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Sotheby’s International Realty

Art, Entertainment, Music, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Welcomes Wendy Herst

We are excited to welcome Wendy Herst to our Camelback Tower office!

Originally from NY and L.A. with a few stints in Nashville, Wendy Herst has a Masters in Music Composition from Claremont Graduate University and a B.S. in both Music & Economics from Vassar College. 

For the past 13 years, Wendy has called North Scottsdale home and lives in Troon with her fiancé, an anesthesiologist, and her 2 children who attend Scottsdale schools.

Wendy Herst is a successful real estate agent with a proven track record in helping both buyers and sellers in Arizona. She takes a concierge approach to helping her clients and operates from the principle of “this real estate journey is about you, and you come first!”

Wendy has handled hundreds of relocations in her career and also has experience in Family Office real estate. She enjoys complex transactions and creative solutions and leverages her background in economics and business to evaluate what makes real estate valuable – from location to municipal growth plans. She considers local trends and macroeconomic factors and stays current with real estate news to better assess market conditions. 

Wendy’s experience in real estate is enriched by her business background in which she helped grow a travel nursing staffing firm into a multi-million dollar industry leader, founded her own executive search firm, and was a franchisee of a restaurant group. She also had success in the entertainment industry where she produced a feature film (ALTERED MINDS) and worked in Television & Film Talent at ICM Partners.

Meeting Wendy was a breath of fresh air! Her approach to life mirrors her approach to business.  Kind, generous, yet tenacious – her success is already evident in her sales career thus far, and I can’t wait to watch the new levels she achieves partnered with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker
March 24, 2020 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ lyon Welcomes Jeffrey Sherpa

We are excited to welcome Jeffrey Sherpa to the Camelback Tower office!

Jeffrey Sherpa was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio and moved to Arizona to attend Arizona State University. After completing his Bachelor’s Degree from the W.P. Carey School of Business, Jeffery began planting roots in Scottsdale and never looked back! 

“I have been fortunate to have lived and experienced different career opportunities all across the country,” said Jeffrey. “I have lived and worked in California, Ohio and throughout the Midwest, South Carolina, Florida and even sailed the high seas in the Caribbean Ocean. For me, Arizona is truly a place I call “home” and feel fortunate to live in a state that offers so much opportunity for adventure and perfect weather year-round!”

When Jeffrey is not selling the next Scottsdale dream or helping clients transition to a more enjoyable lifestyle in paradise, you will likely find him outside enjoying everything Arizona has to offer. He enjoys golf, tennis, boating and snowboarding.

Before venturing into real estate, Jeffery held various sales positions across diverse industries from furniture to residential solar and travel/tourism. He earned his MBA from Grand Canyon University and managed the College of Enrollment at the University. He had always felt drawn to residential real estate and made the leap of faith in 2016. 

When I first met Jeffrey, I knew that Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is where he belonged. He exudes class and professionalism and we look forward to a very successful and lucrative career path with him!’

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker
February 26, 2020 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Welcomes the Williams

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, Wendy and Axel Williams, 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.

Wendy Williams is a 14 year veteran Real Estate agent in Phoenix.  Wendy was raised in the San Diego area and came from 40 years in the healthcare industry.  Organizational skills and the attitude that “we can get it done” remains at the top of her skills.

Wendy is married to Axel, the owner of Gilbert Tax Center and they share their home with their dog, Jake.  Several times a year you may find her on a cruise or at a Jimmy Buffett concert.

The innate ability to “help people” was honed in the healthcare industry and has served Wendy well in Real Estate.  She is the leader of the Wendy Williams Team and has been the recipient of the “Million Dollar sales Award” consistently.  Wendy leads a team that works seamlessly with her clients for the best possible home buying or selling experience.

Axel and Wendy Williams are truly some of the most incredible professionals I know.  Their ability to deliver the highest level of care and attention to all of their clients no matter what is something they excel in. Wendy’s ability to overcome obstacles while having empathy for her clients allow her to keep all lines of communication open and stay solution oriented. Axel and Wendy are also the owners of Gilbert Tax Center which allows Axel to be a very knowledgeable resource for clients and also for agents and their clients. Axel has 35 years in the tax business and is well known for always answering his phone with relevant information.”

cathy green, branch manager
September 18, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Lists Villa Esperero

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is thrilled to list a one-of-a-kind property with incredible views in Tucson’s exclusive Rattlesnake Canyon and Canyon Ranch area. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents Judy Smedes and Kate Herk are listing the Villa Esperero estate at 6799 North Rattlesnake Canyon in Tucson.

The 48-acre private estate includes a 9,000-square-foot main house listed for $5.5 million. There is also an option to purchase the main house and additional lots totaling 133 acres for $8.9 million.  Judy Smedes and Kate Herk, who are top luxury agents in the Tucson market, actually sold the same home in 2005. The luxury home was designed by prominent Tucson architect Ron Robinette.

“This luxury property offers iconic and unparalleled views of Sabino Canyon and Tucson along with custom designs and amenities that define luxury living,” said Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agent Judy Smedes.

The Villa Esperero estate also has a separate 4,000-square-foot sports complex with a spa, 60-foot lap pool and huge skylights. The main house has 25-foot, beamed ceilings, two master suites, an elevator, library, three additional en-suite bedrooms and two additional bathrooms.

The exterior includes multiple patios and terraces, an infinity edge pool and spa that all offer amazing views of thousands of Saguaro cacti that dot Tucson’s beautiful mountain and canyon landscapes.

“This incredibly private and incredibly exclusive property marries Tucson’s Spanish heritage with custom contemporary designs. From the expansive views to the mesquite hardwood floors, natural stone, flagstone and marble finishes, this home stands out in Tucson’s luxury market,” Kate Herk said.

July 16, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Recognized on 2019 REAL trends and Tom Ferry “The Thousand”

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to congratulate Lisa Lucky and Private client Group for their inclusion in the 2019 REAL Trends & Tom Ferry “The Thousand,” a summary of the top 1,000 independent real estate agents and teams in the United States.

The REAL Trends “The Thousand” comprises four categories: the top 250 agents by sides, top 250 agents by sales volume, top 250 teams by sides and top 250 teams by sales volume. Lisa Lucky was ranked #229 in the Top 250 Individual Real Estate Professionals by Sales Volume. Private Client Group was ranked #145 in the Top 250 Real Estate Teams by Sales Volume.

“The recognition of our agents on the “The Thousand” rankings is a result of hard work, extensive market knowledge and the support of the Sotheby’s International Realty, which enables our agents to effectively market and sell extraordinary residences,” said Jim Lyon, Chairman.

“We are proud to have everyone involved with Lisa Lucky and Private Client Group represent our company on this prestigious industry list.”

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand claimed 41 of the top 250 sales associates in the REAL Trends individual sales volume category, more than any other real estate brand. The brand also had the highest combined individual sales volume from sales associates in the same category.

“Achieving a leading number of sales associates represented in the individual sales volume category of the REAL Trends rankings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated professionals,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer of Sotheby’s International Realty. “Agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty demand more of themselves to set the highest standard in the business. This dedication made a record $112 billion in global sales volume for Sotheby’s International Realty possible in 2018. I am proud to honor the companies and sales associates represented on this list and their commitment to their clients and the industry.”

Click here to see the complete list of Sotheby’s International Realty brand affiliated sales associates represented on “The Thousand.”

A part of the Lucky Team are: Lisa Lucky, Matt Lucky, Laura Lucky, Kelly Hobrock, Meghan Marum 

A part of Private Client Group are: Frank Aazami, David Arustamian, Bill Bulaga, Jaclyn Brand, Chey Castro, Alisha Collinson, Michel Edery, Mardi Kirkland, David Mayo, Jennifer Parks-Sturgeon, Bill Ramseyer, Nancy Read, Thomas Scott, David Smith, Barry Van Patten II, Alan Zieder

June 29, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Caroline Cancel

After relocating to Arizona several years ago from New York City, Caroline Cancel felt fortunate to have been able to come into an amazing opportunity to pursue her passion for real estate.  She has BBA degree in Finance from Pace University, NYC.  After 25 years in the Corporate Banking industry, Ms. Cancel completed a Master of Real Estate Development from Arizona State University in 2014.  She returned to New York City to volunteer and subsequently work in the non-profit sector for Habitat for Humanity NYC, where she aided in the restoration of communities for families devastated by Hurricane Sandy.  Her work brought her back to Arizona, where she served as the Director of Real Estate Development, for Trellis, another non-profit organization that specializes in developing affordable housing in the metro Phoenix area.  Ms. Cancel had the privilege of attending and graduating from the Valley Leadership Program, class 40, in 2019 which has strengthened her commitment to continue to develop sustainable, healthy communities.

Caroline’s passion is connecting people to opportunities. She specializes in providing clients with a high level of personalized service in their dream to find the right home. While she will be delighted to find your dream home anywhere in the Valley, Caroline specializes in guiding clients who are searching for their next home experience in a more urban setting, particularly Scottsdale and Central Phoenix.  She is well-versed in the market in these areas and currently resides there.

Ms. Cancél looks forward to serving her clients with the utmost integrity, respect, reliability and commitment.

“I am proud to join Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and look forward to working with the best of the best!” Caroline Cancel said.

 “Caroline is an extraordinary addition to our Camelback Tower office,” said Sales Manager, Heather McNamara. “I am thrilled that Caroline has chosen Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty as her brokerage of choice to pursue her Real Estate career.  She comes to us with an extremely strong business acumen, and no doubt will be of huge benefit to each of her clients. Welcome, Caroline!”

June 11, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Brad Kimmelman

Brad Kimmelman’s dedication to his clients, ability to provide creative and immediate decisions when dealing with the countless details of the day and a solution based perspective has made him a leader in the Luxury Real Estate arena. Kimmelman takes this role very seriously and approaches every day as an opportunity to provide the type of service that has become a rarity in today’s culture.

His success comes from a history of putting the client first. “When I make you #1, I elevate myself and all those around me. This is paramount to a smooth and expedient transaction,” Kimmelman said.

His experience in managing a busy New York Sotheby’s International Realty office and being a top producing broker, combined with the global reach and exceptional marketing of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand spanning more than 72 countries and territories, makes him a solid choice…should you choose Brad Kimmelman to represent you.

When asked about choosing a local brokerage to join, Kimmelman said, “Picking an office to join in Arizona was a no-brainer for me. Since I have been an ambassador for the Sotheby’s International Realty brand, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty was the perfect choice to continue my Sotheby’s sales career!”

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.

 “Brad Kimmelman is an extraordinary addition to our Camelback Tower office,” said Sales Manager, Heather McNamara. “Brad’s advertising and marketing background led to his success as a top producing sales agent and as a manager of one of the most prestigious real estate offices in the Sotheby’s International Realty network.  That, mixed with his ability to relate to people and his knowledge of the industry, will lead to his success at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.”

June 11, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Presents Luxian Scottsdale

We are excited to present Luxian Scottsdale, a new exclusive, boutique enclave at Camelback Mountain. Our real estate advisors, Joanna Wilkins and Christine Arnold are listing the luxury Luxian development. “Luxian Scottsdale features just 14 luxury villas with unparalleled views of Camelback Mountain and The Phoenician Golf Course and scores of high-end finishes,” Joanna Wilkins said. The luxury villas abut to one of the most iconic golf courses in Arizona. 

The gated development will have 3 two-bedroom units totaling 2,491 square feet and 11 three-bedroom units with 2,971 square feet. The Scottsdale project, which is located at one of the most iconic locations in the Southwest, already has two reservations. “The enclave is surrounded by the prestigious and recently remodeled Phoenician Golf Course. Villas have impressive, unobstructed views of fairways and Camelback Mountain,” Christine Arnold said.

Pricing for the two-bedroom villas starts at $1,457,000. Three-bedroom villas prices start at $1,738,000. There is a $25,000 lot premium on five of the villa locations. The lot premium price goes up on May 31st, 2019. Luxian Villas on Camelback LLC is building the project. The villas also have plenty of high-end and luxury finishes including Subzero appliances, a Wolf cook top and oven and buyers can customize their cabinets, lighting, flooring and fixtures.

May 30, 2019 by
Business, Golf, Real Estate

Kevin Gonzales Promoted to Vice President of Operations

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has promoted Kevin Gonzales to Vice President of Operations. Gonzales will oversee 12 offices across Arizona and will expand training programs to help Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents maximize their sales.

“Kevin has been with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty for 23 years, and he has earned success at every position he’s held. He has the unique ability to bring out the best in those around him. Simply put – he raises the bar. He is a significant addition to our executive leadership team and we congratulate him on his continued success in our company and in our industry,” said Todd Gillenwater, CEO and owner of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Gonzales will continue his current roles as managing broker of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s Pinnacle Peak and Market Street offices. The Pinnacle Peak office has 240 agents. The Market Street office is at D.C. Ranch and has 25 agents.

Gonzales said he is looking forward to working with agents and analyzing markets across Arizona. “I’m basically going to oversee all areas of operations having to do with agent development, management development,” Gonzales said of the newly created position. Gonzales said he enjoys analyzing markets and real estate trends. “I’m a real estate nerd. I love trying to understand markets and trying to understand where the next opportunities are,” he said. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has 850 agents.

Gonzales said he wants to train more agents under a Ninja Selling program. That is a four-day sales training immersion program. “We want to expand that to as many of our agents as possible,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales joined Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty in 1996. He has been with the luxury residential real estate firm ever since. “I’ve been doing this for 23 years now,” Gonzales said. “I’m grateful for our ownership and the executive team for giving me this opportunity and having faith in me.”

May 6, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Significant Sale ~ Frank Aazami and Cheryl Anderson

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty sales associates Frank Aazami and Cheryl Anderson of the Camelback Tower office provided exclusive representation for a $12,000,000 Paradise Valley home which is the fifth-highest price for a home ever sold in the Valley and second-highest price sale of a home this year. 

The significant sale is a palatial 17,912 square-foot mediterranean estate designed by architect, Juan Sandoval. Sitting on more than two acres and built by a renowned team of artisans with an unlimited budget, the home was designed by Juan Sandoval, following the format of 17th Century Colonial architecture, but with every modern convenience. Offering 5 bedrooms and 7 and a half baths, the magnificent home is unparalleled in its construction quality and architectural precision. The home features a six car main garage with custom doors and additional two car garage. Every inch of the estate was designed and built during a
ten year period.

April 16, 2019 by