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Alexandra Baum

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Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Eric Slack

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 Eric Slack to our Pinnacle Peak Office.

Eric Slack brings a distinguished record of leadership, integrity, and service excellence to his real estate career with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. With more than 25 years of experience in the private club and golf industry, Eric has excelled in leadership roles including General Manager/COO, Community Manager, Head Golf Professional, and Project Leader. His extensive background has built him a reputation for delivering exceptional experiences to members and their families across some of the most respected clubs and communities.

An Arizona resident for over two decades, Eric offers a deep understanding of the Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Flagstaff markets. His ability to build trusted relationships and navigate clients through complex real estate transactions reflects both his business acumen and his dedication to service. Having overseen multimillion-dollar projects and managed premier golf properties, Eric brings a uniquely qualified perspective to buyers and sellers of luxury homes, golf communities, and resort properties.

Known for his responsive communication, attention to detail, and results-driven approach, Eric is committed to exceeding expectations at every stage of the real estate journey. His clients value not only his professional insight but also his personal touch, often connecting with him over shared interests such as golf, travel, and community involvement.

Eric and his family are proud to call Arizona home, and he looks forward to helping others discover the same quality of life, sense of community, and opportunities that first drew him to the state. Whether assisting in the search for a dream home or marketing a one-of-a-kind property, Eric combines his leadership experience and passion for excellence to provide a truly elevated real estate experience.

Extraordinary Property of the Week

Extraordinary Property of the Week: 42690 N 98th Place

Set atop a ridge in the prestigious Desert Mountain community, 42690 N 98th Place is a secluded Desert Ranch Contemporary estate offering a rare combination of architectural brilliance, resort-style amenities, and the coveted Golf Membership opportunity. Perched on nearly 15 private acres, this exceptional home was strategically positioned in a linear fashion to embrace unobstructed southern exposure and deliver breathtaking Mountain, Valley, and City Light views from every room.

Crafted with artistic precision, this estate is a testament to unparalleled design and craftsmanship. Originally envisioned by renowned architect Terry Kilbane and later reimagined by architect and builder Justin Kilbane, the residence features a harmonious blend of custom copper, wood, stone, and glass elements that speak to its natural surroundings while elevating the experience of luxury living.

At the heart of the home, expansive entertaining spaces flow effortlessly through walls of glass to outdoor terraces, where the showstopping piano-shaped pool with a keyboard sun shelf and spa bench becomes a sculptural centerpiece against panoramic desert vistas. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or grand celebration, every moment is set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring beauty.

Inside, the residence unveils a curated selection of luxury living spaces:

  • A fitness room complete with private sauna
  • A spacious executive office with inspiring views
  • A dramatic media room ideal for cinematic experiences
  • A custom wine wall, wet bar, and inviting lounge areas for effortless entertaining
  • A 5-car air-conditioned garage, combining utility with showroom-quality style

Design elements include hand-carved custom entry doors, copper hearths, indigenous stone walls, artisan wood ceilings, and architectural lighting that transform each room into an experience. The interiors are designed to complement, not compete with, the surrounding landscape—offering serenity, texture, and natural light throughout.

And while privacy is paramount, this property also provides seamless access to the world-class lifestyle that Desert Mountain is known for—including seven championship golf courses, nine restaurants, a spa and fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts, and over 20 miles of private hiking trails.

42690 N 98th Place is more than a home—it is a once-in-a-generation estate offering luxury, privacy, artistry, and a place within one of Scottsdale’s most exclusive communities. With a Golf Membership available, this is an opportunity to own a property that truly has it all.

Interested in making 42690 N 98th Place your legacy estate in Desert

Significant Sales

Significant Sales: September 2025

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

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:

915 W Landoran Lane | Tucson
Sold for $1,200,000
Seller Representation | Kate Herk & Judy Smedes
1430 E Indian Wells Road | Tucson
Sold for $1,130,000
Seller Representation | Robin Kaiserman & Melissa Connelly
10629 E Troon North Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $2,875,000
Seller Representation | Lesley Vann
6224 E Calle Marita | Cave Creek
Sold for $2,010,000
Seller Representation | Jeane Adinolfi
10045 E Hidden Valley Road #215 | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,340,000
Seller Representation | Joanie Barreiro
6110 N 52nd Place | Paradise Valley
Sold for $4,500,000
Seller Representation | David Arustamian
8602 E Gary Road (Broker Exclusive) | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,600,000
Seller Representation | Tobi Placenti, Catherine Lewis & Josh Shaver
7902 E Via Linda | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,500,000
Seller Representation | Catherine Lewis & Josh Shaver
4190 Grindelwald Way | Flagstaff
Sold for $845,000
Seller Representation | Samantha Field
38 S Cosnino Road | Flagstaff
Sold for $1,190,000
Seller Representation | Rosemary Lamberson & Blake Cain
6702 E Cholla Street | Scottsdale
Sold for $4,600,000
Seller Representation | Kathy Reisdorf & Cindy Metz
20242 N 103rd Way Unit #1246 | Scottsdale
Sold for $4,250,000
Seller Representation | Allan MacDonald

Dual Representation:

5010 N Via De La Granja | Tucson
Sold for $1,316,340
Dual Representation | Erica Sarnoff & Will Rose
6631 N Camino Padre Isidoro | Tucson
Sold for $900,000
Dual Representation | Penny Bernal & Virginia Adams
3016 S Corte Amarilla | Green Valley
Sold for $789,000
Dual Representation | Penny Bernal
10249 E Joy Ranch Road #383 | Scottsdale
Sold for $2,000,000
Dual Representation | David Arustamian & Michael Zburlea (List) / Monique Pacurariu (Buy)
9140 E Grapevine Pass #CR339 | Scottsdale
Sold for $14,000,000
Dual Representation | Tami Henderson & Laurie Tucker (List) / Joanie Barreiro (Buy)
39602 N Charles Blair MacDonald Road | Scottsdale
Sold for $5,200,000
Dual Representation | Dawn Dickinson (List) / Keith Marshall & Kirk Marshall (Buy)
40185 N 107th Street | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,525,000
Dual Representation | Cheryl D’Anna, Alan Surges & Barry Conser (List) / Shawn Chappell (Buy)
27951 N 96th Place | Scottsdale
Sold for $6,350,000
Dual Representation | Will Foote, Mike Holder & Debbie Negrin
10283 E Running Deer Trail | Scottsdale
Sold for $5,700,000
Dual Representation | Will Foote, Mike Holder & Debbie Negrin
35801 N Meander Way | Carefree
Sold for $5,295,000
Dual Representation | Ioano O’Connor (List) & Kylie Mayol, Nevada Stanchina

Buyer Representation:

6426 E Santa Elena Street | Tucson
Sold for $1,910,000
Buyer Representation | Kate Herk & Judy Smedes

9927 N Rabwa Place | Tucson
Sold for $1,350,000
Buyer Representation | Christina Tierney, Frank Lococo & Katie Carver

10795 E Sutherland Way | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,100,000
Buyer Representation | Yong Choi

37200 N Cave Creek Road #1013 | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,964,000
Buyer Representation | Michelle Kalina

12837 E Harper Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,259,686
Buyer Representation | Patrick Rice

10030 E Jopeda Lane | Scottsdale
Sold for $4,400,000
Buyer Representation | Michele Geweniger

9894 N 79th Place | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,950,000
Buyer Representation | Erika Dickey

2100 Aubry | Flagstaff
Sold for $2,477,800
Buyer Representation | Shane Randall, Marie Dagenais & Cindi DeWine

8806 192nd Ave | Waddell
Sold for $750,000
Buyer Representation | Chris York

14135 W. Whitewood | Sun City West
Sold for $650,000
Buyer Representation | Jeni Lytle

14490 W. La Reata | Goodyear
Sold for $650,000
Buyer Representation | Lisa Baker

2652 N. 217th Dr. | Buckeye
Sold for $830,516
Buyer Representation | Camden Steele

11098 E Whistling Wind Way | Scottsdale
Sold for $19,050,000
Buyer Representation | Tricia Cormie

5063 N Ascent Dr | Phoenix
Sold for $4,035,409
Buyer Representation | Laura Lucky & Lisa Lucky

First Time Sales

First Time Sales: September 2025

Across the state of Arizona, real estate agents achieve significant milestones in their careers every month. This September, we are proud to have been part of these REALTORS’ first sales as Global Real Estate Advisors with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

Enjoy!

5010 N Via De La Granja | Tucson
Sold for $1,316,340
Buyer Representation: Erica Sarnoff
1st sale & got the buyer’s listing
8806 192nd Ave | Waddell
Sold for $750,000
Buyer Representation: Chris York
799 Crown Ridge Road | Sedona
Sold for $1,474,500
Seller Representation: Debra Harkins
1st Sale / Co-Agents Jeanette Sauer & Ed Pennington
4950 N Miller Road #200 | Scottsdale
Sold for $342,000
Buyer Representation: Daniel Lombard
1st Sale
1377 W Park Avenue | Gilbert
Sold for $630,500
Buyer Representation: Michelle Cross
1st Sale / Total 2 Closings in September
155 Goodrow Lane | Sedona
Sold for $735,000
Seller Representation: Heather Malloy
1st Sale / Total 2 Closings in September
Uncategorized

In the News: September 2025

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty continued to shine this September, with widespread media recognition for groundbreaking sales and iconic listings. As always, our agents remain front and center in elevating the Arizona luxury market.


Discover this month’s standout press:

Extraordinary Property of the Week

Extraordinary Property of the Week: 21620 W Buckwheat Lane

Set atop a ridge in the prestigious Desert Mountain community, 42690 N 98th Place is a secluded Desert Ranch Contemporary estate offering a rare combination of architectural brilliance, resort-style amenities, and the coveted Golf Membership opportunity. Perched on nearly 15 private acres, this exceptional home was strategically positioned in a linear fashion to embrace unobstructed southern exposure and deliver breathtaking Mountain, Valley, and City Light views from every room.

Crafted with artistic precision, this estate is a testament to unparalleled design and craftsmanship. Originally envisioned by renowned architect Terry Kilbane and later reimagined by architect and builder Justin Kilbane, the residence features a harmonious blend of custom copper, wood, stone, and glass elements that speak to its natural surroundings while elevating the experience of luxury living.

At the heart of the home, expansive entertaining spaces flow effortlessly through walls of glass to outdoor terraces, where the showstopping piano-shaped pool with a keyboard sun shelf and spa bench becomes a sculptural centerpiece against panoramic desert vistas. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or grand celebration, every moment is set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring beauty.

Inside, the residence unveils a curated selection of luxury living spaces:

  • A fitness room complete with private sauna
  • A spacious executive office with inspiring views
  • A dramatic media room ideal for cinematic experiences
  • A custom wine wall, wet bar, and inviting lounge areas for effortless entertaining
  • A 5-car air-conditioned garage, combining utility with showroom-quality style

Design elements include hand-carved custom entry doors, copper hearths, indigenous stone walls, artisan wood ceilings, and architectural lighting that transform each room into an experience. The interiors are designed to complement, not compete with, the surrounding landscape—offering serenity, texture, and natural light throughout.

And while privacy is paramount, this property also provides seamless access to the world-class lifestyle that Desert Mountain is known for—including seven championship golf courses, nine restaurants, a spa and fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts, and over 20 miles of private hiking trails.

42690 N 98th Place is more than a home—it is a once-in-a-generation estate offering luxury, privacy, artistry, and a place within one of Scottsdale’s most exclusive communities. With a Golf Membership available, this is an opportunity to own a property that truly has it all.

Interested in making 42690 N 98th Place your legacy estate in Desert

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Valantina Nissan

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 Valantina Nissan to our Camelback Tower Office.

No matter the real estate dream, Valantina Nissan and her team have the expertise, dedication, and drive to make it a reality. As an Associate Broker and seasoned real estate investor, Valantina has built a powerhouse real estate team alongside her husband, Aiman Hesswany.

With backgrounds spanning engineering, interior design, and global banking, Valantina and Aiman bring a unique combination of technical knowledge, financial insight, and strategic planning to every transaction. Their ability to speak three languages—Assyrian, Aramaic, and Arabic—combined with international experience provides a sharp edge in negotiations and investment strategies.

Their strong community presence, multiple real estate awards, and a large social media following ensure maximum exposure and outstanding results for their clients. Beyond traditional real estate expertise, their hands-on experience in fix-and-flip projects allows them to offer practical market insights and strategic investment guidance. Paired with in-depth knowledge of design and financing, the team delivers a truly holistic approach to property decisions.

Valantina and her team are committed to exceeding expectations, creating personalized strategies, and guiding clients with professionalism and integrity every step of the way. Their goal is simple: to transform real estate aspirations into reality with dedication and exceptional results.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Whitney James

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 Whitney James to our Pinnacle Peak Office.

Whitney James is a global real estate advisor and the founder of Altara Advisory, proudly affiliated with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. With a background as a retired physician, Whitney brings a rare blend of meticulous attention to detail, discretion, and a profound care for people to every client relationship. Her practice is rooted in trust, confidentiality, and the highest standard of service.

Specializing in legacy properties and legacy planning, Whitney views every transaction as an opportunity to help clients preserve wealth, create generational impact, and craft iconic lives in iconic homes. She integrates financial strategy into each step of the real estate process, ensuring clients benefit from both market insight and long-term vision. Supported by a team of experts in finance, health, and global real estate, she provides her clients with comprehensive guidance locally and abroad. A native Arizonan who has lived across the world, Whitney has returned home to serve clients in Scottsdale, North Phoenix, Paradise Valley, and beyond. Her personal life is deeply rooted in family and faith—she is a devoted wife, the mother of two boys, and a firm believer in the preservation of humanity and the goodness of people.

Whitney is dedicated to refining the art of luxury living every day, curating an unparalleled experience marked by excellence, integrity, professionalism, and research-driven strategy. Through her affiliation with Sotheby’s International Realty—“Curators of the Unique since 1744”—Whitney collaborates across 83 countries and territories, contributing to over $143 billion in global sales volume.

With an unwavering commitment to discretion, service, and strategy, Whitney James stands as a trusted advisor for those seeking more than a property—she helps clients design a lasting legacy.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Aiman Hesswany

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 Aiman Hesswany to our Camelback Tower Office.

No matter the real estate goals or dreams, Aiman Hesswany and his team have the expertise, dedication, and drive to make them a reality. As a Global Real Estate Advisor and seasoned real estate investor, Aiman has built a powerhouse team alongside his spouse, Valantina Nissan. Together, they bring a rare combination of experience, insight, and passion to every transaction.

What sets Aiman and Valantina apart is their diverse professional backgrounds. With roots in engineering, interior design, and extensive global banking experience, they offer clients a unique blend of technical expertise, financial acumen, and strategic planning. This fusion of skills ensures that every real estate decision is approached with precision, creativity, and long-term vision.

Beyond their professional credentials, Aiman and Valantina’s hands-on experience as real estate investors—including multiple fix-and-flip projects—gives them a practical edge. They understand the market from the inside out and provide clients with real-world investment insights and design-forward guidance. Their in-depth knowledge of financing and property transformation allows for a holistic approach to real estate, whether clients are buying, selling, or investing.

At the heart of their work is a commitment to excellence. Aiman and Valantina pride themselves on delivering personalized strategies, exceeding expectations, and guiding clients with professionalism and integrity. For them, real estate is more than transactions—it’s about helping people achieve their goals and turn dreams into tangible results.

Extraordinary Property of the Week

Extraordinary Property of the Week: 1720 W Cessna Way

Soaring above the ordinary, 1720 W Cessna Way is a one-of-a-kind offering in the prestigious La Cholla Airpark—a 7.23-acre fly-in estate that invites you to embrace a lifestyle of freedom, functionality, and refined desert living. Whether you’re a pilot, horse enthusiast, car collector, or someone seeking space, privacy, and possibility, this property delivers an unmatched experience for those who live life without limits.

Enter through a long, gated driveway framed by a striking timber entryway and discover not just a home—but an estate. Two separately renovated residences offer exceptional flexibility for luxurious daily living, multi-generational needs, guest accommodations, or integrated workspace. The main home, a reimagined burnt adobe ranch-style residence, has been thoughtfully modernized with an open floor plan and abundant natural light streaming through new metal-clad windows and doors. Panoramic views of the Tortolita Mountains and Pusch Ridge frame nearly every room. The chef’s kitchen features a waterfall granite peninsula, custom cabinetry, new appliances, a butler’s pantry, and beautifully curated fixtures. The interiors are polished with ceramic tile floors throughout, extensive decorative tilework, and stylishly updated bathrooms. A cozy family room with gas fireplace opens to the kitchen for easy entertaining, while the north and south patios offer covered, shaded outdoor living with unobstructed views. Attached is a 2-car garage with generous built-in storage and a large storage room.

Just steps away, the second residence—once a fully functional aircraft hangar—has been transformed into a sophisticated and versatile living space, complete with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, two offices, a new kitchen, a laundry room, and two additional garage bays. This structure can continue serving as a guest house or executive retreat, or be converted back into an aircraft hangar—original hangar doors convey—ready for your personal plane or custom automotive collection. Whether you envision a private workspace, creative studio, or a functional aviation hub, the possibilities are endless.

For aviation enthusiasts, the true luxury is the direct access to La Cholla’s 4,500-foot paved and lighted private runway—offering the freedom to take off and land right from your backyard. This is a rare opportunity for true fly-in, fly-out living with no compromises on comfort or style.

The expansive lot allows room for equestrian amenities as well, with space to add stables, arenas, turnout areas, and ample trailer and RV parking. The well-designed site supports large-scale storage and development, whether for horses, hobbies, or additional building.

Beyond the property lines, this home is ideally located in Oro Valley, recently ranked the “Safest and Wealthiest Retirement Community” in the country by GoBankingRates.com. Just minutes away are world-class recreational destinations like Catalina State Park, the Stone Canyon Club—ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 100 U.S. courses—and The Clubs at Dove Mountain, including The Gallery and Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Tennis and pickleball courts, fitness facilities, fine dining, and boutique shopping are woven throughout the area, enhanced by Arizona’s year-round beauty.

1720 W Cessna Way is more than a property—it’s a lifestyle destination where aviation, equestrian freedom, and sophisticated desert living converge. With versatile structures, sweeping views, and direct runway access, this is a home for those who dream beyond the horizon.

Interested in making 1720 W Cessna Way your personal airpark retreat?