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Architecture, Art, Augmented Reality, Business, COVID-19, Education, Entertainment, Inspiration, Life, Technology

5 Incredible Places You Can Visit Virtual Right Now

with Sotheby’s International Realty

It’s summertime and you may have had travel plans that got canceled or postponed. Staying home doesn’t mean that you can’t still be well traveled; from UNESCO World Heritage sites like Machu Picchu to world-class zoos and aquariums, here are five incredible places you can visit right now from the comfort of your own home.

Machu Picchu

The first stop on our virtual vacation is the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu in southern Peru. Built in the 15th century, you can tour the citadel ruins and restorations with guided audio to give you important details along the way.

The Georgia Aquarium

Did you know that some studies show that visiting an aquarium can relieve stress? Featured on Animal Planet’s hit show “The Aquarium,” bring the Georgia Aquarium into your living room with one of its many live tank cams and relax as you watch colorful fish, otters, reptiles, and more.

Arches National Park

The United States is home to many wonderous national parks – more than 400 in total. With the help of Google Earth, travel the deserts of Utah and see Arches National Park where you can virtually walk through some of the more than 2,000 sandstone arches that are the area’s namesake.

The San Diego Zoo

Looking for some one-on-one time with your favorite exotic animal? The San Diego Zoo in California has you covered. With 11 live camera feeds you can spend hours with pandas, tigers, giraffes, penguins and more.

The Great Pyramid and Great Sphinx of Giza

One is the only true remaining ancient wonder of the world and the other is an iconic ancient Egyptian structure. We of course, are talking about the Great Pyramid and Great Sphinx of Giza. Through Google Earth’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites project, these are just two of the 30 significant places you can visit.

Architecture, Art, Business, Entertainment, Golf, Inspiration, Real Estate, Technology, Working From Home

Stunning Modern Properties

Sleek and sophisticated contemporary styled homes that are works of art

Contemporary homes incorporating state-of-the-art smart technology, floor to ceiling glass walls and distinctive concrete architecture.  These homes offer spectacular views and unique designs that embody and enhance the surrounding landscape. With a focus on using raw materials like steel, glass, concrete and other stone materials the following homes are offering some great selections for buyers looking for a modern, contemporary and industrial look this summer. 

Paul Perry and Michelle O’Neill is pleased to list the 5,420-square-foot home at 7334 N Clearwater Parkway for $5.25 million. Construction Zone designed and built this contemporary 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom steel, glass and concrete home that is elevated high on the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. Walls of glass provide endless stunning views of sunrises, Camelback mountain landscape, city lights and more. Walk across the glass bridge to enter the master suite, with a steel fireplace, private terrace with a master bath with an indoor/outdoor shower.

A home designed by internationally published architect, Brent Kendle, this timeless modernistic masterpiece is located in the golf community of Desert Mountain at 38300 North 102nd Street. Presented by Anne Morrissey, Bee Francis, Karen Baldwin and Kathleen Benoit, this 8,251-square-foot home with 5-bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms blends organic rammed-earth construction with a floating copper roof that provides light throughout the entire space. Listed for $6.75 million, the soaring ceilings and retractable modern glass walls provide private, resort quality patios offering panoramic views of the golf course, mountain and Valley sunsets.

Next is a home whose unparalleled design and scale is compatible with any luxury lifestyle, incorporating the highest quality of materials, appliances and finishes in the Valley. Presented by Frank Aazami, the 12,000-square-foot masterpiece home located in Paradise Valley at 3700 East Camino Sin Nombre is listed for $5.69 million. Sitting on a 1.72-acre private corner lot, the cutting-edge custom home has been optimally situated to provide unobstructed views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak.

Shawn Chappel and Cheryl D’Anna have listed the 6,852-square-foot home at 41783 North 101st Way for $5.3 million. Designed by renowned architect David Hovey, the extensive use of floor to ceiling glass walls, honed aggregated concrete block and exposed beams define and accentuate the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The home is nestled about the 8th green of the Chiricahua golf course offering breathtaking golf course views bordered by ancient boulder outcroppings.

Relax, entertain and enjoy the finest of Scottsdale luxury living in this unrivaled home located at 12493 N 138th Place.  Presented by Laura Briggs, this one-of-a-kind Scottsdale retreat is 5,572-square-foot residence with 5-bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms is listed at $2.75 million. Combining smart-home technology with stunning modern architecture, this home included a cantilevered steel entry, impressive retractable glass wall and infinity poll that offers remarkable views of Camelback Mountain.

Art, Audio, Business, Entertainment, Life, Multi Purpose, Music, Technology, Working From Home

Reel Life: 5 Ways to Bring the Theatre Experience Home

with Sotheby’s International Realty

By now, many of us have gone through many different phases while adapting to a “new normal” and we might be feeling seemingly more adjusted to our current reality. We’ve discussed finding creative ways to stay fit and ways to broaden our personal skillsets, and now we want to shift gears and offer suggestions for you to sit back and relax with your family. Here are five ways to enjoy culture and the arts from the comfort of our couches.

Get the Latest Release

Even with major theater chains around the world closing their doors and many film studios pushing back the release of blockbuster films, there are still many new movies that have seen earlier-than-expected digital releases – or in the case of Universal Picture’s “Trolls: World Tour” –  skipped a theatrical release altogether. Grab a seat, open up your favorite on-demand video service and enjoy these newly released films.

The Brightest Lights of Broadway

The energy of attending a live stage production is difficult to replicate, but with lights temporarily darkened on Broadway and other theater districts, BroadwayHD is streaming hundreds of shows for your theater-going pleasure. From “Cats” and “Phantom of the Opera,” to the “King and I” and “Driving Miss Daisy,” take in some incredible performances of world-famous shows.

Sit in the Front Row

If stage productions or films aren’t what you’re looking for, you can always take a virtual front row seat at a concert. Billboard has an ever-expanding list of livestreams and concerts  streaming directly to your TV or mobile device. It’s also a great time to see what your favorite artists are up to on platforms like YouTube for rare and intimate performances from their personal spaces.

Upgrade Your Equipment

Now more than ever, you may begin to realize that your TV or sound system could use a refresh. Take a moment to visit the Wirecutter and browse recommendations for ways to spruce up your multimedia experience. Sometimes even simple and low-cost updates can yield fruitful results in making your living room feel more like a theater or event venue. 

Don’t Forget the Snacks

Whether it’s a movie in a standard cinema, an elevated dine-in, drinks during intermission or in between sets, the food and drink at a theater helps complete the experience. With food delivery services like Doordash, GrubHub, Amazon’s Whole Foods delivery and more – you can round out your virtual viewing with the same snacks you normally would to help make it feel more “real.”

It’s important to keep doing the things that you enjoy – even if you have to find new ways to do them while staying safely at home. Is there something else you’re doing to bring the theater home? Let us know in the comments and remember, we’re all in this together.

Architecture, Art, Business, Fitness, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Melanie Verstraete

Lisa Wadey's head shot

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, Melanie Verstraete, 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.

Whatever your Luxury Real Estate and design needs, Melanie Verstraete can provide the complete package. She is not just your usual real estate agent. Like a valuable jewel, she has many different facets for she is a REALTOR®, a designer, a stager, an interior designer, and a fix and flip expert.

Melanie loved art and design ever since she was a little girl. While in college, Melanie majored in automotive design, but quickly realized that was not her calling and pursued her degree in architecture.

Due to their entrepreneurial approach to business, Melanie and her dad started doing fix and flip projects in 2013 when the market was crazy in Arizona. As she and her father went around with different agents purchasing properties, Melanie thought to herself, “Why don’t I get my real estate license?”. This thought made sense financially and allowed them to keep the commissions for more of a profit. In that same year, Melanie got her real estate license and started controlling all the contracts while still assisting with the construction and doing all the interior design their projects needed. 

Melanie’s personality is one that people are drawn to immediately. Matched with her insane work ethic and eye for marketing, that’s exactly what makes her the perfect fit for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.”

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker
Architecture, Art, Business, Commercial Architecture, Commercial Real Estate, Entertainment, Equestrian, Fitness, Inspiration, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

Historic Retreat and Two Inns in Tubac For Sale and Presented by Russ Lyon SIR

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to present the historic 75-acre Kenyon Ranch retreat as well as the Tubac Country Inn and Amado Territory Bed & Breakfast for sale in and around the historic village of Tubac south of Tucson.

The village was established in 1752 and is considered the place where history and art meet. It is home to many shops, museums, and galleries as well as many neighborhoods and the Tubac Golf Resort.

Russ Lyon Sotheby International Realty Real Estate Advisors Catherine Marrero and Gary Brasher are excited to present Kenyon Ranch. The historic property was built in 1936 as a dude ranch and has most recently operated as a retreat with 17 guest casitas and 4 stand-alone homes. The 75-acre property features a 4,399-square-foot main house with a commercial kitchen and large dining room. Kenyon Ranch is listed for $2.6 million. It is located at 80 Kenyon Ranch Road, Tubac, Arizona 85646.

Kenyon Ranch has been one of the most important historical properties in Tubac. The retreat has wonderful panoramic views and amazing sunsets. It also features a 2,000 square foot lodge which is suitable for group events. All furniture, fixtures, and equipment to run facility are included in sale. Kenyon Ranch also has massage rooms, three private wells, a pool, hot tub, and horse facilities.

Cathy Marrero, Real Estate Advisor

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Real Estate Advisors Bob Prigmore and Gary Brasher are also presenting the Amado Territory Bed & Breakfast at The Amado Territory Rancb near Tubac. The property has visibility from Interstate 19 and features an additional 3.84-acre developable lot. The B&B and ranch has 9 guest rooms each with a private bath as well as a manager’s apartment. The property is listed for $1.25 million and is located at 3001 Frontage Road, Amado, Arizona 85645.

This is a gorgeous one-of-a-kind property with a light-filled Arizona room. It is close to the artist’s village of Tubac and a great starting place to explore southern Arizona

Bob Prigmore, real estate advisor

Gary Brasher is also honored to present the Tubac Country Inn. The five-room inn is in the center of the historic village and is listed for $995,000. The property has five rooms, one of which can accommodate the owner. It was built in 1987 and is near the 27-hole Tubac Golf Resort and Spa and the Presidio State Historic Park. The property is located at 13 Burruel Street, Tubac, Arizona 85646.

“The Tubac Country Inn is in the center of the arts community and has a proven track record and can generate a stable return on investment. This is a turnkey operation and is ready for a buyer to purchase and start operating immediately

Gary Brasher, Managing Broker
Art, Business, Education, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Brenda M. Cady

Lisa Wadey's head shot

 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, Brenda Cady, 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.

As a former music teacher, school principal and district administrator, Brenda thrives on serving others. Brenda moved to Arizona in 2007 where she served the communities of Anthem, Glendale, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Surprise. Brenda grew up in the beach town of Ventura, California where she studied music as a professional French horn player. She lived in Tenerife, Spain for three years and has enjoyed playing concerts in several European countries. Brenda earned her bachelors from University of California at Los Angeles, took master classes at University of Southern California, earned her masters from Grand Canyon University and is currently finishing her doctorate in organizational leadership from Grand Canyon University.

Brenda currently resides in Sedona, Arizona where she and her husband were married on Valentine’s Day in the beautiful red rocks. Together they enjoy visiting their families in California and Nebraska. When not serving the community or taking in the great outdoors, they enjoy watching Cornhusker football and the Arizona Cardinals. 

We are thrilled to welcome back to Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Brenda Cady! Brenda’s deep background in education is a time worn advantage in the real estate industry.  With a commitment to help others and a deep desire to dive deep into details, Brenda’s customers will get the benefit of a kind and caring as well as extremely prepared and professional.

Tod Christensen, Managing Broker
Architecture, Art, Business, Real Estate

The Little Daisy Goes Up for Auction

The Sedona Estate Will Be No Reserve via Concierge Auctions and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

Located just outside of Sedona, in the town of Jerome, 300 Upper Bell Road—known as The Little Daisy—will auction online this month via Concierge Auctions in cooperation with Luxury Agent Donna Chesler of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

Previously offered for $5.9 million, the property will sell with No Reserve to the highest bidder. Bidding will be held June 26-30 via Concierge Auctions’ online marketplace, ConciergeAuctions.com, allowing buyers to bid digitally from anywhere in the world.

Be swept away to the grandeur of a bygone era at this thoughtfully-redesigned family estate. Once a famed miner hotel, the property was lovingly restored over 12 years and reconfigured into 8  bedrooms including a grand master suite—all while paying homage to the original structure. Original hand-plastered ceilings, exterior colorful tiles, walls of french doors, 3,000 square feet of verandas, and an antique copper sink are touches of the property’s past. Entertain guests with ease between the many verandas, blooming rooftop gardens, and the 9,000-square-foot rooftop entertaining space with a cozy sitting area, bar/dining space, and a hot tub for cold desert nights—all with sweeping views of the Sedona Red Rocks and entire Verde Valley. Other features include: master-suite with sitting area, spa bath, double vanities, claw-foot tub, bidet, his-and-her walk-in closets; chef’s kitchen with marble and stainless counters, marble island, bar seating, top-of-the-line appliances, walk-in pantry; formal dining space; billiards/media lounge; home office; wine cellar; 3,000-square-foot garage/workshop; lawn fountains and firepit; and outdoor shower—all 2 minutes to downtown Jerome and 40 minutes to Sedona. 

“After pouring a lot of love into this property for over 12 years, I am excited to partner with Concierge Auctions for the sale of my home,” said seller, Lisa Acker. “Their auction platform puts a spotlight on one-of-a-kind properties like my own, reaching the most discerning buyers from around the world.”

Nestled in Jerome, Arizona—once known as the “the wickedest town in the west” during its copper mining heyday—the town is known today as a mecca for art, history, and wine lovers alike. Surrounded by historic sites and protected land, residents enjoy beautiful desert landscapes, rock formations, and Native American ruins. Nearby Sedona offers hiking trails with Red Rocks views, while Flagstaff offers skiing, mountain biking, and incredible restaurants. 

“This iconic estate sits atop the hillside in Jerome, capturing all-season views of the mountains beyond. Deep-rooted in the town’s history and renovated into the incredible personal residence it is today, this is your chance to own a piece of American history,” said listing agent, Donna Chesler.

The Little Daisy, located at 300 Upper Bell Road, is available or showings daily by appointment and additionally available for private virtual showings. For property details, photography, diligence documents, and more, please visit ConciergeAuctions.com

As part of Concierge Auctions’ Key for Key® giving program in partnership with Giveback Homes, the closing will result in a new home built for a family in need.Concierge Auctions offers a commission to the buyers’ representing real estate agents. See Auction Terms and Conditions for full details. For more information, visit ConciergeAuctions.com or call (212) 202-2940.

Photography by John Lloyd

Architecture, Art, Business, COVID-19, Entertainment, Real Estate

Luxury Real Estate Headlines | May 2020

Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation Partners with AAR to Sell T-shirts and Raise Funds to Benefit Arizona Housing Fund – LuxuryRealEstate.com

Local specialty T-shirt sale seeks to raise funds for Arizona Housing Fund – Daily Independent, Scottsdale Independent

PHOTOS: Home in heart of Arizona wine country on market for $2.5 million – AZ Family

PHOTOS: Penthouse in the middle of Scottsdale on Market for $5 million – AZ Family, News Break

PHOTOS: Scottsdale home on market for $5 million, includes Bentley in garage – AZ Family

Arizona’s Desert Mountain Demos Real Estate Sales In COVID-19 Era – Forbes, Newstral

PRICEY! Prescott Home on the Market for now $1,650,000 – ABC 15

PRICEY! Nogales Ranch on the Market for $4,950,000 – ABC 15

PRICEY! Scottsdale Home for Sale for $9,750,000 – ABC 15

Concierge Auctions Names New Industry Leaders to Esteemed Agent Advisory Board – EIN News

Sedona Area Estate to Auction Online No Reserve via Concierge Auctions and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty – EIN News

Architecture, Art, Business, COVID-19, Education, Equestrian, Real Estate

Luxury Real Estate Headlines April 2020

Here’s how businesses are helping others during COVID-19 crisis – AZ Big Media

A Conversation with ‘The Golden Girls of Real Estate’ – Flagstaff Business News

Giving back in Southern Arizona – Arizona Daily Star

Aazami on Luxury Homes: Virtual Real Estate Tools Assist All Parties During COVID-19 Crisis – AZ Foothills

Renowned Architect David Hovey’s First Private Residential Design and Former Home Shadow Caster Hits the Market in Desert Mountain – Yahoo! Finance

U.S. Golf Communities for the Love of the Game – Mansion Global

Arizona Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury’s home stole the show at the NFL draft. Here’s more on his Paradise Valley home – AZ Central

Here’s what you can get for $1M in Phoenix – Yahoo! Finance, Fox Business

Shifting Footprints: The New Normal in Office Design – RISmedia

PHOTOS: Past mining hotel with 40 rooms in Jerome on market for $5.9 million – AZ Family

PHOTOS: Scottsdale home with underground garage on market for $6.2 million – AZ Family

Art, Business, Community, COVID-19, Entertainment, Inspiration, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation Partners with Arizona Association of REALTORS to Sell T-Shirts and Raise Funds to Benefit Arizona Housing Fund

The Love Your Neighbor T-Shirt Sales Start Monday, May 4th

The Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation, a subsidiary of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, is partnering with the Arizona Association of REALTORS to raise money for the Arizona Housing Fund. The sales start Monday, May 4th, and only runs through Monday, May 18th, 2020. 

The Love Your Neighbor t-shirts are being produced by local Tempe business Anton Sport and just $20.

They are available online at https://russlyon.antonsport.com/russlyon/shop/home

All the proceeds benefit the AZ Housing Fund. The Arizona Housing (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.

For every shirt or onesie ordered the Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation will donate $10 to the Arizona Housing Fund. 

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 the russ lyon charitable foundation