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Luxury Real Estate

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

Former Bahamas Home Of The Duke Of Windsor And Wallis Simpson Goes On The Market

Sigrist House occupies a sprawling four-care ridge overlooking lagoons, golf links and the distant ocean.

Orginally ran on Forbes.com. Written by Regina Cole

After King Edward VIII abdicated the British throne to live with the woman he loved, he was made Governor of the Bahamas, a job that conveniently took him away from England. In 1940, while the Governor’s Mansion was being redecorated to Wallis Simpson’s liking, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor lived at Sigrist House.

Built in 1939 by British aviation pioneer Sir Frederick Sigrist, the main 15,000 square foot residence occupies four acres on the crest of Prospect Ridge in Cable Beach, Nassau. The estate consists of a four- bedroom-suite main residence, two four-bedroom guesthouses and a three-bedroom apartment, making for a total of 15 bedrooms. There are 13 baths and two half baths.

Now Sigrist House is for sale, offered for $8.5 million by Mark Hussey of Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty.

A wide loggia features limestone flooring, wrought iron and massive ceiling beams.

The estate has expansive patios, a high-ceilinged loggia and, in one of the dining rooms, large windows that drop down into the floor to make for easy flow between the inside and the grounds. Stone and mahogany flooring, curved walls, extensive use of tile, rare white mahogany paneling and lovely wrought iron work are just some of the architectural elements.  The four fireplaces were found in English country houses, dismantled and brought here, where they were painstakingly built into the rooms. 

The four fireplaces in the house originally came out of English country manors

The house was designed by the American and English architectural team Schoepell and Voivesky, while the interiors were largely furnished by the notable British firm of Mallett Antiques on New Bond Street, London. The house is Spanish Colonial in architecture, but the interiors were decidedly English. The Georgian style paneling of the drawing room is of rare white mahogany, built in London to specification, as was the beautiful hand-carved pine paneling in the library.

The gardens at Sigrist House were considered among the finest in the West Indies and include fruit and coconut trees, a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, all with views over the mature manicured grounds, saltwater canals and distant Atlantic Ocean.

Until the current owners bought Sigrist House 20 years ago, it remained in the original family. Over the past decade the houses all have undergone extensive restorations. All electrical and plumbing systems have been modernized and brought up to today’s standards. The roofs have been replaced and the historical wood and ironwork has been lovingly restored. The gourmet kitchen, with custom cabinetry, has been upgraded to create a thoroughly modern and functional workspace.

February 26, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty

Despite Destruction of Hurricane Dorian, Hope Town’s Warm, Friendly ‘Hometown Feel’ Continues to Be a Draw for Home Buyers

Sunny Beaches, Warm People. Despite the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian in September 2019, properties like Two Rock Reef (above) in Hope Town continue to appeal to homebuyers who have been visiting Hope Town for decades, and who appreciate the friendly people and incomparable beauty of Abaco.

 

Hope Town, The Bahamas (February 18, 2020) – From local hangouts like Abaco Inn and Firefly Sunset Resort to endless miles of pristine white sand beaches, Hope Town’s unique charm and congenial vibe has attracted people from around the world for decades. Even now, in the midst of post-Hurricane Dorian rebuilding and restoration, the Abaco town most famous for its trademark red candy-striped lighthouse continues to attract visitors and second and third homebuyers.

“Most of the buyers I have been working with since Hurricane Dorian are people who are here, on the ground,” said Jane Patterson, an estate agent in the Hope Town office of Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty. “They’re people who have been coming here for years and have a true love for Hope Town.”

Patterson said that immediately following the storm, people weren’t as enthusiastic about the prospect of purchasing storm-damaged homes. However, as second homeowners returned to the island to check on their homes, they saw the restoration efforts taking place and experienced firsthand the resilient spirit of the community.

“We’re taking it day-by-day, but progress is happening,” she said. “Our beaches are beautiful, people are friendly, and everyone wants to come back. There are more and more people out there who are up for a project; who just want to be a part of this incredible community and are up for the adventure.”

And with homes selling at about 50% of pre-Dorian prices, interest has been so high that Patterson has put six homes under contract since December and has listed two new properties on the North and South Ends of Elbow Cay.

“I am constantly getting emails from people asking about the status of Hope Town and Abaco in general,” Patterson said. “Abaco isn’t desolate like they’re saying. Certain parts of Abaco are fine. And here in Hope Town, resorts and restaurants are reopening the closer we get to season. Right now, we’re looking at having a season in June or July.”

As of January, Abaco Inn and Turtle Hill are accepting guests and Firefly Sunset Resort is looking toward a March reopening.

“Everyone wants to come back and visit,” Patterson said. “Abaco is not going to go away.”

 

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.

February 18, 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

DAMIANOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ANNOUNCES TOP LISTING AGENTS FOR 2019

 

NASSAU, The Bahamas (Jan. 17, 2020) — George Damianos, Chief Executive Officer for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, and Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer, are pleased to announce the company’s top listing agents for 2019.

Mark Hussey and Bianca Aranha, who work together as Team Hussey, were the company’s overall Top Listing Agents with a total of $56M in property value listed. Mitzi Pearce earned the title of Top Listing Agent in the Abaco market, while Joan Braithwaite and Angelika Bacchus share the title of Top Listing Agents in Eleuthera as Team Bacchus-Braithwaite.

“Last year was a strong year for our agents who operate as teams,” said Rademaker. “The real estate market in The Bahamas continues to get more and more competitive and we’re finding that the team structure is beneficial in terms of being able to cover more ground and offer clients even more personalized attention.”

Hussey and Aranha began working together as a team in 2018, while Bacchus and Braithwaite paired up in January 2019.

“Servicing clients is our top priority,” Braithwaite added. “Working together means that one, if not both, of us is physically present for our clients at all times so we can continue to provide the personalized service we’ve each built our professional reputations on.”

Similarly, Pearce said that nurturing long-term relationships with her clients was key in maintaining a strong foot hold in the Abaco market. Since Hurricane Dorian made landfall in Abaco last September, Pearce has continued to work with clients from her new home base in Nassau.

“I have learned a lot about Nassau in a short amount of time, and I take every opportunity to pass on this new knowledge to clients who are curious about other locations in The Bahamas,” Pearce said. “Plus, I am in constant touch with my network in Abaco so I am always up-to-speed on recovery and rebuilding efforts so I can advise my clients and potential investors accordingly.”

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 17, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty

DAMIANOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ANNOUNCES TOP AGENTS FOR 2019

 

NASSAU, The Bahamas (Jan. 8, 2020) — George Damianos, Chief Executive Officer for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, and Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer, are pleased to announce the company’s top agents for 2019.

Nick Damianos was the company’s overall Top Producing Sales Agent, breaking a company record for total dollar volume of sales for the 5th year in a row. Jonathan Morris earned the title of Top Producer in the Eleuthera market while Jane Patterson was awarded Top Producer in Abaco.

“In 2015 Nick shattered our company record for sales volume in a single year,” Rademaker said. “In each consecutive year since then, he has broken his own record.  His success is a testament to the hard work and long hours he puts in.  Nick’s diligence and knowledge have paid off year after year with his main focus consistently remaining to build lasting relationships with his clients.”

Rademaker added that in addition to recognizing Jane Patterson as Top Producer in Abaco for her sales achievements, she is proud of the entire Abaco sales team, considering all that they have been through both personally and professionally in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.

“Our Abaco team has been an inspiration to all of us,” Rademaker said. “Despite their lives being turned upside down overnight by Hurricane Dorian, their attitudes have remained positive and their spirits strong. It is truly a gift to have every one of them on our team, and we look forward to more and more rebuilding for the Abacos in 2020.”

As Abaco continues to focus on recovery and restoration for the foreseeable future, a considerable number of buyers are exploring the Eleuthera market for their second home purchases.

“While each group of islands in The Bahamas has its own distinct personality and identity, we’re finding that mainland Eleuthera, particularly the areas of Gregory Town, Current and Rainbow Bay is appealing to people who may have originally been looking to purchase a vacation home in Abaco,” said Jonathan Morris, 2019 Top Producer for Eleuthera.  “Similar to the Abaco Cays, mainland Eleuthera is easily accessible from the U.S. and offers an abundance of pristine beaches. We’re seeing a growing interest in Eleuthera as home buyers explore new markets in The Bahamas to invest in.”

Based on the rate of second and third home sales in 2019, Rademaker added that the vacation home market throughout The Bahamas should remain strong and steady throughout 2020.

“As we look toward celebrating our 75th anniversary this year, the entire Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty team remains dedicated to being the top professionals in all of our markets,” she said.

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 8, 2020 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty

DAMIANOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ADDS TWO NEW ESTATE AGENTS TO CAPITALIZE ON GROWTH IN THE BAHAMAS LUXURY REAL ESTATE MARKET

 

NASSAU, The Bahamas (June 12, 2019) — George Damianos, Chief Executive Officer for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, and Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer, are pleased to announce the addition of two new estate agents: Jacqueline Lightbourn and Christopher Ansell.

“In our ongoing effort to be proactive leaders in the market, we are consistently on the lookout for talented professionals who are aligned with our client-centric company values,” Rademaker said. “Both of these new agents have spent a considerable amount of time in their previous careers building valuable relationships in the community, and they are a welcome addition to our team.”

Formerly the owner of one of Nassau’s most reputable Chiropractic practices, Lightbourn spent 14 years cultivating the successful growth of her business. In her transition into real estate, Lightbourn will draw upon those relationships she’s carefully nurtured.

“The successful growth of Jacqueline’s chiropractic business is a testament to her attention to detail, caring nature, and utmost professionalism,” Rademaker said. “In addition, her entrepreneurial mindset will be an advantage as she builds her real estate career.”

Similarly, Ansell spent a decade developing deep client relationships through his work as a real estate attorney with a top-tier Bahamian law firm in Nassau. Over the course of his legal career, Ansell represented resort developers and high-net-worth home buyers and sellers, advising on investment regulatory framework, concessionary tax legislation, financing, land title, immigration and economic residency.

“Christopher’s legal knowledge and sharp negotiation skills will set him apart as an estate agent,” said Rademaker. “There are very few agents, if any, in The Bahamas who can speak as specifically to the legal ins-and-outs of contract negotiations as Christopher can with his extensive legal background, especially when it comes to navigating permanent residency requirements and obtaining financing.”

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 22,500 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 990 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

 

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June 12, 2019 by
Sotheby's International Realty

Sotheby’s International Realty Exceeds Record $112 Billion in Global Sales Volume for 2018

 

MADISON, N.J. (Feb. 27, 2019) – Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today reported that in 2018 its affiliated brokers and sales professionals achieved more than $112 billion USD in global sales volume, the highest annual sales volume performance in the history of the brand. Additionally, 27 affiliated companies surpassed $1 billion USD in sales volume in 2018.

“Experts predicted that 2018 would be a slow year for the global real estate market,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “Despite the forecast, our talented affiliated companies and their sales associates continued to perform at the top of their game to drive a year-over-year sales volume increase that is truly remarkable. We are going to keep the momentum going in 2019 and we will continue to empower the Sotheby’s International Realty network by offering innovative products, tools, and research to provide best in class service.”

Global Growth

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand also reported growth across its global network. At year-end, the network totaled more than 990 offices in 72 countries and territories and more than 22,500 affiliated sales associates worldwide.

In the United States, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand achieved more than $100 billion USD in sales volume in 2018. This year witnessed continued significant growth by the brand’s existing affiliate companies through talent attraction as well as mergers and acquisitions. Most notably, the brand increased its market presence in Essex and the Acton-Boxborough area of Massachusetts; Greater Portland, Oregon; and Nashville, Tennessee. The brand also entered several key new markets last year, namely, Bandon, Oregon; Huntsville, Alabama; the Sandhills Region of North Carolina; Mendocino, Fort Bragg, and Ventura, California.

Outside the United States, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand achieved more than $12 billion USD in sales volume in 2018 while continuing to expand into key markets. In Europe, the brand grew its presence in Menorca and Madrid, Spain; Sylt and Bern, Germany; Kitzbühel, Austria; Zurich, Switzerland; and Slovakia. The brand also sold the rights to the island country of Cyprus. In Asia, new offices were opened in Colombo, Sri Lanka; and Bangkok, Thailand, and agreements were signed to expand into Jakarta and Bali in Indonesia, and Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in Vietnam and the Maldives. The brand also saw growth in Mexico City, Mexico; the Metropolitan area of Puebla; Valle de Bravo and Malinalco in Estado de Mexico; and Cuernavaca and Tepoztlán in Morelos.

Marketing Innovation

2018 was an impactful year for the brand with the roll-out of new tools and offerings. Sotheby’s International Realty became the first real estate brand to launch and implement a virtual staging augmented reality app, transforming the homebuying and selling experience for sales associates and consumers with the launch of Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty℠. Design Vault, a cloud-based adbuilder tool was also unveiled, allowing companies and agents to create advertising, marketing and social assets with ease. The brand entered a custom-publishing relationship with The Wall Street Journal / Barron’s Group to present RESIDE®, a bespoke luxury lifestyle magazine providing affiliate companies around the world a turnkey solution to creating a customized branded magazine. The publication’s inception also birthed the brand’s new podcast series. In partnership with Inman, an exclusive channel called Leading in Luxury was launched, featuring experts from the Sotheby’s International Realty brand discussing trends, best practices and innovations in luxury real estate.

“As much as it was revolutionary, 2018 was also an affirmative year for the brand,” said Kevin Thompson, chief marketing officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “The Sotheby’s International Realty brand has always stood at the forefront of innovation in the industry, but we recognize that in order to maintain this standard, we need to continue to press forward. With the launch of new technology and tools, we continued that tradition, always aiming to provide industry-leading levels of service that sales associates affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty around the world are known for.”

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand website, sothebysrealty.com, saw another record year with more than 30 million visits, a 13 percent increase year-over-year, with 13 percent of traffic generated from new users. Top searches on sothebysrealty.com in the United States included New York, New York; Malibu, California; and Los Angeles, California. Outside of the United States, the top locations searched were, London, United Kingdom; Paris, France; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Lake Como, Italy; and Sydney, Australia.

Additional Achievements

The Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s affiliated companies and sales associates raised nearly $1 million USD to date for New Story, the brand’s charitable partner and a certified 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The funds raised have gone directly to the construction of new homes in Morelos, Mexico for families who lost their homes in the 2017 earthquakes.

“It was awe-inspiring to visit the families in Mexico whose lives will be forever changed by the generosity of our network,” said White following a recent trip to visit two recently constructed communities in Mexico. “Partnering with New Story as a charitable partner allowed us to extend the services we provide daily: to help people discover homes that allow them to live their best life.”

The Sotheby’s International Realty® brand claimed 40 of the top 250 sales associates in the Individual Sales Volume category of the 2018 REAL Trends/The Wall Street Journal “The Thousand.” In addition, 12 teams affiliated with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand were recognized as being among the top 250 teams in the nation by sales volume. The annual report ranks America’s top 1,000 residential real estate agents and teams based on 2017 annual sales volume and transaction sides.

 

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. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. 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 full franchise system. 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. © 2019 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

February 27, 2019 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Sotheby's International Realty

Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty Reports Robust 2018 Residential Real Estate Market

Resort-Style Living. According to Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, the demand for luxury resort-style properties such as those found on Kamalame Cay (above) saw a significant surge in 2018.

 

Nassau, The Bahamas (Jan. 21, 2019) — According to Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, 2018 was another healthy year for luxury residential real estate sales with the company’s list price averaging $1.55 million and sales prices averaging $1.4 million.

“Overall, 2018 was a strong year for sales with a slight increase over the 2017 performance,” said Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer for the company, noting that there has been a significant increase in demand for homes in the Family Islands. “Markets like Hope Town, Harbour Island, Kamalame Cay, Treasure Cay and Spanish Wells are ideal entry markets into The Bahamas. People come down for holidays and end up returning as buyers.”

Rademaker added that the uptick in visitors and buyers in both Nassau and the Family Island markets can be partially credited to the increased number of direct flights into these markets from the U.S. and Canada. Major carriers such as American Airlines, Air Canada, JetBlue and Delta offer daily flights to The Bahamas and recently announced direct flights from Chicago and Houston to Nassau will offer even more opportunities for easy access to The Bahamas.

“The enviable lifestyle of The Bahamas has always been a major attractor to buyers in addition to the fact that we’re an English-speaking country with a stable economy,” Rademaker said. “And now with even more direct flights to our islands, people are able to get here more conveniently and frequently, making our country a strong choice for those who want to own a vacation home just one flight away.”

Another factor is the growing demand for unique resort-style residential properties such as those found on Kamalame Cay, which is about a 20-minute flight from Nassau.

“We are constantly striving to stay ahead of market trends and seek out distinctive opportunities for our clients,” Rademaker said. “I am proud to announce that one of our top agents, Vanessa Ansell, participated in seven transactions on Kamalame Cay this past year, making it one of the most active periods in the history of the luxury resort. Through her strategic marketing and carefully cultivated relationships, Vanessa has positioned herself as the go-to real estate advisor for Kamalame Cay.”

To further accommodate and more fully service this ever-increasing market activity, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty expanded their sales team with the addition of two new agents in 2018. In December, the company also opened a new office location on Harbour Island next to the popular Piggly Wiggly food store on King Street, the island’s main thoroughfare.

“Nurturing ongoing client relationships is our number one priority as a company,” Rademaker said. “The more visible we are in the markets we serve, and the more knowledgeable our agents are, the more value we can provide to people whether they are current, past or future clients.”

The company’s ongoing mission to continually seek out ways to better serve their clients was further augmented when the firm hosted a four-day NINJA Selling Conference for their entire company at the Grand Hyatt Convention Center at the Baha Mar Resort in October 2018.

“The conference was an incredible experience,” Rademaker said. “Our entire company gathered together for four days to focus on expanding our knowledge and skills as real estate professionals. Designed to help agents capitalize on their strengths, conquer their goals and transform their business, the content of the NINJA Selling Conference aligned perfectly with our company’s culture.”

New developments like BahaMar, GoldWynn, the Pointe and the soon-to-be redeveloped Hurricane Hole on Paradise Island are also providing exciting new opportunities for buyers in the country’s capital.

“The great thing about The Bahamas is that we’re constantly growing and progressing as a country,” Rademaker said. “There is always new and fresh inventory to explore, which makes it a very exciting market to live in, work in and invest in.”

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 17, 2019 by