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Business, Real Estate

Swanepoel Power 200 List

 

Prestigious 2019 Swanepoel Power 200 List an Aggregate of Nation’s Most Influential Real Estate Executives

 Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty prides itself on being Arizona’s leader in real estate and is led by a well-respected and unsurpassed executive team. The iconic real estate firm proudly announces that the company’s Designated Broker and President Deems Dickinson has earned a spot on the 2019 Swanpoel Power 200 list.

The SP200 is considered the United States’ definitive ranking of residential real estate brokerage industry leaders. T3 Sixty, the real estate consultancy that publishes the list annually, analyzes hundreds of bios, annual reports and transaction and sales volume data to compile the list.

This is the fifth consecutive year that Dickinson has been named to the SP200 list. In addition to this honor, Dickinson was elected to his third term as the Large Firm Director for the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service, the state’s largest MLS, in 2018.

Dickinson has had an extraordinary four decade-long career in the real estate industry. At Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, he helps oversee over 900 agents who in 2018, closed a record $3.77 billion in total sales.

“This is an extremely impressive achievement,” said Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Chairman Jim Lyon. “Deems has devoted his career to our company and the service he provides to our agents is renowned. We can’t wait to see what else he will accomplish.”

Architecture, Automobile, Entertainment, Real Estate

Every Car Needs a Home

In honor of the RM Sotheby’s car show and auction happening this month at the Arizona Biltmore, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, presents exquisite homes with features that are unparalleled in style, entertainment, and most importantly, revved-up for all types of car fanatics.

 


First stop on Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s list for car enthusiasts is an exclusive listing, located in Paradise Valley, comprised of 20,000 square feet with 6 beds and 13.5 baths. This elusive estate is listed by agents Michel Edery and Frank Aazami for $22,800,000. Amongst the numerous extravagant features, this listing supports a fleet of vehicles with a 20-car garage.

Up next, in Carefree, is a 5 bed and 3.5 bath home located at 8360 E Autoplane Dr, listed with Preston Westmoreland, for $2,500,000. Airplane hangars are not just for airplanes anymore; RVs, boats, car collections and all types of toys can fit into this massive space. Enjoy a functional, super-sized, 90-foot-wide facility to store and showcase any collection. This hangar can hold an airplane, 20 cars, boats, or RVs. No expense was spared during the construction of this whimsical dream home and it is also perfect for entertaining with spectacular patio views.

The Valley isn’t the only location for decadent garages. In the secluded area of Prescott, a 4 bed and 7 bath, 6,978-square-foot home, located at 2031 W Thumb Butte Rd, is listed by Nancy Read for $2,490,000. With a grand foyer entrance, library, living room, conservatory, wine cellar, laundry room, dining room, chef’s kitchen, and a breakfast nook, the stunning property also features a 12-car garage, equipped with RV storage. The property ensures ample space for any collection.

Another Paradise Valley estate on the list, is a 5 bed and 7.5 bath, 17,912-square-foot home, located at 8100 N 68th St, listed with Frank Aazami for $18,000,000. This magnificent home is unparalleled in its construction quality and architectural precision. Every part of this two acre estate was designed and built over a ten-year period. Amongst the meticulous features is the six-car garage. The area is designed with extended length and height, providing plenty of space for larger vehicles. The colored tiles also help to brighten up the room.

Last, but certainly not least, is a beautiful home located at 5350 E Exeter Boulevard in Phoenix. This 6 bed and 7 bath home is presented by Cionne McCarthy and listed for $3,900,000. Not only does this listing include handcrafted woodwork throughout, along with a true wine cellar, but it also comes with a four-car garage. The area includes both direct and side entry access and features an electric door opener.

 

 

Equestrian, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Welcomes Josie Pakula

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 agent, Josie Pakula, to the Pinnacle Peak 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.

Josie Pakula has lived in the Valley of the Sun since 1997 and possesses extensive knowledge of this community. She is originally from Chicago and studied at the University of Illinois where she earned her Master Degrees in both Nursing and Business Administration in addition to being a U.S. Army Veteran. She even earned her Airborne Wings while on Active duty!

Josie quickly established herself as a force in the real estate industry upon becoming licensed in 2010, earning recognition for her incredible work ethic, her exquisite attention to detail, her extensive industry knowledge, and her client-centered approach. She has a history of award-winning sales success as her many positive testimonials outline and was honored with the prestigious “Top 16 Women in Scottsdale Real Estate in 2016” award. Josie owns her own horses and supports her two daughters in competitive horsemanship. Her long-term connections within the horse industry and intimate knowledge of the horse-lovers world have enabled Josie to build her niche in horse properties as well as the luxury home market. Josie serves as one of the most productive and respected REALTORS in our Valley’s dynamic market. She believes in old-fashioned values of hard work, integrity, market knowledge and putting her clients’ goals and needs as job #1.

 

“I am thrilled to officially announce that I have joined Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. I feel like I’m finally home and am excited to spend the next 10 years continuing to do what I love, until I retire. I figure I have 10 more good years left in me to get all the kids through college.”

 

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has gathered realty experts in the field of luxury real estate dedicated to the ideals of integrity and professionalism. Additionally, the seasoned management innovatively supports the efforts of the company’s agents to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that invigorates and hones the skills of everyone involved.

“It is rare that an agent joins our Brokerage with as much fanfare as Josie Pakula” said Branch Manager, Kevin Gonzales. “A consistent top producer specializing in equestrian properties and estates, the news that Josie was joining Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty was greeted with much excitement by our agents and ownership!”

Real Estate

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Welcomes Heather Oldham

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 agent, Heather Oldham, to the Pinnacle Peak 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.

Heather is a very determined individual that will not quit until the job is done. Her every day intention is to be fair and to keep her client’s best interest in mind. Additionally, she can also relate to those who are moving from out of state as she was born in Portland, OR and continued to move around the country residing in the Midwest, Southwest, and the Northwest. This taught her how to become involved in the community and instilled confidence, trustworthiness, and dedication in her every day actions.

She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing at Arizona State University and has pursued her career in Sales and Marketing with high success. Since then, she has blossomed her career in Real Estate and now resides in the North Scottsdale area with her husband, Kris and her dog, a King Charles Cavalier, named Oliver. Heather will represent you with high integrity and quality service to fulfill your real estate needs.

“I am excited for the innovative strategies, knowledge and resources that Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty provides so that I can better educate, support and meet my clients’ needs!”

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has gathered realty experts in the field of luxury real estate dedicated to the ideals of integrity and professionalism. Additionally, the seasoned management innovatively supports the efforts of the company’s agents to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that invigorates and hones the skills of everyone involved.

“We are so excited to have Heather Oldham join our team at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty” said Branch Manager, Kevin Gonzales. “Heather is a serious real estate professional who brings plenty of passion and energy to her business. I look forward to seeing her continue to grow her already successful real estate career!”

Real Estate, Russ Lyon

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Welcomes Racquel Miller

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 agent, Racquel Miller, to the Camelback Tower.

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.

Racquel and her family have called Paradise Valley home for almost two decades. With first-hand knowledge of this exquisite area, she can offer an exceptional home buying experience. As a past educator, Racquel understand the importance of market knowledge. That translates into helping sellers achieve optimal market positioning and finding the absolute best location, home and value that meets any buyers’ needs.  While listing and sales transaction are inherently complex, her main goal: make your move as seamless as possible. 

 Racquel moved to the United States when she was 12 years old. She grew up in South Florida and attended the University of Miami, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Master in Education. Arizona became her home in 1994. She later was married to her current husband, Jamir Miller, and now has three beautiful children.

Her husband was blessed to have a 10 Year, All Pro Career, in the National Football League. As an NFL wife, she was able to live a life of servitude. They are true believers in always giving back, leading to the creation of their Jamir Miller Foundation, supporting women and children at risk. Racquel has chaired and supported many fundraising events and continues to stay involved in her community.

“My passion is helping others and my calling card is service, at the highest level,” said Racquel Miller. “I am thrilled to be part of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty team at the Camelback Tower.  I look forward to having the opportunity to service clients with my first-hand knowledge of our exquisite neighborhoods.”

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has gathered realty experts in the field of luxury real estate dedicated to the ideals of integrity and professionalism. Additionally, the seasoned management innovatively supports the efforts of the company’s agents to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that invigorates and hones the skills of everyone involved.

“Racquel Miller is an extraordinary addition to our Camelback Tower office,” said Sales Manager, Heather McNamara. “Raquel epitomizes the perfect Real Estate agent that we desire to be in business with at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. I am so grateful that she chose our Real Estate Firm to be in business with! I know that with her track record of success and servant leader mentality, she will be a huge asset to anyone buying or selling real estate in Arizona. Welcome to the family, Raquel!”

Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Notable Listing: Last George Christensen Design for Sale

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to list yet another one-of-a-kind home on the market; the last iconic architectural design by George Christensen for $3.65 Million.

 

Listed by agents Jan Kabbani and Cliff Davis of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Camelback Tower office, this 6,578-square-foot, 5 bed and 6.5 bath masterpiece, is located at 7307 N. Black Rock Trail in Paradise Valley.

The award winning home by renowned architect, George Christensen, is designed with the highest quality materials of stone, wood, marble and steel creating an organically sustainable experience. This architecturally significant, texture rich soft contemporary home has dramatic mountain views and a masterful use of natural light with amazing views from nearly every window in guard-gated Clearwater Hills.

Christensen has had many of his designs appear in publications including Architectural Digest, Sunset Magazine, and Phoenix Home and Garden. Christensen moved to Phoenix in 1957 and founded George Christensen and Associates. His firm designed hundreds of residences and more than 40 churches. The design of this estate was in Christensen’s archives and had to be released to be built. This Clearwater Hills home is the last design by Christensen to be constructed before passing away.

Scottsdale Architect, Mark Candelaria, AIA, was mentored by Christensen for over 18 years. Candelaria is the founder of Candelaria Design which he started in 1999 after an 18 year career as one of the founding partners of CCBG Architects in Phoenix.

“George listened to his clients and always did his best to give them their house, and that was the best lesson I ever received,” said Candelaria. “He designed quickly and went with his instincts and didn’t over think things. He trusted his intuition and combined that with the spirit of his client to create his designs.” 

Noteworthy features include a sumptuous master suite and bath with dual vanities, a detached guest house, high ceilings, telescopic doors that blend indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly, a sparkling zero edge infinity pool, exercise room, fire pit, grass lawn, an outstanding barbeque area, and a 3-car garage just to name a few.

Additionally, a true chef ’s kitchen with Wolf appliances, double ovens, Sub-Zero and wine storage open to an expansive family and game room with the very latest high-tech electronics, low voltage lighting and much more. The spacious home also showcases formal living and dining areas with two separate offices, one of them overlooking the pool with elevated views to city lights.

“The seller is a sailor and so was the late Mr. Christensen, it’s interesting they both shared this passion,” said listing agent Jan Kabbani. “I think this is expressed in the design of the masterful use of natural light and windows strategically placed throughout the home for nearly every window having a view.”

Architecture, Real Estate, Residential, Residential Architecture, Residential Real Estate

Notable Listing: The Little Daisy

Russ Lyon|Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to present one of its most exclusive and unique listings to date, an Arizona landmark building, The Little Daisy. The magnificent story of The Little Daisy in Jerome, Arizona presents an epic reboot from the original 1919 vintage hotel designed by architects, Royal Lescher and Leslie J. Mahoney.

The Little Daisy has an extensive history. Built as a hotel with the greater clientele being of the mining occupation, it was sold by the mining company as a residential property to scientist, William Earl Bell. Bell is known for his work leading to the creation of the world’s first atomic clock. The estate was passed down by the Bell family and was eventually placed on the market.

The concrete shell was bought in 1995 by Walter and Lisa Acker for $190,000. Now the renovated home is being sold by Lisa Acker, who is represented by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty listing agent extraordinaire, Donna Chesler, for $6.2 million.

“When Walter and Lisa Acker purchased this historic property, it was a mere shell of a building. Nothing remained. No windows, doors, fixtures, even the roof was removed on the third floor, leaving the building exposed to the elements. Today, it is a true historic masterpiece,” said Chesler.

The renovations were carried out by both Lisa Acker and her husband, Walter Acker. The husband and wife team impressively envisioned and completed this enormous project almost totally on their own. The fabulous metamorphosis of the Ackers’ estate was perfected and finalized in 2005.

The grand-scale of The Little Daisy, located in the art and history destination of mile high Jerome, is jaw-dropping with newly-designed and reconstructed interiors. Its numbers and features are beyond impressive:

  • 3.45-acre property
  • 12,000 square-feet of indoor space
  • 2,900 square-feet of covered porches
  • A 2,600-square-foot garage
  • 9,000-square-foot rooftop garden
  • Ample wine cellar
  • Originally a 40-room hotel, now 33 rooms with much space given to a huge dining room and a very large living room on the main level
  • A reception desk repurposed into a bar
  • A working telephone booth and coat room with double Dutch doors, and Theater/Game room
  • 8 bedrooms and 7 baths

Thanks to Walter and Lisa Acker, The Little Daisy is now a private residence with modern amenities steeped in old world charm. Walter was not only a master woodworker but excelled at every aspect of the renovation and his skills and spirit will live on in his work. The property includes reproductions of the wood cabinetry throughout the home, master closets, a hand crafted 14-foot dining table, and hand-cut custom marble counter tops.

Although The Little Daisy underwent many alterations to transition the hotel into a divine home, the Ackers made the executive decision to keep all of the authentic touches. They studied blueprints and photos to recreate the grandeur of a bygone era. The Little Daisy still retains the original walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and classic exterior tile.

The stunning views of the entire Verde Valley, Jerome, Sedona Red Rocks and Cleopatra Hill are the perfect backdrop for this Arizona landmark property which has been restored to its beautiful former glory.

 

The Ackers have given The Little Daisy an amazing third chapter to its storied life as this grand home celebrates its 100th year on New Year’s Eve 2019.

Additional Articles: Bloomberg, BNN Bloomberg, Private Wealth Magazine, ABC 15 Arizona

 

Architecture, Real Estate

Notable Listing: Luxurious Equestrian Farms Owned by Famous Horsemen

Lavish Horse Ranches Presented by the Leader in Luxury Real Estate

 Luxury real estate agent Denise Dunning-Rickettes of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Pinnacle Peak office presents two of Arizona’s finest horse properties perfectly designed for horses and horse enthusiasts alike.

First up is the magnificent ranch owned by Seven Time World Champion Roper, Jake Barnes and his wife. Located at 28812 N 141 St. in Scottsdale, and situated on five acres, this unique horse property is listed at $1,170,000.

This beautiful estate is centered around a 3,646-square-foot home and a 700-square-foot apartment over the attached garage. The home consists of five beds and six baths with impeccable upgrades throughout. The open kitchen of this craftsman’s style home features Wolf and Sub Zero appliances, custom cabinets, a butcher block island, maple wood floors and limestone counter tops.

The equestrian part of the property includes a 130 x 300 arena with roping chute, an eight stall mare motel with 12 x 20 stalls, and two one acre pastures.

“When I’m on the road going to rodeos most of the year, there couldn’t be a more beautiful and peaceful place to come home to,” said Barnes. “We were extremely blessed to raise our kids here. This place is a little slice of heaven…a ropers dream.”

The next horse property is the 30-acre ranch personally designed by the 46-time World/Reserve World Champion and 2017 Western Horseman of the Year, Al Dunning. This estate is located at 27411 N 160th St. in Scottsdale and is listed at $5 million.

Almosta Ranch, established at this location in 1998, overlooks the Rio Verde Valley, the Mazatzal mountain range, and the majestic Four Peaks. The property consists of a 4,333-square-foot residence, and is further enhanced by one of the two best producing wells in the Rio Verde Foothills.

The ranch parcel of 9.71 acres is centered by the main show barn that includes tack rooms, saddling areas, and the ranch offices. A stud barn and a mare motel can be found on either side of the main barn, for a total of 39 stalls. To the east of the hay barn are four Priefert stalls, and two shaded pipe stalls, bringing the total number of stalls on the ranch to 45.

“Having a ranch that makes people and horses happy is what I always dreamed of,” said Dunning. “The Almosta Ranch combines atmosphere, accommodations, and the layout to be able to accomplish any needs of the horse and rider.”

Architecture, Real Estate, Residential

Significant Sales ~ February 2018

From a record breaking Scottsdale estate to a Southwestern retreat in Tucson, this issue of Significant Sales features extraordinary homes throughout the great state of Arizona.

Our top February sale by Frank Aazami of the Russ Lyon Camelback Tower office is the priciest residential sale through the Arizona Multiple Listing Service (ARMLS). The home was Designed with a rich palette of the finest finishes and unparalleled craftsmanship with the intention to impress, the home offers 6 bedrooms, 3 bonus rooms, 14 baths and 8 garages.

“This was an extraordinary sale not only for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty but also for Arizona’s residential real estate market,” said Chairman Jim Lyon.  “This really speaks to the growth we are seeing right now, particularly in the luxury real estate sector.  Homes that have traditionally been on the market for some time in these top tier price points are now beginning to sell and at fantastic prices.”

For additional sales of note, see below.