Jim & Terry's Blog

Home with acreage across street from National Forest

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:05:19 -0500

Custom home with lots of upgrades. Bright, open house, great for entertaining in exclusive 41 lot subdivision. Amazing views of the peaks with access to Forest Service land right out the front door. Fenced back yard, hardwood floors, custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, wine fridge, wet bar/breakfast bar, stamped floors, extra large jetted tub, claw foot bath, gas fireplace, plantation shutters, partially landscaped yard on drip system, over sized garage. This is a must see.

Horse Property in Lakeside Acres, Flagstaff, Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:00:44 -0500

This home in Lakeside Acres is zoned for horses. Located on over one acre in pristine Lakeside Acres Community. Property backs to State Land and the trees and wild life abound. This is perfect for the family looking for a small home in a rural type setting with easy access to everything Flagstaff has to offer. Single level home with split floor plan. Property is conveniently located near Continental Country Club, Aspen Valley, Par 3 course and Driving Range. Social Membership includes access to Continental County Club's Pool, Tennis Courts, Workout facility and Jotini's Restaurant. The exterior of the home blends with the forest and includes a large open deck for entertaining or just enjoying the views of the trees. This is the lowest priced home offered for sale in Lakeside Acres.

Perfect Townhome retreat in Flagstaff, Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:56:14 -0500

PINNACLE PINES MODEL HOME available for immediate sale. Upgrades and beautiful home never lived in and gently used as a model. Granite, stainless appliances, upgraded carpet and other upgrades to numerous to mention. This townhome backs to open space and has views of Mt. Elden and the San Francisco Peaks.

Russ Lyon Sotheby's Merger

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 27 May 2008 15:54:45 -0500

Jim and Terry Tress, Realtors in Flagstaff, Arizona announce that they are fully prepared to bring the combined marketing expertise of Arizona's new real estate icon, Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty to any real estate transaction ... selling property, relocating, purchasing dream vacation homes or that special primary home anywhere in the world. The best choice for experience, honesty, professionalism and integrity is Jim and Terry Tress, Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty.

Russ Lyon Realty Co of Flagstaff and Sotheby's Internation Realty Merger

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 25 May 2008 16:22:00 -0500

Both Terry and I are very excited and pleased to let everyone know that Russ Lyon Realty Company of Flagstaff, a 61 year old icon in Arizona real estate, and Equitable Sotheby's International Realty, a world leader in luxury home sales, have merged to form Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty. We are personally looking forward to bring the combined services of these two giants in the real estate industry to our clients.

Jim and Terry Tress

Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC

1 Campus Drive

Parsippany, NJ 07054

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Merger Creates Largest Sotheby's International Realty^® Network Member

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (June 4, 2008) - Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced that Equitable Sotheby's International Realty in Scottsdale, Ariz., will merge with Arizona's legendary real estate icon, Russ Lyon Realty Company, to create the brand's largest network member.

The newly-created firm will do business as Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty, with nearly 1,000 agents serving the Scottsdale and Phoenix metropolitan areas as well as Flagstaff, Prescott and Sedona.

John N. Vatistas, owner, Equitable Sotheby's International Realty, now is co-owner and co-chairman of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty. His firm's chief executive officer and designated broker, Dominic Scappaticci, will serve in the same role for the new company.

Russ Lyon Realty Company's Jim Lyon succeeds his father, Dennis Lyon, and now serves as co-owner and co-chairman of the new company. Todd Gillenwater, Russ Lyon's current designated broker for its Northern Arizona operations, will serve as president.

"Luxury real estate in Arizona is a very attractive market for Sotheby's International Realty clients globally," says Michael R. Good, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC. "We are very excited about the merging of these two outstanding firms that match our brand's focus on exceptional client service."

Vatistas founded Equitable Real Estate in 2005, and in October 2007 it became the first Arizona real estate firm to affiliate with the Sotheby's International Realty brand, doing business as Equitable Sotheby's International Realty.

"This collaboration brings to the table Russ Lyon's six decades as a dominant force in Arizona's luxury home real estate market and the Sotheby's International Realty brand's years of serving affluent clients around the world," said Vatistas. "We consider ourselves now the only option for luxury real estate in the state of Arizona."

Russ Lyon Realty Company was founded in 1947 by Russ Lyon, Sr. It evolved into a state-wide professional real estate company operating 10 offices in Arizona's Valley and four independently-owned and operated franchises in Prescott, Sedona and Flagstaff.

"We merged with Equitable Sotheby's International Realty to create a powerhouse brand by incorporating their world-renowned Sotheby's International Realty affiliation, their technology and their entrepreneurial spirit, which together with our solid tradition of excellence, creates a synergy that is unmatched in service to our associates and clients," said Jim Lyon.

The Sotheby's International Realty network currently has more than 9,000 sales associates located in more than 470 offices in the United States and 29 other countries and territories. Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty listings will be marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global Web site. In addition to more referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from these sources, the firm will benefit from an association with the Sotheby's auction house and worldwide Sotheby's International Realty marketing programs.

Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty's main office is located at 8700 N. Gainey Center Dr., Suite #150, Scottsdale, Ariz., 85258 and can be reached at (480) 778-8000.

About Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby's International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby's, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby's International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy's subsidiary, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby's auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT

Jennifer Zimmerman

Director, Public Relations and Communications

Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC

1 Campus Drive

Parsippany, NJ 07054

(973) 407-6375

Quiet Northern Arizona Community Seeing a Come Back

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:23:50 -0500

Are you looking for open land and solitude in Northern Arizona? How about living on your own ranch in the cool mountain air. Ash Fork, Arizona may be on the rebound with friendly neighbors, a quiet way of life and affordable housing. The 12th Annual Ash Fork Pioneer Days is Saturday, Mary 3rd. There will be a chili cook-off, merchant booths with arts and crafts. Come try the homemade pies and meet the Arizona State Histroian Marshall Trimble.

Aspen Valley Golf Course

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 14:37:45 -0500

Flagstaff, Arizona's Aspen Valley Golf Course, the best kept secret in Northern Arizona. As we leave winter and start Spring a lot of the residents of Northern Arizona put away their skis and pick up their golf clubs. There are five golf courses in the Flagstaff area. Four are private and one is public. Aspen Valley was purchased by the members in 1993 and has consistantly improve ever since. With 400 members getting a tee time is easy and the dues have remained low .. approximately $2,200.00 per year. If your looking for a cool retreat during the summer months visit Flagstaff and check out Aspen Valley Golf Club.

Elk roaming Northern Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:53:27 -0500

The Majestic Elk were at one time the most widely distributed member of the deer family in North America. It is estimated that there were an estimated to total of 10 million Elk before European man arrived in what was to become the United States. The great reduction in elk numbers is attributable to market hunting and agriculture. A population low of 90,000 occurred in 1922, of these, 40,000 were in Yellowstone Park. The Park's herds became a reservoir for stocking breeding elk. Between 1912 and 1967 more than 13,500 elk were transplanted from the Park. In February 1913, 83 elk were released in Cabin Draw near Chevelon Creek. From these transplants the Arizona elk population has grown to nearly 35,000 animals. It is a marvelous feeling to travel Northern Arizona and be privileged to see the single majestic bull elk or the herd of 100 mixed cows and bulls. You don’t even have to be out in the undeveloped areas around Flagstaff. On numerous occasions I have walked down to retrieve my morning newspaper and walked very close to a 1200 pound bull elk. This winter there was mixed herd of at least 80 elk camped on a slope 100 yards from the end of my driveway. What a wonderful place, Flagstaff!

Wapatki National Mounument

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:24:31 -0500

Wapatki National Mounument

When traveling in Northern Arizona do not miss the opportunity to visit this site. Wupatki National Monument Wupatki Pueblo was the largest pueblo around 800 years ago! In one of the warmest and driest locations on the Colorado Plateau it was an active meeting place for diffent cultures. This legacy remains but we still do not know how and why people lived here. Located just north of Flagstaff, Arizona it offers little food, water or comforts but the people who settled here were hardy and resourceful. When travling in Northern Arizona do not miss the oppotunity to see this attraction.

Luxury Home in Flagstaff Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:45:03 -0500

Majestic Estate in Lakeside Acres! Beautifully appointed 4B/3.5B home offers location, setting and ambience. Elegant foyer & formal dining room w/crystal chandeliers, living room with cathedral ceiling, dramatic travertine fireplace & large windows all capture the beauty of this home. The artist painted kitchen includes Thermador gas range, Cardell maple cabinets, beautiful granite counters, butler's pantry & the breakfast area overlooking the patio with a view of the lake. The spacious master suite features crown moldings, gas log fireplace, his & her closets, bidet and jetted tub. Other features include powder room with antique replica Bombay cabinet, office, family room with gas fireplace, guest suite, central air, central vacuum, hot water circulation, security alarm, Milgard windows, intercom, surround sound (wired) & 3 car garage. Entertain on the expansive patio and enjoy the views of the lake and the beauty of the yard with the flowing pond. Seller is licensed agent in AZ.

Flagstaff Arizona Mansion in Country Club

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:40:43 -0500

Elegance in Flagstaff, Arizona. Magnificent Estate Style Home. Incredible mountain home site has mountain and lake views right in the middle of Continental Country Club. Across from Aspen Valley Golf Course..a total of .75 acres. GREAT HOME FOR ENTERTAINING, hugh Great Room, The Master Suite has his and hers closets and sinks, master bath (Jacuzzi tub, garden tub, steam shower & sauna), kitchenette & sitting room. There are three other master bedrooms that have private baths as well. This home has a room for a large craft/sewing are or kids play area. Library/Office has Alder paneling, book shelves, ladder and secret room. Large formal dining, Gourmet Kitchen w/redwood cabinets. 2 Fischer & Pakel dishwashers, Viking Range, 2 Decor Warming Drawers, Viking Oven & Microwave, Kitchen Aid Compactor, 2 stainless sinks, island, SubZero Refrigerator. Sun room has commercial oven, stove and griddle. Two laundry rooms and oak floors. Owners are licensed RE Agent's in AZ.

Wind Power, Renewable Energy for Northern Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 14:49:23 -0500

It was reported today that the Navajo Nation is making plans to make use of wind power and is working with Boston Based Citizens Energy Corp. The Navajo Nation has a vast amount of land on the reservation and winds are steady and should be easily harnessed. It seems to us that there should be a concerted effort by all levels of Government to become proactive in alternative renewable energy and the Navajo Nation should be applauded. The Federal & State Governments as well as existing utilities would do well to step up their efforts.

Historic Cabin at Fort Valley Blows Up

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 13:14:51 -0500

A propane leak cause an historic cabin to blow up at Fort Valley in Flagstaff, AZ. This is certainly an eye opener for everyone who heats their homes with propane. Right now the explosion is still being investigated but they believe that it may have been caused by a crack in the propane line. With heavy snow and ice this winter the gas leak may have been buried under a large amount of ice. Luckily for the renter and the home owner no one was injured in this explosion.

It's a good time to have your gas lines inspected in Northern Arizona to make sure there has been no damage from our wet winter.

Amberwood Estate Home, Flagstaff, Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:45:43 -0500

Grand Home in the Amberwood Area of Flagstaff, Arizona. Magnificent Estate Style Home. This incredible mountain home has mountain and forest views. GREAT HOME FOR ENTERTAINING or the large family--bring your kids, parents AND friends. Huge vaulted ceiling flanked by a floor to ceiling stone fireplace. Up to 7 bedrooms and 5 baths. The Master Suite on the main floor has his and hers closets and sinks, master bath withJacuzzi tub, steam room, & large shower. Just off the Master is a secluded hot tub for your great Flagstaff evenings. The second master bedroom (the only area on the second level)features a private bath and would be ideal for hobby/craft/sewing area OR out of the way kids play area. Other features include a Library/Office, large formal dining area, kitchen with walk-in pantry, island and counter serving space, and large laundry room. The back yard is landscaped and fenced plus it borders State Land. Enjoy the abundant wild life! This property is priced to sell.

Home in Lake Side Acres, Flagstaff, Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:39:33 -0500

Flagstaff Gem! Home is located on 1.31 acres in pristine Lakeside Acres Community. The trees and wild life abound. This is the perfect for the family looking for a large home in a rural type setting with easy access to everything Flagstaff has to offer. Property is conveniently located near Continental Country Club, Aspen Valley, Par 3 course and Driving Range. Social Membership includes access to Continental County Club's Pool, Tennis Courts, Workout facility and Jotini's Restaurant. Home recently remodeled from floor to ceiling with new windows, new garage doors, addition of 2 stall garage w/1 extra long, new driveway, ADT Alarm, new fireplace insert, new carpet, new tile, upgraded kitchen, new appliances, fresh paint and new landscaping. The exterior of the home blends with the forest and includes a large open deck for entertaining or just enjoying the views of the trees. Seller is Licensed Real Estate Agent in Arizona.

High Country Conference Center Opens In Flagstaff, AZ

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:15:16 -0500

The new High Country Conference Center opens tonight in Flagstaff, AZ. The Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra is scheduled to have a formal dinner dance this evening and have sold over 400 tickets. This long awaited Conference Center is certainly a welcome addition to our mountain town. The interior of the center will match the natural environment of Flagstaff. In addition to the new Conference Center The Drury Hotel will open in the near future. The new facility will certainly boost the Flagstaff economy.

Amberwood, Flagstaff, Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:42:34 -0500

Lakeside Acres Home

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:38:07 -0500

Great Room in Lakeside Acres Gem

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:34:38 -0500

Gem in Lakeside Acres

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:30:42 -0500

Beautiful Estate Home in Flagstaff, Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:24:17 -0500

Time to Purchase Land in Northern Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 13:51:41 -0500

If you have been putting off your real estate purchase in Northern Arizona, now may be the time to buy. News reports are stating there has been an increase of 3% in sales in the month of February. So many buyers are waiting for prices to go down but Flagstaff is a unique market. We cater to second home buyers, who want to get away to a winter ski vacation or relax in the cool, crisp mountain air in the summer. Land is always a great way to make your dreams come true. We have some spectacular lots available around the Flagstaff area. So if you've put off your second home purchase now may be the time to come up north and take a look at what we have to offer. If you'd like some information on property please look at my web site at www.jimtress-realtor.com or call me at 928-380-0780.

Easter in Northern Arizona

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:56:13 -0500

This Easter weekend my wife and I decided to head for Phoenix to spend time with friends and family. Our trip down to Phoenix on I-17 was uneventful other than more traffic than usual.The one big difference this time was the beautiful green desert. We have had so much rain and snow this season that the desert is as green as I have ever seen it. The month of April should produce an over abundance of beautiful wild flowers. If you decide to head to Flagstaff any time in the near future remember to bring your camera to capture the desert in full bloom.

Flagstaff, AZ Offers Beautiful Mountain Retreats

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 15:51:11 -0500

If your ready to own a beautiful mountain retreat, Flagstaff, AZ is the place to be. Flagstaff is a small town nestled in the midst of the tall ponderosa pines at the base of the San Franciso Peaks. Northern Arizona University offers sports, theatre, sypmphony and much more. The Peaks offer snow skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. Downtown Flagstaff is a charming place to spend afternoons, evenings or weekends, walking through shops or enjoying a relaxing dinner. Most of the homes in our beautiful city are custom built. It's a great time to buy in Flagstaff and if your ready to own a vacation retreat in the mountains call Jim and Terry Tress of Russ Lyon Realty Co. of Flagstaff at 928-779-5966.

Flagstaff, AZ First Time Home Buyers

Jim & Terry Tress (Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 14:11:19 -0500

If your a first time home buyer in Northern Arizona we can help you make your dream come true. Jim and Terry Tress have a program set up for first time home buyers in the Flagstaff area. Affordable housing has been a major concern in Flagstaff for some time. There are several programs that are available to help with down payment assistance, costs associated with a new mortgage, etc. If your serious about purchasing Real Estate in the Flagstaff area, give Jim and Terry Tress of Russ Lyon Realty Co. of Flagstaff a call at 928-779-5966