All Posts By

Alexandra Baum

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Craig Bennett

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Craig Bennett to the 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. 

Craig is an Arizona-native Realtor, proudly carrying on a family tradition in Phoenix-area real estate that spans generations. As an esteemed Associate Broker at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, he leverages his expansive knowledge to deliver unparalleled value to a diverse clientele – from seasoned investors to first-time homebuyers.

Whether you’re navigating the complexities of relocation, exploring home construction opportunities, or diving into investment properties, Craig’s insights are as vast as they are invaluable. Yet, it’s his unwavering commitment to service that truly sets him apart. Always attentive, Craig ensures every client feels understood, crafting bespoke home buying or marketing plans tailored to their unique needs. His expertise primarily shines in the residential realms of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley.

Prior to his tenure at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s, Craig made his mark at renowned firms like Essential Properties and Coldwell Banker. His immersion in the world of real estate extends further back, having collaborated with top home builders Centex and Lennar. Craig’s roots in the industry run deep; his childhood memories are woven with experiences at his father’s agency, TRES Realty, later rebranded to Don Bennett and Associates.

A dedicated member of the National, Arizona, and Scottsdale Area Associations of Realtors, Craig also boasts a B.S. in Interior Design from Northern Arizona University. Outside of his professional endeavors, he’s an avid runner with a passion for marathons, hiking, and skiing. His adventurous spirit is evident in his global mountaineering pursuits, boasting impressive summits from around the world.

I had the pleasure of meeting Craig several years ago, as I had hoped to work with him sooner. He was just one of those people that I desired to be around. Easy to talk to, obviously passionate and committed to his work, my only regret is that we didn’t begin working together years ago! We are all excited to see his branding unfold with ours and for the next stages of his career!

Sherri Monteith, managing broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Lynsey Gauman

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Lynsey Gauman to the Southeast 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. 

Lynsey Gauman is a rising star in the world of real estate who brings a unique blend of passion, local expertise, and a zest for life to her clients. Born and raised in the picturesque state of Arizona, Lynsey’s deep connection to the community and her love for all things Arizona make her a natural choice for anyone seeking a trusted real estate partner.

Beyond her career in real estate, Lynsey is an avid adventurer and fitness enthusiast. During the winter months, Lynsey loves carving through fresh powder on the slopes on her snowboard. In the summer, you’ll often find her exploring the numerous hiking trails and lakes, and enjoying the breathtaking views that Arizona has to offer. When she’s not working up a sweat or negotiating real estate deals, you can find her playing with her adorable puppies or sipping cocktails at her favorite local happy hour spots.

Lynsey’s dynamic personality, in-depth knowledge of Arizona real estate, and genuine love for her community make her the ideal choice for anyone looking to buy or sell property in Arizona. With her guidance, you can trust that your real estate goals will be met with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a personal touch. To Lynsey, you’re not just a client; you’re a valued member of the Arizona community she proudly calls home.

Significant Sales

SIGNIFICANT SALES: SEPTEMBER 2023

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


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:

110 Powell Ct | Tubac
Sold for $462,487
Seller Representation: Gary Brasher and Daniel Ledwidge
9477 E Rosemonte Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for 1,400,000
Seller Representation: Michael Johnson
36480 N Rackensack Road #5 | Cave Creek
Sold for $1,049,000
Seller Representation: Debbie Omundson & Jon Huston
31643 N 64th Street | Cave Creek
Sold for $945,000
Seller Representation: Barbara Miller
11031 E Mariola Way | Scottsdale
Sold for $2,878,500
Seller Representation: Tami Henderson, Laurie Tucker, & Bo Bridge
1083 W Vistoso Highlands Drive | Oro Valley
Sold for $1,600,000
Seller Representation: Nancy Mancuso
3961 E Playa De Coronado | Tucson
Sold for $1,060,000
Seller Representation: Bryan Durkin & Susan Neitzel
974 S Castar Drive | Tucson
Sold for $800,000
Seller Representation: Marta Harvey
5735 W Three Forks Road | Prescott
Sold for $1,240,000
Seller Representation: Linda Wood, Chris Wood, & Jill Anderson
5846 W Maddie Lane | Prescott
Sold for $1,456,000
Seller Representation: Linda Wood, Chris Wood, & Paige McCargor
14045 N Thunderbird Road | Prescott
Sold for $1,087,000
Seller Representation: Terri Kiffer
1950 Iris Lane 408-04-201 & 408-04-202 | Sedona
Sold for $728,000
Seller Representation: Rick Baker
195 Courthouse Butte Road | Sedona
Sold for $800,000
Seller Representation: Arfuna Sorenson & Jacque Weems
4921 E Calle Del Medio | Phoenix
Sold for $5,500,000
Seller Representation: Dinesh Wilson & Frank Aazami
19025 N 99th Street | Scottsdale
Sold for $5,100,000
Seller Representation: David Arustamian & Frank Aazami
4895 W Braided Rein | Flagstaff
Sold for $1,695,000
Seller Representation: Shane Randall & Marie France Dagenais
3230 South Hannah Lane | Flagstaff
Sold for $698,500
Seller Representation: Valerie Core & Freddi Paulsrud
6048 E Mountain Oaks Drive | Flagstaff
Sold for $659,000
Seller Representation: Rosemary Lamberson
270 S Harding Drive | Sedona
Sold for $937,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Jolynn Greenfield & Jacque Weems
Buyer Representation: Jolynn Greenfield
10791 E Graythorn Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,000,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Kathleen Benoit, Bee Francis, & Karen Baldwin
Buyer Representation: Katie Lane
36516 N 105th Place | Scottsdale
Sold for $2,950,000
Dual Representation: Patrick Rice
35660 N Sol Street 8 | Queen Creek
Sold for: $960,000
Seller Representation: Adam Prather & Tyler Newman
432 E Phelps Street | Gilbert
Sold for: $888,000
Seller Representation: Kellie Stevenson

Buyer Representation:

  • 1708 Via San Cayetano | Rio Rico
    • Sold for $565,000
    • Buyer Representation Gary Brasher
  • 1761 E Hatcher Drive | Phoenix
    • Sold for 2650000
    • Buyer Representation Dawn Dickinson & Frank Aazami
  • 6201 N Yucca Road | Paradise Valley
    • Sold for $10,107,844
    • Buyer Representation Virginia Gee
  • 7109 N Red Ledge Dr 156 | Paradise Valley
    • Sold for $5,000,000
    • Buyer Representation Niccole Owens
  • 3726 S Wild West Trail | Flagstaff
    • Sold for $823,800
    • Buyer Representation Trina Painter
  • 6318 E Sierra Sunset Trail 623 | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,330,000
    • Buyer Representation: Adam Prather & Garrett Hartle
  • 272 E Joseph Way 102 | Gilbert
    • Sold for $905,000
    • Buyer Representation: Sherri Stella
  • 17530 W Wind Song Avenue | Goodyear
    • Sold for $435,000
    • Buyer Representation: Sergio Favela
  • 20760 N 106th Avenue | Peoria
    • Sold for $366,000
    • Buyer Representation: Wendy Boyce
  • 24510 W Pima St | Buckeye
    • Sold for $357,990
    • Buyer Representation: Renee Ryan
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Kevin Kermeen

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Kevin Kermeen to the Carefree 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.

Kevin Kermeen, a seasoned and accomplished Executive Realtor/Broker Associate, boasts an impressive sales track record surpassing $300 million and is continually rising. His unwavering work ethic can be attributed to his upbringing on an Iowa farm. With a real estate career spanning since 2007, Kevin has primarily operated in Nebraska, Iowa, and Arizona.

Kevin’s introduction to Arizona came in January 2016 during the Barrett Jackson Auto Auction, where he was captivated by the region’s climate and lifestyle. This infatuation led him to decide to relocate to Arizona permanently in 2020, a choice he has not regretted.

Kevin has strategically aligned himself with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, renowned for its longstanding reputation as a premier real estate brokerage in both Arizona and on the global stage. He highly values the expertise of his full-time global advisors and the exceptional level of service they provide. Kevin also emphasizes the brokerage’s unparalleled multi-million-dollar marketing campaign, setting the gold standard in the worldwide real estate industry.

In conclusion, Kevin Kermeen has established a prosperous real estate career and found his professional home at the Carefree office of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. He proudly serves the entire North Valley region, encompassing Cave Creek, Carefree, North Scottsdale, Anthem, New River, North Phoenix, and the Lake Pleasant Areas of Arizona.

We are proud to welcome Kevin Kermeen to the Carefree Office. Kevin’s successful track record in real estate – both as an agent and owner of a brokerage – will bring much value to our clients.

David Friedman, Managing Broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Lisa R Baker

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Lisa R. Baker to the 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. 

Lisa has been assisting her clients with their real estate needs for over two decades. Her expertise covers a wide range, including helping clients buy and sell primary residences, vacation homes, and investment properties. She’s also known for managing high-end luxury home services for both local residents and absentee homeowners. Lisa’s commitment to providing exceptional service and her ability to efficiently work with clients from afar make her an outstanding choice for property owners in and around the valley who live elsewhere.

Her success and knowledge stem from diverse experiences both within and outside the real estate industry. She has been the author of a monthly real estate market update featured in the Glendale Star and the Peoria Times since 2020. In addition, she has received the prestigious title of Best Real Estate Agent in Glendale for three consecutive years, in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Lisa is actively involved in her community. She generously volunteers for the City of Glendale, where she serves as the Community Development Advisory Committee Chair. She has also played vital roles on the 2020 and 2023 Citizen Bond Election Committees, holding positions as Vice-Chair and Chair, respectively. Her dedication extends to the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, where she serves on the Public Policy and DE&I Committees. Furthermore, Lisa is a member of the Glendale Woman’s Club and holds a lifetime membership with the Glendale Arizona Historical Society. Her commitment to both her clients and her community is truly commendable.

Embracing the power of community advocacy and the art of statistical storytelling, Lisa R. Baker has joined with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Our branch is thrilled to welcome Lisa, who brings a wealth of expertise and a passionate commitment to helping clients achieve their real estate goals. With the combined strength of our brand’s outstanding history and her extensive experience, she is poised to connect dreams to destinations, making every move a meaningful chapter in the story of home.”

Cindy Smith, WEST VALLEY, BRANCH MANAGER
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Sarah Sowder

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Sarah Sowder to the Tucson 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. 

Sarah Sowder, a Tucson native and proud graduate of Sahuaro High School, is a unique discovery in the real estate world. Having lived in Ohio and established herself as a Realtor in the Greater Dayton area, Sarah has cultivated a vast network that spans from the western to the eastern regions of the United States.

Sarah’s core values revolve around loyalty, effective communication, and unwavering honesty, which she wholeheartedly commits to upholding for her valued customers. With her sharp eye for interior design, meticulous attention to detail, and a knack for optimizing functionality, Sarah excels at guiding homeowners through the process of preparing their properties for the market.

She derives particular satisfaction from assisting luxury home clients with their distinct needs and holds prestigious certifications as both a Luxury Home Specialist and a Military Relocation Professional. Sarah’s husband, a retired US Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, has given her a deep understanding and knowledge of the challenges and requirements of clients with military backgrounds.

In her leisure time, Sarah and her husband can often be found enjoying local car shows on weekends, leisurely strolling through art exhibitions, or savoring culinary delights at the diverse array of restaurants in the area. Sarah’s love for art extends beyond appreciating local artists, as she finds her own creative outlet in oil painting, particularly focusing on expressing the beauty of flora and fauna.

The Tucson Office of Russ Lyon Sothebys’s International Realty is thrilled to have experienced agent Sarah Sowders join our Team. Sarah hit the ground running with an amazing sale as a Buyer representative her first week with our Brand.

Will Rose, Managin Broker

Significant Sales

Significant Sales: August 2023


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


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:

1 Avenida Villaescusa Court | Tubac
Sold for $1,197,000
Dual Representation: Marty Durkin & Bryan Durkin
6900 W Turquoise Hills Place | Marana
Sold for $1,210,000
Seller Representation: Jenna Loving
13744 N Keystone Springs Drive | Oro Valley
Sold for $1,150,000
Seller Representation: Mara Mitchell
1162 E Beaver Tail Trail | Carefree
Sold for $1,070,000
Seller Representation: Stacy Paluscio, Courtney Woods Olson, Darcy Whalen

24 Nichols Ct | Tubac
Sold for $751,838
Dual Representation: Gary Brasher & Daniel Ledwidge
1116 Camino Monte Cristo | Green Valley
Sold for $520,000
Seller Representation: Bob Prigmore
4615 N Royal Palm Circle | Phoenix
Sold for $5,500,000
Seller Representation: Johnathon DeYoung
17934 N 100th Street | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,575,000
Seller Representation: Marta Walsh and Matt Walsh
9770 N 56th Street | Paradise Valley
Sold for $3,050,000
Seller Representation: Frank Aazami & Jean-Michel Edery
5901 E Berneil Drive | Paradise Valley
Sold for $2,850,000
Seller Representation: David Arustamian
110 Sage Drive | Sedona
Sold for $1,269,000
Seller Representation: Julie Holt, Jim French, & Anne French
1440 Commonwealth Street | Prescott
Sold for $715,000
Seller Representation: Tammy Bates
17121 W Whitmore Hall Lane | Surprise
Sold for $810,000
Seller Representation: Camden Steele and Patrica Davis
8941 W Topeka Drive | Peoria
Sold for $700,000
Seller Representation: Lori Reliand and Lindsey Shoultes
8469 W Escuda Drive | Peoria
Sold for $670,000
Seller Representation: Bobbi Martin
9033 E Providence Drive | Flagstaff
Sold for $990,000
Seller Representation: Deidre Craig
1580 Pine Meadow Drive | Williams
Sold for $750,000
Seller Representation: Kristina Webb
8112 N Mohave Road | Paradise Valley
Sold for $9,950,000
Seller Representation: Bob Hassett
6230 E Cheny Dr | Paradise Valley
Sold for $5,250,000
Seller Representation: Alan Zieder & Kathy Harris
11264 E Apache Vistas Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for 3,776,305 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Kathleen Benoit, Karen Baldwin, Bee Francis, & Madelyn Elfgren
Buyer Representation: Shawn Chappel
11226 E Purple Aster Way | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,630,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: James Kolander
Buyer Representation: Dena Bullard, Nancy Sertich, Tim Floor, & Shawn Rimer
6407 E Butte Street | Mesa
Sold for $1,050,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Christine Fox
Buyer Representation: Anthony Guerriero
70 Top Knot Drive | Sedona
Sold for $4,250,000 | DualRepresentation
Seller Representation: Debbie Gregor
Buyer Representation: Leslie Yardley
2454 S Polaris Way | Flagstaff
Sold for $870,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Freddi Paulsrud, Valerie Core
Buyer Representation: Rosemary Lamberson
70 E Mount Elden Lookout Road | Flagstaff
Sold for $1,900,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Josh Winnicki & Sharan Winnicki
Buyer Representation: Nicole Cumbie
4230 Lariat Loop | Flagstaff
Sold for $1,050,000
Dual Representation: Shane Randall & Marie Dagenais

Buyer Representation:

  • 10584 E Greythorn Drive | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $5,400,000
    • Buyer Representation: Dan Wolski
  • 10029 E Reflecting Mountain Way | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $3,450,000
    • Buyer Representation: Dan Wolski
  • 6114 E Oyer Lane | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,820,000
    • Buyer Representation: Debbie Beede & Donna Taylor
  • 6016 E Thunder Hawk Road 572 | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,775,000
    • Buyer Representation: Jill Anderson & Linda Wood
  • 36461 N Kohuana Place | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,100,000
    • Buyer Representation: Lesley Vann
  • 20373 E Camina Plata | Queen Creek
    • Sold for $967,500
    • Buyer Representation: Randy Berg
  • 7700 E Nimitz Road | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $1,563,250
    • Buyer Representation: Adam Prather
  • 7260 E Eagle Crest Drive 6 | Mesa
    • Sold for $1,497,500
    • Buyer Representation: Jean Grimes
  • 100 Smoke Trail Lane | Sedona
    • Sold for $12,500,000
    • Buyer Representation: Zoja Pedenko, Frank Aazami, Nancy Read
  • 211 Calle Francesca | Sedona
    • Sold for $2,025,000
    • Buyer Representation: Katrin Themlitz
  • 43 Bloomingdale Drive | Prescott
    • Sold for $775,000
    • Buyer Representation: Laura Spaeth
  • Vacant Land | Case Grande
    • Sold for $6,138,000
    • Buyer Representation: Terry Brock & Karen Sauer