The number one rule is to allow your home to shine online and here’s how to do that. 

In order to capture the highest and best offer and maximize return, on most likely your biggest asset, a homeowner should consider doing the following: 

1. Paint. Painting both interior and exterior to create a fresh, clean slate.  
2. Update Light Fixtures. I like to say, lighting is jewelry to the home.  Light fixtures make a big impact with very little investment. 
3. Staging. Staging allows the buyer to see the home rather than look at the furniture. It is very difficult for a home buyer, even a Realtor, to imagine what a home could be if it is currently occupied by a seller as a buyer tends to dwell on “their” things rather than home. 
4. Landscaping. You get one chance to make a good impression and the first thing a buyer will see is the front of the home. 

1. Window Washing & Detailed Interior Cleaning. I always tell my clients after they purchase a home to remember to have their windows cleaned inside and out, yearly. It makes such a difference.

Beyond the shortlist, and depending on condition here are 5 additional improvements that can be made. 

• Kitchen Refresh: Paint kitchen cabinets, replace countertops, and replace knobs & pulls. 
• Bathroom Refresh: Paint bathroom cabinets, replace the mirror, update lighting and replace knobs & pulls. 
• Flooring: Replace carpet
• Refinish hardwood floors 
• Replace sewer lateral  

Allow the home to be presented in its best light.

Prior to any work being done, we like to gauge the condition of the home thereby generating the following reports. Depending on the market you are buying or selling a home varies as to whether the Buyer or the Seller will assume responsibility for any of the reports provided by a Seller. In the Bay Area market, for the most part, these reports and inspections and any work to be done on the home being sold will be passed onto the Buyer. In order to compete in a multiple offer situation, a Buyer has to put his/her best foot forward and that will include a very clean offer without any contingencies.

• Pest Inspection 
• Home Inspection 
• Sewer Lateral 
• Roof 
• Fireplace/Chimney 
• Foundation Inspection (as recommended by the Home Inspector) and any others the home warrants further investigation

and depending on current market conditions a home is located and whether it is a Buyer or Seller's market — the work to be done as is outlined in each report will either be passed onto the Buyer — as is the case in our area, however, if you are selling in a Buyers market - a credit towards repairs may be likely. 

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of properly preparing a home for market in order to gain the maximum return on investment. 

Today, Buyers begin their search online. If a home fails to sparkle online there is a good chance many Buyers will not contact their agent to preview the home nor attend any of the public open house opportunities. Depending on what a Buyer sees online, a decision will be made in seconds whether to preview or skip it. Buyers are busy at work, travel, and play— we live in busy times. If a home misses out on being seen by potential Buyers an opportunity is missed. In order for a home to sell over the asking price that entails multiple bidders. 

In conclusion, don’t short-change yourself or cut corners and leave money on the table; allow your home to shine online and make it readily and easily available for homebuyers to preview.  Should you seek further advice and information please do not hesitate to contact us. 

The post Debbi DiMaggio Gives The Top 5 Home Improvements A Homeowner Should Invest In Prior To Market appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

“There is a renaissance happening on the Sunset Strip in LA. The Strip is poised to become a new center of modern luxury in Los Angeles,” - Tina Necrason, Executive Vice President, Residential, Montage International

Pendry Residences is the newest addition to West Hollywood and offers the ultimate experience for exclusive luxury living. Developed in partnership with AECOM Capital, the investment advisor of global infrastructure firm AECOM, and Combined Properties, a full-service real estate firm, the opening of Pendry Residences West Hollywood is the culmination of over $500 million invested in the overall development and brings an unparalleled level of luxury residential living to Los Angeles. Comprised of 40 luxury residences and located next to Pendry West Hollywood, this newest residence was designed by acclaimed Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects (EYRC) with interior design by Martin Brudnizki. 

Photo Credit: Justin Coit

“Situated in a private enclave adjacent to the hotel, 40 private homes epitomize today’s California dream. Terraced along Olive Drive, the Residences offer incredible LA views, exceptional design, and personalized service,” continues Tina Necrason.

Pendry Residences West Hollywood by Montage Hotels & Resorts offers residents one-one-of-a-kind amenities such as a private rooftop pool deck, wine tasting room, garden deck, fitness center, boardroom, and lounge. Residents are also guaranteed the utmost privacy with every home being only accessible by private or semi-private elevators.

Photo Credit: Justin Coit

“Unlike a typical condominium, Pendry Residences West Hollywood was built without interior corridors, allowing each home to be accessed via two private elevators (one passenger and one service) that take the owner from the secure parking garage directly into their individual home providing the utmost in both security and privacy. Visitors enter through a lobby overlooking views of downtown Los Angeles and travel through the lush resident garden park to reach a series of elevator lobbies offering secure access to the individual homes.” Says Steven Ehrlich of Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects (EYRC)

Residents are also given full access to the amenities at the adjacent Pendry West Hollywood which includes several restaurants helmed by legendary two Michelin-star chef Wolfgang Puck, an exclusive membership to The Britely, a private social club, a 24-hour gym, screening room and more.

Photo Credit: Christian Horan Photography

“With polished comfort, personalized service, and a fresh expression of luxury, Pendry Residences West Hollywood by Montage Hotels & Resorts elevates the Sunset Strip to a new level of sophistication for those who call this home.” Says Tina Necrason.

Following a limited pre-completion offering, Pendry Residences West Hollywood is already recognizing significant market placement with over 50 percent of residences in the first release sold, including reaching new real estate pricing benchmarks, exceeding records within Los Angeles luxury condominium offerings. Exceeding records for the highest price per square foot in Los Angeles, two Terrace Estates have been sold at groundbreaking prices, the highest of which sold at over $4,800 per square foot. Terrace estate 706 sold at $13 million, with a PSF over $4,800 and terrace estate 804 sold at $13.3 million, with a PSF of almost $4,500.

For more information on Pendry Residences West Hollywood, please visit their website here: https://pendryresidencesweho.com

The post Pendry Residences West Hollywood Brings A New Level Of Sophistication To The Sunset Strip appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

12 years ago, during the recession, we created HIGHLAND PARTNERS with the desire to build a luxury boutique real estate brokerage with like-minded agents dedicated to serving their clients while giving back to the communities in which we serve through education and involvement. We wanted to create a culture of collaboration and a professional environment that never lost sight of what it means to support our clients and peers. Through the years we have had great success, some learning moments, and even a new understanding of family. Through the last several years we sought expansion opportunities and studied countless marketing platforms. ... Just as the day we started HIGHLAND PARTNERS, sometimes the best opportunities arise when you are not looking. --Heidi Marchesotti

Adam and I, along with our partners Heidi Marchesotti and Mindy Sun are proud and honored to announce our recent merger and partnership with Corcoran Global Living.

After 12 years of countless hours, learning, growing, expanding, with endless passion and dedication into creating our Highland Partners brand we now say goodbye, but welcome the change as we adopt the CGL brand. However, we are still the same 2 offices, same great staff, same passionate agents, same unique culture, and still just one family, only larger.

The post HIGHLAND PARTNERS HAS A NEW LOOK appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Terra Glen Apartment Complex

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

Hafsa Burt has been practicing architecture for 21 years. Her portfolio includes work at the San Francisco Airport, institutional buildings, multi-family buildings, hospitality, retail, medical office buildings, and custom single-family homes.

She also founded a development arm for the firm called Box Lab which is focused on active research and development in product and space design and zero energy/zero carbon buildings. An environmentalist, Burt adopted the 2030 challenge a decade ago and is a huge proponent of high-performance buildings. Her focus includes eliminating toxins with indoor air quality as a specialty. She actively speaks on the topic of indoor air quality as it relates to the practice of architecture and is an industry expert on “Healthy Building Practices”.

Hafsa Burt

Photo Credit: h+ba Architects

Burt recently spoke to Haute Design about concepts regarding healthy buildings and indoor air quality.

Haute Design: We are paraphrasing here, but you recently mentioned that most people place objects within an interior environment and call it 'design.' Why is it so important for clients to adopt a more holistic approach toward design?

Hafsa Burt: I do believe that oftentimes focus is more on the relationship of objects in a space and not so much on the long-term effects of the built environment on the planet or of a particular building on its occupants’ health. We’ve been preaching about healthy buildings and occupants’ health since 2009 and have done hundreds of peer advocacy talks on the topic.

Numerous studies have been done that show a direct correlation between our built environment and our health, therefore, to me, design is a well-thought-out solution that focuses on how occupants feel physically and mentally in a space and what affects the indoor environment might have on their wellbeing, including cognitive function.

HD: What are a few common efforts you are applying throughout your projects that will benefit the clients' well-being by way of air quality or other approaches you would like to highlight? 

HB: We look at the material data of all finishes and make sound choices based on their health impacts. Our focus is also on the big picture and how the space feels besides a two-dimensional aesthetic view. We also work closely with mechanical consultants to see how we can devise innovative ways to improve the air circulation  in a space and several other measures.

Box Factory House

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

HD: Would you say designing with mental health in mind and designing with internal air quality in mind go hand in hand?

HB: I do believe that spatial design can contribute to mental health and indoor air quality affects cognitive function. Design of spaces can certainly affect mental health. A few years ago I visited a newly constructed micro-housing building and wondered if the residents could experience social isolation, depression in such a space. Access to daylight, possibly a view, well thought-out design solutions that focus on space, finishes and furnishings that are ‘safe’ all contribute to a healthy living space.

HD: Do you foresee a rise in health-conscious design as a result of the pandemic?

HB: Yes very much, we did a lot of consulting last year on how to prevent spread of disease in commercial and institutional buildings. We explored strategies that would allow touch less function and social distancing accompanied with a constant supply of fresh filtered air.

Before the pandemic, more than a decade ago we used case studies of legionnaire’s disease to advocate for healthy building strategies and with the pandemic it all became too real. More and more people are conscious of their surroundings and how it affects their health and productivity and are asking for strategies that can have a positive impact. 

Coffee and Water Lab, San Jose

Photo Credit: h+ba Architects

If you would like to learn more about Hafsa Burt's work regarding Healthy Buildings, as well as her architecture and interior design, CLICK HERE to visit the h+ba Architects website.

The post Hafsa Burt Educates Haute Design On Healthy Buildings And Indoor Air Quality appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Editor’s Note: Haute Designer Hafsa Burt has been practicing architecture for 22 years. She has an undergraduate degree and a professional Master of Architecture from the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). Burt has been running her own studio, hb+a Architects since 2006. Her portfolio includes work at the San Francisco Airport, institutional buildings, multifamily buildings, hospitality, retail, medical office buildings, and custom single-family homes.

She also founded a development arm for the firm called Box Lab which is focused on active research and development in product and space design and zero energy/zero carbon buildings. A passionate environmentalist, Burt adopted the 2030 challenge a decade ago and is a huge proponent of high-performance buildings. Her focus includes eliminating toxins with indoor air quality as a specialty. She actively speaks on the topic of indoor air quality as it relates to the practice of architecture and is an industry expert on “Healthy Building Practices”.

Here, she talked with Haute Design about her architecture firm, favorite design projects, and her sustainability and environmental goals for the future. 

11 luxury townhomes at Stonebrae golf community

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

How did you get started in design?

I come from a family who, despite having advanced degrees in science, were creative and have relatives who are also engineers. Growing up, conversations were about creativity, problem-solving, and theories, and so it was a very creative and intellectual household. There was a lot of importance given to academics. I was particularly interested in physics, and in high school, I also got interested in the arts, specifically sculpture. Architecture just seemed like a natural fit, given those interests and my background growing up.

Tell us a little bit more about hb+a Architects as well as Box Lab.

I worked for larger companies before I started the design studio. It was a natural next chapter once I got my license. Most of my colleagues that were starting their studios were doing smaller jobs, but right from the beginning I started collaborating on institutional projects with other architects. So that led to projects such as working on the San Francisco Airport, and other institutional work, that really helped the business develop.

The idea for Box Lab came because I've always been interested in real estate development. Sometimes your ideas get kind of squished when you're working for clients, because it's their vision, and it's your job to make their vision become a reality. With Box Lab, I can put my own visions out there specifically as they relate to environmental sustainability. Zero carbon or carbon neutrality has been a focus of mine for 20 plus years, and most projects just address what's needed by local mandates. I thought there was a need to develop actual zero carbon prototypes. It took a while, but it came about in 2019, and since then, we've done a few projects.

Mei Apartments in San Leandro, CA

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

What have been some of your favorite design projects that you've worked on so far?

I would say different projects have different favorite moments. For instance, in the single-family residence for Box Lab, we set out pretty ambitious goals for carbon neutrality and zero energy, and also construction efficiency. These goals were met very successfully. 

I also did a retail store for a client way early on when I had just started the studio, and their budget was extremely strapped, but the owner had this unique personality and I wanted to give it a unique flavor without burning her budget. It was a good exercise in terms of finding materials and objects and turning them into fixtures for her retail store to give it its own individual character. 

What would you say are some of the biggest accomplishments that your firm has accomplished so far?

I think it's a work in progress. I do like the fact that for just starting the studio in 2006, we were able to scale to much larger projects. That's a big one. We also are focused on carbon neutrality and zero energy, and we've kind of pioneered that. We also started the discussion of healthy buildings and indoor air roughly a decade before the pandemic. These are some of the things that I would say I'm proud of because we were ahead of the time. Everybody's talking about climate initiatives right now because it's so crucial for the industry, but for 20 plus years that's been our focus, we're not just trend-driven. It's a larger philosophy in terms of how buildings are built. I am proud of having done thoughtful work embedded in environmental and social awareness throughout my career instead of being trend-driven.

21 unit mixed-use project in Oakland, CA

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

What do you see for the future of your company and the industry in general?

Based on what the scientists are telling us, we have to reduce the greenhouse gases all over the world by 65% in the next nine years, and that's a pretty strong deadline. I'm hoping that that's where the industry would move. There is a bigger sense of urgency than, say, 20 years ago when we were talking about it. Some people may be caught by surprise in 2030 when it's too late, but ideally, that's where the industry is moving. 

As for us, we're just going to continue on the innovation path, and keep experimenting and keep looking at how we can innovate products, furniture, fixtures, or equipment and systems for energy efficiency and carbon neutrality so a building has minimal impact on the planet and its people. Social equity is going to be very important. For instance, in a multi-family project, conversations will be about inclusivity. There's a lot at play and I think we will see it more and more in the industry.

The post An Interview With Top San Francisco Designer Hafsa Burt Of hb+a Architects appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

The webinar was hosted by Haute Living's Erik Haase. If you missed the live viewing or would like to see it again, watch the recording below.

Top left: Dana Bambace; Bottom left: Ernie Carswell; Middle: Shelton Wilder; Top right: David Gemme; Bottom right: Ben Bacal

Here are the upcoming Haute Residence live webinars:

Friday, April 17th at 2PM EST will feature an international panel. From Los Angeles to Aspen to Paris, Haute Residence hosts a live webinar with four of the top Coldwell Banker real estate agents worldwide: Joyce Rey, Cyd Greer, Carrie Wells, and Laurent Demeure. REGISTER HERE.

On Monday, April 20th at 2PM EST, two of New York City's biggest names in real estate, Adam Modlin and Richard Steinberg, will be together in an exclusive webinar. REGISTER HERE.

See the video of today's webinar above. About today's panelists:

Ben Bacal: Record-breaking agent in LA with over $2 billion in sales, among The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 Agents in the US

Ernie Carswell: More than $1 billion in sales, over 2 decades among The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 Agents in the US

Shelton Wilder: Award-winning real estate agent in Santa Monica, and recipient of the 2018 Douglas Elliman Gold Award.

Dana Bambace: Dominant leader in Carmel/Pebble Beach market, with 25 transactions in 2019.

David Gemme: Among Lake Tahoe’s top brokers, with over 22 years of experience with more than $500 million in career sales.

Highlight quotes from today's webinar:

Ben Bacal: "The homes that are reduced in price are getting offers. There's action out there. It's an opportunity for buyers to get in."

Ernie Carswell: "It's a great time to buy. It's a definite time to sell if you can." 

Shelton Wilder: "We have been telling buyers to get ready, going over all of the steps to have an offer ready to go."

Dana Bambace: "We are really stepping up to apply new techniques. For the sellers that are considering (coming into the market), we encourage them to list and get exposure before the bulk (of supply) comes on."

David Gemme: "If you provide valuable information, clients can make a conscious decision on what's right for them."

Watch other Haute Residence webinars about the latest on the real estate market in national and international markets at dev.hauteresidence.com.

The post California Real Estate Expert Panel Talks About Industry During Quarantine In Live Webinar By Haute Residence appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

The Haute Residence webinars look to inform real estate agents, brokers, and insiders on how best to navigate the current outlook of the industry as most of its community is working from home in quarantine.

Each webinar has limited space. Below are the ones coming up with the respective link to register for each, as well as video recordings of the ones that have taken place already below.

Monday, April 13th at 2PM EST will be highlighted by a special “Condo Experts” webinar with Bill Hernandez (Bill and Bryan Team), Elena C. Bluntzer (ONE Sotheby's International Realty), Alex Miranda (The Alex + Joe Team at Compass), and Michelle Lynn Judd (Residences by Armani/Casa). REGISTER HERE.

On Tuesday, April 14th at 2PM EST, South Florida real estate experts The Jills Zeder Group join us. Formed in 2019 and affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty, The Jills Zeder Group took sales to a new level by breaking its own records with an incredible $665,245,787 in transactions. The Jills Zeder Group is the #1 real estate team for Coldwell Banker worldwide. REGISTER HERE.

Tune in on Wednesday, April 15th at 2PM EST, when David Parnes and James Harris, the power team at The Agency and stars of “Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles” that has over $1.2 billion of value in properties in their current listing portfolio join us. REGISTER HERE.

On Thursday, April 16th at 3PM EST, we will feature a live webinar with Aaron Kirman, who has sold over $6.5 billion in properties during his career. He is President of the International Estates Division at Compass Realty, and the top agent in LA for the past decade, and in the top 10 nationwide, and star of CNBC’s Listing Impossible”. REGISTER HERE.

Friday, April 17th will feature an international panel. From Los Angeles to Aspen to Paris, Haute Residence hosts a live webinar with four of the top Coldwell Banker real estate agents worldwide: Joyce Rey, Cyd Greer, Carrie Wells, and Laurent Demeure. REGISTER HERE.

The series started on Monday, April 6th with Daniel de la Vega, President of ONE Sotheby's International Realty. He recently oversaw the closing of the penthouse at One Thousand Museum by Zaha Hadid Architects purchased by David Beckham. Mr. de la Vega oversees ONE Sotheby’s locations in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Martin counties, with 17 offices over 850 associates that generate annual sales in excess of $2.5 billion. Watch the webinar below.

On Tuesday, April 7th, a power developers' panel took place. FOX Business Network anchor Cheryl Casone hosted and interviewed Louis Birdman, Edgardo Defortuna, Jules Trump, and Michael Stern. Each gave his thoughts on the best ways for real estate agents, brokers, developers, and the industry overall to go forward in light of the recent changes to the industry. Watch the video below.

Wednesday, April 8th featured the powerhouse real estate agents Oren and Tal Alexander, the sibling duo who just last month received top accolades from Douglas Elliman Real Estate for their top-performing numbers in Manhattan, Miami, and the US. Watch the video below.

CEO of Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage Jay Parker highlighted the current real estate climate from the brokerage point of view on Thursday, April 9th. Watch the video below.

On Friday, April 10th, New York "Queen of Real Estate" Dolly Lenz, who has sold over $12 billion in properties throughout her career, and her daughter Jenny Lenz, Managing Director of Dolly Lenz Real Estate, talked about the current outlook of real estate in the Big Apple. Watch the video below.

The post Register: “Real Estate During Quarantine” Webinars By Haute Residence appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

In his role since 2013, Parker has grown Douglas Elliman's presence in markets from Miami to Jupiter, to Palm Beach and St. Petersburg. They have a total of 21 offices and more than 1,100 agents. Under Parker's leadership, Douglas Elliman Florida had a record year in 2018 with $4.7 billion in total sales volume, which was up 30% over the prior year. Parker has been a key figure in the growth of the brand, which is now represented in luxury real estate markets in 60 countries and six continents through its partnership with London-based Knight-Frank Residential.

Watch the full video below

The interview was hosted by Haute Living's Seth Semilof. Parker began his remarks by giving praises to the medical community and first responders that have been hard at work.

On the interaction with banks, while those are working on the Small Business Administration rollouts, he said "I've spoken with a number of banks. Lenders have reached out to me. The rates being as low as they are, I feel confident we will see a strong financial market. Unlike the last recession, lenders are much more cautious about lending. The banks are in the business of providing financing, and they will get back to that."

"Think of this like any slow period," he said about advice he and his leadership team give to their agents. "In our business, it's not uncommon for an agent to have no business. It's important we focus on goals. Make a plan for when this passes. Work on your database. Distinguish new and old clients. Request reviews from clients. Make five calls, send five emails, five thank-you notes, five text messages every day. Communicate with your clients. See how they and their families are feeling. If possible, spend time with your family. Take an online course you did not have time to before. And connect with agents in other markets."

"This is going to be a time that presents a lot of pent-up demand," he said about the post-quarantine market. "We launched a project in West Palm Beach last month. Things are going to be delayed, but we are working on pre-development."

He also answered questions submitted by viewers during the live broadcast. On a question about relocations to South Florida from other major markets, submitted by One Thousand Museum developer Louis Birdman, Parker said, "We saw a surge of interest in rentals at the beginning (of quarantine times). Now, those people that were borderline retirement are saying, 'Let's do it now'. We will see more people moving from California and New York moving here full-time. I think that New York, one of the strongest and most important cities in the world, will bounce back out of this pandemic." Parker took the opportunity to congratulate Birdman on the recent purchase of a One Thousand Museum penthouse by David Beckham.

Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage

The post Watch: Exclusive Webinar With CEO Of Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage Jay Parker appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Three panels of experts, brokers and developers from Miami to New York, from the Caribbean to Los Angeles, and up the coast to San Francisco informed and interacted with the audience in the capacity-filled event space.

If you added the total value of the transactions of luxury real estate all of them have been responsible over the course of their careers on a spreadsheet, you would end up seeing multiple billions of dollars as the result.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The Summit started on the evening of this past Tuesday, February 11th with an intimate dinner inside the building's Armani Restaurant, where Italian cuisine was the star of the evening. Just like the panels that would take place the following day, diners experienced a three-course meal that delighted the palate.

April Donelson, Cheryl Casone

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Fox Business Network Anchor Cheryl Casone traveled from New York with her FBN:AM film crew to capture the annual Summit in its greatest edition yet.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

After a good night's sleep, it was time to get down to business when the sun rose on the South Florida coast on the morning of the 12th.

Moderator Alex Vidal with "Titans of Miami" developer panelists

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Alex Vidal, President of RelatedISG International Realty, served as Moderator for the full day's worth of dialogues.

Gil Dezer, Kamal Hotchandani, Sebastian Tettamanti

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Haute Living CEO Kamal Hotchandani gave introductory remarks, welcoming the audience that included numerous members of Haute Living's exclusive networks of realtors, brokers, developers, interior designers, doctors and lawyers, as well as industry insiders and VIPs. After the formalities, it was time for the panels to begin.

Developers, "Titans of Miami"

Louis Birdman, Shahab S. Karmely, Edgardo Defortuna, Daniel Kodsi, Gil Dezer, Eric Fordin, Ricardo Tabet, Marcelo Kingston

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The real estate developer panel, titled "Titans of Miami," kicked off the highly anticipated Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit panels (read full recap here).

The panelists spoke extensively about the past, present and future of development growth in Miami, South Florida, on national, and international levels. Their developments in Miami have generated worldwide headlines and were rightfully highlighted in their answers. As well-known names in the real estate and development community, they were the perfect start to the Summit.

International Power Brokers

Sue Nickason, Ben Bacal, Dolly Lenz, Jenny Lenz, Mary Ann Osborn, Richard Steinberg, Cody Vichinsky, Olivia Hsu Decker, Jay Parker, Michael Goldstein

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The International Power Brokers panel featured brokers that execute hundreds of millions of dollars in luxury real estate transactions year in and year out (read full recap here).

Each was asked and spoke of their success by Vidal. Most importantly for the industry insiders, brokers and agents in attendance, the panelists gave their tips on how to market and engage higher-priced listings and the clients that come with them.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Miami Power Brokers

Phil Gutman, Lourdes Alatriste, Crista Ryan, Christian Martinez, Sebastian Tettamanti, Maria Eugenia Alvarez Vitale, Steve Solomon

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The Miami Power Brokers panel closed the daylong study and dialogue with a talk about the real estate market in Miami and the broader South Florida area that includes Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties (read full recap here).

They spoke about the current state of the real estate market in Miami-Dade and close communities in Broward and Palm Beach counties that are a quick drive up I-95 and enjoy the same South Florida weather yearlong. Other topics included: What makes Miami and South Florida such an active destination for many around the country and the world, contrasts between the renting and buying markets, the ins and outs of searching and asking for proof of funds from potential buyers, the impact of brand names on a project, and more.

Jeff Miller, Phil Gutman and Ian Reisner at Opening Night dinner of Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

April Donelson, Seth Semilof, Olivia Hsu Decker, Alex Vidal, Sue Nickason

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The post Recap Of The Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Sue Nickason, Ben Bacal, Dolly Lenz, Jenny Lenz, Mary Ann Osborn, Richard Steinberg, Cody Vichinsky, Olivia Hsu Decker, Jay Parker, Michael Goldstein

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Each was asked and spoke of their success by Moderator Alex Vidal, President of RelatedISG International Realty. Most importantly for the industry insiders, brokers and agents in attendance that filled the event space to capacity, the panelists gave their tips on how to market and engage higher-priced listings and clients that come with it.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Queen of New York real estate Dolly Lenz emphasized how important it is to know and relate to a high net worth client, saying, "Read The Wall Street Journal. Know what's going on in politics; in business; where the pitfalls are, so you can share that with them. I think that's key." Her daughter, Jenny Lenz, joined her mother four years ago at Dolly Lenz Real Estate, learning about the best from the best, and brought that knowledge into the panel.

Cody Vichinsky, Founding Partner at Bespoke Real Estate, focuses his company on $10+ million listings only with an in-house team of agents and staff that tailor their listings' marketing, such as Burnt Point in The Hamptons. "We look at the market very focused in the high luxury market. We have no independent agents, so our model is entirely different from a conventional brokerage business. It's more dynamic."

Olivia Hsu Decker, Co-owner of Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty, which encompasses over two dozen offices in the San Francisco Bay Area, hit the target as she described the luxury real estate world. "Our business is a people business," she said.

Mary Ann Osborn speaking at Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage, addressed the luxury market in Miami compared to other cosmopolitan cities. "You look at luxury (real estate) in other cities compared to Miami and you find that our price points (in Miami) are pretty attractive".

Michael Goldstein, President of The Trump Group, highlighted the migration to South Florida from the north as he oversees sales of The Estates at Acqualina. " 75% of our business is coming from New York," he said.

Ben Bacal, a leader in the Los Angeles real estate and creator of the Rila app, gave his expertise on the LA market. "Since 2017-2018, properties in Hillcrest have gone down in price to where they need to be. We see an uptick in international buyers. I want to teach my agents to be powerhouses in each of their market and become power agents in those areas. "

One of New York’s most successful brokers of apartments and townhouses, Richard Steinberg held nothing back as he compared and contrasted the buyers and sellers in the lower-priced and higher-priced markets. "Every seller thinks they charge too little. Every buyer thinks they pay too much,” he said. “But they buy it because they want it. My advice to people (brokers) is to go for the big stuff because it's much harder to sell the small stuff," encouraging the live audience and those that watched the live stream on Instagram to reach higher.

April Donelson, Seth Semilof, Olivia Hsu Decker, Alex Vidal, Sue Nickason

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Sue Nickason, based in the Cayman Islands and Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Dart Real Estate, had a unique insight on the small island “tax haven”. "Our sweet spot is beach, beach, beach,” she said. “We have a brokerage that did the most sales in the Cayman Islands last year, just shy of $100 million."

On the influence of technology in the luxury real estate market, Dolly Lenz said, "I think it's playing a small role. I find it to be hyped at the moment. In five years, applications will really change how we do business."

Mary Ann Osborn, Leading Broker at Century City, followed on that, "The older people come in through signage on the property and require you to hand-hold them through the process," about the extra personal touch that comes when selling luxury real estate, particularly to people that are not as engaged with technology as younger generations.

A long round of applause was given to the panelists at the end, many who had traveled from far to participate in the Summit.

The post International Power Brokers Panel Shines At Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Dezer Development

The event will be covered extensively by Fox Business Network and Anchor of FBN:AM, Cheryl Casone, who is taking her New York film crew to Miami's sandy beaches to interview some of the real estate industry's biggest names at the Summit.

The panelists will be part of this year's Summit at one of the grandest residential locations in all of South Florida, where they will dialogue, among other topics, about where their clients are moving from to Miami. Listen and learn from them by purchasing your ticket to the Summit HERE.

They are:

Maria Eugenia Alvarez Vitale, Head of Sales, G&G Business Developments

Photo Credit: G&G Business Developments

Maria Eugenia Alvarez Vitale is originally from Argentina, having spent half of her life in the United States, where she graduated with a bachelor of arts degree. She moved to Miami and immediately started working in real estate, one of her passions. In her role as a co-partner of a Miami real estate firm, Maria works on helping individual clients as well as institutional investors to acquire, sell, and lease properties in commercial and residential spaces. Throughout the years, she has developed a strong relationship with the top commercial, multifamily, and residential brokers, as well as a deep network of South Florida top real estate attorneys. Maria is passionate about keeping her clients' best interests at heart, focusing more on achieving long-term goals than on closing a specific transaction.

In her current role at G&G Business Developments, Maria is responsible for overseeing the sales operation of new real estate developments, with a specific focus on the Aston Martin Residences in Miami.

Jeff Miller, Director of Sales, Brown Harris Stevens

Photo Credit: Brown Harris Stevens

Jeff Miller, Director of Luxury Sales for Brown Harris Stevens, is an expert in high-end collectible properties located in Miami Beach and the surrounding areas.

Ranked consecutively by The Wall Street Journal as a leading agent nationwide, Jeff utilizes his 15 years of expertise to guide his clients through all aspects of luxury real estate acquisitions. With over $1 billion dollars in sales, industry know-how, and an extensive list of high-profile clientele, Jeff continues to deliver a tailored experience exceeding his client’s expectations.

When working with Jeff, clients feel confident navigating today’s market, and he has the numbers to prove it. Along with his national accolades, Jeff has also been ranked as the #1 Agent at Brown Harris Stevens | Miami continually since 2010. Leading the industry in multi-million-dollar real estate acquisitions, Jeff consistently leads his clients every step of the way.

Integrity, experience, professionalism, and evidence-backed results; Jeff Miller can help you accomplish your real estate goals today.

Lourdes Alatriste, Partner and Private Office Advisor, Engel & Völkers Miami

Photo Credit: Engel & Völkers Miami

Recognized by The Wall Street Journal as one of the Top 250 Sales Agents in the USA, Lourdes Alatriste has over 25 years of experience in the Miami Premium Residential Market. In 2010 and 2011, Alatriste was the  Top Producer agent in Engel & Völkers Miami; in 2012, she was Top Producer nationwide; and in 2014, she won a President’s Circle status in the Elite Awards at Engel & Völkers, one of the most prestigious real estate firms worldwide, established in 1977. Throughout her career, Alatriste has cemented her success as a high-end luxury property specialist with unparalleled knowledge of the market. From 2009 to 2015, she was also the firm’s #1 Listing Broker. In each calendar year, she has surpassed her own sales records. Her relationships from Europe to the Hamptons and beyond are a product of her excellent reputation. She entered the Real Estate Title business in her early 20’s and had her own title company soon after for over 20 years.

On October 2nd, 2015, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty announced the appointment of Lourdes Alatriste as the new Executive Director of International Real Estate. Prior to her appointed title, Alatriste served as a Private Office advisor at Engel & Völkers’ in Coral Gables, Miami, where she sold an estimated $176 million in sales volume since 2009. In June 12, 2017, Alatriste returned to Engel & Völkers Miami as Partner and Private Office Advisor, bringing with her more than $76,000,000 million in listings.

Her outstanding professionalism and encyclopedic knowledge of Miami’s finest and exclusives neighborhoods like Miami Beach, Gables Estates, Coral Gables, Bal Harbour, Star Island and others, have proven to be tremendous assets in brokering in Miami. Alatriste has represented both sellers and buyers. Her clients have come to depend on her considerable expertise and market knowledge. They receive the highest level of personalized attention.

As Partner and Private Office Advisor at Engel & Völkers, Alatriste focuses on fostering and continually nurturing relationships with international clientele to expand the international reach and communications strategy while leveraging the strength of Engel & Völkers network, which spans more than 35 countries and territories worldwide with more than 16,500 associates.

Steve Solomon, Senior Director of Luxury Sales, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Photo Credit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Since becoming licensed in 1999, Steve Solomon has had many years of building successful client relationships. As a Broker Associate and Senior Director of Luxury Sales, he is an important member of the team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Steve’s impressive portfolio of completed transactions demonstrates that he is well-versed and experienced in all luxury offerings across South Florida.

In 2017, Steve was recognized as the #1 Douglas Elliman Agent in both Boca Raton and Delray Beach and is ranked #2 in the entire State of Florida.

A resident of the Boca Raton area since 1992, and an active member of the community that he calls home, Steve’s knowledge and access to the high-end Boca Real Estate market are unparalleled. A consistent top producer in the Boca Raton/Delray Beach markets, Steve lists and sells oceanfront estates and condos, waterfront luxury properties, single-family residences located in private country clubs and other gated enclaves. No doubt that he has the expertise and experience to help you in the purchase or sale of any luxury real estate.

Crista Ryan, President, Tina Fanjul Associates

Photo Credit: Tina Fanjul Associates

Crista Ryan is President of Tina Fanjul Associates. Tina Fanjul Associates is fortunate to be situated among the breathtaking beaches, golf, tennis, boating, fishing, polo, equestrian and endless opportunities for dining, shopping, culture, leisure and adventure that South Florida has to offer.

Tina Fanjul Associates has been providing exceptional real estate brokerage services for buyers and sellers in the Palm Beach area and surrounding communities from Miami to Hobe Sound since 1977 when first started by Tina Fanjul. Now led by Ryan, the firm includes 17 handpicked associates and provides comprehensive marketing, sales, and leasing services to its repeating clientele. Associates have expanded to Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Hobe Sound, Manalapan, Gulfstream, Delray, Boca Raton, Miami and internationally to the Dominican Republic.

Sebastian Tettamanti, Senior Vice President, Dezer Development

Photo Credit: Dezer Development

Sebastian Tettamanti brings over 18 years of expertise to the real estate industry, having established an impressive resume selling South Florida’s most luxurious residential properties. Tettamanti’s success selling some of Miami’s finest addresses can be attributed to his industry niche focus on high-end residential real estate, combined with his insight into the culture of multi-faceted, global South Florida buyers.

Before joining Dezer Development, Tettamanti owned and operated his own real estate brokerage firm for 10 years where he personally sold over $350 million. In Trump Towers alone he sold over $62 million, which got him honored as the “Top-Producer” for the Dezer Development and Related Group project in collaboration with Donald Trump located in Sunny Isles Beach. On the heels of his tremendous sales success, Dezer Development hired Tettamanti full-time in January 2010 as Director of Sales and Project Manager for Trump Towers.

Having played an integral role in the sellout of Trump Towers, in 2013 Dezer Development named Tettamanti Senior Vice President of Development and Sales for the company. As Senior Vice President, he currently oversees a sales portfolio totaling over $2 billion and manages the in-house sales team. Tettamanti handles the sales and marketing for the recently completed Porsche Design Tower Miami, the luxury brand’s first venture into residential real estate.

Along with the extraordinary sales success of Porsche Design Tower Miami, Tettamanti is engaged with the sales and marketing of Residences by Armani/Casa, global fashion icon Giorgio Armani’s first residential real estate project in the U.S. The 56-story, oceanfront condominium project in Sunny Isles Beach is a partnership between Dezer Development and The Related Group.

Tettamanti additionally serves as the broker for Dezer Platinum Realty, a boutique real estate brokerage firm in Sunny Isles Beach with over 100 agents specializing in exclusive luxury condominium and single-family home sales throughout South Florida. With an impressive track record, Dezer Platinum Realty has closed $56 million in general real estate division sales for the first quarter of 2018 and has been responsible for the two most expensive penthouse sales to-date in Sunny Isles Beach.

He studied at the University of Florida where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with Honors in marketing and economics and met his wife Maria Tettamanti, also known as The Wordy Girl--arguably one of Miami’s most renowned bloggers. Originally from Argentina, Tettamanti now resides in Miami, Florida with his wife and two children.

Christian Martinez, Regional President of Florida, Compass

Photo Credit: Compass

An experienced leader in digital/social strategy, monetization and media integration across both the US Multicultural and Latam markets, Christian Martinez is currently the Regional President of Florida for Compass, where he is tasked with overseeing all of the brokerage’s operations for the state.

Prior to Compass, Martinez spent six years at Facebook as the Country Director of Mexico, and prior to that as Head of US Multicultural; an effort which brought to market digital and social marketing scale to the US multicultural marketer. Prior to Facebook, Christian spent 13 years at Univision Communications where he was VP of Network TV and Interactive Sales for the Southeast and Southwest regions. In that role, he was responsible for leading the only integrated sales office in the country, in which he oversaw a team of network TV and digital sellers focused on providing clients a fully integrated, cross-platform approach. Martinez has led traditional, digital, programmatic, mobile and eCommerce efforts in the tech and media spaces. He is a graduate of the University of Florida where he received a BS in Business Administration. He resides with his wife and two children in Miami, FL

Full Schedule of Events at Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit:

11:00am – 11:30am: Welcome and Registration

11:45am – 1:15pm: Titans of Miami – “East Coast Kings”

Masters of the Miami skyline sound off on where they see the luxury market heading and its evolution.

Developer Panelists: Gil Dezer, Louis Birdman, Dan Kodsi, Shahab Karmely, Marcelo Kingston, Edgardo Defortuna, Ricardo Tabet, Eric Fordin

1:15pm – 1:30pm: Jumbo Loan King

Eric Fessler, expert entrepreneur, has over 30 years of mortgage banking experience closing over $10 billion. Fessler discusses the procurement of jumbo loans in single-family homes along with warranty and non-warranty new condominium developments on a nationwide scale.

1:30pm – 2:30pm: Lunch – Residences by Armani/Casa

Network with the greatest minds of development and brokerage in the luxury real estate market.

2:45pm – 3:45pm: International Power Brokers Panel

Top broker/agents from key international real estate meccas such as Miami Beach, Los Angeles, New York City and Cayman Islands sound off on the latest in market conditions and development.

Panelists: Dolly Lenz and Jenny Lenz (NYC), Mary Ann Osborn (LA), Richard Steinberg (NYC), Cody Vichinsky (NYC) Olivia Hsu Decker (San Francisco) Jay Parker (Miami), Ben Bacal (Hollywood Hills), Michael Goldstein (Miami), Sue Nickason (Cayman Islands)

4:00pm – 5:00pm: Miami Power Brokers

Top South Florida brokers share their knowledge on the evolution and direction of the luxury market today.

Panelists: Jill Eber, Maria Eugenia Alvarez Vitale, Jeff Miller, Lourdes Alatriste, Steve Solomon, Crista Ryan, Sebastian Tettamanti, Christian Martinez

5:00pm: Summit Closing Remarks

Photo Credit: Dezer Platinum Realty LLC

The post Miami Power Brokers At Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Real Estate Summit appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

The event will be covered extensively by Fox Business Network and Anchor of FBN:AM, Cheryl Casone, who is taking her New York film crew to Miami's sandy beaches to interview some of the real estate industry's biggest names at the Summit.

The panelists will be part of this year’s Summit at one of the grandest residential locations in all of South Florida, where they will dialogue about the latest in the real estate market conditions and development.  Listen and learn from them by purchasing your ticket to the Summit HERE.

They are:

Dolly Lenz, Founder, Dolly Lenz Real Estate, Jenny Lenz, Managing Director, Dolly Lenz Real Estate

Jenny Lenz, Dolly Lenz

Photo Credit: Dolly Lenz Real Estate

Dolly Lenz has been called "New York's Real Estate Queen" by The Economist. The Wall Street Journal named her the number" One Real Estate Broker in the United States". The former Vice Chairman of Prudential Douglass Elliman left that post to start her own luxury sales and marketing firm. During her career, she has sold $12 billion in properties, including a triplex penthouse for $57 million purchased by Robert Murdoch, as well as the New York Foundling's $45 million West Village Mansion. She has also managed the sales and marketing efforts for many of New York's most illustrious properties including the Ritz-Carlton at 50 Central Park South, the iconic Apthorp and Manhattan House condominiums, The Cipriani Residences, and 515 East 72nd Street.

Dolly is a Fox Business contributor as well as a columnist for Australia's largest publication, The Australian. She is repeatedly sought after to represent some of the most exclusive properties in the world.

Jenny Lenz is a native New Yorker. She attended The Dalton School on Manhattan's Upper East Side and subsequently The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, majoring in Economics and French . While there, she worked at Barclays as a Summer Analyst in the Investment Banking Division and upon graduation accepted a full time Analyst position in its Industrials Group.

She then transitioned into real estate, following in her mother's footsteps working for Dolly Lenz Real Estate. Her passion for the business started at an early age as she was exposed to some of the most breathtaking properties in the world, accompanying her mother on business trips to Europe and Asia. She has also fulfilled numerous speaking engagements at real estate conferences throughout the U.S and Australia. She strives to continue her mother's tradition taking on the New York and international real estate markets. She is regularly asked to opine on real estate matters on various media outlets including CNBC, NBC, and Fox Business. Jenny is also a columnist for The Australian–Mansions.

Mary Ann Osborn, Leading Broker, Century City

Photo Credit: Century City

Reaching over $1 billion in sales over the last eight years, Mary Ann Osborn has secured her position as a leading broker in Century City and Los Angeles.

Through her extensive knowledge of the market and preconstruction projects, she offers her clients a smooth and satisfactory transaction, from beginning to end. Her market knowledge, professionalism, level of integrity, and customer service qualify her as a broker of choice for new luxury condominiums in Century City. Osborn’s interpersonal skills and tactful approach has been validated by the particular demands of servicing an elite clientele.

She has been quoted in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, and Westside Today, among others. 

She was the director of sales for The Century, a 42-story masterpiece designed by world-renowned Robert A.M. Stern Architects and developed by The Related Companies as their flagship entry into the West Coast. 

Richard Steinberg, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Photo Credit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Richard Steinberg is one of New York's most successful and prominent brokers of apartments and townhouses. Grossing over $150 Million in sales yearly, Steinberg has consistently been a top producer. His comprehensive knowledge of the Manhattan marketplace has made him a frequently cited expert on real estate in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Observer and other publications. Steinberg previously starred on the hit HGTV television show "Selling New York," and can now be seen on "The American Dream New York City", which airs on WLNY-CBS. He has a client roster of New York's top celebrities, politicians, and business leaders.

Over the course of his career, Steinberg has successfully brokered sales in virtually all of the city's notable condominiums, cooperatives and townhouses. He has worked with private individuals and developers to identify a townhouse for purchase, renovation, and resale at significant profits in addition to working with individuals to identify townhouses as long-term homes. Developers have used Richard's expertise in closing out last remaining units in the top condominiums. He is adaptive to client needs, discreet, and known for his careful negotiations on their behalf. Richard holds a Doctorate degree, raised two children in New York along with his wife, and is a long-time resident of the Upper East Side.

Cody Vichinsky, Founding Partner, Bespoke Real Estate

Photo Credit: Bespoke Real Estate

Cody Vichinsky is a Founding Partner of Bespoke Real Estate, the first and only $10M+ brokerage firm with no independent agents, and Bespoke Marketing, a fully integrated luxury branding, and marketing agency. Under Vichinsky and his older brother Zachary's leadership, Bespoke Real Estate has been consistently ranked #1 in the $10M+ market with nearly $3 billion in $10M+ property transactions and curated an exclusive portfolio of nearly $2 billion $10M+ properties. The Vichinsky's attributes much of this success to Bespoke's disruptive business model that enables clients to have access to Bespoke's entire company of niche-specialists who work collectively on their behalf, instead of working within the limits of what a single agent can provide. Under the same guiding principles of providing clients enhanced value, the Vichinsky's have spearheaded much of the growth and development of Bespoke Marketing, which has represented a global roster of luxury and hospitality brands as well as some of the most exclusive real estate in the world

Olivia Hsu Decker, Co-Owner, Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty

Photo Credit: Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

Olivia Hsu Decker is co-owner of Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty, with 23 offices in the San Francisco Bay Area from Silicon Valley to Napa Valley and 16 cities in between.

Born in Shanghai, China, Olivia has been marketing luxury properties since 1979. She was #1 agent at Merrill Lynch Realty in the 1980s among the 16,500 sales associates nationwide. She completed an international real estate study at the University of Oxford in 1990, founded Decker Bullock Realty with Bill Bullock in 1991 and acquired Sotheby’s International Realty franchise in 2007. Her company is a leading luxury home brokerage in the San Francisco Bay Area with sales over $4 billion in 2018.

Olivia has a unique sales ability and connection to an affluent clientele. She combines the Sotheby’s International Realty’s global exposures and her vast network of local, national and international connections she developed over 40 years. She consistently matching the extraordinary homes with extraordinary clients, many are billionaires, business leaders, and celebrities. Olivia handled over $3 billion in properties in her career. She sold some of the most expensive homes over $20 million in Marin County and Silicon Valley. She is also a real estate investor, among other properties, she owned and sold Chateau de Villette and Chateau de Grimaldi in France and currently owns four luxury homes in Belvedere and London.

Jay Parker, Chief Executive Officer, Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage

Photo Credit: Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage

Real estate industry leader and veteran, Jay Phillip Parker has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Douglas Elliman Florida Brokerage since 2013. Responsible for the advancement of a leading provider of luxury real estate services across Florida, he has successfully grown Douglas Elliman's presence in markets from Miami to Jupiter, to Palm Beach and St. Petersburg with a total of 21 offices and more than 1,100 agents.

Under Parker's leadership, Douglas Elliman Florida marked a banner year in 2018 with $4.7 billion in total sales volume, which was up 30% over the prior year. Jay has been a key figure in the growth of the brand, which is now represented in luxury real estate markets in 60 countries and six continents through its partnership with London-based Knight-Frank Residential.

A graduate of the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, Canada, Parker completed the study abroad program in Tel Aviv, Israel while earning his Bachelor's Degree. He went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami School of Law in May of 1998. A member of the Florida Bar Association, Parker serves on the Board of Governors for the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, as President of the Executive Board of Mount Sinai Medical Center Foundation and a member of the Miami Association of Realtors Leadership Board.

Ben Bacal, Creator, Rila App

Photo Credit: Ben Bacal Real Estate

Ben Bacal began his career at the young age of 24. In his first year as a REALTOR^®, he sold more than $17 million in real estate. Since then, Bacal has sold more than $2 billion in real estate, and his successes garnered him the front cover of the LA Times Business Section and inclusion on The Wall Street Journal list of top 1000 agents, nationwide. A few of his notable transactions include: 1181 Hillcrest, which marked the largest sale ever in the city of Beverly Hills at $70,000,000; Madonna’s Beverly Hills home, which sold for $19,500,000; and the sale of the Megan Ellison (film producer and Oracle heir) compound on Nightingale Drive which sold for over $47,000,000—just to name a few.

Ben’s professional salesmanship, infused with the innate ability to articulate the vision and intrinsic value of the Los Angeles real estate market, has helped him reach the pinnacle of the real estate game. As a result, he used his vast experience to co-found Rila, a mobile app designed to provide the community with free, unencumbered access to real estate and like-minded industry professionals.

Michael Goldstein, President, Trump Group

Photo Credit: Trump Group

Michael Goldstein is President at the Trump Group with more than 35 years of experience in the real estate industry. He has sold over $5 billion in properties during his successful career. Goldstein has sales, marketing and branding experience and is instrumental in designing floorplans and developing the extraordinary amenities for the Acqualina brand.

He joined the Trump Group in 1998 when they began developing Acqualina, with the first building debuting in 2006. After the resort, they introduced The Mansions at Acqualina. The sales office opened in 2012 and the building sold out in 21 weeks. The Mansions opened in 2015. The sales gallery for The Estates at Acqualina opened the following year. A native of New York, Michael has been living and working in South Florida for almost four decades.

Sue Nickason, Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Provenance Properties

Photo Credit: Dart Real Estate

Sue Nickason is Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Provenance Properties, a portfolio that includes international business development, marketing of visitation and commercial real estate leasing in the New Urbanism community of Camana Bay, operation of Provenance Properties – the official Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate in the Cayman Islands - and sales and marketing for luxury residential projects developed by Dart Real Estate including The Residences at Seafire and OLEA.

She has worked in marketing and development in the recreational property industry for 20 years. Her experience includes working with independent hotels and resorts, shared ownership properties, mixed use communities and condotels. She is highly experienced in working with developers from concept development and market assessment through to market implementation and operation.

Originally from Canada, Nickason moved to the Caribbean over a decade ago. She holds a MBA in Marketing (with Distinction) from the School of Hotel Administration at the University of Guelph, and a BA (Honors) from Mount Allison University, as well as certificates in economic development, adult education, customer service, revenue management, protocol and communications.

Full Schedule of Events at Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit:

11:00am – 11:30am: Welcome and Registration

11:45am – 1:15pm: Titans of Miami – “East Coast Kings”

Masters of the Miami skyline sound off on where they see the luxury market heading and its evolution.

Developer Panelists: Gil Dezer, Louis Birdman, Dan Kodsi, Shahab Karmely, Marcelo Kingston, Edgardo Defortuna, Ricardo Tabet, Eric Fordin

1:15pm – 1:30pm: Jumbo Loan King

Eric Fessler, expert entrepreneur, has over 30 years of mortgage banking experience closing over $10 billion. Fessler discusses the procurement of jumbo loans in single-family homes along with warranty and non-warranty new condominium developments on a nationwide scale.

1:30pm – 2:30pm: Lunch – Residences by Armani/Casa

Network with the greatest minds of development and brokerage in the luxury real estate market.

2:45pm – 3:45pm: International Power Brokers Panel

Top broker/agents from key international real estate meccas such as Miami Beach, Los Angeles, New York City and Cayman Islands sound off on the latest in market conditions and development.

Panelists: Dolly Lenz and Jenny Lenz (NYC), Mary Ann Osborn (LA), Richard Steinberg (NYC), Cody Vichinsky (NYC) Olivia Hsu Decker (San Francisco) Jay Parker (Miami), Ben Bacal (Hollywood Hills), Michael Goldstein (Miami), Sue Nickason (Cayman Islands)

4:00pm – 5:00pm: Miami Power Brokers

Top South Florida brokers share their knowledge on the evolution and direction of the luxury market today.

Panelists: Jill Eber, Maria Eugenia Alvarez Vitale, Jeff Miller, Lourdes Alatriste, Steve Solomon, Crista Ryan, Sebastian Tettamanti, Christian Martinez

5:00pm: Summit Closing Remarks

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Arianne Nardo, Ricardo Britto, Jonathan Cabrera-Caruso, Isabel Tragash

Photo Credit: Jason Lowrie of BFA

The elite real estate community of LA, as well as a select group of the press were present for a panel discussion about the lobby designs for The Estates at Acqualina, which were done by legendary designer Largerfeld.

Zac Lutz, Michael Goldstein, Ricardo Britto

Photo Credit: Jason Lowrie of BFA

“Karl Lagerfeld is an iconic name in design. The Estates at Acqualina was thrilled to be welcomed to the Luxury Living Showroom in West Hollywood to talk about his designs for the lobby," said Michael Goldstein, the Estates' President of Sales. As Largefeld's only residential design in the US, the lobby at The Estates at Acqualina showcases the luxury condominium’s standards as second to none.”

Arianne Nardo, Marissa Cornejo, Alexandra Wensley, Yansy Checa

Photo Credit: Jason Lowrie of BFA

The talk was moderated by journalist Arianne Nardo, with panelists Isabel Tragash and Jonathan Cabrera-Caruso of Miami's STA Architectural Group and Ricardo Britto of Luxury Living.

Photo Credit: Jason Lowrie of BFA

Luxury Living's showroom was filled with guests who were treated to light bites, cocktails and drinks from Rosé by Bodvar – House of Rosés.

Joey Tesalona, Ricardo Britto, Niccolo Frosini, Marissa Cornejo, Jeff Krueger, Milena Pejcic, Zac Lutz

Photo Credit: Jason Lowrie of BFA

Photo Credit: Jason Lowrie of BFA

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637 S. Lucerne Boulevard is rare architectural wonder located in historic Hancock Park, Los Angeles. Originally conceived in 1902 by famed architect John C Austin, known for his work on the Griffith Observatory and the Shrine Auditorium, it has been extensively reimagined by celebrity designer Xorin Balbes, combining authentic turn-of-the-century Victorian architecture with contemporary design and modern convenience. With 7 fireplaces, 8 beds, 10 baths, and over 12,147 square feet of space there is endless room to entertain. In vogue with the turn-of-the-century style are the massive vaulted ceilings, grand entry hall, beautifully intricate woodworking, graceful formal dining room and breakfast nook. John Austin was a prolific architect, and the house’s gothic Victorian exterior offers an elegant contrast to the modernist, art-deco designs Los Angeles is known for.

Entertaining guests should be no problem at all, between the 10 car motor court, fully furnished guest house, gourmet kitchen and butler’s pantry, billiards room/TV lounge, games room and full bar. If that wasn’t enough, the lower level includes a screening room and a wine cellar that leads directly to the landscaped garden, pool, and spa. For the quieter, introspective, days, the home also boasts a full library, yoga and meditation room, home office and den, a laundry room with extensive built-ins, and additional storage rooms.

Walk up the grand staircase and discover the extraordinary master suite, complete with a sunlit master bath and a voluminous walk-in closet. Enjoy any day by yourself or with your guests, and appreciate the open entry hall and rich, natural lighting. This space offers something rare in a city as modern and busy as Los Angeles – History. Built at a time when Hancock Park was nothing but farm land and tar pits, it is a rare precursor to the industrial future Los Angeles was destined to follow. The listing comes in at just under 9 Million and is even qualified for the Mills Act, a tax incentive for the restoration and preservation of qualified historic buildings. In addition, the property qualifies for a charitable conservation easement for additional federal tax benefits.

The post Architectural Wonder 637 S. Lucerne Boulevard Is A Must-See appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

The single-family villas, 27 in total, are selling quickly. Each showcases the beauty of the Baja California beach town with floor-to-ceiling windows, broad, open floor plans, and massage gardens within each bedroom.

“The desert landscape of Los Cabos provided both a challenge and opportunity when designing the Residences,” said De Haro, architect for West Enclave, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Residence. “When you are here, you instantly feel there is a deep relationship between the desert sand, the sea and the warm ocean breeze. My goal was to create an environment that marries these elements, and allows the air to flow openly through each home while also providing a protective environment.”

Los Cabos is rapidly improving past previous civil issues, particularly in the luxury neighborhoods cropping up along the coast. In Ritz-Carlton’s case, the luxury hotel brand is ready to expand your summer vacation in a home you’ll come back to again and again.

The post The Ritz-Carlton Takes Luxury Living South To Los Cabos appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Built in 1922 and lovingly maintained by the same family for almost 50 years, this home features a wonderful layout and elegance throughout.

The formal entry leads to an expansive living room with a wood-burning fireplace, a grand staircase leading to the upper level, and a large formal dining room.

The spacious kitchen was previously updated and features an eat-in dining area, a wet bar, plenty of storage space, and access to the patio and garden.

A bedroom and half bathroom complete this level.

Upstairs, there is a well-appointed master suite with a sitting area and built-in closets.

There are two additional bedrooms with spacious walk-in closets that feature a Jack and Jill bathroom and a fourth bedroom with an en suite full bathroom.

This level is completed by a wonderful den with built-in bookcases and a wood-burning fireplace.

The lower basement level features many areas: a workshop, a large wine closet, a half bathroom, large storage rooms, and a main room that would make a perfect gym area, office, or playroom.

There is also access to the patio and garden from this level.

A side-by-side, two-car garage with access into the patio completes this incredible property.

Situated just steps away from Presidio National Park, 3903 Washington is within minutes to downtown San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and distinguished schools.

A couple of blocks away from fabulous restaurants and boutiques, this highly-coveted location is incomparable and this property is truly not to be missed.

Address: 3903 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94118

Price: $6,495,000

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 5

View the listing here.

For more information, contact Chelsea E. Ialeggio at 415-300-6881 or chelseainmarin@gmail.com.

Chelsea E. Ialeggio is the exclusive agent representing the Sausalito/Mill Valley/Marin, California real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Images courtesy of Chelsea E. Ialeggio

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The layout is exceptional, with wonderful volume and space.

Through the entry, you will find a spacious formal living room with a wood-burning fireplace and windows looking out to a spacious patio perfect for warm summer nights and entertaining.

There is a large, private office off the living room as well.

Down the spacious hallway from the living room, the formal dining room is flooded with light and features a wall of stylish built-ins that offer ample storage.

Just off the dining room, the incredible kitchen features stainless steel appliances, a large eat-in island, a built-in desk area, a large pantry, and tons of storage.

The adjacent great room makes for the perfect gathering area for family and friends, keeping them close but not under your feet while you cook.

This room offers enough space to have an additional casual eating area in conjunction with the island.

A large sliding door lets the light in and leads to a deck that is perfect for your barbeque, as well as additional seating to dine alfresco.

This level is completed by a half bath, as well as access to the lower level storage room, which could also be a wine room; an additional storage area; and the two-car garage.

The upper level features a voluminous master suite with a walk-in closet and a sliding door out to a deck.

The en suite bathroom features two sinks, a large soaking tub, and a standing shower.

Down the hall, there are three additional bedrooms and another full bathroom, as well as a spacious laundry room, with tons of storage.

This brilliant location makes for an extremely easy commute to San Francisco––less than 6 miles to the Golden Gate Bridge and less than 5 miles to the Larkspur Ferry Terminal.

It is very close to Mill Valley schools, the Strawberry Recreation Center, the Mill Valley Community Center, many shops, and restaurants.

This is ideal home and convenient lifestyle is not to be missed!

Address: 5 Vista Real, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Price: $2,595,000

Bedrooms:  4

Bathrooms: 3.5

View the listing here.

For more information, contact Chelsea E. Ialeggio at 415-300-6881 or chelseainmarin@gmail.com.

Chelsea E. Ialeggio is the exclusive agent representing the Sausalito/Mill Valley/Marin, California real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Images courtesy of Chelsea E. Ialeggio

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Upon entry, you are greeted with high ceilings, a spacious open floor plan, five full en suite bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, and panoramic walls of glass providing an abundance of natural light.

The property is perched high above the city, with the pool, spa, and deck overlooking mountains, city lights, and rolling hills.

The lower level includes three bedrooms, a dining room,a living room, an office, a family room, and a kitchen.

Walk upstairs and you will find a romantic and intimate master suite complete with unobstructed views, a separate vanity room, an oversized walk-in closet, a glorious bathroom with steam shower, an office and a separate seating area.

Address: 3778 Sheridge Dr, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

Price: $2,649,000

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 6

View the listing here.

For more information, contact Cindy Ambuehl at 310-573-7063 or cambuehl@theagencyre.com.

Cindy Ambuehl is the exclusive agent representing the Santa Monica, California real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Images courtesy of Cindy Ambuehl

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