The Global Real Estate Advisors of Russ Lyon | Sotheby’s International Realty are uniquely trained and positioned to assist their clients with hyper-local market knowledge and white-glove services across the State of Arizona. Additionally, the Sotheby’s International Realty network of 26,400 agents in 83 countries & territories gives our Advisors the unique and well-connected ability to advise on real estate matters all over the USA and the world.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty – Arizona’s leader in real estate and advisory services for over 77 years – and Arizona’s only truly international real estate brokerage.
This once-in-a-lifetime Paradise Valley property is seated on majestic and historic Mummy Mountain, and is currently owned by a couple of Scottsdale’s most prominent visionaries.
Known for representing buyers and sellers for Arizona’s most spectacular and iconic properties, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to announce the listing of a property that perfectly exemplifies the special nature of both its homes and its clients.
This signature estate at 6210 E Hummingbird Lane in Paradise Valley is now listed for $6.25 million by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Agent Cionne McCarthy. The current owners are the visionaries behind the Sanctuary Resort + Spa, Mountain Shadows Resort, Hotel Valley Ho, and many more of the Valley’s most iconic local developments.
The pinnacle of modern luxury, the estate offers 4,700-square-feet of space designed by renowned architects Allen + Philps Partners with interior design led by Jamie Herzlinger Interiors.
Expansive views of the Phoenix Valley define this property. Classic, contemporary styling and walls of glass give this home a cosmopolitan feel in the desert, with open living spaces that lend to the opulent feeling. The main level features a sleek gourmet kitchen and flexible entertaining spaces. A family room/media room opens to the alfresco dining room with intertwined water and fire features, a BBQ grill, and a pizza oven. A striking peninsula terrace boasts a commanding view of the lap pool, which in turn offers sweeping vistas of the entire valley below. Exterior decking on three levels of the home leaves plenty of room to entertain while guests can enjoy the views.
The primary suite takes full advantage of the property’s breathtaking views, with a bath which is elegantly appointed and luxury exemplified with two separate walk-in closets. Retractable sliding glass walls in the living room, family room and the downstairs game room open the home and fill each room with an ethereal quality where inhabitants feel like they can step out onto the vistas surrounding them.
Designed to provide all the essentials while including touches expected only at luxury resorts, the home is brimming with features. Modern functionality matches elegance in every room including an exercise room with its own gorgeous views. More touches of modernity include the garage which is pre-wired for an electric vehicle, and the Control 4 Smart Home System. When night comes four gas fireplaces light up the inside to match the nightlights of the surrounding valley.
“This property is extremely rare in this ultra-luxury Paradise Valley market,” said Cionne McCarthy, listing agent for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, “The current owners have developed several world-class resorts and honed them to a size that features only the most essential rooms and accentuates all the amenities expected by buyers today. It also possesses the perfect private location on revered Mummy Mountain, yet is only minutes from the most concentrated area for luxury hotels, restaurants, and shopping.”
Kevin Gonzales brings 27 years of real estate experience to the role, all within the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty umbrella.
Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce the internal promotion of a long-time team member to a critically important role.
Kevin Gonzales was recently promoted to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Gonzales brings with him 27 years of expansive experience at the luxury brokerage, and he most recently served as the company’s vice president of operations. Gonzales’ passion for real estate began in 1996 when he started with Russ Lyon Realty Company. A consistent top producer, Gonzales decided to step away from the sales side in 2007 and accepted a position as the Branch Manager of the Russ Lyon Realty Pinnacle Peak Office.
In 2019, Gonzales was promoted to Vice President of Operations for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, where, in addition to continuing to manage the Pinnacle Peak Office, he was given the additional responsibilities of supervising all areas of operations, which included overseeing the managing brokers of each branch as well as the operations departments, which is comprised of the firm’s marketing, relocation, IT, training, and agent development functions.
“Kevin Gonzales has been a tremendous asset to our brokerage since he joined us in 1996. There is probably no one more seasoned or better at overseeing so many diverse areas of our operations than Kevin. Between his vast knowledge of real estate, his leadership and his great ability to work with people, we couldn’t be prouder to continue to elevate Kevin here at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty,” said CEO Todd Gillenwater of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.
Gonzales assumed the Chief Operating Officer role on January 1st, 2024. In addition to the responsibilities noted above in his capacity as Vice President of Operations, Gonzales will be more involved in expanding the brand and sourcing new technology and systems to add additional value to the firm and its agents.
“Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is a special place,” said Gonzales. “I am especially grateful to this incredible organization and committed to assisting all of our branch managers, department heads, brokers, agents and back-office personnel to offer our clients the highest level of service and success in the industry.”
In addition to the promotion of Gonzales, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has had several other noteworthy personnel changes. 44-year veteran of the firm, Deems Dickinson, recently announced his retirement; he was most recently in the role of Designated Broker for the state of Arizona. Attorney and Broker Bret Lamberson was promoted from the role of Managing Broker to replace Dickinson as the firm’s Designated Broker.
Arizona’s leading luxury brokerage closes on a remarkable home previously owned by Bernard Hoogestraat, one of the original Ocotillo community developers.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty proudly announces the $2,755,000 sale of a luxurious single-level residence on the 5th hole of the Ocotillo Golf Course in Chandler, Arizona. This sale now marks the third-largest sale within the Ocotillo Golf Club Community and the highest-priced home to sell in the community in the last 17 years.
The record-setting deal closed on January 29th, 2024.
Called the Crown Jewel of the Ocotillo Golf Course, the home is situated in the exclusive gated private community of Crown Point, which has 11 custom-built homes on its own peninsula. It offers stunning views that extend 40+ acres of multiple lakes and golf courses.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Associate Broker Jeff Fields of the Camelback Tower office represented the family of Bernard Hoogestraat, who developed the Ocotillo community around the 27-hole Ocotillo Golf Course. The home was completed in 2001. Fields said that at the time, Hoogestraat had a choice of lots when the community was first built, and he chose the one that offered the best golf course views.
“This was a privilege and a huge honor to represent and help Bernard’s family not only sell the home for a record price but also to preserve his memory in this community and remind everyone of the extraordinary work he did in developing the Ocotillo community,” said Fields. “Every golfer on the course recognizes this home. It definitely stands out as a shining jewel within the community.”
Hoogestraat’s son says his father got involved in developing the Ocotillo community shortly after the golf course was built and a few homes on the course. At the time, he recalls there was no clubhouse built yet, just a double-wide trailer, and that was part of his job to get the clubhouse built and finish the community.
“I remember him going to Texas to pick out the limestone that covers all the columns at the Clubhouse. He controlled architectural requirements for new houses and commercial properties very tight. He was determined to ensure that Ocotillo would never be just another cookie-cutter bedroom community for Phoenix. As development property was being sold off, many suitors were turned down because he did not feel that what they were building elsewhere did not measure up to what he wanted at Ocotillo. He was the one who negotiated the deal that brought Intel to Ocotillo. It was his vision and determination that shaped Ocotillo into the special place that it is today. A book could be written about all the extraordinary things that my father did,” said Jim Hoogestraat, son of Bernard Hoogestraat.
Located in South Chandler’s Ocotillo community, the 6,486-square-foot home is surrounded by the golf course lake on three sides. It has a long Romeo and Juliet balcony that allows residents and guests to enjoy a 180-degree view of the golf course. There is also a beautiful glass-tiled negative-edge pool and spa and an 834-square-foot guest house that also sits along the water.
Inside the main home, there are four bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, which feature Cantera stone and hardwood floors throughout. The split floorplan offers vaulted ceilings and generous walkways with no steps inside, allowing one to roam from room to room with leisure. Large windows throughout and Cantera fireplaces offer warm and more views of the course.
Other notable features include a huge primary suite with dual closets and bathrooms, each with its own vanity, as well as a large bathtub and individual showers, again featuring the Cantera stone.
Just down the hall from the primary suite is the home’s library, which offers floor-to-ceiling bookcases. For entertaining, the home also offers a wet bar and full poker table. There is also a generous four-car garage with ample storage space.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Announces The Promotion of Attorney and Broker Bret Lamberson as The Brokerage’s New Statewide Designated Broker
Lamberson has assumed the role of statewide Designated Broker, succeeding the retiring Deems Dickinson.
Arizona’s Leading Luxury Brokerage, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, is pleased to announce the appointment of Attorney and Broker Bret Lamberson to lead the brokerage’s most crucial role.
Bret Lamberson will be taking on the role of statewide Designated Broker and replacing Deems Dickinson, who is retiring after 44 years with the brokerage. A Designated Broker is heavily involved in the operations of running the company and managing critical functions such as hiring new agents, establishing policies and procedures for the firm, overseeing all real estate contracts, and setting company goals.
“I am incredibly honored and humbled by the trust that Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has shown by bestowing this opportunity onto me. Deems Dickinson has left some massive and inspiring shoes to fill, but at the same time, he serves as an excellent role model and mentor as we embark on some historic times overseeing some of the state’s most significant sales,” said Lamberson.
Lamberson, who grew up in Flagstaff, Arizona, was an exemplary student and athlete, excelling in his studies, alpine skiing racing, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting. He joined Russ Lyon Realty of Flagstaff in 2005 quickly ascended to one of the top Realtors in Flagstaff. “Bret is a brilliant and very forward-thinking talent in our company. He not only brings the legal background and very vast knowledge of our real estate laws and contracts, but he also has the people skills to lead our growing network of 950 agents, which now expands to 13 offices across the state and continues to grow in the luxury sector,” said CEO Todd Gillenwater of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.
Lamberson, who moved to San Francisco in 2012, earned his law degree and was admitted to the California State Bar, where he practiced real estate and immigration law. Family and the draw of all things Arizona brought him back to Flagstaff in 2018, where he was admitted into the Arizona State Bar and appointed Managing Broker of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Flagstaff offices. On January 1st, 2024, he assumed the role of Designated Broker for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty statewide.
Lamberson and his wife, Stephanie, reside in Flagstaff and split time between the high country and their home in the historic district of downtown Phoenix with their children: their two-year old son Hendricks and one-month-old daughter Willa Jane.
Accomplished Designated Broker and President Deems Dickinson of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Retires and Reflects on 44 Years Guiding Arizona’s Leading Luxury Brokerage.
Dickinson Led a Team of 900+ Agents and Oversaw Four Decades of Real Estate Transactions at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Including Some of the State’s Highest Sales.
Arizona’s Luxury Leader Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty announces with great regards and gratitude the retirement of one of its longest-tenured and most impactful company leaders.
Deems Dickinson has been part of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty family for an incredible 44 years, retiring as President and Designated Broker, a role that he held for 14 years with the firm, having previously served as Managing Broker of 5 different offices for 25 years on behalf of the company.
Dickinson ended his career as a REALTOR Emeritus and exemplified a spirit of service and a lifetime of learning, as he served as an Advisory Council Member of the Russ Lyon Foundation, on the Board of Directors of the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service (ARMLS), and on the Board of Directors of The Realty Alliance. He had previously been on the Board of Directors for the National Association of REALTORS, the Chair of the Professional Standards Committee of the Scottsdale and Arizona Associations of REALTORS, and served as the Director of Training for the Elite School of Real Estate.
Reflecting on his career, Dickinson said, “As the steward of such a remarkable company, I have had many opportunities in the real estate industry locally, across the state of Arizona, and nationally, which allowed me to grow my career to what it is today. I will always cherish the lifelong friendships and business relationships that I have developed over the last 44 years.”
As for what’s next for Dickinson, he is looking forward to schedule-free mornings, time with his wife Betsy, their grandchildren, and adult children, traveling and volunteering for causes they care about. He also looks forward to enjoying his passion for the outdoors in greater depth, including fishing, jeeping, hiking and camping, golf, and pickleball. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty thanks him for both how he helped the firm grow, as well as the personalized expertise and warm, white-glove service he provided to the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty family.
“It is with an overwhelming amount of gratitude and pride and that we congratulate Deems on 44 years with our company. I began working with Deems when my father Dennis Lyon, was still running the company many decades ago. Deems’ knowledge, patience, and leadership has not only been an inspiration to all our agents but also to my own family and everyone who has had the pleasure of working with him these last four decades. We will miss him tremendously, but we know he will have some great times ahead in retirement.”
Jim Lyon, Owner and Chairman of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
Dickinson will be succeeded as the statewide Designated Broker by Bret Lamberson. Lamberson grew up in Flagstaff, AZ, and joined Russ Lyon Realty of Flagstaff in 2005. Lamberson is a licensed attorney in Arizona and California. He and his wife, Stephanie, reside in Flagstaff and split time in their home in the historic district of downtown Phoenix with their two young children.
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 Heather Hocevar to the West Valley 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.
After dedicating the majority of her professional life to the medical field, Heather has accumulated invaluable experience and finely honed her skills in the healthcare sector. With her children now having left the nest, Heather has made the exciting decision to embark on a new journey in the realm of real estate.
Her primary goal is to provide all her clients with a positive and stress-free experience. Heather’s remarkable creative problem-solving abilities and keen attention to detail ensure that every facet of the real estate process is executed with the utmost care and precision.
Heather currently resides in the picturesque West Valley with her three beloved dogs. She has a deep passion for interior design, a love for the arts, and a special place in her heart for animals.
We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our newest agent, Heather Hocevar! With confidence in her expertise and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service, we anticipate her invaluable contributions and dynamic energy to further strengthen Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty as a united, client-focused company. Heather, we are excited to have you on board and look forward to achieving great success together.
Throughout the state of Arizona, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been proud to represent and participate in the following sales for November.
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 their architectural, cultural, and geographical significance, as well as those involved in the journey.
Enjoy!
Seller Representation:
Buyer Representation:
1100 N Scenic Drive | Payson
Sold for $1,325,000
Buyer Representation: Aaron Rangel, Dave Pattison, & George Fried
4101 S Last Chance Trail | Gold Canyon
Sold for $1,035,000
Buyer Representation: Danny Baker
8656 E Halifax Street | Mesa
Sold for $700,000
Buyer Representation: Amy Antalik
8881 E Via Del So Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $5,565,000
Buyer Representation: Will Foote, Debbie Negrin, Jay Pennypacker
9820 E Thompson Peak Pkwy 830 | Scottsdale
Sold for $5,500,000
Buyer Representation: Allan MacDonald
5525 E Lincoln Drive 78 | Paradise Valley
Sold for $5,200,000
Buyer Representation: Cari Dandy
8320 E Concho Lane | Carefree
Sold for $1,675,000
Buyer Representation: Stacy Paluscio, Courtney Woods Olson, Darcy Whalen
10989 E Taos Drive | Scottsdale
Sold for $1,615,000
Buyer Representation: Colleen Rose-Scurti
40860 N 97th Street | Scottsdale
Sold for $4,275,000
Buyer Representation: Dan Wolski, Mitchell Hundman
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 Kristen Boyd to the Southeast Valley 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.
Kristen is truly an amazing human with an ability to communicate and negotiate for her clients that allow desired results. Kristen’s ability to problem solve and her attention to detail combined with an outstanding work ethic make her a wonderful addition to our award-winning Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s Southeast valley team.
Cathy Green, Managing Broker
After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Davis 19 years ago, Kristen Boyd relocated from California to the beautiful Arizona desert. For the past 16 years, Kristen has lived in Chandler and is the mother of four awesome kids.
Kristen has always been interested in real estate and is now fortunate enough to do it for a living. She chose real estate as a career path because it allows her to use the customer service and people skills she acquired during a 15-year career in the sales and marketing industry. It also offers her an opportunity to serve the community that she loves.
She understands and knows the dynamics of the local real estate market and what it takes to succeed. You’ll have a lot of questions during your real estate transaction. You deserve to know what is happening at all times and what needs to happen to reach the finish line. That’s why Kristen works extra hard to keep her clients informed and to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible.
When Kristen not helping her clients, she enjoys spending time with her four children. She also enjoys cooking, fitness, sports, hiking, reading, and music.
Throughout the state of Arizona, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been proud to represent and participate in the following sales for October.
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 their architectural, cultural, and geographical significance, as well as those involved in the journey.
Enjoy!
Seller Representation:
Buyer Representation:
6261 W Dillion Wash | Prescott
Sold for $3,000,000
Buyer Representation: Linda Wood, Jolynn Greenfield
75 Kallof Place | Sedona
Sold for $2,909,157
Buyer Representation: Nancy Read
910 W Park Ridge Drive 16 | Sedona
Sold for $1,520,000
Buyer Representation: Jeanette Sauer and Katie Harvey
1910 Red Rock Loop Road | Sedona
Sold for $1,100,000
Buyer Representation: Katrin Themlitz and Alejandro Gutierrez