As fall sets in, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty remains a steady presence in top real estate publications. From record-setting transactions to one-of-a-kind homes, our name continues to be synonymous with Arizona luxury.
Here’s what made headlines in October:
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to welcome Gabriel Brown as our new Relocation Director. With nearly two decades of experience in real estate and relocation, Gabriel brings a deep understanding of what it takes to make every move seamless for both corporations and families alike. His leadership, relationship-driven approach, and passion for service make him an outstanding addition to our team.
Gabriel began his relocation career in 2007, spending ten years with BGRS/SIRVA as a Client Services Manager supporting both private and government sector clients. There, he honed his expertise in client-centric service, collaboration, and performance-based coaching while always striving for measurable results and process efficiency.
A native of Southern California, Gabriel and his wife relocated to Arizona in 2010, where he began his career with what was then Prudential Relocation. His career later took him to San Francisco to manage a large technology account before returning to Arizona to build and lead a new client team. Having personally experienced corporate relocations with his own family, Gabriel understands the challenges and opportunities each move presents, and the importance of partnering with agents who bring empathy and professionalism to the process.
As Relocation Director, Gabriel will focus on expanding partnerships with brokers, relocation companies, and corporate clients to ensure Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty remains the premier choice for relocation services across Arizona and beyond. His vision centers on strengthening client relationships, enhancing the relocation experience, and driving growth through strategic collaboration with industry partners.
Before his relocation career, Gabriel spent three years in the mortgage industry as an account executive and loan originator, gaining valuable knowledge of real estate financing, closings, and client relationship management. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Corporate Services for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, overseeing operations throughout Arizona, California, and Nevada. Gabriel also holds multiple professional designations, including Global Mobility Specialist (GMS), Certified Relocation Professional (CRP), and Global Destination Services (GDS) certifications, underscoring his dedication to excellence in the relocation field.
Please join us in extending a heartfelt welcome to Gabriel Brown as he begins this exciting new chapter with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. His experience, leadership, and commitment to client service will play a vital role in advancing our relocation initiatives and supporting our continued success.
If you’re looking to own Arizona real estate or move within our beautiful state, this blog post is for you! Each month, we bring you stories, expert insights, and conversations that celebrate luxury living and everything that makes Arizona an incredible place to call home.
Welcome to ICONIC Estates, a podcast presented by Russ Lyon | Sotheby’s International Realty for people who love Arizona and the opportunity to live in luxury in the pristine desert. Hosted by Renee Dee, publisher of ICONIC LIFE magazine, this podcast brings together the people shaping Arizona’s real estate and lifestyle landscape.
Here’s what you’ll discover in this month’s episode:
From savoring culinary excellence to discovering why Arizona is one of the nation’s most desirable relocation destinations, this episode delivers the perfect blend of lifestyle and luxury.
Whether you’re moving to the desert or simply love exploring what makes Arizona ICONIC, this episode will leave you inspired.
Tune in to the full episode and stay connected for future conversations about Arizona real estate, lifestyle, and luxury living.
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 Suzanne Gaidos to our Pinnacle Peak Office.
Born in Southern California and raised between Scottsdale and Los Angeles, Suzanne Gaidos grew up immersed in a family of highly sought-after contractors. Her early exposure to construction sites cultivated a deep appreciation for quality craftsmanship, exceptional materials, and prime property locations—values that continue to define her approach to real estate today.
A proud graduate of Claremont McKenna College, Suzanne earned her Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Philosophy before embarking on a corporate journey that would take her across the world. During her distinguished career, she held global leadership roles at several Fortune 100 companies, gaining valuable insights into international business, negotiation, and communication.
Despite her corporate success, Suzanne’s real estate roots called her home. After years of relocations across the U.S.—from Minnesota and Illinois to New York—and internationally in Finland and the Netherlands, Suzanne and her family ultimately returned to Scottsdale, drawn by the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the desire to reconnect with loved ones. It was here they discovered their forever home.
Today, Suzanne blends her global experience with her lifelong passion for real estate. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, exceptional communication skills, and genuine care for her clients, she provides a concierge-level experience tailored to each client’s unique needs. Her approach is refined yet personal—built on trust, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
As part of The Wilkins Team, a respected group with more than 30 years of real estate expertise, Suzanne ensures seamless transitions before, during, and after every transaction. Whether representing buyers or sellers, she leverages her local insight and international perspective to deliver results that exceed expectations.
With her luxury-market expertise, global connections, and tireless work ethic, Suzanne stands as an invaluable advocate and trusted partner in the Scottsdale real estate community. From start to finish, she is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their real estate aspirations with confidence, ease, and success.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been honored with a prestigious position on the Phoenix Business Journal’s 2025 list of Arizona’s Largest Corporate Philanthropists, earning the #18 ranking among all companies statewide. Arizona’s corporate philanthrop…
This recognition highlights the company’s significant financial support of Arizona nonprofits through direct cash contributions, charitable programs, and widespread community engagement. Each year, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty demonstrates its ongoing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves—going far beyond real estate to create meaningful, lasting impact.
The Phoenix Business Journal evaluates companies based on their cash contributions to Arizona charities, alongside additional philanthropic metrics such as companywide giving and in-kind donations. Securing the #18 spot reflects not only the strength of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s charitable efforts but also the passion and dedication of its agents, staff, and leadership.
From statewide initiatives supported through the Russ Lyon Foundation to agent-led community service projects, giving back remains at the heart of the company’s culture. This ranking stands as a testament to Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s unwavering belief in elevating the communities that make Arizona such a remarkable place to call home.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been recognized as one of Arizona’s leading companies for community service, earning the #13 spot on the Phoenix Business Journal’s 2025 list of Largest Phoenix-Area Corporate Volunteer Programs. Phoenix-area companies ranked b…
This ranking reflects the company’s exceptional commitment to strengthening communities through hands-on service, with 2,350 hours of local volunteer work contributed by employees in 2024. From assisting local nonprofits to participating in statewide charitable initiatives, the team at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty continually demonstrates its dedication to giving back.
The Phoenix Business Journal evaluates organizations based on their total Arizona volunteer hours, highlighting companies whose employees make a significant impact through meaningful service. Achieving the #13 ranking is a testament to the culture of philanthropy that has long been a pillar of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Through both company-wide initiatives and agent-driven efforts, the organization consistently shows that community support is not just encouraged—it’s woven into the fabric of who they are.
This recognition, paired with the company’s ranking among Arizona’s largest corporate philanthropists, reinforces Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s position as both an industry leader and a champion of community involvement across the state.
We are incredibly proud to announce that ICONIC Estates, presented by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, has won an Eddie & Ozzie Award in the Podcast > Special Interest category! Eddie & Ozzie Awards
This recognition is especially meaningful because the Eddie & Ozzie Awards are dedicated to celebrating outstanding content, design, and storytelling across media platforms. Their judging panel is known for professionalism and high standards, so being honored is no small feat.
Winning this award is more than just a trophy — it’s validation of the passion, creativity, and consistency we bring to every episode.
While a lot goes into producing a podcast of this kind, here are some of the elements we leaned in on:
This award is not an endpoint — it’s a springboard. Here’s a glimpse of what’s ahead:
We want to extend heartfelt gratitude to:
Winning the Eddie & Ozzie is an honor — and we’re excited to carry this momentum forward. Thanks for being part of this journey. The best is yet to come.
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 Monica Day to our Pinnacle Peak Office.
A friendly and familiar face, Monica—known affectionately as “Monday” to those around her—brings a blend of Midwestern warmth, authenticity, and professionalism to her real estate career.
Raised in a small farm town, Monica learned the values of hard work, community, and integrity early in life. Her ambition led her to the Chicago Board of Trade, where she managed a private men’s social club and spa for many years. There, she built lasting relationships and developed a calm, confident demeanor that now serves her clients well in the often high-stakes world of real estate.
Monica’s steady and reassuring presence brings ease to even the most stressful situations, including significant property purchases and complex negotiations. Her experience extends beyond traditional real estate—after spending several years in Palm Springs, California, she successfully flipped two historic properties, further deepening her understanding of design, renovation, and investment value.
Now calling Scottsdale home, Monica embraces the desert lifestyle with enthusiasm and appreciation. When she’s not helping clients navigate their real estate journeys, she can often be found horseback riding, collecting beautiful objects, or capturing the natural splendor of Arizona through her photography.
Monica’s blend of experience, authenticity, and genuine care makes her a trusted guide for anyone looking to buy or sell in Arizona’s dynamic luxury market.
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 Chris York to our West Valley Office.
Honesty, dedication, and family values are at the heart of everything Chris York does. As a trusted real estate professional, Chris believes that buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction—it’s a life-changing experience that deserves care, transparency, and a personal touch.
With a steadfast commitment to doing what’s right, Chris builds lasting relationships grounded in integrity and trust. His clients know they can count on him to communicate openly, guide them through every step of the process, and always put their best interests first.
Driven by dedication, Chris goes above and beyond to ensure every detail is handled with precision and professionalism. Whether he’s helping a first-time buyer find their dream home or assisting a growing family in making their next big move, Chris treats every client like family—because he understands that home is where life’s most meaningful moments happen.
Rooted in strong family values, Chris brings compassion, understanding, and genuine care to every interaction. He knows that behind every sale is a story—a family starting fresh, growing, or finding their forever home—and he’s honored to be part of that journey.
When you work with Chris, you’re not just getting a real estate agent; you’re gaining a trusted advisor, a fierce advocate, and a partner who will walk beside you every step of the way.
Built on trust. Rooted in family. Focused on you.