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The RealTrends Verified Rankings honor the top 1.5% of real estate professionals in the United States, based on fully verified residential sales data from the previous calendar year. Rankings are determined by both transaction sides and sales volume for single-family homes and condominiums, ensuring a transparent and credible evaluation.

We are thrilled to announce that several of our outstanding Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty advisors have earned a spot in the esteemed 2025 RealTrends Verified Rankings, a national benchmark of excellence in the real estate industry.

Meet Our 2025 Honorees

We are thrilled to celebrate the following RLSIR advisors who earned a place in this year’s RealTrends Verified Rankings:

Their achievements represent not only individual success but also the collective excellence of our entire organization. These advisors continue to raise the bar and set new standards in the Arizona luxury market and beyond.

Congratulations to All

To our honorees—congratulations. Your hard work, integrity, and service excellence have not gone unnoticed. Thank you for representing the best of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Recognized Among Top U.S. Brokerages in 2025 RealTrends Verified Rankings

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is honored to be named one of the top residential real estate brokerages in the nation on the prestigious 2025 RealTrends Verified rankings. This national recognition underscores our continued leadership in Arizona’s luxury real estate markets and our unwavering dedication to delivering an exceptional experience for every client.

#39 in the Nation by Sales Volume

In an intensely competitive landscape, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty ranked #39 nationally for total closed sales volume in 2024. This milestone reflects the hard work, professionalism, and deep market knowledge of our Advisors who continue to exceed expectations and elevate the real estate experience.

#4 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliate by Volume

Within the esteemed Sotheby’s International Realty network, we are proud to rank as the #4 affiliate in the nation by volume. This distinction speaks to the power of the Sotheby’s brand combined with our strategic presence throughout Arizona—from luxury urban estates to expansive desert retreats.

#128 in the U.S. by Transaction Sides

In addition to our volume success, we also ranked #128 nationally by transaction sides, demonstrating the trust thousands of buyers and sellers placed in our brokerage to help them navigate their real estate journeys.

#5 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliate by Transaction Sides

Our performance places us as the #5 affiliate nationally by transaction sides among Sotheby’s International Realty brokerages, a testament to the consistency, reach, and personal touch our teams bring to every transaction.

A Legacy of Leadership

These national rankings are more than just statistics—they represent the collective excellence of our agents, the strength of our leadership, and the loyalty of our clients. At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, we are deeply proud of our heritage and equally committed to shaping the future of real estate with innovation, integrity, and service at the core.

As we celebrate this achievement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every client, partner, and team member who helped make this recognition possible. We remain steadfast in our mission to lead with purpose and continue setting the standard in Arizona and beyond.

Here’s to continued excellence—and to what’s next.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to providing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of Global Real Estate Advisor Barbara Hopkins to our Camelback Tower Office.

With an unwavering passion for real estate and a tireless commitment to client success, Barbara Hopkins brings a results-driven approach to every transaction. A third-generation Phoenix native, Barbara offers her clients not only deep market insight but a lifelong understanding of the Valley’s neighborhoods, lifestyle, and evolving real estate landscape.

Known for her tenacity, thoughtful guidance, and honest communication, Barbara consistently delivers personalized service that exceeds expectations, whether navigating a complex negotiation or preparing a luxury property for its premier market debut. Her expertise in staging and marketing high-end homes allows her to craft compelling stories that attract qualified buyers and deliver strong results. Clients often describe Barbara as responsive, strategic, and relentlessly dedicated. She builds lasting relationships by being present and available, offering steady direction, and making even the most challenging transactions feel seamless.

Her full-service approach—combined with the ability to generate interest in any market—has earned her the trust of both first-time buyers and seasoned sellers. Outside of real estate, Barbara finds inspiration exploring Arizona’s diverse landscapes on day trips and hikes, discovering new restaurants as a passionate foodie, and traveling to experience different cultures. She brings this same sense of curiosity, connection, and enthusiasm to her real estate work, making her an engaging and reliable guide through every step of the buying or selling journey.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to providing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of Global Real Estate Advisor Madison Parduhn to our Camelback Tower Office.

“Madison is clearly a young entrepreneur with a passion for life. She’s eager to learn from season professionals and to bring fresh energy to the team. Madison has a strong drive and vision that will certainly lead to a successful career in real estate with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty” – Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker

Madison Parduhn values passion, precision, and professionalism to each transaction. As a licensed Global Real Estate Advisor with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Madison is known for her ability to form genuine relationships, provide seamless client experiences, and deliver results with integrity, care, and efficiency. Madison specializes in residential properties in Arizona, with knowledgeable understanding of both luxury properties and first-time home buyer needs.

Her areas of proficiency include contract negotiation, market analysis, and customized marketing strategies – backed by a strong commitment to guiding clients through every step of the buying or selling process. Madison’s goal is simple: make the process smooth, memorable, and client-focused.

Before entering real estate, Madison competed as a Division I athlete on Auburn University’s top ranked national equestrian team. As a four-time SEC Champion, she developed the discipline, leadership, drive, and team-focused mindset that now define her professional approach. Madison also served as a leader in Auburn Athletics’ Connect Mentorship Program for student athletes, which helps build freshman athletes through all aspects of college life- from academic balance to career preparation. Outside of work, she enjoys showing horses at a competitive level, staying active through fitness, and going to sporting events.

With a clear eye for detail passion for helping others, Madison Parduhn is a dedicated advocate for her clients.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to providing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of Global Real Estate Advisor Robert Merritt to our Pinnacle Peak Office.

When Robert Merritt and his wife, Amy, made the move to Phoenix/Scottsdale, it was a thoughtful decision driven by their love of the area’s dynamic lifestyle. Drawn by the outdoor living, exceptional neighborhoods, renowned restaurants and entertainment, and the year-round sunshine, the Merritts quickly found themselves at home in the Valley.

Robert brings with him a distinguished 35-year career in public relations, marketing, and advertising, where he worked with national and international clients. His experience honed a deep commitment to client service and a genuine passion for building lasting relationships—qualities that naturally transitioned into a career in real estate.

Now a Real Estate Advisor with Sotheby’s International Realty, Robert combines his strategic insight with a heartfelt connection to the community he calls home. He works in partnership with his clients to help them sell their property, find their dream home, or navigate any other real estate needs with integrity and dedication.

In addition to his real estate expertise, Robert is also an avid golfer, frequently competing in local and national amateur tournaments. He offers valuable insight into the Valley’s thriving golf communities and is always happy to share his knowledge with fellow enthusiasts.

Robert Merritt and his team at Sotheby’s International Realty are proud to offer world-class service with a personal touch. To learn more or get in touch, visit www.robmerritt.com.