart for building relationships, and a passion for helping others, Annie Clark looks forward to meeting you and helping you find your place in Arizona.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Leslie Mokhtarian

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to providing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of Global Real Estate Advisor Leslie Mokhtarian to our Tucson Office.

For Leslie, real estate is about more than buying or selling a property. It’s about finding a place where life unfolds, memories are made, and a true sense of home begins.

As a Tucson native, Leslie has a deep-rooted love for the Southwest and an appreciation for what makes Southern Arizona so special. From the unique personality of each neighborhood to the local restaurants and hidden gems that make a community feel like home, her knowledge of the area helps clients discover not just the right property, but the right lifestyle.

Her passion for homes extends beyond the walls themselves. With a keen eye for interior design and an appreciation for the details that make a space feel special, Leslie understands that the perfect home is about more than location. It’s about finding a place that reflects your personality, complements your lifestyle, and feels right the moment you walk through the door.

Whether helping a buyer find their next chapter or guiding a seller through the process of listing their property, Leslie is committed to providing thoughtful guidance and exceptional care every step of the way. She believes that real estate should feel personal, with every detail handled with intention and every client treated with genuine consideration.

At the heart of Leslie’s approach is a simple yet meaningful philosophy: lead with kindness. She strives to bring warmth, care, and understanding to every interaction, building relationships that extend beyond the transaction.

With her local expertise, passion for design, and commitment to making a difference through kindness, Leslie brings a personal touch to every real estate journey.

Because finding the right home is about more than a property. It’s about finding your place in the world.

Extraordinary Property of the Week

Extraordinary Property of the Week: 24848 S 198th Place

Resort-inspired outdoor living, contemporary architecture, and an extraordinary collection of amenities come together at 24848 S 198th Place, an exceptional estate tucked within the prestigious gated community of Whitewing at Whisper Ranch in Queen Creek.

Set on approximately 0.8 acres, the single-level residence was built in 2020 with a focus on seamless indoor-outdoor living and effortless entertaining. Contemporary lines, refined finishes, and expansive open spaces create a sophisticated backdrop, while the home’s orientation toward the surrounding desert landscape brings a distinctly Arizona character to the design.

Offering approximately 4,605 square feet, the residence features four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths. The open-concept interiors are thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and gathering, with wood and tile flooring, quartz countertops, generous kitchen islands, and carefully considered finishes throughout. A spacious kitchen provides a natural gathering point, with a gas cooktop, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, and ample preparation space designed to accommodate everything from casual mornings to larger occasions.

Throughout the home, the connection between the interior and exterior is immediate. Large openings and generous entertaining spaces lead naturally toward the backyard, where the property takes on the character of a private resort.

At the center of the outdoor experience is a dramatic 70-foot diving pool, complete with two sheer-descent water features, multiple bubblers, oversized Baja shelves, and a heated spa. A covered patio, built-in barbecue, and outdoor entertaining areas extend the living space beyond the walls of the home, creating an inviting setting for long afternoons and evenings outdoors.

The grounds offer far more than a traditional pool setting. A private pickleball court and basketball court provide space for recreation, while an in-ground trampoline adds another element of fun. A gazebo and carefully designed landscaping complete an outdoor environment that feels equally suited to active days, relaxed weekends, and entertaining with friends and family.

Additional conveniences include a four-car garage, extended-length and over-height parking, an RV gate, and generous outdoor space. The gated setting of Whitewing at Whisper Ranch provides an added sense of privacy while placing the home within the broader lifestyle and amenities of Queen Creek.

Yet what truly distinguishes 24848 S 198th Place is the way it brings together the comforts of a contemporary home with the amenities of a private retreat. From the expansive pool and sports courts to the open interiors and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, the property is designed around the idea that home can be both a place to unwind and a place to experience.

24848 S 198th Place offers a modern expression of Arizona living—contemporary, private, and resort-inspired, with an extraordinary outdoor environment designed to make every day feel a little more like a getaway.

Proud Moments

Proud Moments: Dan Wolski – Named SIR Top 100 in 2025

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty proudly congratulates Dan Wolski on being named among Sotheby’s International Realty’s Top 100 Agents.

This prestigious recognition celebrates exceptional achievement across the Sotheby’s International Realty network. Dan’s commitment to delivering a best-in-class luxury real estate experience reflects the highest standards of service, professionalism, and excellence that define our brand.

We are proud to celebrate Dan’s accomplishment and his continued dedication to raising the bar in luxury real estate. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

Proud Moments

Proud Moments: BCA Team – Named SIR Top 100 in 2025

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty proudly congratulates the BCA Team, Joe Bushong, Chad Christian, and Grant Almquist on being named among Sotheby’s International Realty’s Top 100 Agents and Teams.

This prestigious distinction recognizes outstanding achievement across the Sotheby’s International Realty network. Their dedication to delivering a best-in-class luxury real estate experience exemplifies the highest standards of service, expertise, and excellence within our brand.

We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and recognize the remarkable results they continue to achieve. Congratulations to the BCA Team, Joe Bushong, Chad Christian, and Grant Almquist on this well-deserved honor!

Proud Moments

Dan Wolski & BCA Team Named SIR Top 100 in 2025

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty proudly congratulates all of the exceptional advisors named among Sotheby’s International Realty’s Top 100 Agents and Teams.

Your unwavering commitment to delivering a best-in-class luxury experience continues to exemplify the highest standards of service and excellence within our brand. We applaud your dedication, celebrate your achievements, and thank you for consistently raising the bar with the remarkable results you deliver every day.

We would also like to extend a special congratulations to our very own Dan Wolski and the BCA Team, Joe Bushong, Chad Christian, and Grant Almquist, for being named to this prestigious list.​

Extraordinary Property of the Week

Extraordinary Property of the Week: 6044 N 44th Place

Panoramic views, extraordinary scale, and timeless architectural character converge at 6044 N 44th Place, a remarkable single-level hilltop estate set within one of Paradise Valley’s most coveted settings.

Positioned on approximately 1.62 acres, the residence rises above its surroundings with views stretching across the city and mountains in nearly every direction. A gated circular drive creates a private arrival, leading to an impressive entry where soaring ceilings and expansive walls of glass immediately establish the home’s connection to the landscape. From sunrise to sunset, the elevated setting provides a constantly changing backdrop to daily life.

Built in 1996, the approximately 10,656-square-foot residence was designed with an emphasis on scale, craftsmanship, and entertaining. Generous use of stone, marble, and slab granite brings a sense of permanence throughout the interiors, while custom burled redwood doors and cabinetry add warmth and distinctive character. A dramatic 44-foot hallway creates a striking central axis through the home, connecting its expansive living spaces.

The formal living room offers exceptional proportions and sweeping views, while a dedicated dining room captures the city lights beyond. A full-size bar with an ice maker and dishwasher sits near the wine room, creating a natural setting for hosting and gathering. Throughout the residence, the architecture balances grand entertaining spaces with intimate areas designed for everyday living.

The western wing is devoted to private retreat spaces, including a luxurious primary suite with its own coffee bar, oversized baths, two customized closets, dual granite showers, and a fireplace. A beautifully appointed office features paneled ceilings, extensive bookshelves, and a dedicated workroom, while an additional approximately 1,000-square-foot space offers flexibility as a gym, bedroom suite, or private retreat.

Outside, the property embraces the Arizona lifestyle with expansive patios oriented toward Camelback Mountain and the city beyond. A heated pool, pond, two firepits, and built-in barbecue station create a resort-like environment for entertaining or enjoying quiet evenings beneath the desert sky. A private dog run and two side yards add further functionality to the expansive grounds.

Yet what truly distinguishes 6044 N 44th Place is the relationship between its architecture and its extraordinary setting. The residence is intentionally oriented toward its surroundings, with walls of glass and generously proportioned spaces ensuring that the mountains, desert, and city lights remain ever-present.

6044 N 44th Place offers a rare expression of Paradise Valley living—an expansive hilltop retreat where exceptional craftsmanship, panoramic views, and sophisticated indoor-outdoor living come together on an extraordinary scale.

Extraordinary Property of the Week

Extraordinary Property of the Week: 550 S Eden Ln

Water, wilderness, and a remarkable sense of place converge at 550 S Eden Lane, an extraordinary private sanctuary set along nearly 400 feet of Oak Creek in the heart of Cornville’s celebrated wine country.

Known as Eden Star Sanctuary, the approximately 3.93-acre property is defined as much by its natural setting as by the residence itself. Towering cottonwoods, lush vegetation, red-rock surroundings, and the constant presence of Oak Creek create an environment that feels remarkably removed from the everyday, while Sedona remains approximately 20 miles away.

Built in 1991 and thoughtfully remodeled, the approximately 2,290-square-foot residence retains a distinctive character that feels perfectly suited to its surroundings. Soaring vaulted ceilings, exposed wood beams, warm bamboo flooring, and a dramatic natural-stone fireplace bring an organic warmth to the interiors. Curved lines, unexpected spaces, and intimate gathering areas give the home a personality that feels individual rather than conventional.

The home’s wrap-around deck extends the living spaces beneath the canopy of mature trees, creating a seamless relationship between the residence and the landscape. Each of the three bedrooms opens directly to the deck, allowing the sounds and scenery of Oak Creek to become part of the everyday experience.

At the heart of the home, Eden Lounge provides a dramatic gathering space anchored by a substantial stone, wood-burning fireplace. From here, doors open toward the expansive deck and terraces, blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor living. Morning coffee unfolds to birdsong, afternoons invite lingering beneath the cottonwoods, and evenings bring the changing colors of the landscape and the sound of flowing water.

Beyond the main living spaces, the property embraces a distinctly experiential approach to outdoor living. A private open-air bathtub creates a secluded setting for soaking beneath the stars, while an outdoor shower looks toward the creek and surrounding landscape. These spaces transform the natural setting into an integral part of the home’s daily rhythm.

Wellness is woven throughout the property with a dedicated Flow Studio designed for yoga, Pilates, and dance. Equipped for hot yoga with infrared heaters and a humidifier, the space offers a private environment for movement and reflection surrounded by the tranquility of the property.

Yet what truly distinguishes 550 S Eden Lane is something that cannot easily be replicated: its relationship with Oak Creek. With approximately 379 feet of creek frontage, the property offers a rare opportunity to experience the landscape not simply as a view, but as an ever-present part of home.

550 S Eden Lane is more than a residence—it is an immersive retreat where water, forest, architecture, and open sky come together to create an extraordinary expression of Northern Arizona living.

Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Arizona Real Estate Market Trends: September 2026

Three Regions. One Dynamic Market

Arizona’s real estate market is as diverse as its landscapes. From the vibrant Greater Phoenix metropolitan area and Scottsdale’s luxury communities to the mountain towns of Northern Arizona and the distinctive communities of Southern Arizona, each region offers its own opportunities and considerations for buyers and sellers.

As September 2026 comes to a close, market activity highlights an important theme: local conditions matter. Inventory, pricing, buyer demand, and days on market vary across the state, making local expertise and a thoughtful strategy increasingly valuable.

Greater Phoenix: Metropolitan Living & Luxury Real Estate

Greater Phoenix offers a diverse real estate landscape, encompassing established neighborhoods, growing communities, and some of Arizona’s most sought-after luxury properties. From the heart of the Valley to Scottsdale’s distinctive luxury market, September’s trends underscore the importance of understanding local conditions.

Buyers may find opportunities to compare properties and evaluate value as inventory and pricing conditions evolve. Sellers, meanwhile, can benefit from competitive pricing, professional presentation, and marketing strategies tailored to their property’s location and audience.

Within Scottsdale’s luxury market, property location, architecture, privacy, views, and lifestyle amenities can all influence a home’s appeal and value. Understanding the competition within a specific price range is essential when positioning a distinctive property.

Across Greater Phoenix, September’s activity reinforces the importance of looking beyond broad market averages. Whether purchasing a home in the Valley or selling a luxury estate in Scottsdale, local market knowledge remains central to making informed real estate decisions.

Northern Arizona: Prescott, Sedona & Flagstaff

Northern Arizona offers a distinct real estate experience shaped by mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, seasonal living, and communities with their own character.

Prescott attracts buyers seeking historic charm, outdoor access, and a relaxed mountain-town atmosphere. Pricing and available inventory vary by neighborhood and property type, making comparable sales an important resource for buyers and sellers alike.

Sedona remains distinctive for its red-rock landscapes, architectural character, and sought-after lifestyle. Property views, privacy, design, and location can have a meaningful impact on value. Buyers may benefit from taking time to evaluate available homes, while sellers should pay close attention to pricing and presentation.

Flagstaff combines mountain living with a vibrant local community, Northern Arizona University, and access to outdoor recreation. Changes in available inventory can create more choices for buyers while increasing competition for sellers.

Although these communities share a Northern Arizona identity, their markets are not interchangeable. Understanding local conditions is essential when evaluating opportunities across Prescott, Sedona, and Flagstaff.

Southern Arizona: Tucson & Tubac

Southern Arizona offers a varied real estate landscape, from Tucson’s established neighborhoods and diverse housing options to Tubac’s artistic heritage and distinctive desert properties.

Tucson offers a wide range of homes, including historic neighborhoods, foothill properties, established residential communities, and newer developments. Buyers and sellers should consider neighborhood-level pricing, available inventory, and recent comparable sales when planning their next move.

Tubac offers a different pace, with desert landscapes, an established arts community, historic character, and distinctive homes. Custom residences, desert retreats, and properties with expansive outdoor spaces appeal to buyers seeking a unique Southern Arizona lifestyle. In this smaller market, individual property characteristics and recent comparable sales can be especially important when evaluating value.

Across Southern Arizona, understanding the differences between metropolitan neighborhoods and smaller destination communities helps buyers identify the right fit and sellers position their properties effectively.

What September’s Trends Mean for Buyers & Sellers

While each region tells a different story, September’s market activity reinforces several important considerations.

For buyers:

  • Compare properties and recent sales within the specific neighborhood and price range.
  • Understand financing options and how borrowing costs affect purchasing power.
  • Evaluate potential negotiating opportunities based on current competition and a property’s time on market.
  • Consider how location, amenities, and long-term goals align with your purchase.

For sellers:

  • Establish an asking price based on relevant comparable sales and current inventory.
  • Invest in professional photography and thoughtful property presentation.
  • Highlight the features and lifestyle benefits that distinguish your home.
  • Work with a real estate advisor who understands the local market and the audience most likely to value your property.

Looking Ahead: Arizona’s Fall Real Estate Market

September’s activity demonstrates that Arizona is not one single real estate market. Greater Phoenix, Northern Arizona, and Southern Arizona each have unique dynamics that influence pricing, competition, and buyer behavior.

As the fall season continues, informed decisions will depend on understanding those differences and developing a strategy tailored to each property and community.

At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, our advisors bring local knowledge and a personalized approach to helping clients navigate Arizona’s diverse real estate landscape. Whether buying, selling, or exploring the possibilities of a new lifestyle, understanding the market is an important first step toward making a confident real estate decision.

Discover what is possible in Arizona real estate with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.