All Posts By

Alexandra Baum

Architecture, Art, Business, Community, Entertainment, Real Estate

Iconic Estates | Magnificant Mountain Living

Arizona’s beautiful and diverse terrain makes it possible to enjoy luxurious mountain living across virtually every region in the state. From Flagstaff’s wooded forests, to Sedona’s red-rock formations, the Valley’s pointed peaks and Tucson’s rambling ridges capture the imaginations of homeowners across the state.

A major advantage of mountain living is getting to enjoy the natural beauty of Arizona’s landscape. Often you can find a variety of flora and fauna near peaks and foothills alike. Another benefit of living near a mountain range is the wonderful paths. Hiking is a favorite pastime for many Arizonans, as the view from the top of any of our beautiful mountains makes the climb all that much more rewarding.  

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has an exciting range of listings that cover every aspect of mountain living. Whether you want to live in a mountain region, have a mountainside home, or simply want beautiful mountain views, the lifestyle experts at the leading luxe real estate firm can help you find your oasis across Arizona.  

Savor luxe mountain living in this month’s edition of ICONIC Estates!

We kick off Dinner & Drinks with a new dream duo at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, expanding upon the expertise offered by longtime Executive Chef Beau MacMillan, who added two culinary powerhouses to his team—Chef de Cuisine at Elements Samantha Sanz and Bar Chef at Jade Bar Christiaan Röllich. Both have built impressive careers at top restaurants and are at tops in their fields, and we are very excited to see what this trio will develop next. Today they teach us how to make Ahi Tuna with Aguachile and a mezcal drink called “The Villain”. Read more.

There’s something brewing in Tombstone—as a special project is about to be uncorked in an Arizona wine-inspired community. If your dream is to own a vineyard of your own, sites are improved and available now.

Tombstone, Arizona is more known for movies than Mourvedre, but that is about to change as the exciting 1881 Preserve breaks ground one mile east of town. While the developers are creating a complete community on the 21,000-acre site, they’re quick to point out that their vision is to grow over the years to highlight the burgeoning Cochise County wine region.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty represents spectacular grape-growing lots for sale listed by Debbie Sinagoga and Kris LaCroix. Read more.

Many modern travelers seek to connect with the natural environment of their latest far-flung destinations. And landscape hotels, much like treehouse hotels, make it easy for jet-setters to do just that and get back to nature. Known for stunning architecture that both celebrates the natural beauty of nature and encourages guests to feel immersed in landscape, we showcase four landscape hotels that offer luxe amenities in truly stunning settings. And coming soon is the first landscape hotel to open in North America, Ambiente, in Sedona. Read More.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Top July Sale

A dream team of Matt Thomas Architect, Berghoff Landscape, Lauren Wallace Interiors and MDF Development prepares to usher in a new era of luxury homes into the Valley. This Modern Georgian will be the epitome of contemporary luxury combined with timeless design. Buyer representation by Cionne McCarthy and Mikhail Quijada of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Camelback Tower office for $10,000,000.

Architecture, Business, Entertainment, Golf, Inspiration, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

ASCENT AT THE PHOENICIAN® UNVEILS DESIGN FOR THE SUMMIT ROOFTOP TERRACE AT MOUNTAINSIDE CONDOMINIUM BUILDING

 Ascent at The Phoenician® is unveiling the design for The Summit Rooftop Terrace at its new luxury condominium building, which will offer 360-degree views of the Valley and Camelback Mountain.

Designed uniquely for the Ascent mountainside condominium owners, residents will enjoy their own private rooftop community terrace featuring soft seating, fire tables, multiple gathering spaces, and an activity lawn in addition to the dramatic views.

Ascent at The Phoenician® is situated at the base of Camelback Mountain, overlooking The Phoenician® Golf Course and located adjacent to The Phoenician®, a Luxury Collection Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Ascent at The Phoenician® recently released an intimate residential building of 40 luxury condominiums on Camelback Mountain consisting of one-bedroom plus den, two-bedroom, two-bedroom plus den, and three-bedroom plus den plans. Prices are estimated to range from $1.5 million up to $5 million. 

With the dramatic views of the Valley during the day and city lights at night all set right on Camelback Mountain, the mountainside residences are generating strong interest for their spectacular panorama. Ascent at The Phoenician offers an extraordinary way of life at Scottsdale’s most coveted location on Camelback Mountain.

Todd Patrick, Vice President of Sales and marketing

The mountainside condominium residences follow the early sales success of the Ascent Golf Villas, which Ascent began selling in mid-February. The Golf Villas include homes ranging from two-bedroom to three-bedroom plus den/office plans, extensive indoor-outdoor living, private two-car garages, and views of both the golf course and Camelback Mountain. Current prices range from $2.16 million up to $3.195 million. Construction of the Golf Villas is now underway.

The mountainside condominium residences will enjoy a prime location adjacent to the Mountain Club, a private club for owners at Ascent. Programs, amenities and private events at the Club will celebrate the iconic Camelback Mountain and will include a private pool, fitness and movement rooms, social spaces and demonstration kitchen for cooking classes and private chef experiences. Architecturally designed as a modern interpretation of the historic Jokake Inn on The Phoenician® grounds, the Mountain Club will be an intimate gathering place for connection, wellness, celebration and relaxation.  

Ascent at The Phoenician® residents will have a connection through the cactus garden to all of The Phoenician® hotel’s restaurants. Also, residents will have the opportunity to join the Phoenician® Amenity Access Program that provides Ascent real estate owners with access to resort amenities, including the pools and fitness facility and preferred pricing for golf, spa, food and beverage, and other services.

With more than $2 billion of real estate projects in planning and development, Replay has properties in some of the world’s most sought-after settings. The team for Replay’s condominium residences and Golf Villas includes design partners from the Valley’s best internationally recognized talent: Nelsen Partners, an architecture and planning firm founded in 1990; Vallone Design, a leading, full-service interior design firm specializing in exquisite residential and commercial interior design; Floor Associates, a landscape architecture and planning firm; and bulthaup Scottsdale, a globally recognized company producing premium kitchens custom-made in Germany.

Joe Bushong and Leslie Jenkins of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty are the listing agents for Ascent at The Phoenician®. For more information on the remaining Golf Villa homes or to register for updates including Priority Registration for the first release of mountainside condominium residences visit ascentatthephoenician.com or call 480-534-4086.

Art, Business, Community, COVID-19, Entertainment, Inspiration, Life, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Foundation Brings Back ‘Love Your Neighbors’ campaign to Raise Funds to Benefit Arizona Housing Fund

The Russ Lyon Foundation is bringing back their Love Your Neighbors campaign to raise money for the Arizona Housing Fund. In 2020 $5,290 was raised. The sale is happening now and only runs through Sunday, August 22, 2021.

The Love Your Neighbors apparel is being produced by local company SideBar and just $20. New to the 2021 lineup is the apparel coming in a stonewashed blue-gray color option, women’s v-neck, unisex tank and bandana. They are available online, click here.

Every item ordered benefits the Arizona Housing Fund (AZHF). AZHF is a dedicated and sustainable revenue source that grants funding to the nonprofit agencies that build and operate Permanent Supportive, Low-Income and Working Poor Housing. Its equity grants will enable more housing units to be constructed, meeting the growing needs of our communities in Arizona with the goal of reducing homelessness.

There has never been a more important time for everyone to come together and support the Arizona Housing Fund. This foundation gives families a fighting chance to stay in their homes and helps others find housing.

Betsy Dickinson, President of Russ Lyon FOundation

The Russ Lyon Foundation seeks to provide valuable and meaningful service work within communities as well as charitable investments. Since the foundation began in 2014, more than $500,000 has been contributed towards various 501c3 Arizona-based organizations through direct donations, matching funds, sponsorships, and fundraisers.

Baseball, Business, Education, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Jennifer Bellinger

The team of experienced agents continues to grow with Valley’s leader in luxury real estate.

 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, Jennifer Bellinger, 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. 

Jennifer Bellinger has lived in the Phoenix area for 40 years. She grew up part-time in Los Angeles, CA, and is a dual-licensed REALTOR® in both states. Jennifer now calls Phoenix her permanent home. She travels back and forth and has first-hand knowledge of the challenges of moving as she has moved over a dozen times. She has had a wide array of real estate transactions; whether residential, land deals, or leases, she uses all of her positive energy, integrity, and hard work to serve her clients.  

Jennifer’s main strengths are: Her energetic personality. Amazing communication skills. Her direct approach to everything in life. Still, she is also really good at seeing the silver lining in everything. Jennifer loves to set goals and never sees any goal out-of-reach.  

Jennifer graduated from Northern Montana University, where she went to school on a volleyball scholarship. She received her B.S degree in education. Before she started serving her clients with real estate needs, she served as a director of children’s ministries at a huge church in Phoenix. Where she also spoke and taught in the main services several times a year. Jennifer is not shy when it comes to public speaking and has been an excellent storyteller. She is very well connected in the community and loves meeting new people and making them feel welcome.

Her biggest passions are her health and fitness where she commits to that daily. But her number one passion is to travel, and some of her favorite places and experiences that she has been on has been backpacking through Europe right after college, and recently a trip to Dubai where she was able to ride camels through the Red Desert.

Jennifer and Clay Bellinger raised three amazing children. Her daughter, Ashli Bellinger, is a professional counselor. Her son, Cody Bellinger has been a professional baseball player with the Los Angeles Dodgers since 2013. The San Diego Padres drafted her other son Cole Bellinger in 2017 and he is currently going back to school to get his degree in finance. 

Jennifer recently started two nonprofits; raising awareness for homelessness and mental health and a family foundation to give back to the community and serve as an outreach and support depending on the community’s needs. 

When you meet certain people, you know immediately if they have ‘it’. Jennifer has ‘it’. Style, grace and the tenacity to make her a phenomenal partner with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. We are excited for the next chapter of her career to unfold.

SHerri Monteith, Manging Broker
Architecture, Art, Entertainment, Real Estate

Luxury Headlines | July 2021

‘Forbidden’ DH. Lawrence Art to be shown at Paradise Valley estate Your Valley

Breathtaking Estates Among The Most Significant Luxury Sales in Southern Arizona Rose Law Group Reporter

The Pennington Luxury Group Represent the Seller of El Rojo Grande and Break a Sedona Record AZ Central

Thalia Kyriakas Lists Historic Eleven Arches in Tucson AZ Big Media, Inside Tucson Business, realtor.com

Estate on the base of Cathedral Rock in Sedona on market for $6 million Arizona’s Family

Flagstaff luxury retreat with elevator, wine lounge on market for $4.4 million Arizona’s Family

Home built on red rocks of Camelback Mountain on market for $7.5 million Arizona’s Family

Huge, gated Arcadia home with guest casita on market for $5.49 million Arizona’s Family

Magazine-ready’ home on market for $6.5 million in Paradise Valley Arizona’s Family

Michelle Renteria Lists ‘New Darlings’ Home in Phoenix Arizona’s Family, Arizona Progress and Gazette, City Sun Times, Daily Advent – Opera News, Phoenix News Times, Fabulous Arizona

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Presents the Top Homes in Tubac, Arizona – the Nation’s Best Small Art Town Arizona Progress and Gazette, Daily Advent – Opera News

Sedona home on market for $1.6 million is the perfect city escape Arizona’s Family

The Golden Girls of Real Estate Describe the Local Market: Anything Can Happen Flagstaff Business News

Very private, mid-century home on market for $4.25 million in Paradise Valley Arizona’s Family

Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Nick Kingston

The team of experienced agents continues to grow with Valley’s leader in luxury real estate.

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, Nick Kingston, 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. 

A native of Scottsdale, Arizona, Nick Kingston is a real estate developer passionate about helping others navigate the Arizona real estate market. While not only passion-driven, the foundation of his business is built on integrity, communication, and honesty. 

Nick looks forward to bringing his high-energy personality to Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and assisting his clients with their needs.

Nick has a fantastic approach to his business that was evident from the moment I met him. Clear and concise, he will make sure his clients understand each step of the process as he navigates them through, truly a wonderful attribute!

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon WElcomes Joshua Cherry

The team of experienced agents continues to grow with Valley’s leader in luxury real estate.

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, Joshua Cherry, to the 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. 

A Sedona native, Joshua Cherry worked as a private tour guide providing one-of-a-kind adventures around northern Arizona, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona’s many unique destinations. Now he translates his passion for educating the public about this beautiful area into helping families find their forever home. In addition to providing private tours, Joshua’s professional career has been in sales and marketing. He has worked as a mortgage agent, life & health insurance agent, and resort vacation sales agent. The experience of being able to provide his clients with value and help them leave a legacy has motivated him to follow his dream to become a real estate agent. Playing a significant role in helping families find what they are looking for in a home is an experience like no other, it is something that truly brings him joy.

Joshua chooses to represent Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty because he values the fine art, the high prestige, and luxury provided. No other brand can come close to a high level of service and cutting-edge technology. Outside of Joshua’s passion for the arts and real estate, he believes in giving back to the community and helping others in need. Whether assisting in the community or having a heartfelt conversation with a friend, Joshua is always there to lend a hand. 

In his leisure time, Joshua enjoys vacationing with his family, attending his son’s sporting events, and taking his daughters to the pool. 

Joshua Cherry’s best attribute, among  many good ones, is his attitude and enthusiasm.  He’s not afraid to work hard and ask the right questions.  And I know he treats all of his clients like they were part of his family.

Tod Christensen, Managing Broker
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes MEgan Harlow

The team of experienced agents continues to grow with Valley’s leader in luxury real estate.

 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, Megan Harlow, 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. 

Passionate. Hard-working. Driven. These are the attributes instilled in Megan Harlow at a young age that she has carried throughout her life. At the age of three, Megan started gymnastics. This turned into a 19-year commitment of sacrifice, hard work and dedication to take her to the top of her sport.

Born and raised in Southern California, Megan will forever be a west coast girl. She attended Oregon State University to pursue her collegiate gymnastics career and graduated with a degree in New Media Communications. While in college, Megan met her husband who played collegiate football and has since taken his career to the next level to play professionally in the NFL. Megan and her husband bought their first home together in Arizona, and have loved this state ever since.

Megan’s career in real estate began with her interest in investment properties. She and her husband purchased their first investment property in Arizona shortly after moving here, which was a huge accomplishment of theirs and sparked their new goals to keep investing. At the same time, it opened up Megan’s heart to want to be able to help others with their biggest financial investment and homeownership dreams.

Whether you want a $200,000 home or a $2,000,000 property, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty will provide you with the same white-glove service. Top-level marketing services, a reputable and established brand, innovative technology and tools are what make Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty stand out, and why Megan wanted her name to be a part of the most respected name in real estate.

Megan Harlow values her clients and is dedicated to providing them only with the best. Clients are family to her. Megan places an emphasis on being professional, honest, and listening to my client’s needs to help them achieve their goals. Whether you are buying, selling, renting, or investing–this process should be fun and as stress-free as possible.

Megan truly believes there is no magic key to success. It’s only about being the hardest worker in the room.

It is such a blessing to have Megan Harlow on our award winning team with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.  Her passion and drive for helping others build wealth in real estate combined with her outstanding attention to detail will certainly give her clients an edge when utilizing her services.  Megan’s background included competitive sports and also a degree in communication.  She is hands down overall an incredible human who makes a difference for so many.

Cathy Green, Managing BRoker
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Significant Sales | Southern Arizona

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Presents Its Most Significant Sales in Southern Arizona

The Top Five Sales in the Month of June Feature Retreat Inspired Estates and Remarkable Scenic Views of the Mountains  

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, is proud to present the most significant sales in Northern Arizona for the month of June. The list showcases the top five sales of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and features Northern Arizona’s most sought-after luxurious estates

Christina Tierney | $3,900,000 | Tucson | Seller Representation

The 2,379 square foot oasis sits on a beautiful lot and offers a gorgeous infinity pool that flows to the unobstructed views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The estate mimics the colors and materials of the Sonoran Desert which inspired the design of this exquisite 3 bed, 3 bath property. The estate boasts 6,370 square feet and sits on two acres of breathtaking land. The interior is coherently crafted with the finest finishes such as Rammed earth, reclaimed wood, stacked stone, concrete, and quartzite layer texture throughout.

Susanne Grogan, Judy Smedes, Kate Herk | $2,695,000 | Tucson | Dual Representation

Located in Tucson’s most exclusive community, The Canyons, the 4 bed, 5 bath estate boasts over 5,107 square feet. Sitting on over an acre of land, the backyard retreat features a coveted pool and spa, full outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit. Guests can notice the close attention to details of the stunning interior which features oversized porcelain tile floors, oversized alder doors throughout, expansive walls of windows, & a large quartz kitchen island.

Christina Tierney, Frank Lococo | $2,150,000 | Tucson | Dual Representation

The 2,013 square foot property is located in the The Villas at MIRAVAL Resort and allows the world’s most acclaimed destination spa to be just steps away. The 2 bed, 2 bath oasis blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings of the Catalina Mountains and breathtaking Tucson sunsets. The design of the interior space is utilized well with two master baths, walk-in closets, and a generously sized master bedroom with a covered patio and spa.

Susanne Grogan | $1,995,000 | Tucson | Buyer Representation

Located in the prestigious gated community of Pima Canyon, the 1.2 acres of land captures spectacular views of the mountainous scenery. The dramatic front entry with a fourteen-foot domed ceiling is captivating and eye-catching along with the expansive living room with floor-to-ceiling windows. The 5,418 square foot estate encompasses 4 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms which includes an oversized master bedroom with a sitting area and fireplace. The backyard is a desert oasis with two covered patios, a built-in BBQ, pool and spa, and a waterfall.

Kate Herk, Judy Smedes | $1,825,000 | Tucson | Dual Representation

The exquisite Tucson home has all of the trademarks of a quintessential Joesler-Mud adobe construction built around an expansive courtyard with a charming fountain, beamed ceilings, mission tile porches with chinked mortar and scored concrete floors. The 7200 square foot residence with a guest house sits on a sprawling 5.32 acres. The expansive 6 bed, 7 bath estate offers the ultimate privacy and views with incredible proximity.

Additional Sales of Note:

Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Welcomes Zachary Meyer

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, Zachary Meyer, 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. 

Zachary Meyer is an entrepreneur with a passion for excellence. As an effective negotiator, he maintains constant communication throughout the buying and selling process. He believes that honesty and integrity is always the best practice.

Through extensive research of the housing market, he is able to understand the current level of competition as it relates to supply and demand. He skillfully applies this knowledge and listens to his client’s needs, to ensure the best possible outcome.

As a real estate advisor – Zachary’s goal is to help successfully navigate every step of the transaction. 

Zachary has a quest for knowledge that is insatiable. He cares about being better, doing more and educating his clients to the extreme. Having him as part of our team is an honor.

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker