Luxury Real Estate

By Garey De Martini of Hill & Co. 

San Francisco, CA – May 14, 2009 – In the heart of North Beach, 567 Vallejo, comprised of four brand new luxury condominiums and one luxury penthouse, has been just recently completed. North Beach, ranked one of the 10 best neighborhoods in the nation by the New York Times, combines old world flavors with contemporary sensibilities.

It is extremely rare for a new development to be built in North Beach. City and neighborhood officials are justifiably concerned with maintaining the character and quality of the neighborhood. The approval process for new developments is rigorous, and consequently the few developments that are approved and completed are extraordinary.

Each luxurious home at 567 Vallejo offers 2 or 3 bedrooms, 2.5 or 3 baths, parking, top-of-the-line amenities as well as hardwood floors, granite countertops, chef’s kitchen, downtown views and more. The penthouse also has 3 private view decks. A common area roof deck offers even more views of the St. Francis of Assisi Church, St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Coit Tower, the Bay Bridge and waters of the bay.

In the warmth of the neighborhood’s favorable weather, residents will have the opportunity to walk around the corner to the famous North Beach Restaurant for a great Italian dinner or stroll over to Washington Square to take in an art show or the North Beach Festival. It is certainly an enviable lifestyle.

This is a rare chance to enjoy the old world charms of the neighborhood, while living in a world-class contemporary, luxury home.

Hill & Co. agents Lora Petroni and Stephanie Ahlberg represent the developer in the sale of these condominiums. They can be reached at (415) 321-4286 and (415) 321-4232 respectively.

Hill & Co.

Founded in 1956, Hill & Co. Real Estate is a San Francisco brokerage long associated with the City’s finest properties. With three offices and nearly 100 full-time agents, the company enables clients to successfully navigate San Francisco’s complex real estate market. Two additional Hill & Co. offices provide property management and rental services. For more information, visit www.hill-co.com.

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Emerald Monkey Eco Luxe Resort & Residences is one of the newest developments to be announced in the Caribbean. This one-of-a- kind development is located in the Archipelago region of Bocas del Toro, in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Panama. The development has been designed to be the first luxury “Zero Carbon Footprint Project” in the world.

You can’t help but to fall in love with the warm people and beautiful islands of the Archipelagos of Bocas del Toro. It’s one of the finest locations in the Caribbean. The islands offer a great diversity of breathtaking attractions including the amazing white sand beaches, magnificent coral reefs in crystal clear water, and magical mountainous rainforests.

Emerald Monkey sits on 80 acres of lush green foliage in tropical setting. Phase one includes 76 unique Balinese villas with indoor outdoor living. The villas are built in Bali by native craftsmen, and then disassembled and shipped to the island. Each villa boasts custom designed Balinese décor.



 

The residences are accompanied with five-star amenities. These include the “Banjar” Village which is filled with antique Balinese shops, two saltwater pools, spectacular coral reef diving, a world class anti-ageing rejuvenation Spa, two beaches, a sunken Bali village for snorkelling, two miles of walking trails, family activities center, on site restaurants, and even a meditation temple to watch the sun rise and set.

The developer is committed to build a luxury eco friendly community. Their inspiration came from the Balinese way of life that people should live at one with nature. Through use

of sustainable and renewable resources along with hydro-electric power, the team of Emerald Monkey will take its first step towards creating the first luxury “Zero Carbon Footprint Project”.

Construction has already started on Emerald Monkey, and the resort is scheduled for opening in summer 2010.

Villas start at mid $500’s to over $2.5 million.

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com ,email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Tim Morgan of Cluttons Barbados

Property prices in Barbados are appreciating at between 10 – 15% per year at the middle of the market and often even higher at the luxury end, even during these harder economic times. The property market remains in a stage of growth and has been driven by a strong economy and well established tourism industry. Barbados also has fantastic amenities, golf courses, spas and restaurants with direct flights from major cities and let us not forget the great climate and beaches!. In recent months we have seen a considerable upturn in the high end market and we can only think that people are becoming less patient with the lifestyle in the UK…This has all led to a winning formula for British buyers.

In the recorded history of property on the island, property values have never declined. Unlike larger countries where property values have come under pressure from issues such as the financial downturn, Barbados property values have continued to show significant strength. It should be noted that the middle market developer or homeowner is now a little more flexible and will entertain some negotiation, however the property market in Barbados is currently holding its own.

It is widely believed that property in Barbados is owned by the rich and famous. Although this is still the case, over the years the market has spread and diversified with prices ranging from US$400,000 to US$40,000,000.

The west coast has some of the highest property prices in the world and now the south coast is seeing extreme expansion, development and growth due to fantastic beaches, amenities and lower prices.

Tim Morgan, managing director of Cluttons Barbados said: “Barbados is truly a beachfront island paradise with some of the most beautiful properties in the world. The market is currently strong, expanding and very exciting.”

The “Platinum” or West Coast

The west coast of Barbados begins on the outskirts of Bridgetown (Capital of Barbados) in the south and extends northward to Harrisons in the parish of St. Lucy at the northern tip of the island.

With the Four Seasons luxury residences and hotel under construction at Pile Bay, close to Batt’s Rock on the southern end of the west coast and the Portico condominiums very close by at Prospect St. James, this has shifted the critical mass of luxury property from the centrally located Holetown area where the Sandy Lane and Royal Westmoreland properties are located. There are a number of other west coast luxury beachfront developments on this stretch of coast with prices ranging from US$1m – US$10m.

Royal Westmoreland and Sandy Lane are currently the premier residential golf resorts on the west coast, with two more major golf developments currently well underway at Apes Hill and Banyan Tree. Barbados is very quickly becoming a major golf destination within the Caribbean and world. The Apes Hill development is located in an extremely beautiful part of the island that overlooks the west coast and in some parts, the east coast as well. One can purchase a one third acre plot of land for approximately US$500,000 and then have a villa designed and built for you. Banyan Tree has plans to build a five star resort that will encompass approximately 180 luxury villas starting at approximately US$3m each. Royal Westmoreland is an extremely well established prestigious golf resort with a host of wealthy and famous owners. The prices at Royal Westmoreland start at around US$520,000.

Heading northward along the west coast, there are numerous townhouse and condominium developments in the Mullins, St. Peter area, most of which are not directly on the beach but within easy walking distance to the beach starting around US$750,000.

Port St. Charles is a luxury residential marina development located just north of the historical Speightstown. One could purchase a resale villa directly on the beach for US$4m, however one bedroom apartments do start from around US$1m. The Barbados government has just announced a joint venture project with the Rosewood Hotel Group of the USA to build a five star hotel and villas project at the now defunct naval base at Harrisons Point at the northern end of the west coast. Looking further in the developer’s field, Cluttons has a 240 acre parcel of ocean front land that forms a part of the Harrison’s plantation for sale at US$50m

There are a number of new projects breaking ground on the Platinum west coast including Beachlands, a luxury US$200m development being planned by The Lewis Trust, who are also the owners of the River Island retail chain. In addition, it has been reported that Bruce Ritchie and Nick Leslau have teamed up and purchased a beachfront site to build a multi million dollar high end luxury residential development.

The market is currently strong and exciting on the prestigious west coast of Barbados.

The South Coast

The south coast begins at Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown and heads in an easterly direction towards East point on the Atlantic east coast.

The south coast has seen tremendous growth within the last five years. There are a number of new developments under construction and the prices are lower than on the west coast, which suit the middle market and investment purchaser very well.

Higher end developments include The Palm Beach Condominiums which are spacious and offer very good value with quality finishes. These units are 2,200 square feet and larger and start at US$950,000. The Sapphire Beach Condominiums and White Sands Villas are two very good examples of new developments in the heart of the south coast. They both have direct beach access and start at US$700,000 for a one bedroom unit.

Prices on the south coast range from US$350,000 – US$2,000,000.

With real estate values declining in some of the world’s more established and developed economies, many investors are seeking countries where property values are still climbing. Barbados offers very good property investment possibilities as the island is stable and growing and the south coast is still very much affordable.

The East Coast

The east coast is on the stunning Atlantic side of Barbados and there are clear indications that will soon be starting to see plans for hotels and property developments on this side of the island. Watch this space.

The rental market for villas and condominiums is expanding and generating a good rate of return for homeowners. A conservative net return of 8 – 15% is achievable through a good marketing strategy and solid property management programme. Full service luxury villas can be rented that include chefs, housekeepers, butlers and even a water sports boat drivers if required. Most rental customers become repeat clients so the market is renewing and growing, which is positive. Flights to Barbados are cheaper than people think ranging from US$600 which is another fundamental reason why tourism across Barbados is growing.

Barbados continues to diversify with world class restaurants and a host of activities including sailing, golf, sports fishing, tennis, polo and surfing and visitor numbers continue to grow steadily. Everyone loves the island for its friendly people, laid back lifestyle and warm, Caribbean flavour. There are even home comforts in Barbados with supermarkets stocking Waitrose and Marks and Spencer products. In fact Barbados is known as “Little England” as there are quite a few similarities and an obvious English influence.

History has shown that during harder financial times and even recessions Barbados is effected for the shortest period only whilst people are uncertain and decide not to make a decision. Then as people start to make sense of things and even become fed up they tend to want to be in or buy a home in Barbados. Not to add insult to injury or be disrespectful during this current global financial climate, Barbados has in the past always performed well as more established and international markets are in decline and then Barbados again benefits as these more international markets bounce back. We feel that it comes down to a few major factors;

Supply & Demand

Barbados offers 430 square kilometres / 166 square miles of natural beauty. Barbados has a vast selection of luxury and investment homes and although the island is not overdeveloped it is limited in land capacity in comparison to most places in the world. Barbados is simply stunning and provides every visitor and homeowner an apparelled experience. Barbados is certainly a haven for luxury, enjoyment and relaxation.

Easy & Direct Access -

Direct flights via all major airlines arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados at least once daily from most major airports in Europe and North America especially the UK, US and Canada. Grantley Adams International Airport has recently undergone a US$150m upgrade and expansion. Direct flights into Barbados make access very easy for travellers.

Secure, Proven and Established Investment with Considerable Growth Potential -

We are all seeing the decline of stock markets, currencies, bank / retirement savings and property values and as this happens there is a need for a stronger and proven investment and Barbados property offers just that with all the benefits of a great lifestyle. Due to these trends it is said that there are only two things to invest in during a recession or depression Gold and Property in Barbados.

“Cash is King” and this has always benefited Barbados as the super rich enjoy our beautiful island - The West Coast of Barbados is well known for its celebrity and ultra wealthy visitors and homeowners such as Simon Cowell, Mick Jagger, Hugh Grant, David & Victoria Beckham, Wayne & Colleen Rooney, Princes William & Harry, Queen Elizabeth II, The Blairs, Sir Cliff Richard, Jeremy Clarkson, Tom Cruise, Tiger Woods, Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney, Michael Schumacher, Amy Winehouse, The Rausing Family, Sir Philip Green, Michael Winner, David Frost, Madonna, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lulu, Rihanna (born in Barbados), Sir Elton John, Richard Branson, Andrei Shevchenko, Sir Alex Ferguson, Roman Abramovich, Sting, Armani, The late Pavarotti……The list is simply endless as are the private jets lining the run ways…. Expedia voted Barbados as the number one destination in the world to spot a “celebrity”. The reason we list only a tiny number of the more well known names is not to sound like a cheap tabloid but to indicate the support, investment and attraction we have as an island. This is the reality of the market place in Barbados and it is growing and now thankfully the market has started to diversify and expand into the middle markets. The security within our property market is that prices remain stable and grow as owners are not desperate to sell due to their wealthy and the middle markets are able to secure rental income to offset the related costs as Barbados tourism is also still doing well.

and Lifestyle -

Our internal research has shown that people tend to review their own “lifestyle” or standard of living during harder financial times. Maybe it’s a time to stop for a moment and review everything. Many of our clients say that the personal sacrifices and work loads are far more appealing when living in or looking forward to their next trip to Barbados. In addition, a growing number of our clients are choosing Barbados as the perfect spot in the world to retire. Barbados can offer everything to everyone - relaxation, luxury living, modern communication and technology, modern and established banking, offshore, legal and business systems, professionals and facilities, international fine dining and local Caribbean cuisine restaurants, modern amenities, fantastic golf, polo, horse racing; modern VIP cinemas, Cable TV (with English Football & Rugby), great bars for every age, stunning beaches, water sports and of course the all year round sunny climate which allows for great outside living. Barbados is a very safe island with lovely people and an extremely low crime rate which is why Barbados is also so popular with families.

Notes:

Cluttons LLP is an independent partnership of chartered surveyors founded in 1765. With a network of offices in the UK, Europe, Caribbean, Middle East and South Africa, Cluttons LLP offers a wide range of professional property management, agency and consultancy services across the commercial and residential sectors, for both investors and occupiers. For further information, please see: www.cluttons.com

 By Arnaud Bouzinac of Zaya LLC

On January 28, 2009, Zaya LLC, the boutique luxury real estate developer behind award winning Nurai Island, revealed its Dubai office, a new addition to its branch in Abu Dhabi, and the first in a series of tactical steps the UAE-based developer is taking to reinforce its position within the luxury real estate market in 2009.

With the establishment of its innovative workplace, Zaya is confirming its commitment to updating investors on various fronts of the progress of its debut project Nurai, as well as reinforcing its promise for the timely development and construction progress of the exclusive island.

Located in the Jumeirah 1 area of Dubai, Zaya’s office has been themed to correspond to various lifestyle experiences and is designed to replicate the luxury feel of Nurai. It brings together a range of interactive tools to explore Nurai in finer detail including material finishes as well as construction schedule and project delivery milestones. In addition the office will enable visitors and clients to receive updates on future developments, and get insightful advice from the sales consultants, all in a soothing and relaxing environment.

Situated off the shores of Abu Dhabi, capital city of the UAE, Nurai is the product of Zaya’s holistic approach to high end real estate development with a rigorous, customer-focused process at its heart. It unifies insights of thorough market studies and the expertise of a dynamic and practiced international team; every project goes through a thorough development process of various stages to ensure a true understanding of the intrinsic value of each project.

Nurai is the first in a series of unique projects being developed by Zaya for the upscale property market. The company's extensive research has shown that there is a shortage of this type of developments, a category that Zaya will remain focused on with plans for expansion into the Middle East, Asia and Europe.  

About Zaya

Zaya LLC is a joint venture between Tasameem & Assas Real Estate, whose portfolio is in excess of US$ 15 Billion, formed to create a distinct brand of iconic property developments. Nurai, Zaya’s first entry into the Abu Dhabi market offers an exclusive community of limited edition beach-front estates and water villas along with all the services and comforts of a boutique resort. Zaya brings together a world-class team poised to capture the imagination of the world and is set to create similar stunning icons across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

By John Christie of H.G. Christie Ltd.

Based on the steady sales activity we have witnessed over the course of the year, we at HGChristie are of the opinion that the real estate market in the Bahamas is remaining relatively strong, especially for sales in the luxury markets. Speculative, high risk lending practices are non-existent in our country, and additionally, the government is very selective in its approval processes for new developments. As a result of these factors we do not see the high levels of market saturation which we understand to be common in today's troubled U.S. market.

The high-end residential market in the Bahamas has continued to perform steadily and pricing in luxury developments have ranged from $2,000,000 per lot to around $16,000,000 with the sizes of the properties varying. In new developments alone this year there have been $370,000,000 dollars in sales. These include the Albany development (through a culmination of pre-sales push), Bakers Bay, the Residences at Atlantis, and The Ritz Carlton in Abaco. The success of these developments is due mainly to the fact that the developers had a high level of pre-existing funding in place and also to their ability to perform as promised. Another strength has been the rising demand for private, undeveloped islands. During this downturn in the world economy, people with means have been struggling to find safe places to secure their wealth. This has lead them to invest their money in the one commodity that will not disappear or come into dispute - real estate. In general, sales prices have remained consistent but some motivated sellers have reduced their sales prices due to being over-extended in the U.S. market. The possession of development entitlements would further enhance the value and demand for an undeveloped island. Overall, we remain optimistic as our sales continue on this current trend.

By Serge Cowan

Cyprus offers a superb tax system whereby foreign pensions will only ever be taxed at 5 percent – maximum. “This is exceptional,” says Serge Cowan, MD at Unique Living, specialist property agents offering supreme luxury and lifestyle homes around the world including luxury homes for sale in Limassol.



“When looking for a retirement home, one has to consider not just what the country has to offer but also where you stand financially. Cyprus must come high on people’s agenda because it has so many benefits”.

In some countries you could be paying tax in your home country on pension income of 40 percent or even higher, so the 5 percent is something that really needs to be taken into consideration when buying abroad.

Cyprus also has many other benefits: good year-round weather, low crime rate, you drive on the left, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, quality golf courses, European Union membership and superbly located at the east end of the Mediterranean, providing convenient access to the Middle East and Far East as well as Europe.

In addition, the Government of Southern Cyprus is making big strides to be a serious contender in the world of “movers and shakers.” Developments are increasingly for the luxury market, and soon to be released is a Marina Resort in Limassol. This is to include a manmade island for residential villas, plus there is rumoured to be a 5-star hotel and berths for 600 privately owned boats. All of which is to be in the heart of the old town of Limassol and its rapidly growing commercial and business centre.

“Southern Cyprus is rapidly changing and those who are astute can be part of this altering picture – one that is creating a supremely elegant and sophisticated island to appeal to discerning buyers from around the world. A shrewd buyer looking at the current market place will not be disappointed with Cyprus and in particular luxury real estate in Limassol,” concludes Serge.


Editor’s Note:
Founded in 2002 by Serge Cowan and Sophie Hammond, Unique Living’s portfolio of luxury properties for sale includes new property developments, resale property, villas, townhouses, penthouses and apartments in prime locations around the world. Unique Living is headquartered in London and it is a member of Who's Who in Luxury Real Estate. Let’s see, in the past week or so we’ve received blog entries on Costa Rica, Mexico, the Caribbean, Australia, Vanuatu, France and now Cyprus. This is very exciting. Keep checking the Luxury Real Estate Blog for great information like this. Also, feel free to submit your own blog entries for consideration. The photo of the Limassol, Cyprus shoreline is from www.flickr.com/photos/mamchenkov/281322233 and it is the copyright of Leonid Mamchenkov.

By Matthew Woon

A slice of the tropical paradise which inspired James A Michener’s iconic Tales of the South Pacific is up for grabs with Vanuatu’s groundbreaking luxury development, the Lapita Plantation.

The vision of plantation owners Matthew Woon and his mother Sheryn von Schwerin, Lapita is an ecologically sustainable lifestyle development with a French colonial theme. Set on 328 hectares of land and fringed by 6 kilometres of coastline, the five-stage luxury lifestyle resort development called Lapita Plantation will feature 205 plantation villas, two luxury resort complexes, a large outdoor pool, restaurants, cocktail bar, Balinese-style day spa, golf practice range, specialty shops, and facilities for scuba diving, horse riding, kayaking and sailing.

In order to promote ecologically sustainable development of the site, land and villa allotments will be offered strictly as limited “staged” or “precinct” releases over the next 5 to 7 years. Each precinct will be identified by landscaping designed to create individuality and ensure harmony with the local environment and architectural features, and positioned to take full advantage of their natural surroundings and magnificent water views. Crushed coral pathways for pedestrians, private buggies and bicycles mean that no villa is more than 10 minutes from one of the resort centers.

The high-vaulted ceilings and wide, shaded wraparound verandas define the interior space while inviting spectacular water and distant mountain views into the heart of each residence.

High-speed internet, voiceover IP and satellite television will also be available in each villa, enabling busy professionals to take a much-needed break in one of the world’s most idyllic tropical locations while still keeping a hand on the pulse of their business. At Lapita, you get the best of both worlds – a tropical retreat just a mouse click away from the real-time outside world.

Tastefully selected interior furnishing packages will be available to add the finishing touch to these superb luxury villas offering the ultimate in resort style living in superb tropical surrounds.


Editor’s Note:
Matthew Woon is the Developer of the Lapita Plantation in Vanuatu, located in the South Pacific Ocean east of Australia. He is a new member of the international Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate network. It’s difficult to add more to what’s already been said about this marvelous luxury property. I’d just like to point out what a fascinating place Vanuatu appears to be. From the few photos above, you can certainly get a taste for some of the beauty awaiting you if you want to invest in a luxury home on the Lapita Plantation.

By Iain Stewart

As recently reported by Nadine Hawa in her CNBC article “International Brands Eye Dubai Real Estate,” all eyes are on Dubai at this moment. In her article, Hawa notes that world-famous real-estate developer Donald Trump is particularly interested in “The Palm Jumeirah.” While many other international luxury brands are also seeking to build new luxury developments in Dubai, current new constructions, such as Verde Residences and Offices, are going totally green and present the most innovative eco-friendly technologies and amenities.

The Power of Green
Spanish for the color green, Verde symbolizes the very essence of life and all things living in perfect harmony with the elements. An expression that conjures up a sense of wellness and optimism for the future of our planet, Verde reinforces the eternal belief that making peace with nature is prerequisite to making peace in the world and finding peace within VERDE.

Verde – The Project
The next big thing in contemporary lifestyle, Verde elevates environmental consciousness to a whole new level. Towering over the clear blue skies of the world’s first purpose-built maritime centre that is Dubai Maritime City, Verde Residences and Offices are designed to achieve Gold Standard rating (LEED). It combines the best of luxury and green engineering to offer you a new investment opportunity in the most exciting freehold waterfront community in the heart of Dubai.

Like the prow of a ship, the elegantly curved glass tower that is Verde Residences points directly towards the harbor, enhancing its relationship to the ocean and marina, and its prominence within Dubai Maritime City. Masterfully designed to open up panoramic views to the ocean, Verde’s orientation and shape allows it to shield itself from the strongest solar gain yet harness the wind, and features an integrated wind turbine at its top, where wind speeds are the greatest.



Verde Residences
The 40-story residence tower includes luxurious 2- & 3-bedroom residential units and 4-bedroom deluxe harbor-side townhomes. With a swimming pool, kids’ pool, gymnasium and world-class retail and leisure facilities, Verde Residences offer a plethora of amenities that bring day and night alive.

Verde Offices
At the heart of Dubai Maritime City, the world’s first purpose-built maritime centre, Verde Offices set a new international standard for a high-performance building. Shaped to harness the power of natural forces, Verde Offices utilize advanced technologies and climate appropriate building systems to offer tenant profitability through increased productivity. With podium offices and the unique sky garden, Verde Offices offer various exercise and leisure spaces that are embellished with trees, plants and generous water features; an oasis that promises a respite within the confines of the high-end business experience.

The Location
Dubai Maritime City, the world’s first purpose-built maritime centre, is a 227-hectare, fully-equipped, iconic and multi-dimensional maritime centre providing a world-class infrastructure and environment for the global maritime industry and related sectors. Dubai Maritime City is driven by the needs of both local and international marine and maritime communities for a dedicated hub.

Located at the heart of Dubai, next to Port Rashid, Dubai Maritime City capitalizes on the strengths of Dubai as a regional and international hub for trade and commerce, redefining the global maritime industry. It will provide a strategic location for the maritime industry sectors across the full spectrum of maritime business, maritime management, maritime services, maritime retail and recreation, maritime education and research, ship and yacht repair and maintenance.

Green Technology
Buildings can have a profound effect on the environment, and the way we live our everyday lives. And Green Building brings to life the philosophy that architecture must strike a balance with its environment. It is the practice of increasing the efficiency with which buildings use resources – energy, water and materials, while reducing the building’s impact on the environment through better site planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance. Verde, like a classic Green Building, takes advantage of renewable resources, through solar hot water, photovoltaic cells, a grey water system, and an efficient glass facade with integral shading devices, to name a few of the techniques to achieve not only ecological but aesthetic harmony between a structure and its surrounding environment, natural and constructed. The triumph of Green Building practices and sustainable systems in Verde can reduce electricity usage and carbon emissions to such an extent that it is as good as planting over 300,000 trees or taking 340 cars off the road.


Editor’s Note:
Iain Stewart is the Luxury Specialist at Whole World of Property. He is a highly respected figure in the international property industry, specializing mostly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, London, Berlin, Caribbean, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and India. He can be contacted at +44 (0)207 788 7994 or +44 07910 891 917. This is great – a blog entry on Dubai just after we heard from an expert on another city rising in international importance, Marrakech, Morocco. It’s great to see so many Luxury Real Estate members enjoying success in their global markets