New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Sarah Sowder

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 Sarah Sowder to the Tucson 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. 

Sarah Sowder, a Tucson native and proud graduate of Sahuaro High School, is a unique discovery in the real estate world. Having lived in Ohio and established herself as a Realtor in the Greater Dayton area, Sarah has cultivated a vast network that spans from the western to the eastern regions of the United States.

Sarah’s core values revolve around loyalty, effective communication, and unwavering honesty, which she wholeheartedly commits to upholding for her valued customers. With her sharp eye for interior design, meticulous attention to detail, and a knack for optimizing functionality, Sarah excels at guiding homeowners through the process of preparing their properties for the market.

She derives particular satisfaction from assisting luxury home clients with their distinct needs and holds prestigious certifications as both a Luxury Home Specialist and a Military Relocation Professional. Sarah’s husband, a retired US Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, has given her a deep understanding and knowledge of the challenges and requirements of clients with military backgrounds.

In her leisure time, Sarah and her husband can often be found enjoying local car shows on weekends, leisurely strolling through art exhibitions, or savoring culinary delights at the diverse array of restaurants in the area. Sarah’s love for art extends beyond appreciating local artists, as she finds her own creative outlet in oil painting, particularly focusing on expressing the beauty of flora and fauna.

The Tucson Office of Russ Lyon Sothebys’s International Realty is thrilled to have experienced agent Sarah Sowders join our Team. Sarah hit the ground running with an amazing sale as a Buyer representative her first week with our Brand.

Will Rose, Managin Broker

Significant Sales

Significant Sales: August 2023


Throughout the state of Arizona, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been proud to represent and participate in the following sales for August.


We refer to these as ‘Significant Sales.’ While all of our transactions are genuinely significant, we hope you enjoy discovering these unique homes based not only on price but also on their architectural, cultural, and geographical significance, as well as those involved in the journey.

Enjoy!

Seller Representation:

1 Avenida Villaescusa Court | Tubac
Sold for $1,197,000
Dual Representation: Marty Durkin & Bryan Durkin
6900 W Turquoise Hills Place | Marana
Sold for $1,210,000
Seller Representation: Jenna Loving
13744 N Keystone Springs Drive | Oro Valley
Sold for $1,150,000
Seller Representation: Mara Mitchell
1162 E Beaver Tail Trail | Carefree
Sold for $1,070,000
Seller Representation: Stacy Paluscio, Courtney Woods Olson, Darcy Whalen

24 Nichols Ct | Tubac
Sold for $751,838
Dual Representation: Gary Brasher & Daniel Ledwidge
1116 Camino Monte Cristo | Green Valley
Sold for $520,000
Seller Representation: Bob Prigmore
4615 N Royal Palm Circle | Phoenix
Sold for $5,500,000
Seller Representation: Johnathon DeYoung
17934 N 100th Street | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,575,000
Seller Representation: Marta Walsh and Matt Walsh
9770 N 56th Street | Paradise Valley
Sold for $3,050,000
Seller Representation: Frank Aazami & Jean-Michel Edery
5901 E Berneil Drive | Paradise Valley
Sold for $2,850,000
Seller Representation: David Arustamian
110 Sage Drive | Sedona
Sold for $1,269,000
Seller Representation: Julie Holt, Jim French, & Anne French
1440 Commonwealth Street | Prescott
Sold for $715,000
Seller Representation: Tammy Bates
17121 W Whitmore Hall Lane | Surprise
Sold for $810,000
Seller Representation: Camden Steele and Patrica Davis
8941 W Topeka Drive | Peoria
Sold for $700,000
Seller Representation: Lori Reliand and Lindsey Shoultes
8469 W Escuda Drive | Peoria
Sold for $670,000
Seller Representation: Bobbi Martin
9033 E Providence Drive | Flagstaff
Sold for $990,000
Seller Representation: Deidre Craig
1580 Pine Meadow Drive | Williams
Sold for $750,000
Seller Representation: Kristina Webb
8112 N Mohave Road | Paradise Valley
Sold for $9,950,000
Seller Representation: Bob Hassett
6230 E Cheny Dr | Paradise Valley
Sold for $5,250,000
Seller Representation: Alan Zieder & Kathy Harris
11264 E Apache Vistas Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for 3,776,305 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Kathleen Benoit, Karen Baldwin, Bee Francis, & Madelyn Elfgren
Buyer Representation: Shawn Chappel
11226 E Purple Aster Way | Scottsdale
Sold for $3,630,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: James Kolander
Buyer Representation: Dena Bullard, Nancy Sertich, Tim Floor, & Shawn Rimer
6407 E Butte Street | Mesa
Sold for $1,050,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Christine Fox
Buyer Representation: Anthony Guerriero
70 Top Knot Drive | Sedona
Sold for $4,250,000 | DualRepresentation
Seller Representation: Debbie Gregor
Buyer Representation: Leslie Yardley
2454 S Polaris Way | Flagstaff
Sold for $870,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Freddi Paulsrud, Valerie Core
Buyer Representation: Rosemary Lamberson
70 E Mount Elden Lookout Road | Flagstaff
Sold for $1,900,000 | Dual Representation
Seller Representation: Josh Winnicki & Sharan Winnicki
Buyer Representation: Nicole Cumbie
4230 Lariat Loop | Flagstaff
Sold for $1,050,000
Dual Representation: Shane Randall & Marie Dagenais

Buyer Representation:

  • 10584 E Greythorn Drive | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $5,400,000
    • Buyer Representation: Dan Wolski
  • 10029 E Reflecting Mountain Way | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $3,450,000
    • Buyer Representation: Dan Wolski
  • 6114 E Oyer Lane | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,820,000
    • Buyer Representation: Debbie Beede & Donna Taylor
  • 6016 E Thunder Hawk Road 572 | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,775,000
    • Buyer Representation: Jill Anderson & Linda Wood
  • 36461 N Kohuana Place | Cave Creek
    • Sold for $1,100,000
    • Buyer Representation: Lesley Vann
  • 20373 E Camina Plata | Queen Creek
    • Sold for $967,500
    • Buyer Representation: Randy Berg
  • 7700 E Nimitz Road | Scottsdale
    • Sold for $1,563,250
    • Buyer Representation: Adam Prather
  • 7260 E Eagle Crest Drive 6 | Mesa
    • Sold for $1,497,500
    • Buyer Representation: Jean Grimes
  • 100 Smoke Trail Lane | Sedona
    • Sold for $12,500,000
    • Buyer Representation: Zoja Pedenko, Frank Aazami, Nancy Read
  • 211 Calle Francesca | Sedona
    • Sold for $2,025,000
    • Buyer Representation: Katrin Themlitz
  • 43 Bloomingdale Drive | Prescott
    • Sold for $775,000
    • Buyer Representation: Laura Spaeth
  • Vacant Land | Case Grande
    • Sold for $6,138,000
    • Buyer Representation: Terry Brock & Karen Sauer
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Kera Molinaro

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 Kera Molinaro 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. 

Kera Molinaro is a native of Lake Oswego, Oregon, and has found Arizona to be the ideal location for raising her three spirited boys – Kason, Frankie, and Weston. Together with her husband Frank, who serves as a wrestling coach at Arizona State, she engages in activities such as yoga, golfing, and hiking. Having competed at a top-tier level in gymnastics, she has cultivated a strong sense of competitiveness and an unwavering work ethic, attributes she now applies to thrive in the realm of real estate.

Her leisure pursuits include sharing hobbies with her husband, Frank, who is a wrestling coach at Arizona State. Engaging in yoga, golfing, and hiking further enriches their bond. Her background in high-level gymnastics has fostered a tenacious competitive spirit and a meticulous approach to her work, both of which contribute to her success in the real estate field. Meeting the distinct requirements of clients through meticulous attention to detail and exceptional communication is a challenge she relishes.

Looking ahead, Kera is enthusiastic about the expansion of her real estate enterprise. She is particularly delighted that this growth aligns with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s, and she is eager to embrace the opportunities it brings.

Kera and her aunt have built a phenomenal professional relationship in addition to their personal connection. Kera is sharp, thoughtful and extremely motivated. We are so excited to watch her put our brand into her business and see the outcome!

Sherri Monteith, managing broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Sammy DeStefano

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 Sammy DeStefano 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. 

Sammy DeStefano is a dedicated real estate professional with a passion for delivering exceptional service. With a strong commitment to open communication, unwavering honesty, and a proven track record in the industry, Sammy is the go-to expert for all home selling needs.


Effective communication is at the heart of Sammy’s approach. Prioritizing connectivity through various channels, including phone calls, emails, and group text messages, Sammy ensures that clients’ concerns and questions take precedence. Prompt responses guarantee a smooth and well-informed experience.


Setting himself apart from traditional agents who often bind clients with lengthy contracts, Sammy recognizes the importance of flexibility when selling a home. Clients working with Sammy benefit from the ‘Easy Exit’ addendum to the agreement, providing an additional layer of reassurance, even though it’s rarely necessary.


Sammy believes in showcasing each home’s best attributes. Through a comprehensive marketing strategy, he presents properties with unique features that captivate potential buyers. Collaborating with skilled stagers, Sammy provides valuable tips for optimal presentation while his expert photographer captures the property’s beauty in stunning visuals.


With a wealth of market knowledge, Sammy’s commitment to honesty ensures clients gain a realistic understanding of their home’s market value. Rejecting overpromising and underdelivering, he guarantees that homes sell promptly and at the best possible price, maintaining an integrity-driven approach.


Sammy’s method for a successful home sale begins with meticulous planning. Clients receive a comprehensive roadmap as Sammy guides them through the journey. In detailed meetings, he presents a thoroughly prepared packet encompassing current competition analysis, appraisal evidence, and property-specific insights. This strategic approach addresses queries and aligns goals efficiently.

Choosing Sammy DeStefano equates to selecting a real estate partner committed to success, armed with expert knowledge, and prepared to navigate clients through a seamless home selling experience.

Sammy joining Russ Lyon | Sotheby’s International Realty was a collaboration 3+ years in the making. He belongs with this brokerage. I look forward to many years of success watching his work ethic explode with our brand.

Sherri Monteith, managing broker
Education, Entertainment, Equestrian, Lifestyle, Residential Real Estate, Russ Lyon

Welcome to Rail X Ranch

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Lists Most Expensive Property Ever in Southern Arizona – 1700-Acre Historic Ranch for $30 Million in Patagonia, Arizona 

A Rare Gem, the Rail X Ranch Boasts 2 Barns, a Casita, 3 Apartments, 3 Standalone Homes, Including the Main House, Plus its Own Private Lake.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce the rare and historical listing of a nearly $30 million ranch that promises to redefine luxury living amidst the natural splendor of Patagonia.

Listed by Associate Broker Gary Brasher, of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, the Rail X Ranch is an awe-inspiring property spanning approximately 1700 acres and featuring 2 barns, a casita, 3 apartments, 3 standalone homes, plus its own private lake.

The multilevel estate is set within the picturesque landscapes of Patagonia and will captivate buyers with its remarkable features, rich history, and extraordinary possibilities.

Located at 2671 AZ-82 in Patagonia, Rail X Ranch features 8 bedrooms, 9 full bathrooms, and 3 half bathrooms and stands as a testament to timeless elegance and sophistication.

With a listing price of $29,950,000, the ranch, according to the Multiple Listing Service, is now the highest-priced residential property in the last 30 years in Southern Arizona. The prestigious property presents an unparalleled opportunity for those seeking an unmatched lifestyle set upon 1739 acres of rolling grasslands and mesquite in Southern Arizona.

Inside, the estate is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. The main house and the casita, constructed in 1937, offer 11,398 square feet of living space and are a stunning blend of classic and contemporary elements. The main living space boasts vaulted ceilings and a grand fireplace, exuding an air of elegance while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The meticulously hand-painted white beams and unique black-and-white staircase add a touch of opulence. While the black and white checkered floors lead into a floor-to-ceiling library adorned with intricate details serving as a focal point of the estate.

Rail X Ranch boasts an illustrious heritage, having once been owned by the esteemed Kolbe family, known for their significant contributions to the region, with over 23 years of dedicated service in the US Congress. The property’s legacy is deeply rooted in the land, with its origins dating back to the late 1800s.

Several of the rooms are an art lover’s dream, adorned with meticulous details and custom finishes. The kitchen’s built-in breakfast nook is perfect for savoring morning moments, while a custom wood bar invites camaraderie

and relaxation. All the living quarters total 17,956 square feet, including 15 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, and 4 half bathrooms.

When discussing the estate, Associate Broker Brasher of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty states, “Every once in a great while, a part of Arizona’s history comes available on the market. A signature property that is unique and breathtaking in its beauty and as diverse as the Arizona landscape. The Rail X Ranch is such a property.”

Among the distinctive features that set Rail X Ranch apart are its private lake, stunning pool, multiple barns, and the rare presence of an artesian well, which flows without mechanical intervention. The property retains all its mineral rights—a rarity in Southern Arizona. Adjoined to the Coronado National Forest, the ranch offers an abundance of outdoor activities, from horseback riding to hiking and bird watching, all within the confines of this exceptional property. Area experts have identified more than 200 species of birds in nearby Patagonia.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Alan Surges

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 Alan Surges to the Desert Mountain 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. 

Alan joins our sales team along side Barry Conser at Desert Mountain with more than 30 years of experience as a director of golf in many of the premier golf communities in America.

He has been instrumental in designing, developing, and growing golf clubs, including Desert Mountain, Estancia, Desert Highlands, Las Campanas in New Mexico, and the Stock Farm Club in Montana. He is a licensed realtor in Arizona and is excited to show you what Scottsdale and all of Arizona have to offer.

As the face of golf, he has had the experience of not only growing membership but helping his clients become part of a community. His ability to understand the needs of his clients beyond the golf course has become a part of his persona and has helped build his reputation as “The Go to Guy for Anything”. Alan is excited to join the team at Desert Mountain because he understands our mission is to find you the perfect home and help make your lifestyle dreams a reality.

Alan joining the team is a real benefit to our clients. When you combine his humanity and integrity with his considerable experience in the luxury golf space, his clients will be getting the highest level of service possible. We welcome Alan and know that he will continue to exceed even our high expectations.

David Friedman, Managing Broker

Alan has been involved in many charities in the past, including the Boys & Girls Club of America, the United Way, and Kitchen Angles. He is also a private pilot and owns a Beechcraft Bonanza A36TC. He has volunteered his time and his airplane in search and rescue missions and “Flight for Life” here in Arizona.