Location, location, location is the age-old mantra, but is it actually as important as realtors make it seem? Here we have our Haute Residence experts give their opinions on the issue.

Is what they say about "location location location" true? What makes your location prime for real estate?

Amy Land-de Wilde, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands - St. Croix has long been the most residential of the US Virgin Islands and over the last year and a half, many newcomers have discovered why that makes us so special.

What many have discovered about St. Croix is that even taking into account that you can’t conveniently drive down the street to a Walmart, for instance, that St. Croix is easily accessible especially to the east coast of the US. Many Americans who decided first on the US Virgin Islands because of our mirror tax code, use of the dollar, familiarity, no need for a passport (but you do need a recognized photo ID), then have narrowed their search between the three US Virgin Islands, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, for their new forever home or vacation property. We are finding many buyers are choosing St. Croix because we are the largest of the Virgin Islands and there is far less traffic and no congestion! In addition, we are less touristy and larger, your money buys far more than it does on the other US Virgin Islands.

Also, we always hear what an inclusive, friendly, and welcoming community we have. Some who have had to move away for one reason or another have returned to visit or live again because they miss the friends they made here.

Anna Sherrill, South of Fifth, Miami, FL - We are fortunate enough to work in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Miami Beach FL with a special focus on the South of Fifth neighborhood. South of Fifth is a small enclave but it packs some of the most extraordinary Real Estate in all of Miami. Additionally, SoFi offers incredible dining, diverse cultures, pristine white sand beaches, and family-friendly South Pointe Park all within a just over half-mile square area. I love riding my bike from South Pointe all the way up to North Beach with the family. Miami Beach offers amenities like no other.

Beth Dickerson, Boston, MA - Downtown Boston is the HUB to finance, bio-tech, pharmaceutical, education, hospitals, and health! No better city!!

Brian Pearl of The Pearl Antonacci Group, Boca Raton, FL - Location can mean different things, but when we talk about location we are referring to one or all of the following: location within a community (lakefront versus near a highway), location within an excellent school zone, and/or location in a desirable section of the city or town we are in. We advise clients that you can always replace or improve a property, but you can't replace the location, so it's one of the most important factors when buying a home.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Darin Marques Group, Las Vegas, NV -  If you’re planning on moving to Las Vegas, you have some great times ahead. Las Vegas is one of America’s fastest-growing cities, and it isn’t just a great place to play — it’s a great place to live.

No state income tax, job creation, and a lower cost of living are all factors helping sway people to make the move to Nevada.

Yes, location is everything.

In recent months The Darin Marques Group has seen an increase in demand for Ascaya, an exclusive 664-acre, ultra-private enclave which captures the authentic Nevada visage. Each of its 313 custom homesites embodies a dramatic desert-contemporary aesthetic. In the entire community, there seems to be one street that buyers are flocking to which is Rockstream Drive.

Often compared to affluent neighborhoods throughout the country such as Hollywood Hills, Ascaya’s Rockstream Drive is a highly-desired location within the signature stoned walls of the distinguished community. Peaked at the development’s highest elevation, its collection of ultra-high-end custom-designed masterpieces showcase unobstructed views of the Las Vegas Strip, mountains, and surrounding desert landscape. 

Along Rockstream Drive, two premiere properties reflect features and amenities coveted by luxury home buyers including seamless indoor/outdoor living, exquisite gourmet kitchens with opulent finishes and professional appliances, artistic glass-encased wine cellars, private master retreats with resort-styled baths, high-tech integration, and breathtaking views. The property’s exteriors feature remarkable zero-edged pools, spas, outdoor kitchens, and fire features.

Currently listed through Darin Marques with Huntington & Ellis, 1 Rockstream Drive is a stunning one-story showcase property. Designed by Sun West Custom Homes, over 7,062 square feet of modern elegance features five ensuite bedrooms, a game/media room, and an executive office. 

Listed through Ashley Toussaint, an agent at the Darin Marques Group, 13 Rockstream Drive is a 6,700 square foot modern tour de force. This custom home with sprawling 22-foot ceilings, highlights the two-story fireplace and sky windows. The property features 3 bedrooms, gym, and wrap around balcony with a wet bar. 

Personifying luxury in every detail, the 23,000 square foot Ascaya clubhouse offers unmatched lifestyle amenities such as the 8,000 square foot zero-edge swimming pool with three lap lanes, a 3,000 square foot fitness center, movement studio, and luxurious spa.

Ascaya, where dreams live, is located south of Horizon Parkway off Roma Hills Drive in Henderson. To schedule a private showing, contact Darin Marques, broker/salesperson at the Darin Marques Group at Huntington and Ellis, a Real Estate Agency at (702) 803-3527 or darin@dmgluxury.com.

Debbi DiMaggio, Piedmont, CA - Piedmont, incorporated in 1907, sits at the top of the list when it comes to Location, Location, Location. Why? Piedmont is nestled in the foothills* surrounded by Oakland and within close proximity to Berkeley, San Francisco, and other popular East Bay cities. Piedmont is within 40 minutes of the San Francisco International Airport and 20 minutes of the Oakland International Airport which makes traveling a breeze. Piedmont is also easily accessible to many world-renowned destinations such as Lake Tahoe, the Sonoma-Napa Valley, Mendocino, Carmel, Big Sur, Monterey, and on down to Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. But one of the main reasons home-buyers purchase in our small-town community is that it is home to top-rated schools, K-12. And with only 10,000+ residents and approximately 4000 homes, Piedmont is the crown jewel of the Bay Area. We can personally attest as I grew up in Piedmont, attended Piedmont Schools, K-12, and UC Berkeley. Our children were also raised in town. Piedmont is a wonderful place to raise a family.

*The name Piedmont comes from the small region in Piedmont, Italy.

Elisa Linton, Kingwood, TX - Houston is home to many oil and gas plants, we have state-of-the-art Medical facilities and the cost of living is low compared to many cities. Houston's diverse culture makes it a family-friendly place to live. If you are looking for fun, entertainment, and culture; we have it all. Big things are happening in Houston, TX.

Elise Larrabure Girasole, Westport, CT - Luxury 5 Star Condominium living at "The Mill in Westport, Ct." offers the perfect location for New Yorkers looking for a weekend residence. Only about 1 hour from NYC, the town of Westport offers beautiful town beaches, an 18-hole golf course, a Marina, the Westport Country Playhouse, and The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts. There are also many delicious restaurants to choose from as well.

Westport, Ct. is an excellent option for New Yorkers who enjoy carefree living with amazing amenities available at "The Mill" and the town of Westport.

Frank D Isoldi, Westfield, NJ - Definitely true…it’s part of what makes the Westfield area so attractive. We have top-rated schools, an award-winning downtown, train and bus access to NYC, and close proximity to the shore and Newark International Airport. All of which attract a wide range of buyers.

Gina Duncan, O’ahu, HI - Hawaii is a dream location for many. What many don't realize is that depending on which Island you choose to call home you can experience differences from the vibrant city life of Honolulu Oahu, to the bamboo forests of Maui, to the sweeping pastures of the Big Island, to luxury golf communities of Kauai.

Your favorite location can be found in Hawaii. Clients from all over the world call Hawaii their home in paradise.

Heidi Bintz, Vail Valley, CO - Colorado is one of the hottest markets in the country!

It is no surprise that Colorado has consistently been ranked as one of the best places to live and was the fourth most moved-to state in 2020. We offer endless activities for outdoor enthusiasts, are home to vibrant cities and famous small mountain towns, are centrally located in the United States for ease of travel from anywhere, and have fantastic weather offering 300 days of sunshine per year! Colorado may be most famous for its location in the center of the Rocky Mountains where we are home to 28 ski resorts, 284 golf courses, and 4 national parks. There is truly something for everyone!

The Vail Valley, a 40-mile long corridor encompassing the towns of Vail, Beaver Creek, Avon, Edwards, Eagle, and Gypsum, is located only a short two-hour drive west of Denver and is easily accessible by flights into Denver International Airport (DIA) and Eagle/Vail Airport (EGE). The area is best known for its world-class skiing at the Vail and Beaver Creek resorts, which are visited by tens of thousands of domestic and international winter snowsports tourists per year. You will also find unparalleled fly fishing, rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and golf on one of 15 local golf courses during the summer months. With 80% of the area being designated protected public land, the opportunities for outdoor recreation will never be restricted. The exquisite and quickly growing shopping and dining scene in the Vail Valley offers an array of luxury to casual options, from longtime local staples to new upscale ventures. Several farmer’s markets, art shows, concerts, food and dance festivals, outdoor races, and holiday celebrations attract attendees throughout the year almost every weekend. The Vail Valley is also home to an extensive medical system including regional treatment centers and renowned orthopedic practices serving the likes of professional athletes. It is truly impossible to get bored in our little slice of heaven!

Real estate in the Vail Valley is largely held by second homeowners who live in Colorado’s cities, out of the state, or even out of the country. As the Vail Valley is such a large tourist destination, the most desired locations tend to be ski-in & ski-out properties on the ski mountain, on one of our 15 golf courses, or with quick access to our river systems. Views are one of the biggest features homebuyers look for in a home - the most popularly big mountain views that come to mind when thinking of Colorado mountain towns. Whether you’re a local resident or a frequent visitor, you come to the Vail Valley to play in all of its natural beauty.

Come join me in the Colorado mountain lifestyle in the Vail Valley!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

 Joel Schemmel, Sarasota, FL - Yes, it is true. The market in Sarasota is a prime example. There are certain neighborhoods that are the most sought after and are commanding the absolute highest prices. The demand and prices are driven by location such as on the water, near downtown, best views, walking distance to shopping and dining. Other locations are sought after because of the lifestyle such as on the beach or bay. Others because they are on the golf course or in the best school district. There are many factors at play but location is one of the absolutely most important.

Kathleen Floryan, Jacksonville, FL - St Johns County in Northeast Florida enjoys a subtropical climate with year-round outdoor living activities, phenomenal public schools, and hospital systems, beaches, amazing restaurants, abundant golf, and country clubs, three types of waterfront-ocean, intracoastal, and river for all types of watersport fun. With the exception of snow skiing, every other outdoor sport can be enjoyed here for healthy living. In 2020, US News & World Report named St Johns County Florida one of the healthiest counties in the nation. You are going to love living here! 

Nancy Tallman, Park City, UT - Park City, Utah is only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, a Delta Airlines hub, with direct flights all over the US and Europe. This makes Park City one of the easiest ski resort towns to access. One can leave home in the morning and be on the slopes the same day. Park City is an authentic town founded in 1884. It is home to a charming "Old Town" with world class restaurants and entertainment.

Rick Kaluza, Pacific Heights, CA - Yes! San Francisco is the most diverse city in World located just minutes away from our gorgeous Wine Country, the Monterey Coast and everything in between.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Silvina Andrews, The Bahamas - The Bahamas is recognized for having the most beautiful water and beaches in the world. Beautiful climate year-round, modern amenities, and ease of travel makes the Bahamas an ideal place to live. The islands remain a member of the British Commonwealth and have a strong heritage in democracy and free-market economics.

The Bahamas has comprehensive and modern infrastructure that offers a unique and varied lifestyle, from luxurious amenities to secluded private islands.

The currency is one of the most solid in the Caribbean with the Bahamian dollar pegged to the US dollar on a one-to-one basis.

Political stability is a hallmark of the parliamentary democracy that has existed in the Bahamas for nearly 300 years and prudent economic policies have provided economic stability.

Tim Fenton of Blue Zone Realty International, Costa Rica - Location Location Location....as true today as ever before. What makes the Costa Ballena region the prime location for real estate is as follows: Our proximity to many unspoiled beaches with warm water along the deep blue Pacific Ocean, the lush rich rainforests that cover the stunning mountains which reach the coastline, the incredible wildlife which Costa Rica is known for, and the amazing communities of ex-pats and locals who have blended perfectly together to create a vibrant and enthusiastic living environment. Learn more at www.bluezonerealty.com

Toni Itkin, Sandy Springs, GA - Always! Location will forever be a premier asset for any property. And Atlanta in general is a prized location for so many reasons, starting with the Atlanta International Airport. Travelers can get anywhere in the world from here, most of the time non-stop. So many corporations now have headquarters here not only for that reason but for great tax benefits, a temperate climate, excellent schools, and ease of living for their employees. During this recent pandemic, we have seen many people from other parts of the country flocking here and are enjoying the great outdoors that the area has to offer. Atlanta may be spread out, but no matter where you are here, the location can't be beat!

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Last year, Portland absorbed most of the 60,000 new residents, who moved to Oregon from California, Washington, Texas and Arizona among other places. This population gain catapulted the state to the 9th fastest growing in the country.

Moving to a new city, however, is daunting. It comes with working through overwhelming logistics that can cut the line between a smooth transition and a nightmarish relocation. Having moved to Portland from the East Coast with two small children over 20 years ago, real estate agent, Kristen Kohnstamm has a first-hand understanding on what it takes to uproot your family to plant it somewhere else, hundreds of miles away. Over the years, she has helped hundreds of other families do just that.

Haute Residence talked to Kohnstamm, a principal broker with Cascade International Sotheby’s Realty, about the art of relocation and finding a new community to call home.

A friend and past client of yours said you have a unique gift when it comes to matching people up with the right community. Where does the drive to immerse in a community come from?

My husband and I unexpectedly moved our family to Oregon 20 years ago. We spent our first 2 years here immersed with family but unable to really find community. With no roots here myself, I was desperate to find this. We relocated to our now neighborhood and immediately made friends, most of whom are still friends today. We have raised our families together and have experienced so much of life together. This has shown me how important this is to find the right location, the right mix of people, the right school system. It is all individual and it is what helps to make us all happy. Since I have experienced this myself I know the questions to ask buyers looking for a new home to help them find a place that is right for them. As far as immersion in a community, my community has given so much to our family, I want to give back to it as a thank you. This is why I have enjoyed doing so much volunteering.

What are the ways for new Portland residents to engage in their community and feel at home as soon as possible?

This is a different journey for everyone. When you have kids, volunteering at schools is easy. Beyond this encouraging people to follow their passions helps guide involvement. I have deep roots here now and chances are very good that if I don’t have a direct connection, I know someone who does. I enjoy helping people connect so they can quickly find the lifestyle and community they are seeking.
What mistakes do people seeking to move to another city usually commit or are there any lessons that most learn the hard way relocating?
I think finding a real estate broker who really understands you and your goals is essential. Someone they can trust. From there, understanding neighborhoods and communities is essential. Again, if I am not an expert for a way of life or a section of town for clients, I do not pretend I am. I will instead find a broker who is the best versed for where my clients should be to ensure we end up with the right home for them.

Relocation can be such a stressful process. Drawing on your own experience moving across the country and helping others settle in Oregon, what real estate advice do you have for those seeking to relocate today?

Finding the right team of trusted advisors to help you do it! Make sure you have the right people on your team and use the expertise and experience of others to build the right team for you. Establishing rapport and this kind of trust with my clients is essential, it is the foundation of providing exceptional service well beyond the details of the transaction.

Have you had clients who have purchased property before seeing it prior to relocation? How can a realtor be most helpful in such situations?

I have not had this happen yet, although I have had clients get a house under agreement to purchase and then fly across the country to verify it was the right house for them. For these buyers we had spent a few days together looking at homes, so when I found a house that had not hit the market yet, but that I knew would go quickly when it did, they trusted me that it was the right house and we made a successful offer. They are still loving this house 10 years later and have become very good friends of my family.

You and your family have lived on Portland for two decades now. How has the city changed?

Wow. This is more a question of how has it not changed. Portland has really grown into a vibrant city with something to offer everyone and is a very livable city compared with many other cities in the country with a very diverse population.
Our nationally-acclaimed food scene, renowned breweries and coffee shops, award-winning wineries, along with splendor of the mountains, beaches, rivers, and hiking all within driving distance – provide literally something for everyone. People love the relaxed yet increasingly cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Where do most new Portland residents come from today? Has the demographic and regions of origin changed over the years?

When I first started selling real estate most buyers came across the river, from the east side to the west. Those relocating from outside of the state were few and far between. Now, we have buyers coming from all over the country and the world. Nike, Intel and many other companies bring employees back to headquarters as well as attract workers to Portland.

How did the luxury real estate market in the city fare last year? What are your expectations for 2018?

Last year was a really strong year for the luxury market in Portland, with 96 properties sold for over $2 million. 20 of these were over $3 million with 5 selling at or above $4 million and 2 selling for more than $6 million.The Portland market remains hot as we head into spring with 89 homes for sale above $2 million. While we are not anywhere near comparable to California or other luxury markets, we definitely hold our own.

Images courtesy of Kristen Kohnstamm

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