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Alexandra Baum

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Adventure Sports in Arizona: Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

Arizona, known for its striking desert landscapes and iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, is a playground for adventure enthusiasts. From scaling rugged cliffs to soaring above the desert, Arizona offers an array of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Let’s explore some of the most thrilling adventure sports opportunities in this sun-soaked state, including rock climbing, zip-lining, and hot-air ballooning.

Rock Climbing in the Red Rocks of Sedona

Sedona, with its stunning red rock formations, is not just a haven for spiritual seekers and nature lovers; it’s also a rock climber’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a novice, Sedona has something for everyone. The area boasts numerous climbing routes ranging in difficulty, offering breathtaking views and challenging ascents. Local climbing schools and guides are available to help you safely navigate the vertical terrain, ensuring an unforgettable experience as you scale the vibrant red rocks.

Zip-lining: Thrills Above the Tree Line

For those who prefer their adventures with a side of speed, zip-lining in Arizona’s diverse landscapes offers an exhilarating rush. One of the standout locations for zip-lining is in the Prescott area, where you can glide over lush forests and ravines at high speeds, enjoying panoramic views and the thrill of flight. These zip-line courses often feature a series of lines, each with its unique charm, providing a fun and adventurous way to experience Arizona’s natural beauty from above.

Hot-Air Ballooning: A Serene Adventure in the Sky

While hot-air ballooning might seem like a more serene activity, it’s no less thrilling. Floating gently above the Arizona desert offers a unique perspective on the landscape’s vastness and beauty. The most magical time for hot-air ballooning is at sunrise, when the soft morning light illuminates the desert, creating a mesmerizing tableau of colors and shadows. Phoenix and Scottsdale are popular spots for ballooning, offering spectacular views of the Sonoran Desert and distant mountain ranges. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a new adventure, hot-air ballooning in Arizona is an experience not to be missed.

Arizona’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of adventure sports. Whether you’re scaling the red rocks of Sedona, flying through the trees on a zip-line, or floating above the desert in a hot-air balloon, there’s no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline pumping in this vibrant state. So pack your adventurous spirit and head to Arizona for an unforgettable thrill-seeking journey!

Community

The RLSIR Challenge Coins

Embodying Excellence: The RLSIR Challenge Coin at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty presents all real estate advisors, employees, and executives with a RLSIR Challenge Coin. This RLSIR Coin embodies our values: honor, integrity, and belonging to a close-knit, collaborative, and supporting community. This challenge coin is patterned after US military challenge coins, which serve as evidence of belonging to a specific branch, unit, or having served during a particular tour of duty. These coins signify membership in an esteemed and exclusive group. Historically, in the military’s early days, they were utilized for security purposes, with service members often needing to present the coin as a demonstration of their allegiance and loyalty. At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, we issue and carry them to remind us that we belong to something much bigger than the sum of its parts and to answer the “challenge” of presenting it by our peers and colleagues.

Todd Gillenwater, Chief Executive Officer 

In the world of real estate, symbols often transcend mere artifacts, encapsulating values, camaraderie, and a collective commitment to excellence. One such emblem at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is the RLSIR Challenge Coin, a testament to honor, integrity, and the spirit of community within the organization.

Drawing inspiration from the esteemed tradition of US military challenge coins, each RLSIR Coin becomes a tangible representation of belonging. Much like their military counterparts, these coins stand as insignias of a close-knit, collaborative, and supportive community that values its advisors, employees, and executives.

At its core, the RLSIR Challenge Coin embodies a trio of core values: honor, integrity, and belonging. Within the context of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, it serves as a beacon, guiding members toward a shared vision of excellence in service and commitment.

Rooted in tradition, these coins echo the historical significance of military challenge coins. Originating from the military’s earliest days, these coins held the weight of allegiance and loyalty, often serving as a means of identification and solidarity among service members. In a similar spirit, the RLSIR Coin reflects membership in an esteemed and exclusive group within the real estate realm, symbolizing a collective dedication to the highest standards of professionalism and service.

Beyond their symbolic significance, these coins hold a deeper meaning. They serve as constant reminders that individuals are part of a greater whole, an entity that thrives on unity and collaboration. Each coin carries the weight of a legacy, encapsulating the collective efforts and shared values of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty family.

Moreover, the essence of the challenge coin lies not merely in possession but in the essence of being called upon to present it. It’s an invitation to engage, connect, and reaffirm the shared values among peers and colleagues. The challenge itself becomes a celebration of belonging, an acknowledgment of the collective commitment to excellence.

In conclusion, the RLSIR Challenge Coin at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty transcends being a mere token. It represents the embodiment of values, history, and a commitment to fostering a community driven by excellence, integrity, and the spirit of belonging. It stands as a testament to the organization’s ethos and a reminder that, together, they’re part of something greater than themselves.

Significant Sales

SIGNIFICANT SALES: December 2023

Throughout the state of Arizona, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been proud to represent and participate in the following sales for December.


We refer to these as ‘Significant Sales.’ While all of our transactions are genuinely significant, we hope you enjoy discovering these unique homes based not only on price but also on their architectural, cultural, and geographical significance, as well as those involved in the journey.

Enjoy!

Seller Representation:

1794 E Barrell Cactus Court | Tucson
Sold for $4,300,000
Seller Representation: Susanne Grogan
4525 E Coronado Drive | Tucson
Sold for $1,685,000
Seller Representation: Bryan Durkin & Susan Neitzel
10140 N Calle Del Carnero | Tucson
Sold for $965,000
Seller Representation: Mara Mitchell
12425 E Sutter Mill Street | Tucson
Sold for $830,000
Seller Representation: Jessica Sparks
14919 E Cavedale Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,850,000
Seller Representation: Barbara Miller & Mary Ann Miller
7335 E Arroyo Seco Road | Scottsdale
Sold for $2,695,000
Seller Representation: Joy Dorvinen
6115 N Camelback Manor Drive 18 | Paradise Valley
Sold for $3,500,000
Seller Representation: Frank Aazami & Dinesh Wilson
8310 E Charter Oak Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,000,000
Seller Representation: Laura Jordan
8028 E Vista Canyon Street | Mesa
Sold for $1,275,000
Seller Representation: Christine Anthony & Christine Sturgeon
1505 N Page Springs Road | Cornville
Sold for $1,985,000
Seller Representation: Jeanette Sauer & Ed Pennington
225 Deer Trail Drive | Sedona
Sold for $1,295,000
Seller Representation: Katrin Themlitz
14145 Warbonnet Lane | Prescott
Sold for $1,000,000
Seller Representation: Terri Kiffer
3748 North Tani Road | Prescott Valley
Sold for $680,000
Seller Representation: Lee Borst and Jennifer McMahon
11468/11454 E Black Rock Rd | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,500,000
Seller Representation: Lisa Lucky, Laura Lucky, & Matt Lucky
5000 N Via Velazquez | Tucson
Sold for $1,225,000
Dual Representation: Bryan Durkin, Susan Neitzel, & Robin Kaiserman
2032 N Smoketree Drive | Carefree
Sold for $1,650,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Stacy Paluscio, Darcy Whalen, & Courtney Woods Olson
Buyer Representation: Frank Trifeletti
10379 E Mirabel Club Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $4,186,125
Dual Representation: Patrick Rice
20 Tirso Lane | Tubac
Sold for $815,000
Dual Representation: Gary Brasher
87 Sabino Ct | Tubac
Sold for $687,327
Dual Representation: Gary Brasher & Daniel Ledwidge
24679 N 124th St | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,240,000
Dual Representation: Lisa Lucky, Laura Lucky, Matt Lucky
15828 E Jomax Rd | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,100,000
Dual Representation: Josie Pakula
174 Bristlecone Pines Road | Sedona
Sold for $1,975,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Rick Baker
Buyer Representation: Elisia Andreis

Buyer Representation:

  • 24778 N 91st Street | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $4,565,287
      • Buyer Representation: Julie Antunes, Debbie Omundson
  • 10675 E Winter Sun Drive | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $5,200,000
      • Buyer Representation: Patrick Rice
  • 9463 E Old Wrangler Trail | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $5,100,000
      • Buyer Representation: Dan Wolski, Mitchell Hundman
  • 41611 N 113th Place | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $4,175,000
      • Buyer Representation: Kirk and Keith Marshall
  • 12165 N 76th Court | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $3,200,000
      • Buyer Representation: Linda Miller
  • 5152 E Pasadena Avenue | Phoenix
    • Sold for $2,960,000
      • Buyer Representation: Josh Shaver and Catherine Lewis
  • 1311 E Beechnut Place | Chandler
    • Sold for $1,058,767
      • Buyer Representation: Shelia Long
  • 8549 E Angus Drive | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $810,000
      • Buyer Representation: Jean Grimes
  • 1546 E Fountain Street | Mesa
    • Sold for $714,000
      • Buyer Representation: Aron Johnson
  • 105 Manzanita Lane | Sedona
    • Sold for $1,300,000
      • Buyer Representation: Shana Dubro-Cohen
  • 1601 Rustling Wind Place | Prescott
    • Sold for $665,000
      • Buyer Representation: Paige McCargar
      • 36304 N 105th Way | Scottsdale
      • Sold for $3,500,000
      • Buyer Representation: Sally Cashman & Kathleen Prokopow
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Leslie Young

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Leslie Young to our Pinnacle Peak Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Leslie Young, honored to collaborate with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International as a licensed REALTOR, brings a diverse background enriched by experiences in seven states and fourteen cities. Settling in Scottsdale, AZ, with her husband, two grown children, and their beloved rescue dog, Buster, Leslie feels she has discovered her permanent haven.

Her professional journey began at CNN’s Washington D.C. bureau as a Publicist before contributing to Capitol Hill for the US House of Representatives. Transitioning to Goodman Media in NYC, a renowned Media Relations firm, laid the groundwork for her consulting career. In her recent role at a startup, Leslie excelled, ranking in the top 1% in sales and recruitment while assuming responsibilities as a company speaker, trainer, and coach.

Having been a licensed Virginia REALTOR and graduating from Stanford’s Graduate School of Business Executive Education program in 2022, Leslie continues her pursuit of knowledge. Certified as a Gallup CliftonStrengths™️ trainer, she actively engages in the realms of business and psychology. Beyond her professional achievements, Leslie has authored a series of children’s books focusing on character education, cherishing moments with her family and friends, and embracing life’s opportunities.

For Leslie, it’s all about seizing the day—Carpe Diem!

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Anna Wilhelm

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Anna Wilhelm to our Pinnacle Peak Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Anna, a retired elementary school teacher with 25 years specializing in gifted education in Scottsdale, now channels her passion for education into real estate. Her enduring enthusiasm for learning and knack for fostering relationships with students and families have shaped dynamic and enriching experiences over time. Transitioning to real estate, Anna brings her warmth and approachability to connect with clients on a personal level.

Her professionalism, keen attention to detail, excellent communication, and dedication to ensuring an exceptional client experience set her apart in the real estate market. Understanding the stress involved in buying or selling a home, Anna aims to simplify the process, making it seamless and enjoyable. Count on Anna to guide you through each stage of your real estate journey and help you achieve your property goals with confidence.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Vicki Cobb

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Vicki Cobb to our West Valley Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 


Vicki, a dedicated full-time REALTOR, approaches her role with unwavering positivity and boundless energy, striving to uphold the highest standards while serving her clients. She values collaboration, ensuring their needs and expectations are not just met but exceeded. With a keen eye for detail, she recognizes the significance of fostering robust business relationships with her clientele, priding herself on her exceptional people skills and professionalism. Drawing from her relocation background, Vicki offers a unique perspective that streamlines the moving process for clients entering or exiting the valley, alleviating their concerns along the way.

Originally hailing from Arizona, Vicki’s interests extend beyond real estate; she finds solace in painting and the escape of a good book. Growing up in a quaint town in Southeastern Arizona, she made the move to the valley at the age of 20. Her career journey led her through 8 years in Corporate Relocation. In 2012, she embraced a new chapter, marrying her husband and relocating to San Diego to accompany him on his next Navy assignment. Over the course of 10 years there, she thrived within the military community, honing her independence and forging lasting friendships. Subsequently, she ventured to Virginia for two years, accompanying her husband through his final Naval command before retirement. Now firmly rooted back in Arizona, Vicki has found her calling in real estate, aligning herself with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty to pursue her career aspirations.

We’re honored to welcome Vicki Cobb to Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. With a background in corporate relocation and a personal understanding of military reassignment, Vicki is ready to assist today’s buyers and sellers. We are thrilled to have her represent our brand and contribute to the growth of the West Valley marketplace.

CINDY SMITH, WEST VALLEY, BRANCH MANAGER
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Theresa Zins

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Theresa Zins to our Sedona Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

As a Sedona short-term rental market entrepreneur, Theresa Zins prides herself on delivering superb communication, top-notch organization, and individualized care to every client she serves. Armed with a Master’s degree in Teaching, extensive administrative expertise, and a family background entrenched in real estate sales and construction, Theresa brings a wealth of skills to each encounter with her clients.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty stood out as the clear choice for Theresa, thanks to their outstanding reputation and unwavering dedication to the success of both buyers and sellers.

Theresa brings a lot of personal experience to us at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and we are thrilled to have her as part of our team

Tod Christensen, managing broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Alli Gillan

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Alli Gillan to our Camelback Tower Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 


Alli Gillan, a seasoned real estate advisor, places client satisfaction at the forefront of her priorities. Her unwavering focus is on providing outstanding service, and she remains dissatisfied until her clients are truly delighted. With extensive industry experience, Alli possesses the expertise to address virtually every real estate need. Whether it’s finding the perfect home, securing an optimal loan, or maximizing property sales, she is committed to guiding her clients through every step of the process. Alli ensures that her clients’ needs are not just met, but encourages them to seek assistance whenever required.

Originally from the UK, Alli is a 20-year corporate retail buying veteran and a successful property investor since the age of 22. Having spent 12 years in the fast-paced environment of New York City, she honed her negotiation skills and closed multi-million dollar deals weekly before relocating to Arizona to seize real estate opportunities and embrace the Scottsdale lifestyle.

Armed with a degree in Economics, Alli seamlessly combines sharp analytical skills and economic understanding with a genuine passion for property. As a highly skilled negotiator and thorough researcher, she is dedicated to providing the most up-to-date information for informed decision-making. Alli is committed to helping clients experience the transformative impact of building equity in their lives, passionately assisting others in achieving their real estate goals.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seller, investor, or in search of a second home, Alli, as your dedicated real estate partner, ensures a smooth and successful journey. Her personalized care and commitment to your vision shine through, making each transaction more than just about properties—it’s about people and their dreams.

Beyond real estate, Alli is renowned for her love for dogs, regularly volunteering at local dog rescue charities. Her genuine care extends beyond transactions, reflecting her belief in making a positive impact in the lives of both people and animals. Apart from dogs and real estate, you’ll find her sharing her passion for Arizona, engaging in activities like hiking, pickleball, biking, jet-setting, salsa dancing, and savoring life’s finer moments—with a good cocktail in hand, of course.

Graciously, tenacious, and extremely eager to learn, Alli joins Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty ready to tackle a new career! Her fun and upbeat personality has already won her the likes of her colleagues. We are excited to watch her success unfold.

Sherri Monteith, managing Broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Lisa Armbruster

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Lisa Armbruster to our Pinnacle Peak Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Since 2000, Lisa Armbruster has been an integral part of the Real Estate industry, commencing her career as a loan officer and Mortgage Broker. Transitioning to a Realtor in 2014, her extensive lending background proved invaluable in guiding new buyers through the intricate process of homeownership. Her true passion lies in assisting individuals in discovering their dream homes.

An avid equestrian with a lifelong involvement with horses, Lisa’s home hosts 3 Mustangs and 2 BLM donkeys, making a perfect horse property a top priority. Leveraging this personal experience, she excels in aiding fellow equestrians in locating ideal properties that cater to their equine companions, ensuring access to essential resources like feed stores and trails.

With horses at the core of her life, working with other equestrians, whether it involves selling their horse properties or finding their perfect equine haven, is the ultimate joy for Lisa. Her profession is not just a job—it’s the icing on the cake!

We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to Lisa Armbruster at the Pinnacle Peak Office. Lisa’s achievements in real estate show promise to enhance the value we provide to our clients.

Kevin Gonzales, managing broker