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Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty Sees 32% Sales Growth, Achieving $150 Billion In Global Sales Volume In 2020

Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce that its affiliated brokers and independent sales professionals achieved a record US$150 billion in 2020 global sales volume, a nearly 32% increase in sales growth year over year, as the definition of home changed for consumers around the world. Due to a longstanding commitment to innovation, Sotheby’s International Realty® agents were able to seamlessly help clients navigate the changing market dynamics brought on by the global pandemic with existing technology offerings which propelled business momentum.

Agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty quickly pivoted to address the impact of the global pandemic,” said Philip White, president and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty. “Thanks to innovations we pioneered nearly a decade ago, our affiliated companies and agents made the impossible possible. Their adaptability to serve clients safely further extended our position as a leader in luxury real estate.”

Long-Standing Commitment to Virtual Technology Paved Way for Success

Sotheby’s International Realty continued to lead the industry and was well-positioned to meet the needs of consumers as the buying and selling process became increasingly virtual. Sotheby’s International Realty agents accelerated the use of the brand’s existing video, virtual reality, and live-streaming technology to produce new forms of content that engaged buyers and set a new standard for marketing luxury properties. Currently, buyers can safely tour more than 6,000 properties via virtual reality or video on sothebysrealty.com. Property videos also proved engaging on social media where the brand’s YouTube channel delivered 43 million views, or the equivalent of more than one million hours watched.

As a leader in the luxury real estate industry, Sotheby’s International Realty is able to anticipate trends,” said Chief Marketing Officer, Bradley Nelson. “Our priority remains to present listings in the best possible manner and to provide a superb end-user experience however buyers prefer to search for their new home. Virtual technology has been at the forefront of our marketing strategy for several years and comes as naturally to us as our commitment to high quality service.”

The brand also unveiled a new website, sothebysrealty.com, available in 14 languages and nearly 60 currency conversions, to continue serving its growing international clientele and fuel referrals worldwide. The website achieved a notable amount of traffic for the brand with 37 million visits in 2020. Property videos on the site produced by Sotheby’s International Realty agents were especially popular and played nearly 13 million times in 2020, totaling more than 90,000 hours watched.

A Year of Strategic Growth and Record Achievements

Despite travel restrictions, Sotheby’s International Realty remained committed to expanding its global footprint and achieving strategic growth. In 2020, the brand opened more than 50 new offices across the world, bringing the brand’s total presence to nearly 1,000 offices in 75 countries and territories with approximately 24,000 independent sales associates worldwide.

The brand’s existing affiliated companies around the world continued to grow in 2020. Sotheby’s International Realty increased its total domestic presence to 45 states around the country. Sotheby’s International Realty facilitated affiliate expansions through  12 domestic M&A transactions, including California, Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, and Washington.

The brand also continued to expand internationally in key markets and opened offices in seven new territories. In Europe, the brand expanded to Ukraine, Romania, Montenegro, and in Germany. In the Asia-Pacific region, the brand opened its first office in South Korea and expanded in the Caribbean and Latin American region with two new offices in Paraguay and Antigua & Barbuda.

Our international footprint is one of our greatest competitive advantages,” said Tammy Fahmi, vice president, global operations and international servicing. “Our brand’s locations are in the most desirable places around the globe, so our clients know they can rely on our local market expertise wherever they are looking to buy or sell.”

As affluent individuals looked to acquire secondary homes in markets around the world, Sotheby’s International Realty agents acted as true global real estate advisors and referral volume surged by 42% to US$2.9 billion in closed sales volume.

Our 2020 results prove what is possible when you focus on quality above all else. We remain proud to be the real estate brand of choice for so many luxury real estate experts and affluent clients. We will continue to work tirelessly to prove their trust has been well placed,” concluded White.

February 25, 2021 by
Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty® Brand Opens First Office In South Korea

NEW YORK, N.Y. (Dec. 30, 2020) – Sotheby’s International Realty today announced that WP Realty in the country of South Korea is the newest member of its global network and will now operate as Korea Sotheby’s International Realty. The addition marks the brand’s first affiliated office in the country and its continued strategic growth in Eastern Asia, bringing its presence in the region to 18 offices.

Korea Sotheby’s International Realty is led by Chair, Dr. Lei Wang, and Co-Chair, Tiffany Park, who bring 35 years of real estate experience to the company. Korea Sotheby’s International Realty is headquartered in the capital city of Seoul and will serve the residential markets of Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, and the surrounding areas.

“South Korea’s economic strength and geographical advantage as a peninsular country greatly appeal to global investors and luxury buyers,” said Philip White, president and CEO, Sotheby’s International Realty. “The market is seeing a significant rise in luxury real estate and high-rise developments, making it a prime location for expansion. Dr. Wang and his team have a strong understanding of the local market and we are proud to have Korea Sotheby’s International Realty as our affiliate in South Korea.”

“From a global perspective, we are seeing interest from investors in China, Japan, and the United States, in addition to an increased demand from local luxury buyers,” said Dr. Wang. “Aligning our company with Sotheby’s International Realty enables us to capitalize on our shared vision of artfully uniting extraordinary properties with extraordinary lives and will permit us to showcase our listings on an international scale.”

Korea Sotheby’s International Realty has experience working with investors, luxury buyers, and developers with plans to work alongside luxury hotel brands to develop residential resale in the market. The company is actively involved in the local community participating in various art and educational initiatives.

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has more than 23,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in approximately 1,000 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide. Korea Sotheby’s International Realty listings are marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website. In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs. Each office is independently owned and operated.

December 30, 2020 by
Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty Brand Expands Presence in Caribbean and Opens First Office in Antigua and Barbuda

NEW YORK, N.Y. (Dec. 17, 2020) – Sotheby’s International Realty today announced that Majestic Realty Caribbean Limited in the country of Antigua and Barbuda is the newest member of its global network and will now operate as Antigua & Barbuda Sotheby’s International Realty. The addition marks the brand ́s first affiliated office in the country and its continued strategic growth in the Caribbean, bringing its total office count in the region to nearly 30.

Sharilyn Cort is a founding member and majority owner of Antigua & Barbuda Sotheby’s International Realty and brings 15 years of real estate experience to the company. The company is headquartered in St. John’s, Antigua, led by Kaye McDonald, Director of Sales, and has four agents serving the twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda.

“As we have seen throughout 2020, consumers are increasingly interested in locations that offer safe refuge, open space, and lifestyle,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty. “Antigua and Barbuda is a beautiful country in the Eastern Caribbean and offers a vibrant luxury real estate market primed for discerning global real estate investors with its easy access to international airports and seaports. We look forward to working with Sharilyn, Kaye, and the entire Antigua & Barbuda Sotheby’s International Realty team.”

“The luxury real estate market in Antigua and Barbuda is of a high standard, signaling to investors that they can enjoy full value for their investment and low holding costs,” said Cort. “We are enthusiastic about the development growth and luxury property offerings on the twin islands and our affiliation with Sotheby’s International Realty provides a strategic advantage to grow our presence on an international scale. Like Sotheby’s International Realty, we pride ourselves on a bespoke approach in that each client experience is unique and we tailor our services to meet our clients’ individual requests.”

Antigua & Barbuda Sotheby’s International Realty offers a full spectrum of real estate services including purchasing, selling, and renting real estate in Antigua and Barbuda. The twin-island paradise of Antigua and Barbuda enjoys a comfortable tropical climate year-round and is steeped in history and culture with modern comforts and conveniences.

The Sotheby’s International Realty® network currently has more than 23,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in approximately 1,000 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide. Antigua & Barbuda Sotheby’s International Realty listings are marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website. In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Sotheby’s International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty was founded in 1976 as a real estate service for discerning clients of Sotheby’s auction house. Today, the company’s global footprint spans approximately 1,000 offices located in 72 countries and territories worldwide, including 45 company-owned brokerage offices in key metropolitan and resort markets. In February 2004, Realogy entered 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 franchise system. The franchise system is comprised of an affiliate network, where each office is independently owned and operated. Sotheby’s International Realty supports its affiliates and agents with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Affiliates and agents also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

The affiliate network is operated by Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC, and the company owned brokerages are operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Both entities are subsidiaries of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY) a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. Both Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

December 17, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Sotheby's International Realty

4 Skills You’ll Need to Sell in the Post-Pandemic World

Written by Philip White | First appeared on Magazine.Realtor

As any real estate professional knows, change is the only constant in this industry. With major shifts impacting how today’s agents do business, the best way to stay on top is to keep up. The biggest catalyst for change in the last few years has arguably been technology. We’ve seen its potential especially during the COVID-19 pandemic: In many cases, home buyers and sellers have had to rely on digital solutions for the different stages in a transaction. Agents are responding with virtual home tours, video calls, 3D floor plans, and other digital touchpoints that allow clients to view a home without interacting physically with the space. Before the pandemic, technology was a helpful tool; now, it’s a necessity.

This higher demand for safety and convenience—and the resulting wave of technologies that streamline processes—has changed the role of agents, too. Because consumers have more tools available to ease the homebuying process, agents are no longer the gatekeepers they once were. Now, agents are trusted resources for information and advice that consumers can’t find in a quick Google search. Real estate is a high-value transaction, and though the human element will never disappear, it’s increasingly necessary for agents to deliver stellar service that consumers can’t get from an app.

How You Can Adapt to the Times

As global health events impact how agents use technology, flexibility is key for your business to flourish. The following steps can help you build your resilience and innovate for the future.

  1. Do your research. This tip isn’t new, but your approach should be. As a trusted advisor, you’re the best resource for answers clients can’t get from Google. Know what information is easiest for clients to find online, but make sure to have ideas on hand for questions you’re better suited to answer. Research also will be important in deciding how you’ll share that information and provide more value for your clients. When it comes to technology and the many innovative ways you can streamline processes, remember that not every new app or program will improve your service. Technology is less about the shiny new app and more about making what you already have more effective. For example, my company created an augmented reality tool to address an existing pain point: Clients couldn’t visualize empty or outdated spaces. Now they can adjust a space—or see a design concept—without needing to touch any of the room’s existing furnishings. Don’t invest in new solutions without taking stock. Talk to your clients about what they need, and study the tools that will resonate with your market. This vetted approach is particularly important for smaller brokerages that lack financial resources.
  2. Adapt your visuals. One of the biggest changes across the real estate industry in recent months has been the rise in virtual home tours and open house events hosted online. Virtual content production has been, in many cases, the only way to showcase homes, and the increased focus on visuals—from video and virtual reality to livestream open houses—is working. Case in point: While my company began featuring virtual reality technology on its website in early 2016, consumers today are searching on Google for virtual reality tours like never before. We are seeing similar surges with video content, as evidenced by a 101% increase in video viewership on our website and a 137% increase in viewership on our YouTube channel. While much of the rise of visual consumption can be attributed to social distancing restrictions, it’s also an indicator of what’s ahead: Buyers are searching in new ways, and real estate firms should be ready to respond with compelling video content.
  3. Build your sphere of influence. Offering authentic human connections is a critical way to stand out, so the importance of a healthy sphere of influence can’t be overstated in today’s real estate landscape. Build a solid network, and get involved with the community you serve. While events may be on hold, offer to host webinars or support other online initiatives, and get on the phone to connect with other businesses that can help extend your reach. If a new business moves into your city, for example, reach out and offer to help with rehousing employees. This will solidify your value as a helpful resource—the kind that simply can’t be found online.
  4. Understand the emotional side of the business. The residential property market is nothing like its commercial counterpart. Businesses make calculated investments based on numbers, but when you buy and sell homes, it’s about much more than numbers. An older couple might have raised their family in the home they’re selling, and a younger couple might be looking for just the right home to do the same. Whatever the situation, there are emotions involved, and empathizing with your clients is the best way to make sure you keep pace with them and build trust instead of rushing transactions. When clients reach out to ask for your thoughts, you’ll be able to provide guidance in line with their current circumstances. That kind of service solidifies relationships and engenders repeat business.

Creativity, empathy, and flexibility will allow today’s agents to navigate a changing real estate landscape. By anticipating how recent events and trends will shape the future, you can remain a trusted and valuable resource for your clients.

Philip White

Philip White is president and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC, where he drives the network’s strategic growth as a leading provider of luxury residential real estate services.

September 10, 2020 by
Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty Announces Affiliation with Expansión to Launch First-Ever Global Real Estate Portal in the Mexican Market

Sotheby’s International Realty is the exclusive launch sponsor of a new, multi-lingual real estate portal on one of Mexico’s leading business publications, Expansión. Sotheby’s International Realty is the first luxury real estate brand to showcase its listings to prospective homebuyers on the marketplace and the affiliation marks a first for the real estate industry in the Mexican market. 

“As the only truly international luxury real estate brand, our affiliation with Expansión and Grupo Expansión enables us to deliver even broader global exposure for each of the impressive listings represented by the Sotheby’s International Realty® network,” said Brad Nelson, chief marketing officer of Sotheby’s International Realty. “The affiliation with Expansión not only promotes our exciting properties to a luxury and business audience, it also builds on our history of encouraging technological advancement in the real estate industry in global markets.”

Expansión is a multi-platform business outlet covering finance, technology, arts and lifestyle with a reach of more than 15 million readers. The publication is a part of Grupo Expansión, a Mexican media group, that publishes eight print tiles and seven digital websites, reaching a combined total of more than 22 million readers. 

Sotheby’s International Realty will maintain exclusivity for the real estate portal for one year. Together with Grupo Expansión, the brand will drive traffic and promote the launch of the new real estate platform across the publishing group’s top titles including, Elle Decor, Quién, Expansión, Obras and Life and Style in both print and digital formats.

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s affiliation with Expansión not only expands the brand’s global reach, it reinforces the brand’s continued focus on technology and pioneering the real estate experience in international markets.

Sotheby’s International Realty has helped to launch global real estate portals in top-tier publications such as Bloomberg, Mansion Global, The Financial Times in Europe, NIKKEI in Asia, and more. 

To visit the Sotheby’s International Realty brand on the Expansión real estate portal, click here. To learn more about Sotheby’s International Realty, click here.

May 18, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty Achieves Record $114 Billion in Global Sales Volume in 2019

 

MADISON, N.J. (March 4, 2020) – Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce that its affiliated brokers and sales professionals achieved more than $114 billion USD in global sales volume, the highest annual U.S. sales volume performance in the history of the brand. $102 billion USD of the global sales volume was achieved in the U.S., marking another record accomplishment for the brand.

“In 2019, the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand continued to achieve solid growth,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer for Sotheby’s International Realty. “The brand expanded into new countries and territories and entered new markets in the U.S. We continued to make strategic business decisions that benefitted both our independent sales associates and affiliate companies. I am immensely proud of the hard work and dedication from our vast global network, and I look forward to continuing this momentum in 2020.”

2019 Achievements

Propelled by a strategic business move in March 2019, when Sotheby’s International Realty integrated its affiliate network and company-owned brokerage into one global organization, 50 new Sotheby’s International Realty offices were opened, bringing the brand’s presence to 1,000 offices in 70 countries and territories and more than 23,000 affiliated sales associates worldwide.

Sotheby’s International Realty continued to lead the category with the roll-out of exclusive marketing affiliations and first-ever technology launches, announcing it will soon unveil a new, fully integrated website. The brand’s existing website, sothebysrealty.com, saw another record year with more than 34 million visits, a 14 percent increase year-over-year. In addition, Sotheby’s International Realty was the first real estate brand to launch and implement mixed reality to its Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty sm augmented reality app, which merges the real world with virtual home staging. The platform can be utilized in various homebuying and selling scenarios, and particularly benefits agents and developers to help prospective buyers envision their new home. To support the daily business needs of the network’s more than 23,000 independent sales associates, the brand unveiled Current by Sotheby’s International Realty® a robust marketing suite of technology tools consisting of best-in-class and exclusive apps, which provide sales associates with a distinctive and competitive edge in the market. For partnerships, the brand entered into an affiliation with Bloomberg.com as the exclusive launch sponsor for a new luxury properties marketplace.

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand and its independent sales associates continued its support for New Story, the brand’s charitable partner and a certified 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. As a result, 83 families, who were among those who lost their homes in the 2017 earthquakes, were able to move into their new homes in Morelos, Mexico. A total of 153 homes in Haiti and Mexico were funded through the initiative.

Global Growth

This year observed significant growth for the brand’s existing affiliate companies in the United States through recruitment efforts and strategic mergers and acquisitions. Most notably, the brand increased its market presence in Brooklyn, New York; the Greater Boston area, Massachusetts; and Indiana. The brand also entered several new key markets last year, expanding the Sotheby’s International Realty network’s presence to 43 states across the country.

Outside the U.S. the Sotheby’s International Realty brand achieved more than $12 billion USD in sales volume and continued to expand into key markets around the world. In Europe, the brand grew its presence in Monaco; France; and Berlin and Binz, Germany. New offices were also opened in Doha, Qatar; and Paphos, Cyprus, expanding the brand’s global presence in marketing luxury listings. In the Caribbean and South America, the brand saw growth in Zapallar, Chile, an upscale residential community located two hours outside of Santiago; and agreements were signed to expand into the Anguilla territory. In the Asia-Pacific region, new offices were opened in Tauranga, New Zealand; and Port Douglas, Hobart, and Perth, Australia.

 

About Sotheby’s International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty was founded in 1976 as a real estate service for discerning clients of Sotheby’s auction house. Today, the company’s global footprint spans 1,000 offices located in 70 countries and territories worldwide, including 44 company-owned brokerage offices in key metropolitan and resort markets. In February 2004, Realogy 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 franchise system. The franchise system is comprised of an affiliate network, where each office is independently owned and operated. Sotheby’s International Realty supports its affiliates and agents with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Affiliates and agents also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

The affiliate network is operated by Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC, and the company owned brokerages are operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Both entities are subsidiaries of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY) a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. Both Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

March 4, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Sotheby's International Realty

The Damianos Family and Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty Celebrate 75 Years of Redefining Residential Real Estate in The Bahamas

All in the Family. George Damianos, left, Chief Executive Officer for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, took over the reigns of the real estate firm from his father, Nick Damianos, in 1993. Lana Rademaker joined the company as an estate agent in 2002 before following in the footsteps of her mother, Virginia, and partnering with her uncle after her mother’s passing in 2014. Both attribute their company’s success to the family’s deep roots in the community, the long-lasting ties they’ve formed over the years and their dedication to the business.

 

(NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS) Jan. 30, 2020—The year was 1945. Oakes Field, the Bahamas’ first airport, had opened a mere five years earlier, World War II had finally come to an end, and The Bahamas was on the precipice of becoming one of the world’s most desirable tourism destinations. It was also during this time that a young man named Nick Damianos decided to enter the business of selling real estate.

Nick Damianos a descendant of Greek immigrants who arrived in Nassau in the late 1800’s to set up a sponge exporting business, established himself in the business community with his straw, lobster and car businesses. But with the opening of an airport that could now accommodate more than just seaplanes, Nick saw opportunities ahead. Larger planes meant more visitors, and more visitors meant potential second homeowners.

“The post–World War II economy was creating a boom around the world, and even back then The Bahamas was on track to become a popular destination due to our proximity to the U.S. and our status as a safe and financially stable Commonwealth Country,” said CEO George Damianos.

And while the real estate market of the mid-1940s was very different from the market of today, Nick Damianos set up a small office at the top of Frederick Street in downtown Nassau. So small, in fact, that he opened his doors with his longtime employee, Al Deleveaux, who worked with Nick his entire adult life.

“My father was a people person. Wherever he went around Nassau, he knew everyone, and everyone knew him. He never met a stranger,” said George Damianos. “So, he didn’t need a huge staff to get the business rolling. He said that honesty and integrity were the key to his success, and he impressed that upon me when I entered the business myself in 1972.”

By that time, Nick Damianos had moved the company’s office to the hustle and bustle of Shirley Street, directly across from Princess Margaret Hospital. As Nassau’s business district grew and flourished, this main vein through downtown was quickly becoming a high-profile area for local businesses. It’s also where the company’s downtown office remains located today.

In 1985 George’s sister, Virginia, joined the family business and the two remained dedicated to following Nick’s business philosophy of relying on relationship building to provide the utmost service to clients.

“I’ve known some of my clients for over 40 years and whether they are current clients or not, we’re in touch on a regular basis socially and professionally.  They are a part of the fabric of our company,” said George Damianos.­­

“My mother’s passion was this business and our team,” Rademaker added. “She was a stickler for professionalism and ethics. She always made decisions that were in the best interest of our clients, working tirelessly until her passing in 2014. Not a sales meeting goes by when someone doesn’t quote something Mum would say. Her spirit continues to inspire this team.”

In 1995, Nick passed away and left the business to George and Virginia.

In 2002, Virginia’s daughter, Lana Rademaker (née Premock), joined her mother and uncle as an estate agent as did George’s son, Nick. It wasn’t long before the real estate firm began to expand across New Providence and into the Family Islands.  Over the course of the next 15 years, George and Virginia opened a total of nine offices throughout The Bahamas: Marsh Harbour, Abaco (2001); Lyford Cay (2002); Governors Harbour, Eleuthera (2006); Hope Town, Abaco (2006); Spanish Wells, Eleuthera (2008); Treasure Cay, Abaco (2010); Old Fort Bay (2010); Guana Cay, Abaco (2010); and, Harbour Island (2016).

The most momentous milestone to occur during this time period was when Damianos Realty purchased a Sotheby’s International Realty franchise in 2005 to become Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty.

“Purchasing the Sotheby’s International Realty® franchise was not a decision we took lightly,” George Damianos CEO, said. “At that point our business had been independently run and successful for 60 years. So, ultimately, we together with our family we came to the conclusion that being associated with a brand as distinctive as Sotheby’s International Realty® and gaining access to their wealth of contacts, partnerships and technology platforms would allow us to serve our clients that much better now and in the future.”

“Joining forces with Sotheby’s International Realty® has taken our business to heights,” said Lana Rademaker, who stepped into the role of Chief Brokerage Officer after her mother’s passing in 2014. “Between the brand’s stellar reputation and global presence and its innovative, forward-thinking marketing strategies, our company has grown exponentially.”

In fact, 52 names now populate the company’s roster—a far cry from the mere two that occupied the Frederick Street office in 1945. But, no matter how large, George and Lana remain true to the company’s longstanding tradition of family, honesty and integrity.

 “We consider our staff members to be a part of our family, and the true story behind our success,” Rademaker said. “We are a tight-knit group. This is something my mother, Virginia Damianos, cultivated during her years as George’s business partner, and it’s a principle I strive to maintain in her stead.  We sincerely care for one another, and I think people sense that when we’re out and about in the community,”

This sentiment was never more apparent than when Hurricane Dorian devastated a portion of The Bahamas last September. The storm had barely passed before the staff members were reaching out to each other to offer support financially, emotionally and physically.

“It was truly touching and impressive to see this team we’ve created coming together in a time of such extreme national crisis,” Rademaker said. “Dorian was an historical storm and none of us were prepared for its aftermath. However, every member of our team contributed whatever they could, whenever they could whether it was offering homes to their colleagues, their boats for search-and-rescue, or volunteering their personal time and money. While it was a low point for our country, it was a personal high point for me witnessing our team in action.”

Whether in times of crisis or times of economic boom, the one constant for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty was, is and always will be dedication to excellence.

“We are fortunate to have been a part of this community for the past 75 years and we’re proud of our family’s history and what we’ve accomplished together,” Rademaker said. “We look forward to continuing to evolve over the next 75 years and to adapting with the needs of our clients and colleagues.”

 

About Sotheby’s International Realty

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 1,000 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

 

About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

 Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has 10 offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Albany and Private Islands. Head office 75 Shirley Street, Nassau. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2305 or info @SIRbahamas.com.

January 30, 2020 by
Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty Brand Expands in Brooklyn

MADISON, N.J. (January 28, 2020) – Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced that its independently owned and operated affiliate, Warren Lewis Sotheby’s International Realty in Brooklyn, has merged with local firm, Brooklyn Bridge Realty. Warren Lewis Sotheby’s International Realty has rebranded the combined operations and will operate going forward as Avenue Sotheby’s International Realty.

“Warren Lewis Sotheby’s International Realty, now Avenue Sotheby’s International Realty, has achieved notable success in its local market,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty. “The merger strengthens the firm’s position to serve its clientele and we are proud to support their continued growth.”

Aroza Sanjana and Jose Nunez are broker/owners of Avenue Sotheby’s International Realty and will remain at the helm of the operation. J. Jean Austin, former broker/owner of the merged office will also join the company.

“Brooklyn Bridge Realty is a valued company that has been serving the community for nearly 30 years,” said Aroza Sanjana. “We are proud to welcome J. Jean Austin and her team to our organization. We share a likeminded approach in marketing properties in the best possible light and providing our clients with astute market insight. The merger further allows us to build our team and continue to offer an unparalleled level of service to our clients.”

Avenue Sotheby’s International Realty now has a total of 48 sales associates and three office locations in Park Slope, Williamsburg and Cobble Hill. The company is also actively involved in the community supporting initiatives such as the Shield Institute, which works to help children and adults on the autism spectrum, and the Real Estate Board of New York.

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has more than 23,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in nearly 1,000 offices in 71 countries and territories worldwide. In 2018, the brand achieved a record global sales volume of $112 billion USD. Avenue Sotheby’s International Realty listings are marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website. In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs. Each office is independently owned and operated.

 

About Sotheby’s International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty was founded in 1976 as a real estate service for discerning clients of Sotheby’s auction house. Today, the company’s global footprint spans nearly 1,000 offices located in 71 countries and territories worldwide, including 44 company-owned brokerage offices in key metropolitan and resort markets. In February 2004, Realogy 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 franchise system. The franchise system is comprised of an affiliate network, where each office is independently owned and operated. Sotheby’s International Realty supports its affiliates and agents with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Affiliates and agents also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

The affiliate network is operated by Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC, and the company owned brokerages are operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Both entities are subsidiaries of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY) a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and Sotheby’s International Realty Inc., both fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

 

CONTACT

Melissa Couch
PR Manager
Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
973-407-6142
melissa.couch@sothebysrealty.com

SOURCE Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC

January 28, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Sotheby's International Realty

DAMIANOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ANNOUNCES 2019 AGENT CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE (ACE) RECIPIENTS

 

NASSAU, The Bahamas (Jan. 20, 2020) — George Damianos, Chief Executive Officer for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, and Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer, are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2019 Agent Circle of Excellence Award (ACE).

Shane Cash, who focuses predominantly on sales in the Hope Town, Abaco, market earned the title for June 2019 while Jacqueline Lightbourn, who focuses on sales around New Providence, received the ACE award in December.

Launched in 2018, ACE is an internal incentive program that recognizes sales agents who represent the many facets of what it takes to be a successful salesperson.

“While we do factor in sales performance and number of listings when considering our next ACE recipient, we also aim to recognize individuals who consistently embody the cultural tenets of our company,” said Rademaker. “Characteristics such as positivity, team support, ambition, showing an interest in learning and professional development, and community involvement outweigh mere productivity in this particular case.”

And because estate agents are such a huge part of what can be an extremely emotional process for both home buyers and sellers, agents who are in tune with their communities and understand how to nurture long-term relationships are an invaluable asset to their clients.

“When you’re brought into someone’s life to help them navigate through something as momentous as purchasing a home, trust and transparency are key,” Rademaker said. “And we’re fortunate enough to work with a team of professionals that prioritize and uphold these types of principles.”

Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has been an industry leader since 1945 specializing in the listing, marketing and sale of luxury and waterfront properties. With 10 offices throughout The Bahamas, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty boasts the most experienced and successful team of real estate professionals, consistently ranking among the top producers in The Bahamas real estate industry.

 

About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has 10 offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Albany and Private Islands. Head office 75 Shirley Street, Nassau. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2305 or info @SIRbahamas.com.

 

About Sotheby’s International Realty

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 970 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

January 20, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Sotheby's International Realty

Increased Airlift, Lenny Kravitz and Hurricane Dorian Contribute to Record Number of Visitors as Eleuthera’s Winter Season Swings Into High Gear

The Price is Right. Homes located inland such as those in Rainbow Bay and condominiums like Anchor Point (above) in Governors Harbour, Eleuthera, are getting a lot of attention from buyers this winter as homeowners look for economical ways to enter into the housing market on mainland Eleuthera.

 

ELEUTHERA, The Bahamas (Dec. 19, 2019) – If pre-season numbers are any indication, mainland Eleuthera is poised to set new visitor—and second homebuyer—records this winter season.

“There hasn’t been a lull yet,” said Angelika Bacchus, an estate agent with Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty on Eleuthera. “It’s all homeowners and locals are talking about—there’s a higher volume of people, and rentals are through the roof.”

This increase in rental occupancy is due, in part, to first-time visitors and second homebuyers looking to get a feel for the island before settling on purchasing a home.  With the addition of direct flights on Delta, American Airlines and U.S. Airways from Charlotte, N.C., Atlanta and Miami, access to Eleuthera is increasingly more convenient.

“People are realizing they can hop on a flight and come down for a long weekend,” Bacchus said. “Some people have never been to The Bahamas before, while others have only been further north, like Abaco, so, there is some educating that we’re doing about the market. Condominiums like Anchor Point and Pineapple Fields are popular first-time purchases because they’re a smaller investment and give people the opportunity to ease into the market.”

Neighborhoods like Rainbow Bay and Current are also attracting second homebuyers in search of vacation homes starting around $250,000.

“There aren’t a lot of beachfront properties in Eleuthera in that price range, but what we’re finding is that people aren’t being deterred by this,” Bacchus said. “People are happy to purchase homes located further inland at a more economical price point because beaches on Eleuthera are so plentiful you don’t necessarily have to live directly on the beach to enjoy that private beach feeling.”

And with the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian fresh in people’s minds, this latest wave of homebuyers and investors is focused on homes that are well built and above sea level.

“Eleuthera is such a diverse island with so many hills, cliffs and elevations… People are finding that very appealing,” Bacchus said. “It’s going to be a very healthy season.”

Click Here To View Anchor Point Listing

 

About Sotheby’s International Realty

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 1,000 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

  

About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

 Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has 10 offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Albany and Private Islands. Head office 75 Shirley Street, Nassau. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2305 or info @SIRbahamas.com.

December 19, 2019 by