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, Colleen Rose-Scurti 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.
Colleen Rose-Scruti has served hundreds of families in the past 30 years of her real estate career. Her experience includes sales, training, executive management, title, and escrow. She currently specializes in residential real estate for both buyers and sellers.
Colleen understands that buying or selling a home is one of the most important decisions an individual will make in your life. She is dedicated to helping buyers achieve their goals of homeownership, assisting sellers to achieve the highest value for their homes, and accommodating investors in finding the best real estate investments for their portfolios.
Colleen is a wife, mother of five children, and grandmother of four. She is not only dedicated to her clients and her family but is active in her community by donating her time and resources to preserve it for the next generation.
Choosing the right REALTOR® could be the difference between achieving your goals or missing out on your dream. If you are looking for a real estate professional dedicated to your best interests, high moral ethics, and uncompromising integrity, Colleen is the advisor your should trust. She would be happy to guide you through every step of the transaction process and even after the deal is closed.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to welcome Colleen into the family. Her years of experience leaves behind a trail of very happy clients, many of whom now call her friend. Colleen’s energy and intelligent counsel will be invaluable to her global clients.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and travel back to 1947.
What happened in 1947?
It was the first year of the Cold War, which would last until 1991, ending with the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Congress passes Taft-Hartley Act, restricting labor unions
Henry Ford dies, leaving behind a fortune of over $600 million
Americans can purchase the first new cars manufactured since the beginning of World War II
President Truman formulated the “Truman Doctrine” of providing aid to countries whose governments are threatened with overthrow
U.S. Secretary of State George Marshall called for a European recovery effort, popularly called the “Marshall Plan.”
India and Pakistan proclaimed independent nations
Britain nationalizes its coal industry.
Britain’s Princess Elizabeth marries Phillip Mountbatten, Duke of Edinburgh.
World Series:New York Yankees over Brooklyn, 4-3 (first televised World Series)
Jackie Robinson becomes the first African-American player in a major league baseball team (Brooklyn Dodgers)
Over 1 million veterans enrolled in college through the G.I. Bill
First food processors
The average cost of a loaf of bread was 13 cents
The start of the Cold War endured over four decades, from circa 1947 until the decline and eventual collapse of East European and Soviet state communism in the late 1980s.
1945 to 1947, to win independence, underground Jewish militias waged a bitter guerilla war against the British, including bombing attacks against British Military Headquarters
1947 November 29th The United Nations Special Committee on Palestine recommended the partition of Palestine into two separate states, one Arab and one Jewish
UFO allegedly found on July 7 in the Roswell UFO incident
National Security Act is created.
The CIA was established.
The classic holiday film “Miracle on 34th Street” premieres.
Howard Hughes Flying Boat ( The Spruce Goose ) takes off but will never go into production.
What happened in Arizona in 1947?
A fire destroyed all but four of Phoenix’s electric streetcars in October.
The city begins the process of transitioning to a public bus transit system.
The Phoenix Charter Revision Committee is formed.
Russ Lyon Realty is founded.
Phoenix Symphony Orchestra is founded.
Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce was formed, and Scottsdale leaders made a conscious effort to promote a particular identity linked to the Old West, as a reflection of the city’s roots and as a tourist draw.
The New York Giants start spring training in Phoenix.
1947: Cost of Living
The average cost of a new house was $6,600.00
Average wages per year $2,850.00
The cost of a gallon of Gas is 15 cents
Average Cost New Car $1,300.00
Loaf of Bread was 13 cents
The United States Postage Stamp 3 cents
Men’s Sweater $8.50
Bulova Men’s Watch $52.50
Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup 23 cents for 2 cans
Leg O Lamb 59 cents per pound
Loaf Marvel Enriched Bread 13 cents per loaf
Oranges 49 cents per dozen
Below are some Prices for UK guides in Pounds Sterling
Average House Price 1,824
A couple of examples of houses for sale this year
Harlingen, Texas New Brick House 5 room house with all furniture included $7,100
Long Beach, California Mediterranean style Home with Most beautiful 2-story modern home overlooking the ocean well cared for grounds $37,500
Who was born this year?
January 8th: David Bowie
February 2nd: Farrah Fawcett
March 25th: Elton John
April 12th: David Letterman
May 2nd: James Dyson
July 5th: Judge Joe Brown
July 18th: Steve Forbes
July 30th: Arnold Schwarzenegger
September 1: Stephen King
September 27th: Meat Loaf
August 14th: Danielle Steel
October 26th: Hillary Rodham Clinton
November 8th: Minnie Riperton
What technology was there?
First “instant camera” Camera History shown
Saab produces its first automobile.
Goodrich Manufacturers’ first Tubeless Tyre
Howard Hughes Flying Boat ( The Spruce Goose ) takes off but will never go into production.
The Transistor is invented
Walter Morrison invents the Frisbee.
ENIAC, one of the world’s first digital computers, is turned on after a memory upgrade (operated until 1955).
The Sound Barrier is Broken (Traveling faster than Sound)
First LP’s History of HiFi and Music Players and Media produced.
Inventions Invented by Inventors and Country (or attributed to first use)
Artificial Intelligence – England by Alan Turing
Mobile Phone – USA
Transistor – the USA from Bell Laboratories
Hologram – Hungary by Denis Gabor
Other News
1931 Statute of Westminster
New Zealand ratifies the 1931 Statute of Westminster, which provides Effective Legislative Independence from Great Britain
Ferrari began production of Italian sports cars after having been involved in motor racing since 1929
Ammonium nitrate cargo of SS Grandcap explodes in Texas City, Texas – 552 dead, 3000 injured
Everglades National Park is dedicated as a National Park by President Harry S. Truman
A major strike closes The Paris subway
50 separate Forest fires in Maine and surrounding states destroy more than two hundred thousand acres
Hurricane in southeast Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama – 51 killed
Earthquake in Chilean Andes – 233 dead
Severe Snow Storm Northeastern part of the United States
Tornado strikes Woodward, Oklahoma, killing 107
Polaroid Land Camera Demonstrated giving photos in 60 seconds
First Of The Dead Sea Scrolls Found in caves near Wadi Qumran
Following the creation of the National Coal Board in 1946, Great Britain nationalizes Coal mines in 1947.
The four largest British rail companies Great Western Railway (GWR), the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS), the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER), and the Southern Railway (SR), were taken over by the government and turned into the Nationalised British Railway.
Her Royal Highness Princess Elizabeth marries the Duke of Edinburgh at Westminster Abbey, London.
On January 1st, The Canadian Citizenship Act passed in 1946, converting British subjects into Canadian citizens.
The first Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Fringe festival opens for the performing arts.
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, Andrea Michel to the 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.
Raised in the Philadelphia area, Andreas’ interest in real estate began at an early age. Her mother was a top million-dollar real estate producer in 1979 with a stellar commitment to her clients. Before she followed in her mother’s footsteps, Andrea graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and lived in California working in hospitality for Hyatt Hotels in San Diego. Top-notch concierge services were a priority. Along with her passion for helping others, communication skills, and attention to detail, she excelled. She went on to work in operations management and as a director of marketing in Del Mar.
Having a love for entrepreneurship and fitness, Andrea moved back to the east coast to co-own and operate a family business in health and wellness, purchasing a commercial building. After having success as a business owner/ investor, and through these ventures, she decided to bring her wealth of knowledge to the real estate sector. Andrea obtained her license in 1995, starting her career in a coastal beach city in the luxury home market with oceanfront homes, primary residences, second homes, condos/townhomes, and investment properties.
Now permanently residing in Scottsdale, Andrea is furthering her decade-long real estate career at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Being surrounded by beautiful mountains, and the most amazing sunsets, Andrea knew that the desert was a place she truly felt at home. She is dedicated to buyers and sellers in the luxury home market in the most coveted neighborhoods, as well as catering to clients in every price point, investor, and commercial properties. She delivers a white-glove and boutique experience to her clientele at the highest level, offering a customized service above and beyond your expectations from start to finish.
Dedicated and loyal, she is a fierce advocate of her client’s best interests. Andrea is committed to listening to your needs, providing the professional and reliable service that you deserve. With her tenacious work ethic, and expertise she is known for successfully bringing a client and property together through strategic marketing plans. She utilizes her sharp negotiating skills, staying focused and calm through what can be a complex and potentially stressful time with creative solutions to execute a smooth deal. Andrea will help you transition into the next chapter of your life, as your trusted advisor guiding you throughout the process. She’s avid about golfing, skiing/snowboarding, running, tennis, hiking, pickleball, and cooking.
Andrea brings an instant likability and genuine kindness to the table. She is very intelligent and always looking to learn more. Having a real estate background, she was an obvious choice to partner with the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty brand
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, Paula Bowles 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.
A native Texan, Paula Bowles is the proud homeschool mother of five and Nonnie of two. She and her husband moved their family to the Phoenix area and currently reside in the Southeast Valley. She has spent the last 2 years exploring this great state with her husband of 30 yrs. She enjoys hiking, kayaking, and short getaways in the mountains. She has served her community for 20 years, focusing the last 10 years on teaching youth, college-age, and career young adults.
Paula’s background in retail operations management has made her an effective client advocate. Her integrity and commitment to delivering an excellent customer experience through service, communication, collaboration, and negotiation make her the perfect fit as a buyer’s or seller’s agent.
“I’m excited to be part of a Local and Nationally recognized Company whose values mirror mine. Building relationships is key and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is committed to making sure I have the resources to successfully serve my clients and community,” said Paula Bowles.
Whether buying or selling, you can trust Paula’s professionalism, excellent work ethic, upbeat attitude, and extensive resources will ensure you receive the “white glove” service.
Paula Bowles was raised in Texas but loves living in Arizona. Paula’s background in retail operations management makes her an incredible problem solver. She has a strong work ethic and values education. Her ability to communicate effectively combined with attention to detail are just a couple of things that lend to her outstanding customer service strengths.
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, Pamela Knox 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.
Pamela Knox was a highly successful business owner with sales of over $100 million prior to her obtaining her real estate license in 2021.
Ms. Knox has been involved in real estate transactions for over 25 years through acquiring, buying, and selling numerous commercial and residential sites in several states. She also has a strong background in leasing and managing commercial properties in Arizona, Florida, Wisconsin, and Alabama.
Pamela joins the Tucson Team with a wealth of success in the corporate world that will enhance her career in real estate. Pamela has a tremendous work ethic and will bring her confidence and professionalism to her clients.
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, Stephanie White, 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.
Stephanie relocated to Arizona in 2020, bringing with her a wealth of personal experience. Having moved 15 times in 15 years, across 9 cities and 4 different states, from the east coast to the west — leading her to her Peoria, where she finally feels home. She has had homes over 100 years old to new construction and in between. In addition to her personal relocation experience, Stephanie is a licensed mortgage professional and an experienced real estate investor.
Prior to real estate, Stephanie spent 12 years in professional sales and business development roles, where she honed her skills in negotiation, marketing, communication, and client relationships. Stephanie has a degree in marketing and management from Penn State University and an MBA from Wilkes University.
When time allows, Stephanie loves taking advantage of everything Arizona has to offer. She enjoys hanging at her pool, lake days, hiking, and off-roading in her Jeep with her husband, four-year-old daughter, and her Great Dane, Nash.
Stephanie’s true joy is helping people through relationships. By getting to know her clients, she will be able to better guide them through the home buying or selling process.
Stephanie’s clients will benefit greatly from the care and diligence provided to them honed from her years of service. They will come to appreciate Stephanie’s humanity and integrity the more they get to know her. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to be associated with people of Stephanie’s character.
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 Zitter, to the 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.
Lisa graduated from Boston University with a B.A. in Economics. She specializes in the North Scottsdale market where she and her husband raise their two children and Goldendoodle. She loves to provide exceptional service and to share her passion for Arizona living.
Lisa comes to us from the world of video production, with an artistic skill set and an eye for the aesthetic that will serve her well in her real estate career. Lisa exudes a confidence and energy that will be a huge asset to the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty team!
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, Miechal Frosch, to the Tubac 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.
A third-generation Real Estate businesswoman, successful entrepreneur, military wife, and mother, she brings a vast knowledge of the area and an uncanny ability to balance life and business with her resourcefulness and work ethic.
Miechal is a family relocation specialist with 20+ moves under her belt, and if you dare to challenge her in a game of Tetris, you will lose. She is outgoing and friendly but does what it takes to win. Her competitive personality, calm demeanor, and smile allow her to assist clients with smooth, stress-free transactions and her commitment and determination will ensure the job is done efficiently and effectively. Miechal has a proven track record for outstanding customer service, building client relationships, and more importantly maintaining those relationships. If you’re looking for someone who prioritizes their clients’ interests and understands how important the decision to buy or sell a property can be, she is the perfect candidate.
Micheal is a great asset to our team and is very ambitious, articulate and empathetic. She is a huge addition to our office and we look forward to working alongside her!
Nothing is better than gathering around a cozy fireplace during the holidays. And, as winter continues, a hearth is the natural feature in your home to spend your time by, especially in the evenings. Whether you love sipping hot cocoa by the fireside or using it as a centerpiece when hosting a festive party, the fireplace is the heart of the home and perfect for gathering.
Since the fireplace is often the focal point of a room, adorning your hearth with decadent holiday decor creates a beautiful atmosphere for making those lasting winter memories. Be the host with the most by layering green garlands, twinkling lights, or votive candles around the fireplace to create the ideal holiday hearth.
If you’re looking for a beautiful home with an eye-catching hearth, look no further than the gorgeous estates offered by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. The company’s lifestyle specialists are there to assist you in finding the perfect home for entertaining or hosting your holiday soirees.
Take a peek at the beautiful holiday hearths featured in this edition of ICONIC Estates to find some inspiration for the season!
Cooler temps and warm family gatherings—it’s time for winter travel with an adventurous twist. From scenic, snowy hikes, skiing and snowboarding, there’s a myriad of choices for the perfect winter wonderland destination. Here is a fresh approach to celebrating wonderful winter travel in three ways.
We discovered three of the best winter vacations in the U.S. you should try this year! Take a closer look at Steamboat Springs, Colorado; Big Sky, Montana; and Ouray, Colorado with our top recommendations for each locale.
Recently, Mark Candelaria, ICONIC LIFE and Monogram hosted a VIP dinner at the Candelaria Design studio where once again, “archichef” Mark Candelaria was cooking in all his glory in his Monogram test kitchen. This time, dinner was a savory Halibut Puttanesca served with Lobster Risotto. Paired with wines from Adobe Road, a salad by Publisher Renee Dee, and a butternut squash bisque starter, this dinner was a highlight of the season. We’re sharing Candelaria’s recipe to try for yourself. Renee can’t stop talking about it.
The holiday season is upon us, and whether you’re shopping for gifts, trimming the tree, lighting the Menorah, or decorating cookies, the season is abuzz with activity. Find peace and joy around the table connecting with family. There is no better time than now to dress your table for an elevated event with designer holiday décor.
We consulted Andrea Anttonen of Main Dish, a Scottsdale showroom that specializes in luxe, designer tabletop design, and home décor, for an expert opinion on how to create a beautiful and simple holiday tablescape to wow even the most discerning hostesses. An elegant holiday table leaves a lasting impression on guests but doesn’t need to be overly complicated or difficult. Investing in some classic pieces can serve as the foundation of your design, with smaller details changing to fit the theme.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Arizona’s premier luxury real estate brokerage, is pleased to present its top eight sales in the Valley for the month of October. The list highlights Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s prominent sales for some of the most luxurious real estate properties the Valley has to offer.
Barry Van Patten, Ginger Van Patten and Barry Van Patten II represented the buyer of the breathtaking Scottsdale estate for $21,500,000. Also known as “The Castle on the Hill”, this flawless French inspired Italian estate in the Upper Canyon of Silverleaf holds the record for the second highest sale in Arizona history. This estate offers more than 12,000-square-feet and sits on more than three acres. Outside, sophistically detailed stone carvings surround the exterior of the home with varying window shapes and designs to give the estate a grand look. Inside the main house of the estate, the home features 5 luxurious designed bedrooms and 6 ½ bathrooms.
Barry Van Patten, Ginger Van Patten, Barry Van Patten II and Laura Briggs represented the seller and buyer of this stunning modern estate for $9,625,000. This home is in the upper canyon of the prestigious Silverleaf guard gated golf community and is ideally positioned for privacy, capturing views of Camelback Mountain and city lights from the spacious outdoor living spaces. The extravagant entry into the grand foyer poises its elegant chandelier opens via numerous sets of French doors to a large pool with sparkling deck jets and an oversized spa. This beautifully appointed home included all furnishings which were specifically designed for each room to incorporate breathtaking impact.
Gilbert Houseaux and Virginia Gee represented the seller of this $6,500,000 estate with the most stunning full view of Camelback Mountain and the south valley. This exquisitely built European estate was designed by the highly acclaimed Nash McDaniel. You see quality and thought throughout with much potential to enhance the European lifestyle or modernize it. With two driveways and parking areas beyond the private gate, this home overlooks the most coveted view in the valley with a pool, waterfall and barbeque grill. This four plus acre hillside lot has so much to offer for all people and all lifestyles.
Luxury Real Estate Agents Frank Aazami and Bill Bulaga of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty represented the seller of this home located in Villaresi, a prestigious gated community access from Paradise Valley’s most prestigious street for $6,400,000. This home offers intimacy, privacy and security and touts quality construction, leaving no details untouched. The interior features include an open floor plan, a decadent primary wing with an intimate sitting room, coffee bar, dual closets, and a dedicated gym, sauna and steam shower. A generous chef’s kitchen with a top-of-the-line appliance package, abundant storage, butler’s pantry, a total of five guest suites, and two offices makes this a destination estate for today’s work from home lifestyle
Will Foote, Jay Pennypacker and Debbie Negrin represented the buyer and seller of this authentic Santa Barbara-style home on an elevated view lot in Estancia for $5,650,000. It was recently remodeled to create a timeless, warm feel with spaces reminiscent of a luxury Montecito inn. The home has the perfect floor plan with the master bedroom, guest rooms and all living areas on bottom with a junior master as the upstairs retreat. Amenities include a dedicated office, large theater room, massive great room with wet bar and motorized pocket door to the outdoor living room, 1,000+ bottle wine cellar, detached guest house with kitchenette and a four-car garage.
James Kolander and Cynthia Kolander represented the seller and the buyer and seller of this fabulous contemporary view home like no other for $5,350,000. An endless city light, mountain and sunset views experience captures the best that the Valley has to offer. This home is seamless inside and out with large high overhangs for daily shaded living and hosting. A beautiful sun drench pool and spa overlooks the Valley and mountains perfect for lounging. The home comes with oversized solar to supply energy for all of your needs. This is truly a one-of-a-kind Salero home.
James Kolander, Cynthia Kolander and Odette Evans represented the seller and the buyer for $5,300,000. This car collector’s dream boasts a 10-car showroom. This single level custom home backs to 15 acres of natural area open space. The underground garage includes a showroom office and elevator. This home also features an art gallery, two home offices and a pool along with a wet bar and fire place. ”Cool” Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) walls and steel provide superior strength and insulation for a virtually dust free home. With six bedrooms and 4.5 baths, anyone can fall in love with this desert paradise.
Dan Wolski represented the seller and the buyer overlooking the eighth fairway of the Geronimo golf course for $5,000,000. This Phil Smith hilltop masterpiece combines pure elegance with relaxed comfort as it meanders along an elevated 1.72-acre site, offering panoramic views of green fairways, dramatic mountains and stunning sunsets. Bright and inviting views are at every turn, combined with the extensive use of stone, marble and onyx that set the canvas for this magnificent home. The primary home boasts a palatial master retreat wing with private patios on either side, featuring romantic fireplace, water feature, spa bath with heated floors and an expansive master closet with dressing room.
