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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.

July 12, 2020 by
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.

July 2, 2020 by
Business, Entertainment, Inspiration, Real Estate, Russ Lyon

Russ Lyon SIR Agents and Teams Ranked With America’s Best for Arizona

America’s Best Real Estate Professionals honors America’s finest real estate agents from all across the country! Nearly 14,500 U.S. real estate sales associates from every state are featured in America’s Best. Those ranked are among the top 1.5% of 1.4 million real estate professionals in the United States!

The prestigious real estate list honors the top residential real agents and teams statewide based on sales volume and transactions. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty teams and agents rank high throughout the much-watched list.

We are immensely proud of all our agents. They are the best in the business and have relentless passion for serving our highly discerning clients. Our showing in Real Trends / Tom Ferry America’s Best for Arizona ranking is testament to what sets our agents above and apart.

Todd GIllenwater, CEO

2020 INDIVIDUALS BY TRANSACTION SIDES Lori Reiland (40) Lisa Roberts (59) Gary Brasher (65)

2020 INDIVIDUALS BY VOLUME Johnathon DeYoung (6) Lisa Roberts (9) Michael Johnson (15) Cheryl Anderson (21) Tami Henderson (24) Cionne McCarthy (35) Susanne Grogan (38) Josie Pakula (39) Lori Reiland (57)

2020 SMALL TEAMS BY VOLUME Power of 4 (2) Luxury Property Group (3) Wolski Gillenwater O’Keefe (4) Bushong, Christian, Almquist (6) Pellegrini & DeGeorge (7) Lucky Team (8) The Team 4 Results (9) The MacDonald Team (13) The W Group (18) Reeds and Doyle (19) O’Leary Luxury Group (26) Fitzgerald Luxury Group (29) The Marshall Brothers (31) Sertich Group (40) Cashman Partners (41) Elevating Luxury Properties (42)

2020 SMALL TEAMS BY TRANSACTION SIDES Pellegrini & DeGeorge (10) Lucky Team (29)

2020 MEDIUM TEAMS BY VOLUME Reisdorf Metz & Partners (22) The Ashcraft team (25)

2020 LARGE TEAMS BY VOLUME Private Client Group (4)

2020 LARGE TEAMS BY TRANSACTION SIDES Private Client Group (21)

June 29, 2020 by
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.

June 27, 2020 by
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
June 16, 2020 by
Education, Entertainment, Fitness, Inspiration

Fresh Air | 5 Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors Safely

with Sotheby’s Internationa Realty

Spring is in full effect in the northern hemisphere and as restrictions on some outdoor spaces begin to lift, here are five ways you can enjoy some much-needed sunshine and fresh air while practicing safe social distancing guidelines.

Practice Cleanliness

First and foremost, take care of yourself and the members of your household. While some of the heavier restrictions are being lifted, it’s still important to make sure that you stay up to date with CDC guidelines and ensure that you’re washing your hands frequently and wearing a face covering when in public spaces – even while outside.

Just Get Outside

It’s no secret that sunshine offers many health benefits – the good news is that you don’t have to go far to get it. Carve out a part of each day to get outside, even if it’s an hour on your patio, yard or doorstep to get that all-important boost of vitamin D. Enjoying the sunshine doesn’t have to be complicated; if social distancing guidelines in your area permit, take a walk by yourself or with members of your household.

Camping in Your Backyard

You can take your family on a camping adventure in your own backyard. Set up a tent, have a bonfire, roast some marshmallows and tell campfire stories. Try leaving cellphones and other electronics in the house for a truly authentic camping experience.

Go for a Hike         

Some trails and parks are beginning to reopen their gates, which means you can lace up your hiking boots and get back into nature. The National Recreation and Park Association offers some guidance like warning other trail users of your presence, allowing proper space or stepping off trails as you pass others, and keeping the recommended distance at all times. Check out our Arizona’s Natural Wonders and Hiddem Gems blog post for information on Arizona hiking.

A Bicycle Built for You

Similar to hiking or going for a walk, you can get on your bike and go for a ride alone or with members of your household. It’s important to avoid congested routes so consider riding at off-peak hours, try new paths, and don’t be discouraged if you have to alter your route to find a less crowded path.

June 7, 2020 by
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

June 5, 2020 by
Business, Entertainment, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Wendy Herst

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, Wendy Herst, 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. 

Originally from NY and L.A. with a few stints in Nashville. For the past 13 years, Wendy Herst has called North Scottsdale home.

Wendy is a successful real estate agent with a proven track record in helping both buyers and sellers in Arizona, including ranking in the top 1% of agents in the state. She takes a concierge approach to helping her clients and operates from the principle of “this real estate journey is about you, and you come first!”

Wendy has handled hundreds of relocations in her career and also has experience in Family Office real estate. She enjoys complex transactions and creative solutions and leverages her background in economics and business to evaluate what makes real estate valuable – from location to municipal growth plans. She considers local trends and macroeconomic factors and stays current with real estate news to better assess market conditions.  Wendy’s experience in real estate is enriched by her business background in which she helped grow a travel nursing staffing firm into a multi-million dollar industry leader, founded her own executive search firm, and was a franchisee of a restaurant group. She also had success in the entertainment industry where she produced a feature film and worked in Television & Film Talent at ICM Partners.

Meeting Wendy was a breath of fresh air! Her approach to life mirrors her approach to business. Kind, generous, yet tenacious- her success is already evident in her sales career thus far, and I can’t wait to watch the new levels she achieves partnered with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Sherri Monteith
June 1, 2020 by
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
May 4, 2020 by