All Posts By

Alexandra Baum

Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Significant sales in Ahwatukee

– A magnificent luxury Ahwatukee estate featured in publications around the world for its one-of-a-kind design and architecture and listed by Agents Oriana Lehman Wood and Jacqueline Miller of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty closed for $3,562,500 making it the most significant luxury home sale to date in the area. The home was sold to an all cash undisclosed buyer.

“This property marks a new era for Ahwatukee’s luxury home market. It shows there are luxury buyers who will pay for a quality home,” said Lehman Wood.  “After nearly three years on and off the market, we are proud of the tenacity and belief we had in this property.  It took perseverance and market knowledge and creativity to attract a new owner to love this unique and special home like its’ most recent owners.”

Nestled directly on the South Mountain Park Preserve in the Equestrian Trails subdivision, the home was once built by and for former Insight Founder Eric Crown and is located at 12234 S Honah Lee Ct. in Ahwatukee. The 14,127-square-foot main home includes 7-bedrooms and 11-bathrooms. 

Designed by renowned architect David Dick, the home exudes privacy, comfort and class and stages unobstructed views of the adjoining 16,000 plus acres, offering 51 miles of trails on South Mountain Park from multiple verandas, patios, and trails.

Impressive details continue throughout the home including a “Harry Potter” style library with a weather sensing retractable glass pyramid roof and a built-in bookcase.

The three-level home also offers a game room, media room, a loft, exercise, and a chef’s luxury kitchen. Each room is spacious enough to accommodate guests for corporate or family gatherings.

Other unique features of the gracious home include a custom made Venetian exterior stucco, commissioned by the only specialist in Arizona. The custom ironwork throughout the stairs, railings and the exterior, including Romeo and Juliet master suite balcony is alluring.

There is also a 1,278-square-foot 2-bedroom private guest house on the property that ensures the privacy of the guests and the backyard comes equipped with a built-in-barbecue, beautiful deck with and ramada to oversee the sunset views.

July 9, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Sotheby’s International Realty Expands into Arkansas

Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced that Portfolio Luxury Real Estate Redefined in Rogers, Arkansas is the newest member of its global network and will now operate as Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty– the brand’s first affiliated office in the state.

Owned and operated by Kristen Boozman, the firm will serve the luxury residential real estate markets in Northwest Arkansas, including Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Springdale.

“Once a rural community, Northwest Arkansas has transformed into a national center for culture, commerce and entrepreneurism,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer of Sotheby’s International Realty. “Kristen and her team have served the Northwest Arkansas market for more than a decade and we are proud to welcome Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty to the brand’s vast network. The addition not only marks the Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s expansion into a new market, it enables us to service one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas and top 10 best places to live in the country.”

“Our mission has always been to offer the highest level of service, making the Sotheby’s International Realty brand a perfect fit for our values and company culture,” said Boozman. “For us, our responsibility goes far beyond assisting our clients in the purchasing and selling of real estate. We are ambassadors of our community and of our industry. As Northwest Arkansas continues to grow and attract talent from all over the world, our affiliation with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand will enable us to promote our clients and acquire new customers on a global scale.”

Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty is located in the city of Rogers and is a part of the Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area. The office has 13 sales associates and is the first Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated company in the state of Arkansas. The area is also home to the world headquarters of Wal-Mart, JB Hunt Transport, Tyson Foods, as well as the University of Arkansas.

July 8, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Luxury real estate headlines | june 2019

Luxian Scottsdale Will Offer Camelback Mountain Views – Orion Investment Real Estate

North Scottsdale Appeals for Its Climate, Low Taxes and Golf – Mansion Global

Do What You Love and Love What You Do – thesuburban.com

Posh Places: $32M Scottsdale Mansion has private basketball court – AZ Central

Haute Property Spotlight: Modern Farmhouse – Uptown magazine digital and print

Haute Property Spotlight: Relaxing Retreat – So Scottsdale Magazine digital and print

Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Tom Fogerty’s Former Home Is on Sale for $500K – Apartment Therapy

Top 5 Swankiest Loft listings – TOP FIVE Phoenix

July 7, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Golf, Real Estate

Power of 4 and Tami Henderson Close $9.3M Contemporary Estate

Kathleen Benoit, Karen Baldwin, Bee Francis, Anne Morrissey, and Tami Henderson of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Desert Mountain office provided exclusive representation on a $9.3 million dollar contemporary showstopper in Desert Mountain.

The private 10-acre reserve built by Gemini Development in Desert Mountain’s Upper Canyon provides unparalleled forever views of the Valley, sunsets, and city lights. The home features disappearing glass walls spanning 45, Chef’s kitchen, dramatic wine wall and bar, and resort style backyard.

The 7,548 square-foot home offers 5 bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms.

July 6, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Deborah Beede and Donna Taylor Close $5,675,000 Timeless Masterpiece

Deborah Beede and Donna Taylor of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Carefree office represented the buyer in a $5,675,000 Paradise Valley home.

The 6 -bedroom, 10-bathroom estate features extravagant high-end elements brought in from all over the world. From its restaurant quality kitchen, music room, game room, wine cellar to its art studio and much in between, this home showcases special views from every vantage point.

At 19,475 square feet, the property offers professional horse stables, pools, fountains and gardens.

June 30, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Recognized on 2019 REAL trends and Tom Ferry “The Thousand”

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to congratulate Lisa Lucky and Private client Group for their inclusion in the 2019 REAL Trends & Tom Ferry “The Thousand,” a summary of the top 1,000 independent real estate agents and teams in the United States.

The REAL Trends “The Thousand” comprises four categories: the top 250 agents by sides, top 250 agents by sales volume, top 250 teams by sides and top 250 teams by sales volume. Lisa Lucky was ranked #229 in the Top 250 Individual Real Estate Professionals by Sales Volume. Private Client Group was ranked #145 in the Top 250 Real Estate Teams by Sales Volume.

“The recognition of our agents on the “The Thousand” rankings is a result of hard work, extensive market knowledge and the support of the Sotheby’s International Realty, which enables our agents to effectively market and sell extraordinary residences,” said Jim Lyon, Chairman.

“We are proud to have everyone involved with Lisa Lucky and Private Client Group represent our company on this prestigious industry list.”

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand claimed 41 of the top 250 sales associates in the REAL Trends individual sales volume category, more than any other real estate brand. The brand also had the highest combined individual sales volume from sales associates in the same category.

“Achieving a leading number of sales associates represented in the individual sales volume category of the REAL Trends rankings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated professionals,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer of Sotheby’s International Realty. “Agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty demand more of themselves to set the highest standard in the business. This dedication made a record $112 billion in global sales volume for Sotheby’s International Realty possible in 2018. I am proud to honor the companies and sales associates represented on this list and their commitment to their clients and the industry.”

Click here to see the complete list of Sotheby’s International Realty brand affiliated sales associates represented on “The Thousand.”

A part of the Lucky Team are: Lisa Lucky, Matt Lucky, Laura Lucky, Kelly Hobrock, Meghan Marum 

A part of Private Client Group are: Frank Aazami, David Arustamian, Bill Bulaga, Jaclyn Brand, Chey Castro, Alisha Collinson, Michel Edery, Mardi Kirkland, David Mayo, Jennifer Parks-Sturgeon, Bill Ramseyer, Nancy Read, Thomas Scott, David Smith, Barry Van Patten II, Alan Zieder

June 29, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Thomas O’Leary Sells $5.6M Custom Estate

Thomas O’Leary of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Camelback Tower office sold a $5,600,000 Paradise Valley custom estate.

The 10,444 square foot home features 5 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms and a timeless design with an expansive, open, split floor plan. A private theatre, gym, putting greens, motor court and 1,000 guest house all accompany the home. Additional features include pillowed limestone and walnut flooring throughout.

June 28, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Names Cathy Green Managing Broker in Southeast Valley

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Names Cathy Green Managing Broker in Southeast Valley

Green brings more than 20 years real estate and management experience to vibrant and thriving Southeast Valley markets.

We are pleased to announce Cathy Green has been named Managing Broker for the Southeast Valley office.

Cathy Green has more than 20 years of experience in real estate, real estate management and the Southeast Valley. She joins Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty after serving as a general manager and vice president for a local Century 21 affiliate.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s Southeast Valley office in Gilbert has 27 agents and serves one of the best performing housing markets in the Western United States. The Southeast Valley office serves the vibrant communities of Chandler, Tempe, Gilbert, Ahwatukee and Mesa.

“I am honored to join a best in class culture and company like Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. I am excited to work with our exceptional group of agents and help them thrive and offer exceptional service to home buyers and sellers,” Cathy Green said.

Cathy Green succeeds Managing Broker Sherri Monteith who is now at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s Pinnacle Peak office. Monteith is working closely with new Vice President of Operations Kevin Gonzales, assisting in the development and supervision of agents and enhancing the Client experience in the Pinnacle Peak and DC Ranch Market Street offices.  

Monteith has been with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty for 15 years and has also served as managing broker at the Sedona and Flagstaff offices.

June 19, 2019 by
Business

Sotheby’s Announces Definitive Agreement to be Acquired by Patrick Drahi

Sotheby’s Shareholders to Receive $57 Per Share in Cash Transaction Valued at $3.7 Billion Acquisition Would Result in Sotheby’s Becoming a Private Company

Sotheby’s (NYSE: BID) today announced that it has signed a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by BidFair USA, an entity wholly owned by media and telecom entrepreneur as well as art collector, Patrick Drahi. Under the terms of the agreement, which was approved by Sotheby’s Board of Directors, shareholders, including employee shareholders, will receive $57.00 in cash per share of Sotheby’s common stock in a transaction with an enterprise value of $3.7 billion. The offer price represents a premium of 61% to Sotheby’s closing price on June 14, 2019, and a 56.3% premium to the company’s 30 trading-day volume weighted average share price. The transaction would result in Sotheby’s returning to private ownership after 31 years as a public company traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

Tad Smith, Sotheby’s CEO, said, “Patrick Drahi is one of the most well-regarded entrepreneurs in the world, and on behalf of everyone at Sotheby’s, I want to welcome him to the family. Known for his commitment to innovation and ingenuity, Patrick founded and leads some of the most successful telecommunications, media and digital companies in the world. He has a long-term view and shares our brand vision for great client service and employing innovation to enhance the value of the company for clients and employees. This acquisition will provide Sotheby’s with the opportunity to accelerate the successful program of growth initiatives of the past several years in a more flexible private environment. It positions us very well for our future and I strongly believe that the company will be in excellent hands for decades to come with Patrick as our owner.”

Domenico De Sole, Chairman of Sotheby’s Board of Directors, said, “Following a comprehensive review, the Board enthusiastically supports Mr. Drahi’s offer, which delivers a significant premium to market for our shareholders. After more than 30 years as a public company, the time is right for Sotheby’s to return to private ownership to continue on a path of growth and success.”

“I am honored that the Board of Sotheby’s has decided to recommend my offer,” commented Patrick Drahi. “Sotheby’s is one of the most elegant and aspirational brands in the world. As a longtime client and lifetime 2 admirer of the company, I am acquiring Sotheby’s together with my family. We thank Domenico and the rest of the Sotheby’s Board for its support and look forward to getting started with Tad and the wonderful members of his team to define our future.”

The closing of the deal is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory clearance and shareholder approvals, but is not subject to the availability of financing. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2019 following shareholder approval.

LionTree Advisors is serving as financial advisor to Sotheby’s in connection with the transaction, and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is serving as the company’s legal counsel. BNP Paribas and Morgan Stanley are acting as financial advisors to BidFair, BNP Paribas acted as sole financing provider, and Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP and Ropes & Gray International LLP are serving as its legal advisors.

June 18, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Sotheby’s International Realty® Brand Expands into Qatar

Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced its expanding presence in the Middle East with the opening of Qatar Sotheby’s International Realty.

Qatar Sotheby’s International Realty is owned by Alfardan Group, a leading premium lifestyle conglomerate renowned for delivering luxury products and services in Qatar, and is led by General Manager, Seran Gheorghe, who has practiced real estate in the Middle East for the past 13 years. Gheorghe was a top performing associate with Gulf Sotheby’s International Realty for the past six years and worked with Qatari clients to make this opening possible. Qatar Sotheby’s International Realty is located in the capital city of Doha and will serve the luxury residential real estate markets of Lusail, the island of Pearl and West Bay Lagoon. The company will also continue to support Qatari clients in their continuous interest for the best international assets.

“Qatar’s high-income economy and global real estate interest is appealing to the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty. “Seran and his team have a strong understanding of local and global luxury real estate and we are proud to have them as our affiliate in Qatar.”

“The real estate market in Qatar offers high-quality, luxurious apartments, penthouses and beachfront villas,” said Gheorghe. “From a global perspective, we are seeing interest from buyers in India, China, Europe and the United States. We pride ourselves in offering the highest level of support and advice to our clients before, during and after the transaction. Aligning our company with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand will further provide our clients with unparalleled marketing, global reach and exposure.”

Qatar Sotheby’s International Realty is the second Sotheby’s International Realty-branded company in the Middle East, along with Gulf Sotheby’s International Realty located in Dubai.

June 17, 2019 by