Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty sets the tone for luxury properties
By Jen Parks Sturgeon | Real Property & Homes
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty continues to recognize the success of its ‘Global Real Estate Advisors’ — a special cadre of agents who have excelled at connecting foreign buyers and sellers with Arizona’s most impressive properties.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty offers a rundown of the luxury real estate experts fueling the division of the Global Real Estate Advisors:
Frank Aazami
Frank Aazami is dedicated steadfast to delivering the quality experience that luxury home buyers expect and require.
Mr. Aazami has spent decades securing trustworthy relationships with top brokers in international markets.
“For decades, I have compiled contacts from the top performers in all markets,” Mr. Aazami told Real Property & Homes at the Digital Free Press.
“These global relations have united so many foreign referrals between all of us. Technology has made these referrals even easier. Our website can be viewed in multiple languages and utilized to connect with these buyers and sellers; one click does it all.”
Mr. Aazami has spent decades securing trustworthy relationships with top brokers in international markets. Depending on what climate, amenities and price point clients are looking for — he suggests he can find the perfect home.
The organic expansion of the Valley of the Sun continues to attract many looking to buy homes for the quality of life, affordability and value of the Grand Canyon State.
Michelle Kalina
Michelle Kalina is licensed to sell homes in Arizona and Minnesota where her connections to the Mayo Clinic have made her an indispensable aid to foreign physicians.
A certified relocation specialist, Ms. Kalina has built connections and learned the territory of international home buying over 23 years of association with the Mayo Clinic and their recruitment office.
Assisting by providing community tours around the Phoenix and Scottsdale Shea campuses, she connects with its diverse medical staff, including international doctors from around the world.
“Luxury properties in the United States offer more space and amenities compared to what is available in my client’s home countries,” Ms. Kalina said.
“The allure of expansive properties, high-end finishes, and a higher quality of life at a relatively lower cost compared to other global cities make these properties very attractive to international buyers.”
Chris Tiller
Chris Tiller continues to serve well the international buyers haling from all regions of India, South Korea, China, the Philippines, Thailand and Japan. His secret?
Understanding the cultural differences that make foreign buyers interested in the United States and the nuanced distinctions between foreign and local buyers.
“The process from start to finish will never change,” Mr. Tiller said. “Understand cultural differences, give unparalleled service, be professional, listen to needs and be available. My template for meeting customer needs and communication is immovable, providing consistency in the buyer experience. The market landscape and clients’ preferences will always change, but my process allows for individualized experiences without sacrificing outcomes.”
Some differences make international buyers seek out luxury in the United States. Stability and security surrounding property rights are very attractive to clients seeking luxury homes in local markets.
Learning to meet international clients where they are socially and culturally ensures Tiller always delivers a quality experience that brings more business through referrals and community connections.
Mr. Tiller recommends the book “Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands” by Terri Morrison as a great introduction to navigating etiquette and cultural differences in business.
Roseann Dunteman
Specializing in luxury properties in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix and Arcadia, Roseann Dunteman is a property matchmaker — an expert at matching buyers with their perfect luxury home.
“Sophisticated buyers appreciate interesting architecture, quality craftsmanship and high-end finishes,” said Ms. Dunteman. “One of my buyers expressed love for the spirit of the “Wild West,” progressive attitudes for business, and proximity to luxury lifestyle amenities Phoenix is known for.
These are the desires I’ve learned to anticipate when finding an individual’s perfect match.”
Ms. Dunteman’s latest client desired a luxury home in an exclusive area with convenient travel to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Ms. Dunteman’s expertise for homes in the Town of Paradise Valley, known for the large lot sizes and privacy along with a short travel time to Sky Harbor was key in meeting their needs.
Wendy Mackenzie
Wendy Mackenzie, a Canadian who relocated to Arizona, has helped many buyers and sellers find their new homes in Arizona and back in Canada.
Ms. Mackenzie’s buyers, who have already visited Arizona are often interested in Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Chandler and Gilbert.
Amenities, proximity to work, good schools, an indoor/outdoor lifestyle and multiple entertaining spaces attract international and local buyers. Some want to build their dream home, others want move-in ready homes.
“The top draw is the lifestyle, privacy and cost of living,” Ms. Mackenzie said. “Most buyers I have worked with are surprised at our low taxes, the beautiful homes that can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of their home country and quality of life with resort style living, and indoor and outdoor living. Waking up to bright blue skies is a huge draw.”
As a Canadian who moved to Arizona, Ms. Mackenzie leverages her personal experience to aid clients and she advises her foreign clients to do the same, touring as much of the Valley as possible to locate their perfect home.
Adam Abboud
Adam Abboud knows the luxury market.
His past buyers often give him referrals highlighting Arizona’s combination of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and favorable amenities attracting family and friends to buy local properties.
Arizona’s favorable climate, diverse recreational opportunities — and proximity to major cities make it an attractive destination for those seeking a second home or investment property, especially in the Town of Paradise Valley.
“Ninety-nine-percent of the time, my buyers are specifically looking to live in Paradise Valley,” Mr. Abboud said.
“Steady rising prices, new construction availability and proximity to Scottsdale private airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor are the biggest draws. Another draw for international buyers is Paradise Valley’s unique landscapes. There truly is an option for anyone, whether you want lush greenery, city lights or desert landscapes. Every international buyer I’ve worked with demands a view of the iconic Camelback Mountain.”
Ms. Abboud cites the exclusivity and prestige associated with owning a spacious and luxurious property is another reason foreigners buy luxury homes. Stunning desert scenery, majestic mountains, and picturesque canyons offer a sense of tranquility and serenity that resonates with buyers seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Mr. Abboud often hears international buyers forget they are even in Arizona, surrounded by natural wonders, it is a unique place to live.
Thalia Kyriakis
Thalia Kyriakis has worked with international buyers for the past 18 years, helping clientele from Mexico looking to buy second homes in Arizona.
Growing up in a border town between Sonora, Mexico, and Arizona, Ms. Kyriakis — who has Greek and Lebanese ancestry — developed lifelong relationships with friends, family, and acquaintances in both regions.
“The core desires of international buyers have remained relatively consistent,” Mr. Kyriakis said. “There has been a noticeable increase in buyers looking to permanently relocate to the United States. It has been interesting to observe how the influx of international buyers fluctuates in response to political changes in their home countries. It is important to recognize global trends to understand the evolving needs and motivations of international clients.”
Bilingual in English and Spanish, she has built a solid foundation of trust and loyalty with her clients leading to repeat business and referrals, especially with clients who prefer speaking their native language.
Most of Kyriakis’ clients seek large luxury properties as second homes in Tucson, Scottsdale, or parts of California.
Overall international clients come seeking and an enhanced lifestyle. With over 18 years of experience in the luxury home market, Ms. Kyriakis has seen the changes in international clients’ desires when shopping for homes.
