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Exciting news at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

We are proud to celebrate Lisa Baker, Global Real Estate Advisor with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, on her election to the Glendale City Council, representing the Barrel District.

Lisa’s commitment to the Glendale community extends well beyond her career in real estate. A longtime Glendale resident and dedicated civic leader, she has spent years giving her time and expertise to organizations and initiatives focused on strengthening the community she calls home.

Since 2017, Lisa has served with the City of Glendale’s Community Development Advisory Committee, where she has held a leadership role since 2020. She has also served on multiple Citizen Bond Election Committees, bringing her experience and perspective to conversations surrounding community investments, infrastructure, and the city’s long-term needs.

Her commitment to Glendale also includes extensive involvement with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, where she has served on the Board of Directors, chaired the board in 2024, and served as Interim President and CEO in 2025.

As a real estate professional, Lisa understands the importance of strong communities, thoughtful growth, and creating places where people are proud to live, work, and invest. Her years of civic and business leadership have given her a unique perspective on the people, neighborhoods, and businesses that make Glendale special.

Now, as she begins her service on City Council, Lisa will continue her commitment to the community from a new platform.

Congratulations, Councilmember Baker! We are proud to call Lisa one of our own and look forward to celebrating all that is ahead as she continues to serve the Glendale community.

Congratulations to Dan Wolski on his inclusion in the 2026 RealTrends Verified + The Thousand list!

This prestigious national recognition celebrates the top-performing real estate professionals and teams across the United States, with rankings based on verified residential sales volume and transaction sides.

Dan’s recognition reflects his deep market expertise, exceptional negotiation skills, and unwavering commitment to his clients. His outstanding performance in 2025 earned him a place among the country’s leading real estate professionals, alongside top advisors from Sotheby’s International Realty® brokerages across the nation.

Throughout his career, Dan has built a reputation for delivering thoughtful guidance, strategic expertise, and exceptional service in competitive real estate markets. This national recognition is a reflection of the results he consistently delivers for his clients and the trust he has earned along the way.

At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, we are proud to see our advisors recognized among the best in the industry. Dan’s achievement represents not only his individual success, but also the professionalism, expertise, and elevated standards that define our brokerage.

Congratulations, Dan, on this well-earned recognition! We are proud to celebrate this achievement and look forward to all that is ahead as you continue serving clients throughout Arizona and beyond.

In a year marked by market recalibration, evolving client expectations, and intensified competition across the luxury real estate landscape, one name rose with unmistakable clarity—Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

2025 was not simply a year of participation. It was a year of dominance.

From national rankings to record-setting growth, from thought leadership across Arizona’s most coveted markets to the recognition of rising talent shaping the industry’s future, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty didn’t just keep pace—it set it.

At a national level, the brokerage solidified its position among the elite, earning a place within the top 15 franchisees in the United States by sales volume. This distinction alone reflects not only scale, but sustained trust among discerning buyers and sellers who expect nothing short of excellence.

Yet growth was not measured solely by volume. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty was also recognized as one of the top 10 fastest-growing franchisees in the nation, a testament to strategic expansion, intentional leadership, and a culture that continues to attract top-tier advisors.

Further reinforcing its national standing, the brokerage ranked #40 among all U.S. brokerages—standing as Arizona’s only representation on the list. In a state known for its competitive and rapidly evolving real estate market, this distinction underscores a singular truth: Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is not just participating in Arizona’s luxury market—it is defining it.

Within the Sotheby’s International Realty network itself, the brokerage’s influence remains equally profound. Ranking among the top 5 Sotheby’s International Realty brokerages in the United States, Russ Lyon continues to exemplify what it means to carry one of the world’s most prestigious real estate brands with both distinction and impact.

But beyond rankings and accolades, 2025 was also a year of voice.

Through its ongoing “Voice of Arizona Luxury” series, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty provided unparalleled insight into the state’s most prominent markets—from Maricopa County to Yavapai and Pima. These reports did more than present data; they shaped the narrative of luxury living in Arizona, positioning the brokerage as the definitive authority for both clients and industry professionals alike.

And as the brokerage continued to lead, it also continued to elevate.

The recognition of its 2026 Forty Under 40 honorees serves as a powerful reminder that the future of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is as strong as its legacy. These rising professionals represent the next generation of innovation, service, and leadership—ensuring that excellence is not only maintained, but expanded.

Taken together, these milestones tell a story far greater than individual achievements. They reflect a brokerage grounded in purpose, driven by performance, and guided by a vision that consistently looks forward.

A vision best captured in the words that defined the year: Onward and Upward.

As 2025 demonstrated, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is not simply responding to the market—it is shaping what comes next.

And if this past year is any indication, the trajectory ahead is not just promising.

It’s inevitable.

A remarkable milestone in Arizona luxury real estate.

Congratulations to Johnathon De Young on representing the seller in one of the most significant residential real estate transactions in Arizona history.

Closing at $32.5 million, the extraordinary sale ranks as the second-highest residential sale in Arizona history, marking a remarkable achievement for Johnathon and his clients.

Transactions of this caliber require an exceptional level of discretion, strategic expertise, and market knowledge. Johnathon’s ability to navigate the complexities of an ultra-luxury transaction while delivering an elevated client experience reflects the expertise and professionalism he brings to every opportunity.

This landmark sale further underscores Johnathon’s position among the leading professionals in Arizona’s luxury real estate market and represents another significant achievement in his distinguished career.

At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, we are proud to celebrate this exceptional accomplishment and the continued excellence Johnathon brings to our brokerage, our clients, and the Arizona luxury market.

Congratulations, Johnathon, on this extraordinary achievement and on representing our brand with such distinction.

Across the state of Arizona, real estate agents achieve significant milestones in their careers every month. This February, we are proud to have been part of these REALTORS’ first sales as Global Real Estate Advisors with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

Enjoy!

February often carries a quieter confidence—a month where momentum steadies, intentions take shape, and the market reveals its true depth. At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, February 2026 at Camelback Tower at The Phoenician reflected exactly that: poised, purposeful activity within one of Scottsdale’s most distinguished residential addresses.

Following January’s remarkable surge, the luxury market did not retreat. Instead, it refined. Buyers remained deliberate and discerning, recognizing the rarity of opportunities within Camelback Tower. Sellers, equally strategic, continued to benefit from strong positioning in a community defined by architectural sophistication, elevated service, and panoramic views at the base of Camelback Mountain.

Throughout February 2026, five notable residences closed, with sales ranging from approximately $2.60 million to $3.15 million. Closings occurred consistently from February 4 through February 27—demonstrating sustained demand and continued confidence in the premier lock-and-leave lifestyle offered at The Phoenician.

These transactions were once again guided by a highly experienced Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty advisory team, including Karina Rodriguez, Dave Purpora, Leslie Jenkins, Joe Bushong, Chad Christian, Grant Almquist, and Beth Spivey, with Karen Nychay and Kaycee Desmarteau representing buyers on select residences. Their collective expertise, collaborative approach, and deep familiarity with the nuances of Camelback Tower continue to ensure seamless representation at every level of the transaction.

February 2026 Camelback Tower Closings:

4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | A404
4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B302
4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B105
4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B206
4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | A104

Each closing represents more than a transaction—it reflects trust, strategic negotiation, and the enduring appeal of a lifestyle that blends privacy, luxury, and world-class amenities.

January often signals a reset—a return to focus, momentum, and decisive action. At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, January 2026 opened not quietly, but with conviction, as the Scottsdale luxury market continued its strong pace at one of Arizona’s most iconic residential destinations: Camelback Tower at The Phoenician.

Rather than a pause after the holidays, the new year brought clarity and confidence. Buyers entered the market prepared, sellers remained well-positioned, and the strength of expert representation once again proved essential in facilitating high-caliber transactions within one of Scottsdale’s most coveted enclaves.

Throughout January 2026, Camelback Tower experienced a remarkable 22 closed transactions, underscoring sustained demand at the highest levels of the market. Sales ranged from approximately $2.04 million to just under $5 million, with closings occurring steadily from January 6 through January 26—a compelling demonstration that momentum in the luxury sector carried seamlessly into the new year.

These transactions were guided by a highly experienced team of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty advisors, including Leslie Jenkins, Joe Bushong, Grant Almquist, Chad Christian, Karina Rodriguez, Dave Purpora, and Beth Spivey. Their continued presence within Camelback Tower reflects the depth of market knowledge, strategic insight, and trusted relationships required to navigate one of Scottsdale’s most elite residential offerings.

January 2026 Camelback Tower Closings:

• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | A401
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B202
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | A204
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B208
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B204
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B102
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B308
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B304
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B203
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B305
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B106
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B401
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B101
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B405
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B404
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B103
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B406
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B402
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B301
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B205
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B408
• 4849 N Camelback Ridge Road | B108

As 2026 gains momentum, January’s performance sends a clear signal: Scottsdale’s luxury real estate market remains active, resilient, and opportunity-rich—particularly in premier lifestyle destinations like The Phoenician.

At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, we are proud to represent discerning buyers and sellers at the forefront of Arizona’s luxury market—setting the tone for the year ahead, one exceptional closing at a time.

Across the state of Arizona, real estate agents achieve significant milestones in their careers every month. This January, we are proud to have been part of these REALTORS’ first sales as Global Real Estate Advisors with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

Enjoy!

One of the easiest ways to keep serving our clients—even when their next move takes them far outside Arizona—is through outgoing referrals.

It’s not always the flashiest part of the business, but it is one of the most valuable. Outgoing referrals protect the relationship, keep us connected to our clients long-term, and remind people in our sphere that we’re more than local experts—we’re the ones who can help them land safely wherever they’re headed next.

This year, a few advisors really leaned into referrals in a way that deserves recognition (and honestly… should inspire the rest of us).

Jennifer Schumacher: Turning Referrals into Closings

Highest number of closed outgoing referrals
Jennifer Schumacher (Camelback) — 4 closed units

Jennifer led the way in closed outgoing referrals this year, and that’s not luck—it’s consistency. Every one of those closings represents a client who trusted her enough to say, “Yes, help me find someone,” and Jennifer made sure that handoff was done the right way.

It’s a great reminder that referrals aren’t “passing someone off.” They’re continuing the service—just in a different zip code.

Dan Wolski: The Biggest Outgoing Referral Commission of 2025

Highest commission earned from an outgoing referral in 2025
Dan Wolski (Desert Mountain)

Dan’s referral win is a strong example of how impactful one well-matched connection can be. The highest commission earned from an outgoing referral this year came from a relationship that didn’t end when the client left the market—it evolved.

That’s the opportunity with referrals: you stay valuable, you stay involved, and you’re still part of the story.

Diane Clow: Keeping Referrals Moving

Highest number of outgoing referral submissions in 2025
Diane Clow (Carefree) — 5 referrals sent

Diane was the most proactive sender this year with five outgoing referrals submitted. That says a lot—because the advisors who win in referrals are usually the ones who notice the opportunity early.

A neighbor moving out of state. A past client taking a job transfer. A friend’s child relocating for school. Diane kept her eyes open and used the tools available to make sure those opportunities didn’t slip away.

Why This Matters (and Why It Helps Your Sphere, Too)

Here’s the thing: outgoing referrals are good for the company, yes—but they’re also great for your personal brand.

When you talk about referrals, you’re telling your sphere:

• “You can still come to me, even if you’re leaving Arizona.”
• “I’m connected, I’m resourceful, and I’ll take care of you.”
• “I’m not just here for one transaction—I’m here for the long haul.”

And that’s a message people remember.

So whether you’re sharing these recognitions internally or posting your own referral wins publicly, it’s all reinforcing the same truth: we’re not limited by geography—we’re built for connection.