Field shaping up for 2014 Hyundai Tournament of Champions

December 19, 2013

Lahaina News

KAPALUA - Just two weeks remain before the 2014 Hyundai Tournament of Champions kicks off on The Plantation Course at Kapalua, and the field is shaping up quickly.

Three of the game's biggest names will be starting 2014 in West Maui, including Zach Johnson, Adam Scott and Webb Simpson.

Each player won an official PGA Tour event during the 2013 calendar year to qualify for the winners-only Hyundai Tournament of Champions.

Johnson

With a career total of ten PGA Tour wins, Johnson's recent success came at the 2013 BMW Championship.

Johnson is excited to kick off 2014 against a prestigious field.

"It obviously gets the year off to a really good start. To win with a really strong field, it means a lot. I think Hyundai does a great job with their event. I love coming over to Hawaii and playing in the golf tournament," he said in a recent interview.

Scott made history in April when he became the first Australian to win The Masters Tournament.

He won his major in dramatic fashion with a birdie on the second playoff hole to defeat Angel Cabrera.

Scott enjoyed additional success late in 2013 with another victory at the first FedExCup Playoffs event, The Barclays. He returned home to Australia, where he won the Australian PGA Championship and the Talisker Master, finished second to Rory McIlroy at the Emirates Australian Open, and placed third at the ISPS HANDA World Cup of Golf, where he and teammate Jason Day won the team competition.

The 2011 U.S. Open winner, Simpson recently picked up his fourth PGA Tour career victory at the 2014 Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.

This will be Simpson's third consecutive year playing in the Hyundai Tournament of Champions; his best finish was equal third in 2013. Read more...

Christie’s International Real Estate Strengthens Position In Hawaii with Addition of Honolulu-Based Affiliate

Choi International Joins Leading International Network of Real Estate Brokerages Specializing in the Marketing and Sale of High-Value Properties

Honolulu, HI—Christie's International Real Estate, the world's leading luxury real estate network and a subsidiary of Christie’s auction house, awarded Affiliate status to Choi International, a noted brokerage based in Honolulu.

Established more than 25 years ago, marketplace leader Choi International is led by President and CEO Patricia Choi and specializes in Honolulu’s complex luxury real estate sector. The company’s team of approximately 30 agents is committed to outstanding client representation and service with integrity, as well as presenting vast market knowledge and innovative marketing solutions.

Choi International will exclusively represent the Christie's brand throughout Honolulu.

Wholly owned by Christie's, the world's leading art business, Christie's International Real Estate is represented in 46 countries. Choi International joins this carefully selected organization of brokerages, all of which boast records of success in both high-end property sales and exemplary client service.

“Choi International has long been noted within Hawaii’s luxury real estate realm and we are delighted to welcome the company to our network of exclusive Affiliates,” said Zackary Wright, Senior Vice President, Western Regional Manager of Christie’s International Real Estate. “Led by Patricia Choi, who has been Honolulu’s top luxury realtor for the past 16 years, Choi International presents standards of quality and service analogous to those of Christie’s International Real Estate.”

“We take pride in serving as Honolulu’s premier luxury real estate company, representing clients with integrity and discretion,” said Choi International President and CEO Patricia Choi. “Being selected as an exclusive affiliate now allows us to present our network with a new level of offerings through Christie’s International Real Estate’s global reach.”

Choi International’s exclusive territory includes an array of prestigious and exclusive neighborhoods, from Diamond Head and Kahala to Portlock, and the world renowned beachfronts of Kailua, Lanikai, and the North Shore.

For additional information about Christie’s International Real Estate, please contact Michael Sherman at 212-974-4585, or visit www.christiesrealestate.com. For further information on Choi International and its listings, call +1 808-734-7711 or visit www.choi-realty.com.

Maui No Ko Oi - Real Estate Trend

Real Estate Trend

Maui's resort residences are becoming hot properties

STORY BY DIANE HAYNES WOODBURN (click here to download the article)

"I'm selling a lifestyle," Mary Anne Fitch tells me, "not real estate."

Fitch has been one of the most successful realtors in West Maui luxury real estate for twenty-five years. This year, she received the prestigious Top Realtors Award and was inducted into the Hawai'i Realtors Hall of Fame. Fitch has twice been named #1 Realtor on Maui by Hawai'i Business Magazine. Who better to ask:

What trends do you see for the Maul real estate market?

I feel Maui is at the brink of becoming a truly global community. We ore undervalued for the quality of life here. I don't know of another resort community in the world that offers year-round fantastic weather, gorgeous scenery, pristine ocean, and a stable economy. International businesspeople find that they can buy a home here for family vacations, and with the same investment, provide an attractive location for business meetings year-round. Even though Maui is far, it's midway between Asia and America - the perfect middle ground. And it's part of the U.S., making it an attractive home base as well.

Have prices hit bottom?

We are past that. Paul Brewbaker, one of Hawai'i's most respected economists, says we hit bottom in late '09/early 2010. Data from the Hawai'i Realtors Association shows that through June 2013, residential real estate dollar volume on Maui was up 27 percent from last year, and the dollar volume for condominium sales is up 14 percent. Even more interesting, vacant-land sales are up 49 percent from a year ago.

Why Is the increase in vacant-land sales significant?

Diminishing home inventory. An increase in vacant-land sales means home inventory isn't meeting the demand, so people are building their homes. It also means more construction, more people going back to work, and on overall healthy pulse in the economy. Correspondingly, the visitor industry has been showing a steady increase in hotel occupancy and room rates over the last three years, according to the Hawai'i Hotel and Lodging Association. This is good news for investors interested in a second or third home that might also provide rental income. Maui property proves year after year to perform well in the rental market. This is partly because there will be no new development of oceanfront projects- with the exception of the Andaz in Wailea and the relaunch of The Residences at Kapalua Bay.

How does diminishing oceanfront Inventory affect the buyer?

One effect is that prospective buyers are more open to looking at properties throughout the island, whereas, in the past, buyers were either west-side or south-side centric. And even though the economy is on an upswing, buyers are still looking for maximum value. They tend to be doing their homework, analyzing their options, and considering potential growth of their investment. With less inventory to choose from, the buyer is willing to consider all options.

What has surprised you most over the past few years?

What has both surprised and pleased me is the trend of much younger families relocating here and becoming part of the community. My client base in the past was almost exclusively second-home owners. Now I am seeing a happy shift to families moving specifically to raise their children here. One of the factors making this happen is Maui Preparatory Academy. In fact, some of the families who mode the decision to move to Maui were responsible for the grassroots organization that created and now sustains this wonderful school. I'm a huge supporter as well.

What does the coming year hold for real-estate growth?

I am bullish an the investment Larry Ellison [cofounder of Oracle Corporation] is making on Lana'i. I think his vision for that island will make a huge impact in drawing a more international market to Maui County, and affect sales on Maui's west side, where buyers will find a more action-oriented lifestyle. Additionally, the fact that Montage is now managing The Residences at Kapalua Bay should have a very positive impact, particularly on the California markets from Laguna Niguel and Beverly Hills, where the brand is well known. Currently, approximately 40 percent of our buyers are from the West Coast, including British Columbia, California, Washington and Oregon. This could change, however, as direct flights from New York by Hawaiian Airlines are making Maui far more accessible to East Coast visitors."

Advice?

If you have been considering buying on Maui, seize the moment now!

Mary Anne Fitch is owner

and principal broker of

Maui Estates International

and exclusive affiliate for

Christie's International

Real Estate on Maui,

www.soldmaui.com.

Christie’s International Real Estate Announces Presence in Monaco

Monday, September 16, 2013

Monaco, Christie's International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network and a subsidiary of Christie’s auction house, awarded Affiliate status to Hammer Draff Great Properties, a boutique residential real estate brokerage firm in Monaco.

Located in the heart of Monte Carlo, opposite the iconic casino, Hammer Draff Great Properties is led by Monica de Champfleury, a real estate veteran with over 20 years of real estate experience in Monaco and the south of France. The real estate market in the principality is among the most prestigious in the world, with an average square meter price in the "Carré d'Or" or the "Golden Square" at around €70,000.

Exclusively representing the Christie’s real estate brand in Monaco, Hammer Draff Great Properties joins a carefully selected organization of 135 brokerages in 46 countries. Those brokerages have been recognized for their records of success in high-end property sales and exemplary client service.

“Hammer Draff Great Properties is a boutique real estate brokerage firm with a longstanding reputation of excellence in sales. It gives us great pride to name this distinguished company to our Affiliate network, which furthers our presence in southern Europe’s most luxurious property market,” says Joachim Wrang-Widén, Christie’s International Real Estate’s Director of Affiliate Services for Europe, Middle East, and Africa.

 “We are excited to join an organization renowned for its quality of discreet client service and we expect this affiliation to satisfy the lifestyle requirements of a discerning clientele interested in Monaco’s real estate as well as luxury properties abroad,” says Monica de Champfleury, Managing Director at Hammer Draff Great Properties.

Monaco is an independent sovereign estate composed of six districts, Monaco Ville, Condamine, Monte Carlo, Fontvieille, Larvotto and Moneghetti. Spread across just under two square kilometers, real estate in Monaco is the most expensive in the world. Monaco’s economic and political stability  makes it one of the leading luxury real estate destinations for high-net-worth individuals globally.

Historic Bermuda Estate Offered at US $45 Million

Luxuriously Restored, 14-Acre Beachfront Compound Served as the Official Bermuda Residence of the United States Consul General for More Than 30 Years

PAGET PARISH, BERMUDA – Chelston, a historic and amenity-rich private compound on Bermuda’s Grape Bay Beach, is now being exclusively marketed by Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network.  Offered at U.S. $45 million by Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate Sinclair Realty Limited, the 14-acre compound boasts an impressive setting in immediate reach of Grape Bay’s acclaimed pink sands and Atlantic waters. The beachfront estate, fusing classic island elegance and modern designs, is also situated minutes from the bustling streets of Hamilton. 

A long, finely paved entrance trail—complemented on both sides by lush landscaping—leads uphill where the estate’s splendor is revealed. Past a gated entry, the grandly proportioned, pastel-colored property is visually propelled by its bright blue ocean backdrop. Offering 17,000 square feet of interior space, including a 10,000-square-foot main house and five cottages, the estate is accentuated by acres of sweeping lawns and gardens.

Cherished throughout the Bermuda community, Chelston was originally designed and constructed between 1939 and 1941 for Carbon Petroleum Dubbs—an innovator in the process that refines crude oil.  In 1964, the property was passed on to the United States government and for more than 30 years, served as the official Bermuda residence of the United States Consul General. Due to its distinguished reputation, the estate has been visited by a lengthy list of notable individuals, both of the political and entertainment realms. Guests have included President George Bush, former Senator John Kerry, General Colin Powell, former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, actor Michael Douglas, and model/actress Brooke Shields.

With a noted history, Chelston’s modern-day offerings are the result of a carefully orchestrated, three-year renovation process that was led by renowned architects, builders and craftsmen. Positioned 200 feet above sea level, the main home presents understated elegance and traditional Bermuda design elements. The spacious three-level structure offers high, “Bermuda Tray” ceilings, French doors, a salt-water aquarium with a living coral reef, and floor-to-ceiling windows that carry the exterior’s island atmosphere indoors. Intricate accents that hallmark the estate include decorative artisan tiles, Bermuda stone walls, glass-framed entrances, and hand-painted wallpaper—a true rarity on the island. The home’s lower level is notable for its well-equipped cinema, family room and gym, as well as a two-bedroom manager’s suite.

Additional accommodations within the compound—boasting a total of 15 bedrooms and 19 full baths—include four, multi-room guest cottages and a pool house. Outside, a charming flower-draped porch, complete with a Chinese-stone fireplace, provides a prime location for absorbing the serenity of Chelston’s zero-edge pool, and just past it, the sands and shores of Grape Bay Beach.

“Chelston is notable not only because of its enticing history, but also its luxurious modern comforts and exclusivity,” said Kathleen Coumou, Senior Vice President, Northeast Regional Manger of Christie’s International Real Estate. “With 14 acres of premium solitude, the property is an incomparable North Atlantic gem.”

“The compound is truly rare—from its meticulously detailed interiors, to its immediate access to Grape Bay Beach’s pink sands,” said John Sinclair, the listing agent with Christie’s International Real Estate’s exclusive affiliate, Sinclair Realty Limited. “This amazing residence radiates with culture and elegance and is surely among the most significant estates in the world.”

In addition to Chelston’s acres of manicured grounds and gardens, other noteworthy amenities include a croquet lawn and a small, beachfront pavilion known as “Obsipo,” which offers a wood burning pizza oven and recreation space for seaside entertaining.

Christie's International Real Estate Expands in Hawaii

Island Resort Property Joins Leading International Network of Real Estate Brokers Specializing in the Marketing and Sale of High-Value Properties

KAILUA-KONA, HAWAII—Christie's International Real Estate, the world's leading luxury real estate network and a subsidiary of Christie’s auction house, has awarded Affiliate status to Island Resort Property, LLC.

A noted luxury marketplace leader in Hawaii, Island Resort Property was established by brokers Edward J. Rapoza, Brandon C. Wood and Frank Schenk, who combined their diverse business backgrounds with mutual community-focused passions to offer clients comprehensive and personalized service, innovative proprietary programs, and the highest standards of trust, integrity and expertise. Island Resort Property will represent the Christie's brand in Kailua-Kona and through the Kohala Coast.

Wholly owned by Christie's, the world's leading art business, Christie's International Real Estate is represented in 46 countries. Island Resort Property joins this carefully selected organization of brokerages with proven records of success in both high-end property sales and exemplary client service.

”Island Resort Property is recognized as a notable luxury real estate leader in Hawaii,” said Zackary Wright, Senior Vice President, Western Regional Manager of Christie’s International Real Estate. “The company’s industry expertise and veracity, coupled with its high standards of quality and outstanding client service, complements Christie’s International Real Estate’s values. It is with great pleasure that I welcome Island Resort Property to our network of exclusive Affiliates.”

“We believe some of the best real estate in the world exists right here in Hawaii,” added Edward J. Rapoza, Principal Broker of Island Resort Property. “And we are proud to present to clients our alignment with this prestigious and powerful, international luxury real estate organization.”

Island Resort Property’s exclusive territory includes an array of premier residential resort communities on the island of Hawaii, offering some of the finest experiences in natural amenities, golf, tennis, spas, and dining. The established communities boast first-rate services and an unparalleled sense of community.

For additional information about Christie’s International Real Estate, please contact Michael Sherman at +1 212 974 4585, or visit www.christiesrealestate.com. For further information on Island Resort Property, LLC and its listings, call +1 808 329 7170 or visit www.IslandResortProperty.com.

Spanish Estate, Offered at Us $53 Million, Features 180-Degree Vistas of Los Angeles Basin

Hacienda de la Paz is the only home in the Americas to have been designed by famous Spanish architect Manzano

LOS ANGELES, CA Hacienda de la Paz, an eight-acre, amenity-rich residence in Greater Los Angeles’ Rolling Hills enclave, is now being exclusively marketed by Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network.  Offered at US$53 million by Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate Hilton & Hyland, the property, influenced by Spanish architecture and design, is perched atop the crest of Southern California’s Palos Verdes Peninsula and features unparalleled, panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin, San Gabriel Mountains and Santa Monica Bay.

Entry through the estate’s gated front courtyard reveals its hidden grandeur.  The interior measures nearly 50,000 square feet under roof, complemented by sprawling grounds. The construction of Hacienda de la Paz—completed in 2008—included the installation of materials imported from Spain, Portugal and Italy. And as a testament to the exacting standards of its owner, the very workers and craftsmen who painted the murals and frescoes, inlaid the tile work and installed elaborate ceilings, fireplaces, floors, and carpets, were also brought from the European countries to guarantee authentic efforts. Additionally involved in the home's development was Raphael Manzano Martos, a renowned curator for King Juan Carlos of Spain. Adding to its unmistakable draw, Hacienda de la Paz is the only home in the Americas to have been designed by Manzano, who is noted throughout Spain and the Middle East for his hotels, commercial buildings and homes.

The property is shrouded in Mediterranean herbs as well as the traditional trees and flowers of Moorish gardens, reminiscent of an early 1900’s Andalusia country estate. In traditional Spanish style, the main house is flanked by attached “stables” -- reconfigured as guest quarters.  Amenities include a private chapel, custom-forged door and window fixtures, and tile roofing created by the same artisans who have restored the roofs of the California missions. Much of the home’s flooring is comprised of rare, reclaimed heart-pine wood – nearly 300 years in age. The nine-bedroom main residence is also notable for its stately library/office, media room, traditional kitchen, game room and bar. Other iconic, Spanish-inspired amenities include a full-size, 10,000-sqaure-foot Moroccan-style Turkish bath, or hammam, with a cobalt-blue lap pool at its center, accented with 24-karat gold tiles, fountains and imported columns and corbels.

“One of the largest residences in the Western United States, Hacienda de la Paz is remarkable not only in its grandeur but also in its privacy and relative seclusion in the heart of greater Los Angeles,“ said Zackary Wright, Senior Vice President of Christie’s International Real  Estate.  “Imagine being able to look directly out over the city of Los Angeles yet be comfortably removed from the flurry of activity.”

“Never in my career in the Los Angeles luxury real estate market have I seen a property quite like Hacienda de la Paz,” said Marcie Hartley, the listing agent with Christie’s International Real Estate’s exclusive affiliate, Hilton & Highland.  “This amazing, meticulously designed residence is surely L.A.’s best-kept secret.”

In addition to a red-clay tennis court on the grounds -- built to French Open specifications, --Hacienda de la Paz has orchards, a wine cellar, two elevators and 24-hour security. All buildings on the property have been structurally engineered to counteract seismic activity, and the walls are braced with steel beams. As a breathtaking finishing touch, Hacienda de la Paz also has a subterranean ballroom that doubles as a USTA regulation tennis court and emergency shelter. Five stories high and capable of seating 350 guests, the vast room has been decorated with floor-to-ceiling trompe l’oeil murals.

press@christiesrealestate.com

Spending on Lanai Airport upgrades nears $28M

Duane Shimogawa

Reporter-Pacific Business News

Lanai majority owner Larry Ellison is getting quite a bit of help from the state and federal government to the tune of nearly $28 million for improvements to Lanai Airport, the sole airport on the Pineapple Island.

The state-owned airport is part of the 2 percent of the island that the billionaire CEO of Oracle Corp. doesn’t own.

The airport, which has a 5,000-foot-long runway, about 1,900 feet shorter than Kahului Airport on Maui, is scheduled to undergo $27 million in runway safety improvements.

Caroline Sluyter, spokeswoman for the state Department of Transportation, told PBN that 90 percent of the $27 million is coming from federal funding.

The state has prepared, under the National Environmental Policy Act, a draft environmental assessment for the safety improvements.

Additionally, the state, with some help from the Federal Aviation Administration, is spending $900,000 for improvements to Lanai Airport, including a renovation of the terminal and an update to the airport’s master plan and noise program.

Meantime, Ellison’s Lanai Resorts LLC is currently in discussions with the state DOT regarding numerous improvements at Lanai Airport, Sluyter told PBN.

She pointed out that details of these improvements aren’t available at this time.

Ellison, who purchased 98 percent of Lanai about a year ago for a reportedly $300 million, has made known, through Lanai Resorts, that access to the island is a key issue that will be addressed.

Major steps in this initiative include acquiring Island Air in February and also buying another interisland airline — go! — which is expected to be officially announced on Friday.

Larry Ellison's Fantasy Island

By JULIAN GUTHRIE

Lanai, Hawaii

Marco Garcia for The Wall Street Journal

Larry Ellison stood on the white sand of a deserted beach, bordered by palm trees laden with coconuts. It didn't feel real that he could own the island of Lanai, he reflected.

It had been his far-fetched dream since he was in his 20s, when he first flew over one of the smallest of Hawaii's inhabited islands in a Cessna 172 and was captivated by the thousands of acres of pineapple fields.


In June 2012, Mr. Ellison, the co-founder and chief executive of technology giant Oracle, ORCL -0.73% bought Lanai for $300 million from American businessman David Murdock. Now he owns nearly everything on the island, including many of the candy-colored plantation-style homes and apartments, one of the two grocery stores, the two Four Seasons hotels and golf courses, the community center and pool, water company, movie theater, half the roads and some 88,000 acres of land. (2% of the island is owned by the government or by longtime Lanai families.)

For the first time, Mr. Ellison has publicly detailed his ambitious and costly plans for the 141-square-mile island. They include building an ultraluxury hotel on the pristine, white-sand beach facing Molokai and Maui and returning commercial agriculture to the clear-cut acres. He also plans to endow a sustainability laboratory that will help make the island "the first economically viable 100%-green community." And one of his biggest tasks: winning over the island's small, but wary, local population, one whose economic future is heavily dependent on his decisions.

"We want to make the island better for everyone, especially the people who live there," Mr. Ellison said in a recent interview after returning from Lanai, where he bought a home formerly owned by the comedian George Lopez. "We have the right climate and soil to grow the very best gourmet mangos and pineapples on the planet and export them year-round to Asia and North America. We can grow and export flowers and make perfume the old-fashioned way—directly from the flowers, like they do in Grasse, France. We have an ideal location for a couple of organic wineries on the island. But the reintroduction of commercial agriculture to Lanai is 100% dependent upon increasing the available water on the island. So we're going to use solar energy to convert seawater to fresh water."

Read more...

Christie’s and Christie’s International Real Estate Launch Innovative Vineyard Acquisition Advisory Service

“Vineyards by Christie’s International Real Estate” is the world’s first global advisory service for buyers of vineyard estates in the world’s most sought-after wine regions

HONG KONG (May 6, 2013) – Christie’s International Real Estate, the only global luxury real estate network wholly owned by a fine art auction house, today announced the launch of an innovative advisory service for international buyers of vineyard estates. The first ever program of its kind, Vineyards by Christie’s International Real Estate brings together Christie’s fine wine experts and the network’s luxury property specialists to offer a discrete consultative service for clients looking to acquire vineyards in the world’s most sought-after wine regions.

This pioneering program was conceived to meet demand from clients at Christie’s wine auctions in Hong Kong requesting expert advice in purchasing overseas vineyard properties. Domestic thirst for fine foreign wine has grown exponentially in recent years, with the auction house reporting an outstanding total of HK$286.5 million (US$36.9 million) from nine wine sales in Hong Kong last year. Similarly, demand from affluent Chinese investors for foreign wine has extended to a growing interest in foreign wine-producing estates. According to SAFER, (Sociétés d’Aménagement Foncier et d’Etablissement Rural), a quasi-governmental entity partly funded by the private sector, in 2011 there were 35 chateaux with vineyards sold in the whole region of Bordeaux—60 percent were sold to Chinese buyers. Of the 37 vineyard-chateaux sold in 2012, 62 percent went to Chinese buyers.

“This project brings together the knowledge and networks of the world’s leading auction house for wine and Christie’s International Real Estate, the only global luxury real estate network wholly owned by a fine art auction house.  We are uniquely positioned to offer this highly specialized vineyard advisory acquisition service and we look forward to this exciting venture,” says David Elswood, Christie’s International Director of Wine in Europe and Asia.

“Vineyards by Christie’s International Real Estate showcases the unparalleled synergy between art and real estate at Christie’s,” says Bonnie Stone Sellers, Chief Executive Officer of Christie’s International Real Estate. “With the fine and rare wine expertise of Christie’s and the experienced local partners in Christie’s International Real Estate’s network of affiliates, clients have a unique opportunity that only Christie’s can provide.”

Clients participating in the Vineyards by Christie’s International Real Estate receive expert advice from Christie’s wine experts, followed by an introduction by a Christie’s property specialist to vineyards available for purchase around the world. Custom travel arrangements and translation services are also provided.

“It is essential that buyers work with experts who know the industry, operate in the local market, are well connected with local vineyard owners, and are immersed in a region’s wine industry network,” says vineyard property specialist Michael Baynes of Christie’s International Real Estate exclusive Affiliate Maxwell-Storrie Baynes in Bordeaux. “Vineyard markets in sought-after locations are often small and discrete, and without expert guidance, buyers never even know they are on the market. It is not uncommon for more than half of our vineyards to be privately listed – never advertised and never placed on websites.”

Since its founding in 1766, Christie’s has held the greatest and most celebrated auctions in history for showcasing the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s fine and rare wine auctions uphold this centuries-long tradition with exquisite offerings originating from legendary vineyards. Christie’s International Real Estate brings Christie’s sophistication and unmatched passion for art to offering the finest luxury homes and vineyard estates in the world. Together, Christie’s and Christie’s International Real Estate form the world’s top partnership in fine and rare wine, luxury homes, and vineyard properties.

For more information on the program, regions, and wines, along with brochures detailing specific properties and upcoming wine auctions, please visit www.christiesrealestate.com/vineyards.

Kapalua Wine Festival 2013 - Gary Danko, Nancy Oakes and Deborah Scott Host an Exceptional Wine Dinner

Lehman puts Ritz-Carlton Maui resort up for sale

By Ilaina Jonas, Published May 07, 2013, Reuters

NEW YORK –  Lehman Brothers Holdings has put the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Resort, a 54-acre luxury condo and hotel resort in Maui, Hawaii, on the block as it continues to sell off its real estate holdings to pay off creditors, said two sources familiar with the deal.

The sale is expected to fetch more than $200 million, said one source who was not authorized to speak on the record.

The property consists of 297 hotel rooms and 107 condominium units, of which 73 are unsold. It also has indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, a spa, a three-tiered pool, a tennis center, six restaurants, bars and lounges, and access to shopping and golf.

Lehman has hired Jones Lang LaSalle Inc's hotels and hospitality group to market the property.

Since it exited bankruptcy last year, Lehman Brothers has been selling its real estate holdings to pay off creditors. Last month it sold two buildings in Austin, Texas, and two on Park Avenue in New York. Its largest deal by far was the $6.5 billion sale completed in February of Archstone Enterprise LP, an owner of apartments that Lehman helped take private in 2007. The buyout ultimately helped push the investment bank into bankruptcy.

Click Here to read more. 

Florida Residence of the Late Pop Singer and Disco Diva, Donna Summer, Sells for US$2.85 million

Michael Saunders & Company represented the buyer

A waterfront residence on Manasota Key that sold last Friday for $2.85 million was the Florida home of the late pop singer and song writer, Donna Summer. Ms. Summer died in Naples Florida last May.

Originally listed for US$3.2 million, the home was only on the market for 71 days before being placed under contract in February.

Summer, who rose to music prominence during the disco era of the late 1970’s, was the first recording artist to have three consecutive double albums reach number one on the United States Billboard chart. Additionally, she charted four number-one singles in the United States within a 13-month period.

Ms. Summer will be posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame at a sold-out ceremony to be held in Los Angeles on Thursday, April 18.

The waterfront estate, which is located in a private, gated enclave at 802 North Manasota Beach Road, was sold to clients represented by Maryann Casey, an agent with the Englewood office of Christie's International Real Estate exclusive Affiliate Michael Saunders & Company. It was listed by Nelda Thompson & Associates.

“The buyers, who live in Atlanta, were unaware that this was the home of Donna Summer,” says Ms. Casey.  “While waiting in Atlanta for a flight to Sarasota they noticed the home on the Michael Saunders web site (michaelsaunders.com) and added it to their schedule of properties to tour. This was the couple’s first visit to Manasota Key and they immediately fell in love with both the home and the key; and bought the property in less than 24 hours.  It was truly a case of love at first sight.”

Ms. Summer, who purchased the home in September 2007, also fell in love with the property at first sight. Built in 1950, the home—which has four bedrooms and baths—has undergone numerous updates, but still manages to maintain its charming Old Florida ambiance. It includes open beam ceilings, a large covered veranda extending across the east side of the home, an open patio overlooking a pool and secret garden on the south side; and a sunning porch on the west side facing the Gulf of Mexico. A boat house and dock are also located on the east side of the property.

Michael Saunders & Company is the exclusive Affiliate of Christie's International Real Estate in Sarasota, Florida.

Tom Heatherman, Michael Saunders & Company, +1 941 955 8200

2013 LUXURY INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE PROPERTY MARKET REPORT

Residential real estate is a tale of two markets – luxury and everything else. What are the trends shaping the luxury residential property market?

Luxury Defined: An Insight Into the Luxury Residential Property Market offers facts and insights into some of the most important markets in the world of real estate, and develops the Christie’s International Real Estate Index to measure the relative “luxury” ranking of the cities studied.

Highlights of the 2013 report include:

• Globally, top-tier property sales achieved record prices in several cities, remaining immune to many of the economic concerns that drive the general housing market.
• The luxury property market has limited supply. High-net-worth-individuals (HNWIs) are continuing to invest in real estate, often in second and multiple homes.
• HNWIs are often more inclined to invest in an important global market than in another city within their home country for second or additional homes.
• Prestige residential real estate values will more likely follow growth trends of non-consumable luxury goods such as fine art more so than the growth trends of the general housing market.
• Cash transactions have dominated luxury property acquisitions across many studied cities.
• Recent tax law changes in many of these markets are expected to impact 2013 market activity.

Download the report

State House approves CIP funds for West Maui projects

Lahaina News, March 21, 2013

HONOLULU - The state House Finance Committee approved a state budget that includes more than $22 million in capital improvement projects for West Maui.

The items include appropriations to provide crosswalks on Lahainaluna Road and improvements to Princess Nahi'ena'ena Elementary, Lahaina Intermediate and Lahainaluna High School.

West and South Maui Rep. Angus McKelvey, chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, called the funding allocation "a huge milestone for the future of the public schools in our district."

The House also approved funds for the design and construction of a marginal wharf and various upgrades and improvements to Lahaina Small Boat Harbor.

Additionally, funding for repair and maintenance of Honoapiilani Highway is included in the House bill, which also addresses shoreline erosion issues along the roadway.

"One of my greatest joys in serving as a state representative is personally listening to the concerns of my constituents. When Lisa Cabingas shared her manao with me about the lack of crosswalks on Lahainaluna Road near both Nahi'ena'ena Elementary and Lahaina Intermediate schools, we made them the highest priority projects," McKelvey said.

"I am extremely grateful to my fellow House members, particularly Speaker Souki and Representative Yamashita, who prioritized the safety needs of our keiki," McKelvey said.

Highlights of the House CIP Budget for West Maui for the 2014-15 Fiscal Years include $12 million to begin construction of a new classroom building at Princess Nahi'ena'ena Elementary School and $600,000 for ground and site improvements, including the installation of a PA system for the entire campus; $8.593 million for improvements along Honoapiilani Highway, including shoreline erosion mitigation; $750,000 for a new classroom building at Lahaina Intermediate School; $750,000 for construction and improvements to Lahaina Small Boat Harbor; $150,000 for crosswalks on Lahainaluna Road; and $54,000 for renovations to the shower and locker room at Lahainaluna High School.

House Bill 200 now heads to the Senate Ways and Means Committee for further review and action.

Once approved by the House and Senate, funds are released at the discretion of the governor.

Christie's International Real Estate Returns as Sponsor of the 2013 Tavistock Cup

Premier, invitation-only golf tournament to reach more than 120 million households worldwide

New York  - Christie’s International Real Estate is proud to announce its return as a sponsor of the 2013 Tavistock Cup, taking place March 25 and 26 at the Isleworth Golf & Country Club in Windermere, Florida. The officially sanctioned PGA Tour event is a team competition, featuring top touring professional members of the Albany, Isleworth Golf & Country Club, Lake Nona Golf & Country Club, and Queenwood Golf Club, as well as the newly-added communities of Oak Tree National Golf Club and Primland.

Now in its tenth year, the tournament will bring together an impressive roster of internationally ranked golfers– segmented into groups of four—in a head-to-head contest for prize money, hole-in-one prizes, charitable donations, and the coveted crown of World Golf and Country Club Champion.

With no ropes separating the world’s best players from spectators, Tavistock Cup’s exclusivity is heightened by the fact that it is invitation-only, with attendance limited to approximately 3,500 guests.

“We are pleased to once again sponsor this premier golfing event, showcasing top talent on a global stage,” said Rick Moeser, Senior Vice President of Christie’s International Real Estate. “Coupled with our history in several of the key markets represented, Tavistock Cup’s reputation of excellence and worldwide exposure to an audience of highly qualified golf connoisseurs is a natural synergy for our brand and the portfolio of luxury properties we showcase.”

Reaching nearly 120 million households in more than 200 countries worldwide, the two-day event will be televised on the Golf Channel in the U.S., Canada, China, and Japan as well as other international broadcast affiliates in the United Kingdom, Australia, Latin America, and South Africa. Broadcast advertising from Christie’s International Real Estate will air four times during this year’s Tavistock Cup telecast. The television commercial will also be available on the day of its premiere on Christie’s International Real Estate’s newly-launched website and YouTube channel.

The Tavistock Cup began in 2004 as a friendly cross-town rivalry between the golf club communities of Isleworth and Lake Nona—both exclusive affiliates of Christie’s International Real Estate. In 2011, for the first time in its history, the Tavistock Cup expanded to a four-way competition, adding two new clubs, Albany, a luxury resort community in the Bahamas, and Queenwood, a classic Surrey heathland course outside London. With this year’s addition of Oak Tree National and Primwood, the six clubs represent the highest concentration of top-ranked golfers worldwide, collectively winning numerous international events and major championships. Since its establishment, the tournament has additionally contributed millions of dollars to philanthropic organizations worldwide.

About Christie’s International Real Estate

Christie’s International Real Estate is an invitation-only affiliate network composed of the world’s most proven and qualified real estate specialists in the luxury residential sector. The company has offices in London, New York, Hong Kong, Beverly Hills, Chicago, and Palm Beach, and approximately 125 global affiliates with 25,000 real estate professionals in 40 countries. For additional information about Christie’s International Real Estate, please visit www.christiesrealestate.com.

Israel Kreps, Kreps DeMaria

ikreps@krepspr.com

Maxwell-Storrie-Baynes Announces the Sale of Beautiful Vineyard Estate Chateau de Seguin in Bordeaux

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Maxwell-Storrie-Baynes is the Exclusive Affiliate of Christie's International Real Estate in Southwest France

Bordeaux vineyard experts and exclusive Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates Maxwell-Storrie-Baynes today announced the sale of Chateau de Seguin in Lignan de Bordeaux to the Mottet family, owners of the Bordeaux vineyard, Chateau la France.

Spanning 172 hectares—133 of which are under vine—Chateau de Seguin produces about 800,000 bottles annually with a wide range of marques, most of which are exported internationally to such regions as the U.S., China, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Brazil, Russia, and the U.K. The estate has been purchased with its negoçiant company (to be called Bwine) and all of its stock will be managed by Bruno Mottet.

Michael Baynes, partner at Maxwell-Storrie-Baynes said, “There is a great deal of attention on the Chinese in Bordeaux at the moment, and for good reason. However, since the French presidential elections last year we have seen considerable interest from French investors in the vineyard sector.” Karin Maxwell of Maxwell-Storrie-Baynes added, “We were impressed with the buyer’s professional and detailed approach to a complex purchase. We have every confidence they will fulfill the potential of this magnificent estate.”

Presiding over a gorgeous country setting, this impressive wine estate has a rich history spanning many centuries. The world-famous city of Bordeaux, Considered the wine capital of the world, the world famous city of Bordeaux is located within close proximity and boasts a wealth of magnificent historic architecture and convenient transport options.

Michael Baynes - MSB Christies International Real Estate - michael@maxwellstorriebaynes.com

Hawaiian Airlines begins nonstop service to Auckland, New Zealand

StaffPacific Business News

Maori dancers perform at Honolulu International Airport before the inaugural flight of Hawaiian Airlines' new service to Auckland, New Zealand.

Hawaiian Airlines launched its nonstop flights from Honolulu to Auckland, New Zealand, on Wednesday with Hawaiian music and a performance by Maori dancers.

Hawaiian, a subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: HA), announced the new thrice-weekly flights last summer, and plans to increase service to four flights per week for several weeks this fall.

“We have been delighted by the interest in our new service, both here at home and in New Zealand,” Hawaiian President and CEO Mark Dunkerley said in a statement. “The deep cultural connections between our islands and the islands of Aotearoa make New Zealand a natural destination for Hawaiian and for our singular brand of authentic Hawaiian hospitality.”

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie was on hand at Honolulu International Airport for the flight’s departure. Seven crewmembers of the traditional Hawaiian sailing canoe Hokulea were aboard the flight, including Nainoa Thompson, captain of the Hokulea and the Polynesian Voyaging Society.

Baisa praises House for advancing bill to purchase Lipoa Point

March 7, 2013
Lahaina News

HONOLULU - A bill to purchase land at Lipoa Point at Honolua Bay for permanent preservation passed unanimously out of the State House of Representatives last week Thursday.

The measure, House Bill 1424, passed first reading in the Hawaii Senate on Friday.

"I fully support the acquisition of Lipoa Point," said Maui County Council Chair Gladys Baisa.

"I am very grateful to our Maui Representatives McKelvey, Carroll, Ing, Woodson, Souki and Yamashita for introducing this very important measure."

The bill appropriates an unspecified sum of general obligation bonds for the Department of Land and Natural Resources, in consultation with the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust, to purchase the parcel of land.

"Since 2007, the mayor and the council have consistently pledged $1 million for the acquisition of this land, but we cannot do it alone," said Baisa.

She thanked the Save Honolua Coalition, Surfrider Foundation, The Trust for Public Land and the hundreds of individuals who have tirelessly lobbied to protect the pristine parcel of land.

"The parcel was pledged against a pension fund," said Baisa. "Passage of this measure will also ensure the safety of pension benefits for hundreds of Maui Land & Pine retirees."

The Senate must also pass the measure. The public can track its progress at www.capitol.hawaii.gov.

"I urge the Senate to do what is right and appropriate the necessary funds to acquire this land," said Baisa.

Tenth District Rep. Angus McKelvey of Lahaina said Honolua supporters must continue lobbying for HB 1424.

"Even though the bill has passed the House, we are only at the proverbial half-time of the game, so to speak," McKelvey said, explaining that the bill has to go through the same public hearing process as in the House.

"So, once again, public testimony will be critical for passage of the bill in the Senate, especially since it did not originate in that chamber."

Residents, county officials and Maui Land & Pineapple Co. Inc. President and Chief Operating Officer Ryan Churchill testified in favor of the bill.

Read more...

Top Global Destinations Lead Resurgence in Luxury Residential Property Market

Top Global Destinations Lead Resurgence in Luxury Residential Property Market, Reports Christie’s International Real Estate

Report debuts first ever Index to rank the world’s most important cities for luxury residential real estate, with London topping the list

NEW YORK (March 4, 2013) – Limited inventory, strong international buyer demand, and high-net-worth individual’s (HNWI) increased appreciation for world-class lifestyle offerings have pushed prices for luxury homes toward historic highs, reports Christie’s International Real Estate in a new study on the global prestige residential market.

Entitled Luxury Defined: An Insight into the Luxury Residential Property Market, the report compares 10 of the world’s top property markets—London, New York, Hong Kong, Paris, San Francisco, Cote d’Azur, Toronto, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Miami—and debuts the ‘Christie’s International Real Estate Index,’ the first ever true global indicator for luxury residential real estate. The Index ranks markets across key metrics including record sales price, prices per square foot, percentage of non-local and international purchasers, and the number of luxury listings relative to population.

Highlights of the research include:

  • Globally, top-tier property sales achieved record prices in several cities, remaining immune to many of the economic concerns that drive the general housing market.

  • HNWIs are often more inclined to invest in an important global market than in another city within their home country for second or additional homes.

  • Prestige residential real estate values will more likely follow growth trends of non-consumable luxury goods such as fine art more so than the growth trends of the general housing market.

  • Cash transactions have dominated luxury property acquisitions across many studied cities.

  • Recent tax law changes in many of these markets are expected to negatively impact 2013 market activity.
“With financial markets providing a limited return on investment, high-net-worth individuals are recognizing the intrinsic value of investing in non-consumable assets such as prestige real estate and fine art,” says Bonnie Stone Sellers, Chief Executive Officer of Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network and a subsidiary of Christie’s auction house. “Strong momentum in the luxury property market is also being driven by scarcity of quality inventory and demand from international buyers in many of the world’s top destinations.”

London’s $121 million (£75 million) sale and New York’s $88 million sale pushed both cities to the top of this year’s Index with the highest record home sale prices. A prized second home destination, Côte d’Azur recorded the highest percentage of both secondary home buyers (95 percent), and international and non-local buyers (90 percent). Toronto’s real estate market, which has remained buoyant in recent years of global turmoil, recorded the lowest amount of days on the market for luxury listings (46 days).

While the report focuses on 10 indexed markets, it also provides insight into other luxury residential areas around the globe with a population of less than 150,000, such as St. Bart's, French West Indies; Salzburg, Austria; Aspen, Colorado; and Jupiter Island, Florida.

As the only global real estate network owned by a fine art auction house, Christie’s International Real Estate has unparalleled access to the HNWIs around the globe who procure assets such as art, wine, jewelry, and luxury real estate. Together with its 125 affiliated brokerages in 41 countries – all individually selected to join its network for proven records of client service and success in luxury residential sales – Christie’s International Real Estate is uniquely qualified to understand the characteristics and trends associated with the prestige real estate market.

The study can be accessed as a whole at www.christiesrealestate.com/luxury-defined

Israel Kreps, Kreps DeMaria
ikreps@krepspr.com+1 305 663 3543

Antonia Koumantaropoulou, Christie’s International Real Estate
akoumantaropoulou@christies.com
+44 (0)20 7389 2855

Monique Sofo, Christie’s International Real Estate
msofo@christies.com
+1 212 974 4593

Where to Own a Luxury Hilltop Home in the World's Trendiest Resort Areas

Christie's International Real Estate Affiliates Report on the Season's Coolest Ski Destinations

Over the course of this ski season American resorts play host to more than 60 million visitors; winter sports seem to be more popular than ever. Winter sport fans are increasingly looking beyond just the odd week of adrenalin-filled activity and the trend of owning a permanent ski heaven is becoming a popular lifestyle choice among HNWIs. The trend is set to grow as it is swiftly adopted by buyers from Russia, China, and Asia—highlighting that property prices are holding up well in key resorts.

Because 97% of the land surrounding Jackson Hole is protected from development, development is closely controlled in the Teton Region. The two local ski areas, the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Resort, have been entertaining skiers since the 1920s and this year the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is expanding their intermediate skiing with another chairlift and even more terrain. Snow King Resort has recently changed hands and is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort features the most dramatic vertical drop in North America and is widely touted as unlike any other ski destination in the world. To the northwest of the Town of Jackson, Alta, Wyoming is home to Grand Targhee Mountain Resort which offers some of the best powder skiing in North America. Grand Targhee is an emerging ski area with plans for further expansion.

“We’ve seen some pricing appreciation in 2012 as buyers are developing more confidence in a recovering US real estate market and we expect that stability to continue through, with more solid appreciation during 2013.  Slope side luxury homes and condominiums at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort can range anywhere from $900 per square foot to $1500 per square foot,” says Julie Faupel, Owner-Associate Broker Jackson Hole Real Estate Associates.  

Buyers are lifestyle and amenity focused in this destination. A home on the slopes in Jackson Hole is a legacy property, where families intend to spend quality time together in a relaxed environment with activities and amenities to suit all interests and age demographics. Proximity to skiing and outdoor activities drives buying decisions – most buyers are coming from hectic urban environments and they simply want a home in the mountains where they can be “away from it all” while still being close to the lifestyle activities that first attracted them to Jackson Hole. The properties located with close proximity to the ski slopes or directly on the ski slopes are in high demand which has continued through the economic downturn.

The most glamorous ski resort in the US, Aspen, is renowned as the winter playground of the rich and famous; you might bump into Michael Douglas, Donald Trump, Kevin Costner, or Martina Navratilova on the slopes. The town is set in the beautiful White River National Forest, and offers a choice of four mountains – the Snowmass ski area – and 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The historic town is more than 100 years old and has an abundance of tastefully restored old-world charm.

In downtown Aspen, just two blocks from the gondola, Joshua & Co is offering an immaculate two-level, three-bedroom condominium with top-of-the range fittings for US$1.099 million.

Refreshingly unpretentious, Telluride has a free gondola linking the town to the mountains, and high-speed chairlifts that  carry skiers to more than 12,500 feet. Buyers are also likely to be impressed by the value for money the area offers.

Telluride Real Estate Corp is offering two properties in the area. Butch Cassidy Drive is a stunning ski-in/ski-out, five-bedroom home with its own spa, gym, wine cellar, and private ski funicular linking the house to the Sundance ski run. The lodge is listed at US$15 million. The 93-acre Ptarmigan Ranch Retreat has five bedrooms, more than 8,000 square feet of living space, and is on the market for US$3.75 million.

In Europe, for over 150 years St Moritz has been known as the world’s most glamorous ski resort. Other great performing ski resort areas in Switzerland include Davos Klosters and Flims Laax. “Prices for luxury residential properties in these areas have been stable since last year. The current price per square meter for this type of properties is between CHF 30,000 and CHF 50,000 with buyers coming from Europe mainly,” says Michael Blaser from Wüst und Wüst AG, Exclusive Affiliate in the German speaking part of Switzerland.

Ticino is not really known as a winter sport destination. Ski enthusiasts who live there usually go skiing in the morning and are back in the afternoon as it is close to various well-known local resorts like Bosco Gurin and Ariolo. For a long weekend, people like to go to St. Moritz (only 3.5 hour drive) as well as Laax, Davos and Lenzerheide, which are only 2 hours drive away. Andermatt, Switzerland’s biggest ski resort development, currently under construction and scheduled to open in 2013/14, is only one hour away. The plan is for the two current resorts Andermatt and nearby Sedrun to be combined to one large resort with more than 130 kilometers of ski slopes plus a PGA standard golf course. Andermatt is known for being a powder free ride paradise with more than 300 kilometers off piste slopes.

“Since last year, luxury property prices in Ticino have been stable and are trending slightly upwards, partly due to the fact that new people are moving to Switzerland pushing up demand for properties. Luxury real estate prices are between CHF 10,000 and 20,000 per square meter. Still many of our clients are Swiss with many more foreign nationalities from more than 70 nations—mostly from Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Scandinavia, and Benelux countries. Russians’ and Arabs’ interest has increased too,” says Peter Rabitz from Wetag.

A beautiful, traditional town, Verbier has a variety of terrain and great off-piste opportunities. With four valleys to choose from and a nightlife almost as famous as its powder, it’s not surprising this is one of Switzerland’s most popular resorts. Prince Harry and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie holiday here, as do members of the Danish and Swedish royal families.

Further east in Austria prices for luxury properties near popular ski resort areas such as Kitzbuehel, Zell am See, Bad Gastein, Saalbach-Hinterglemm, and Alpine Lake District have been stable too. “Average prices for luxury-end apartments trend between €5-10 million per square meter while for chalets €1-15 million, depending on size. We notice an increase in demand just before Christmas and until Easter with buyers mainly from Germany, Netherlands, Italy, UK and other eastern European countries,” says Stiller & Hohla.

This alpine resort, nicknamed the St Tropez of winter sports, has four levels – Courchevel 1350, 1550, 1650, and 1850 – all sensibly named after their altitudes. The most exclusive is the highest, recently named the sixth most expensive place in the world to buy real estate. Huge efforts are made to cater for everyone, with areas for kids, a snow park, and testing black runs that are said to be the most challenging in the world.

If Val d’Isère had a town motto it would be: “ski hard, play hard.” Not, perhaps, the best location for those looking for peaceful communion with nature, Val d’Isère is tremendously good fun and puts as much emphasis on après-ski as the sport itself. Locals like to point out that the area has more skiable terrain than almost anywhere else in Europe, but most people are there to relax after a day on the slopes with a drink or two at Dick’s Tea Bar before retiring to their pretty, traditional chalets to recuperate.

With a ski season that runs from June until October, Argentina and New Zealand are certainly ideal for out-of-season skiers, making ski home ownership a wildcard option. Las Leñas, known as the Chamonix of the Southern Hemisphere, is memorable for its friendly Latin American culture, and near-perfect powder conditions. And Queenstown in New Zealand provides easy access to four ski resorts and myriad adventure sports.

Strong Ties Between Fine Art and Luxury Real Estate Extend from Art Miami to Art Wynwood in February 2013

Christie’s International Real Estate will take center stage as the ‘Official Luxury Real Estate Partner’

NEW YORK (February 1, 2013) The natural overlay of fine art and luxury real estate will be on prominent display February 14–18 as Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network, is showcased as the “Official Luxury Real Estate Partner” of Art Wynwood, sister fair to the immensely successful Art Miami. From December 4–9, record crowds entered the Art Miami pavilion in Midtown Miami and were immediately greeted by the Christie’s International Real Estate booth.

Christie’s International Real Estate’s sponsorship now extends to Art Wynwood—located within the same pavilion as the Art Miami fair—which will encompass 70 international galleries featuring emerging, cutting edge, contemporary, and modern works.  The fair includes a unique display of street art, murals, pop surrealism, and similar genres.

Guests at Art Wynwood will be personally welcomed by Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates from throughout the globe, along with corporate personnel, conveying a clear message: The world’s leading art auction house is in the real estate business. 

“The synergy is natural for us,” said Bonnie Stone Sellers, Chief Operating Officer of Christie’s International Real Estate. “Art and real estate are assets of passion and lifestyle. The same people who buy fine art buy luxury real estate.’’

Christie’s International Real Estate is the only network wholly owned by a fine art auction house and committed to Christie’s core values of expertise in marketing luxury assets, exemplary client service, and discretion. The network’s 120 affiliates, representing 40 countries, were carefully selected to join after demonstrating these same corporate values and leadership in high-value residential sales in their local markets.

Select properties from the Christie’s International Real Estate network of brokerages will once again be represented in the booth during Art Wynwood, be that through the property video-loop presentation, on-site distribution of Christie’s International Real Estate magazine, and/or brochure racks displaying collateral for high-profile residences.

“We appreciated Christie’s International Real Estate’s participation with Art Miami in December,” said Nick Korniloff, Director of Art Wynwood and Director and Partner of Art Miami, LLC.  “As we prepare for what we anticipate to be a record-breaking week with Art Wynwood, we will once again witness the synergy between individuals interested in fine art and those interested in luxury real estate.”

About Christie’s International Real Estate

Christie’s International Real Estate is an invitation-only Affiliate network composed of the world’s most proven and qualified real estate specialists. The company has offices in London, New York, Hong Kong, Beverly Hills, Chicago, and Palm Beach; and approximately 127 global affiliates with 25,000 real estate professionals in 40 countries.  For additional information about Christie’s International Real Estate, please visit www.christiesrealestate.com.

About Art Wynwood

Art Wynwood, Miami’s five-day International Contemporary Art Fair, will take place President's Day Weekend, Feb. 14 - 28, 2013, in the spacious 100,000-square-foot Art Miami Pavilion, which attracted more than 60,000 attendees during the 2012 edition of Art Miami. Art Wynwood will feature 70 international galleries featuring emerging, cutting edge, contemporary and modern works and will have its own distinct identity and design. A unique feature is the highlight of street art, murals, pop surrealism and other genres from the Lobrow movement. Art Wynwood is perfectly positioned to further the growing worldwide recognition of this movement by providing the enthusiast and seasoned art world traveler alike a distinctive opportunity to explore, learn and collect what is fast becoming the most significant art movement of our times.