August 2017 - Beacon Sotheby's International Realty

US Open Tennis: Luxury Estates with Tennis Courts

It’s a grand slam: these international listings deserve major love for their remarkable design and extraordinary elements, each featuring the incomparable luxury of exclusive tennis courts on site. Game, set, match.

$4,200,000 USD | Atlanta, Georgia | Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

Custom gated stone estate with lighted tennis courts for an evening set. Relax in the heated pool or admire the state of the art kitchen, sound system throughout, elevator, movie theater, gym, and sauna, as well as outdoor kitchen overlooking pool with outdoor fireplace.

$399,900 USD | Holland, Michigan | Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty

Situated near Lake Michigan, this sophisticated Holland home is unlike any other: head outside to the in-ground pool, tennis court, stone fire pit, and hot tub. With features like these, your home will be your luxurious retreat.

$6,002,591 USD | Sao Paulo, Brazil | Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty

The property stands out for its noble materials and constructive craftsmanship. Impeccable finishes with frames, fittings, floors, and coatings of the highest quality standard. Gourmet space integrated to the pool, tennis courts, and large garden.

Price Upon Request | Grimaud, Provence-Alpes-Cote D’Azur | France Monaco Sotheby’s International Realty

Located on a wooded park with swimming pool and tennis court, this property offers a pleasant and relaxing view over the bay of Saint Tropez. The construction features a very bright living space with many windows facing towards the bay, the greenery and the tennis courts.

For more information regarding these intriguing estates, contact the Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty office at 269.673.7133.

Intern Insights: Gina

Meet our summer intern, Gina! She was able to provide exceptional help to our Marketing Department during our busy summer season, and we are so grateful for her willingness to work. As her time with us draws to a close, learn more about Gina and the internship experience:

Studying a Business major and a Studio Art minor at Hope College, I found myself interested in marketing, which led me to my internship here at Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty. I didn’t have a ton of experience in marketing yet, and knew very little about the real estate industry. I grew up in a family that worked in building supplies manufacturing, so I thought I might have a little experience with homes and home exteriors. I came in super excited to get immersed in marketing and learn about a new industry.

The biggest thing that I have taken away from this internship is that branding matters. Marketing is such a big part of every industry, and I’ve found that I love being a part of such a large aspect of business. The Sotheby’s International Realty® brand is so well known, and I consider myself lucky to be able to learn marketing while working under such a prestigious name. Creating any materials for the office was fun for me, and I felt like I was doing important work when I put the Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty logo on all of our promotional materials.

The office that I worked in was the true highlight of this internship. I grew up in a family-owned business, and found myself comfortable with the family-oriented atmosphere in this office. From my first day, everyone in the office made an effort to know my name and treat me like an important person in the office, not just a stereotypical intern. I was included in conversations, I felt as though my opinion mattered, and I truly feel as though I fostered important relationships through this internship.

I know I’ve learned some important skills in this internship that I will be able to bring into future interviews, jobs, and careers. I’ve become more fluent in design programs, I’ve learned how to write for the purpose of marketing, and I’ve learned a lot about the inside of the real estate industry, which I had no prior knowledge of. I’ve learned important communication and leadership skills, and learned to trust my intuition when creating marketing and advertising materials. I have become more confident in my skills as a result of this internship, and I feel very thankful to Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty for that.

-Gina Schierbeek

Your Own Private Island

One person’s challenge is another person’s adventure. And owning a private island may be the ultimate adventure, at least when it comes to trophy real estate.

“The individual who buys a private island is very often looking for a secluded place that offers great freedom and status,” says Benoit Bernard of French Polynesia Sotheby’s International Realty in Papeete, Tahiti. “The show is there facing you. It’s forged by nature for eternity.”

7.123.104 € EUR | Tahaa, French Polynesia | French Polynesia Sotheby’s International Realty

Acquiring an island is a passion project in which emotions can edge out bottom line considerations. The market is narrow and the outlay considerable. “In terms of pure investment, it is often very difficult to evaluate its profitability,” says Bernard, but a real estate professional will consider all costs and constraints to help prospective buyers “minimize the risks as much as possible.”

Uncertainty aside, the payoffs of being a sovereign of one’s own sanctuary are many: privacy, exclusivity and, sometimes, the chance to create a legacy.

$94,500,000 XCD | St. Vincent and the Grenadines | St. Vincent & the Grenadines Sotheby’s International Realty

According to Russell Post of Russell Post Sotheby’s International Realty in Key Largo, Florida, the opportunity to establish a family compound is “probably the most attractive part of owning an island. Buyers want their extended generations to come and visit, and they envision the buy as a legacy property to be passed down.”

Technology has made it easier to turn a sandy spit of land into a slice of paradise. “The development of renewable energies, satellite links, water treatment and rainwater recovery systems are new technologies that are simplifying island life and management,” says Bernard.

$48,000,000 USD | Water Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands | Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty

Nevertheless developing and maintaining a secondary property a sea away remains a complex undertaking. Wish lists meet reality checks. Even the most experienced property owners find themselves in unfamiliar territory. Questions that need to be asked by would-be island buyers touch upon issues that are not typically concerns in the traditional housing market: Are there major weather hazards to be aware of? How are the routes to bring in supplies? How close are medical facilities? Are there opportunities to generate revenue through rentals or commercial development? If purchasing an island in another country, how stable is the government?

Private islands are available all over the world, but inventory is limited. Post has a listing for a private island called Pumpkin Key priced at $95 million, just a 10-minute boat ride from the prestigious Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida. Post says it’s only the second private island he’s seen come to market in the Upper Florida Keys in a decade.

$95,000,000 USD | Key Largo, Florida | Russell Post Sotheby’s International Realty

Pricing an island involves a challenging set of calculations since there are no true comparables. And despite scant supplies, it’s not unusual for an island to be on the market for years. It takes patience on both buyer’s and seller’s parts for a perfect match. Some countries have restrictions on international purchases or permit only lease options rather than outright buys. Leaseholds can run as long as 99 years.

While local laws and regulations apply, it’s the closest anyone can ever gets to feeling like the ruler of their own kingdom. Says Bernard: “The world is theirs to shape according to their desires without any constraint.”

Article provided by Iyna Bort Caruso exclusively for sothebysrealty.com

Featured Listing | Lake Michigan Sophistication

Custom built and situated on an extraordinary piece of Lake Michigan property, this incomparable home is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Boasting unique details and generous living space for all of your family and friends, step inside this West Olive masterpiece certain to impress.

17299 Beach Ridge Way, West Olive, MI | $1,850,000

This inspiring retreat sits on a low bluff with 122 feet of private frontage – meaning the calming freshwaters of Lake Michigan are moments from your doorstep, with no beach goers to interrupt your day in the sand.

Step indoors to find refined architectural design, with an open concept living room boasting stunning fireplace, cathedral style ceilings, and hardwood flooring. Cozy up to read a book or relax with a glass of fine wine while a captivating sunset paints the sky.

The kitchen is your one stop spot for entertaining. Kids and adults alike can chill at the snack bar while you whip up a delicious summer salad or luxurious evening meal. Either way, counter space is certainly no issue. Need additional seating? Another full kitchen is featured downstairs.

Capture a seemingly infinite view of Lake Michigan from this tranquil space. There are no worries when you’re gazing out at the waters, or simply getting an overhead view of the fun happening below.

The master suite provides the ultimate sense of luxury. The fireplace roars as you escape to your private oasis, including Whirlpool tub and large walk-in closet.

If you’re seeking out a private moment to get some business done, this exclusive den is perfect for you. Wrapping cabinets hold all of your odds and ends in a stately retreat off the main entry.

After an adventurous day at your slice of Lake Michigan paradise, your sophisticated home is waiting to provide timeless serenity. Invite all of your favorite guests to stay in any of the unique bedrooms, as there is as much space for entertaining as there is for providing a unique lakeshore experience. Located in a remarkable location, this discreet beach home is your new favorite escape.

Interested in our Featured Listing? Contact Beth Foley!

A Total Eclipse of the Sun

From Oregon to South Carolina, an estimated 500 million Americans will be able to witness one of nature’s rare and celestial wonders: a total solar eclipse. For the first time since 1991, August 21^st will bring the eclipse to the United States. With a week to go, explore these five homes directly in the path of the 2017 solar eclipse.

Oregon will be the first state in the eclipse’s path.

$2,295,000 USD | Monmouth, Oregon | Cascade Sotheby’s International Realty

Optimizing the wine and vineyard lifestyle in Oregon, enjoy this light-filled, two-story home with expansive deck, Jacuzzi, and exceptional views. This prime vineyard property offers more than 20 acres of Pinot Noir.

Price Upon Request | Ketchum, Idaho | Sun Valley Sotheby’s International Realty

Surrounded by over two million acres of Sawtooth National Forest, the three residences on 130 acres are at nature’s doorstep, where recreational opportunities and privacy are an understatement. Both elegant and inviting, the modern main home, designed by Lake/Flato Architects, is nestled like a jewel at the base of the second and third highest peaks in Idaho. With a landscaped courtyard at its core, each room offers its own particular surprise, with grand vistas and dramatic scenery from every window and angle.

$5,750,000 USD | Jackson, Wyoming | Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty

Situated on a stunning front row lot, this home is a vision of mountain style and sophistication. Intelligently designed and meticulously crafted, this turnkey property has never ending views of the Grand Teton, Teton Mountain Range, and Sleeping Indian. Comprising of 5,200 square-feet of elegant living space, this home contains four bedrooms and four-and-one-half baths.

$2,899,000 USD | Nashville, Tennessee | Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty

This gracious, gated home nestled on nearly 30 private acres is truly a sanctuary. Enjoy a private wooded escape while still being 20 minutes from downtown. Featuring a 1,500-square-foot master suite, four en suite bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, home theater, exercise room, elevator, guest quarters with kitchen, studio, and plenty of entertaining areas that open to terraces and balconies.

Before exiting the United States’ sight lines, the eclipse’s path will end in South Carolina.

$5,500,000 USD | Charleston, South Carolina | Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty

The Thomas Doughty estate is situated on over one-third acre in the heart of Charleston’s most desirable downtown area – Ansonborough. Painstakingly restored in 1994 by the current owners, this Carolopolis winning estate is designated as “valuable” to the city’s architectural heritage. With spacious formal living room, dining room, and library boasting ornate Adamesque mantles and original woodworking as well as graciously sized bedrooms and bathrooms, this exceptional brick home is a once in a generation opportunity.

Learn more about how you can safely enjoy the 2017 Eclipse from NASA

What To Do This Weekend: Holland

You say it’s only Tuesday, we say the weekend’s only three days away! That means it’s time to start making plans to soak up every last drop of sunshine the summer has to offer. Why not hang out in Holland? There’s a number of events happening from August 11-13. Have a personal favorite? Tell us which event you’ll be attending in the comments!

Downtown Holland Sidewalk Sales, at participating stores, August 11 & 12 – Bargainers delight: find items from your favorite shops and boutiques at a discounted rate.

Holland Museum’s Exhibit “For the Future Peace: WWII and Holland on the Homefront”, August 11-13 – Explore stories from Holland locals who share the impact of WWII.

Kollen Park Summer Concert presents The Ragtops, August 11 – Grab a lawn chair and head to the park from 6:30-8:30pm to hear live music.

Downtown Holland’s Farmer’s Market, August 12 – Visit the local booths for fresh local finds, beginning at 9:30am.

Meteors & S’mores, August 12 – The beach is open a little later for guests looking to view hundreds of meteors. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, but the s’mores will be provided!

Looking to visit some of Holland’s attractions? There’s always our sugar sand beaches, a trip to Dutch Village, or even a pleasant walk near Mt Pisgah. However you choose to spend your time this weekend, consider spending it in Holland!

Significant Sales – Sotheby’s International Realty®

Being an affiliate of the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand allows your property to seen by over 880 offices around the globe. See featured recently sold listings in this issue of Significant Sales. From the award-winning Tower House in New York, to over 1,000 sprawling acres of rolling farmland in New Zealand, see homes showcased from throughout the United States, Malta, and South Africa.