Scott Lutgert, CEO of The Lutgert Companies, parent company of Linville Ridge Sotheby’s, addressed some of the reasons that are driving the peak in sales.

“The reluctance of the second-home buyer to move ahead has changed with a more upbeat consumer confidence with the improvement of the economy. Many have realized that now is a great time to buy that vacation getaway they have wanted, and Linville Ridge is a very appealing choice. With the Club opening on May 1st, we are looking forward to the 2012 Season.”

Linville Ridge boasts the highest elevation golf course east of the Mississippi River. Of the retreat’s 1,800 acres, 157 are dedicated to golf. There are numerous home styles from which to choose and amenities that include multiple dining venues with an array of cuisine from formal to casual. Hiking, tennis, and many other facilities and social activities are offered to residents.

“We are an established community, with a solid foundation compared to a new startup. My father and I came to Linville in 1978 to establish one of the world’s finest golfing retreats in the mountains of North Carolina,” said Mr. Lutgert. “Generations of my family continue to enjoy all of the treasures of “The Ridge.” My commitment to continue to provide only the best is seen not only in our award-winning renovation of our golf course; we redesigned our sales center this year, and joined with Sotheby’s International Realty late last year, giving us a more prominent global presence.”

The right summer home, views and activities are part of the equation posed to those seeking the right seasonal getaway. The social aspect of meeting new friends in a resort atmosphere is an important component. New homeowners, David and Pam Furr, found Linville an easy choice when it came to being a neighborly resort as well as a luxury golf destination.

“We had been looking for a mountain home in the northeast for three years,” said Pam Furr. “We hadn’t seriously considered Linville Ridge until a friend invited us to join them on the mountain for a first-hand experience. We were very surprised when we saw that they had the best views, the best quality homes, the best value and the friendliest members of all the private clubs.”

David shared similar sentiments about their experience at Linville Ridge.

“While we were on the golf course, resident members were very cordial and gave us a warm welcome as they learned we might be new members, “said David. “It was just the kind of experience we were hoping to find. We really love it here.”

The Lutgert Companies is also developing the luxury residential communities of the Estuary at Grey Oaks and the Strada at Mercato in Naples, and the High-Rises at Bonita Bay in Bonita Springs and is looking forward to the upcoming Linville Ridge season, which runs from May through October.

About Linville Ridge
Linville Ridge is an established private residential mountaintop community near Blowing Rock, North Carolina. A short drive from Charlotte, Raleigh/Durham, Winston-Salem and Asheville, Linville Ridge offers a range of ownership opportunities from estate homes, mountain cottages, town homes and homesites, through their on-site brokerage, Linville Ridge Sotheby’s International Realty. Developed by The Lutgert Companies in 1982, Linville Ridge boasts the highest elevation golf course east of the Rockies which was redesigned by Bobby Weed Golf Design in 2009; five dining venues; eight Har-Tru® tennis courts; a regulation-sized croquet court; heated mountainside swimming pool; hiking trails; youth activities; and full service hair salon and spa. Linville Ridge Country Club offers a variety of membership categories for golf and social members alike. For more information, visit www.linvilleridge.com.

About Linville Ridge Sotheby’s International Realty and The Lutgert Companies
Linville Ridge and Linville Ridge Sotheby’s International Realty are divisions of The Lutgert Companies. The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises. The company has developed two golf course communities, various shopping centers and office buildings including Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, The Village on Venetian Bay, The Northern Trust Building, and most recently, Mercato, a mixed-use center in Naples, Florida. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Premier Sotheby’s International Realty whose offices are located from Marco Island to Clearwater with headquarters in Naples, Florida.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

The sleek sophisticated tower had a year-ending sales volume of $30million, and a record-setting 25 total sales, making it the top selling new luxury high-rise in Southwest Florida in 2011 based upon information compiled through the Multiple Listing System.

“For second-home buyers, Tavira at Bonita Bay is highly valued for its location and views, amenities and The Lutgert Companies stamp ensures quality is top of the line,” said Kendall.

“Last fall, we examined strategies to motivate buyers to make purchasing decisions as the economy began to rebound.  We adjusted the price structure to reflect the current market, included flooring and backgrounds in the purchase price and an enclosed garage,” said Kendall. “Our Canadian neighbors are capitalizing on their strong dollar to live in sunny Southwest Florida and look here to purchase property as an investment.”

Tavira at Bonita Bay, created by The Lutgert Companies, is a twenty-six story high-rise with single family home comforts like a gas fireplace in living rooms and screened lanai with grill and summer kitchen.  Floor plans range from 3,500 to 4,100 square feet of air-conditioned living space.  Characteristic of The Lutgert Companies high-rises, windows are nearly floor to ceiling in height offering multidirectional views, which adds beauty and value to your home.

“Regardless of where they come from, people have clearly responded very favorably to the incentives and we are now 50% percent sold,” continued Kendall. As these are limited time incentives, buyers should not hesitate to get in on these ground-breaking offers and lock-in on current pricing and a residence of their choice.”

Tavira joins the other five exclusive Lutgert Companies high-rises on an exclusive corridor in Bonita Bay. The towers dot a premium expanse overlooking a nature preserve, Estero Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Tavira is packed with deluxe amenities highly desired by the second home buyer.  The bountiful recreational and social-minded activities at Tavira can be compared to a resort with an expansive pool, poolside cabanas, steam and massage rooms, and a rare amenity of a rooftop sunset level for all Tavira residents, complete with bar and seating.   Newly added to the lineup of building amenities is virtual golf.  Residents can get in some practice swings right in the comfort and convenience of the building before heading out to the links; Bonita Bay has five championship golf courses for members.

Also, coming soon will be a complete design center within Tavira. Residents can peruse an array of flooring and finishes in the ease and convenience of the building, saving them substantial time, which is itself considered a luxury in the fast pace of today’s world.

Kendall remarked that the financial stability of a member-owned club has been another selling factor for buyers. Residents may purchase memberships to have usage of the clubhouse, five championship golf courses, and tennis and swim center.  Through separate membership, the marina cub has a full-service marina with storage, dining facilities and egress to the Gulf of Mexico via the Imperial River and Estero Bay.  As owner-members, residents can participate in the function and management of the club and its facilities.

Tavira is the sixth of eight planned high-rises by The Lutgert Companies in Bonita Bay.

The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises.

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, the real estate division of The Lutgert Companies, is the exclusive representative for The High-Rises at Bonita Bay. Residences at Tavira start at $1,200,000. Models are open daily. Call 239-495-1105 or visit www.BonitaBay.com for more information.

Completed in September 2011 and sold in December 2011, the custom home was listed for $6,700,000.
Specifics of the property include 8,800 square feet under air, six bedrooms, including a private two-story apartment, eight full baths and two half-baths, a library and loft area.

“The expedited sale of this custom-built home speaks to the continued interest and confidence of the luxury homebuyer to purchase in The Estuary,” said Todd Kendall, Director of Sales for The Lutgert Companies.
“The Estuary has a city location with the feel of country club living. The homesites are exceptional in size with views of lake and golf course—there is no area in Naples to rival its attributes. “

Additional highlights of The Cambridge include a city-chic kitchen with black slab granite counters contrasted by stainless steel accents and white cabinetry. The island is generous in size to use as a food prep area and breakfast bar with chair seating.

The family room boasts a dramatic coffered ceiling and opens to a spacious outdoor living area that includes a summer kitchen, fireplace, pool and spa. The master suite has an inviting sitting area and his-and-her baths. Rounding out the unique characteristics offered in this home include an elevator, a private guest casita, and 4-car plus golf cart garage.

New construction activity in this golfing community continues at a swift pace with custom homes currently under construction by builders BCB Homes, London Bay Homes, Covelli Development Group, and Harwick Homes. Five additional homes are slated for construction to commence this season.

The Estuary is joint venture between The Lutgert Companies and Barron Collier Companies, renowned leaders in the luxury real estate industry. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is the exclusive sales and marketing representative of Estuary at Grey Oaks, and division of The Lutgert Companies. Models are open daily. Visit the Estuary at Grey Oaks on-site Sales Center located at 1220 Gordon River Trail. The Estuary is located off Golden Gate Parkway just west of Airport-Pulling Road or call 239-261-3148. www.estuaryatgreyoaks.com.

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located from Marco Island to Bonita Springs to Clearwater with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises. The Lutgert Companies is also developing the high-rises at Bonita Bay. In addition, The Lutgert Companies has developed two golf course communities, various shopping centers and office buildings including Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, The Village on Venetian Bay, The Promenade, The Northern Trust Building, and most recently, Mercato, a mixed-use center in North Naples. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in Sarasota, Longboat Key and Venice.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

“We are pleased to add this project to our portfolio of fine homes,” said Judy Green, President and CEO of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. “It is a one-of-a-kind in Naples, and we are proud to be recognized as the leading luxury real estate company to represent this new luxury home development.”

Naples Casamore is comprised of twelve new homes that range from 3,800 square feet under air to 6,500 total square feet. The multi-level homes come complete with a four-car garage, a pool and spa, an in-home elevator and a boat dock on Hurricane Harbor with access to the Gulf of Mexico.  Owners have private, gated beach access directly across the boulevard.

“We aimed for a fresh look with open floor plans and spaces that transition with ease from one to the next,” said Gulfshore Development’s managing director Ryan Lang.  “The high ceilings and extensive use of windows bring in natural light, so desirable here in Southwest Florida.  The location, inclusion of a boat slip, maintenance-free living and the ability to literally walk to the beach make Casamore a truly unique vacation home.”

Construction is by BCB Homes, and design is by Stofft Cooney Architects in West Indies inspired style. Each of the twelve homes has its own unique facade to establish an individual look yet cohesive to the overall aesthetic.

Six homes face Hurricane Harbor and six face Gulf Shore Boulevard creating an intimate enclave with themed boulevard, street lighting, and lush landscaping.

Naples Casamore homes have all CBS steel-reinforced concrete construction, deep pile foundation, poured concrete second floors, R-19 spray foam roof insulation, R-11 unfaced fiberglass batt insulation in interior walls and drop ceilings, Ultra-Aire 150 dehumidification system, energy efficient HVAC, and light performance, Low E impact resistant glass in Anderson windows and propane gas tank installed.

Interior features include tray and coffered ceilings per plan, wood flooring, porcelain tile, custom mahogany front door, Brookhaven Inset cabinetry with slow close drawers, imported granite countertops, backsplash, walk-in pantry and energy efficient Viking appliances.

Two professional designer furnished and decorated models are open daily. The Naples Casamore sales center is located at 1748 Gulf Shore Blvd. N. For more information, call 239.963.4242 or visit naplescasamore.com. Prices start at $ 2,800,000.

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located in Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Sanibel, Captiva and Clearwater with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises. The Lutgert Companies is also developing the high-rises at Bonita Bay. In addition, The Lutgert Companies has developed two golf course communities, various shopping centers and office buildings including Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, The Village on Venetian Bay, The Promenade, The Northern Trust Building, and most recently, Mercato, a mixed-use center in North Naples. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in Sarasota, Longboat Key and Venice.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

Ms. Rogers, a Certified Luxury Home Specialist, will focus on luxury real estate sales from Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s office at 760 North Collier Blvd, at the Esplanade Shops, on Marco Island.

Previously, Ms. Rogers worked for Keller Williams Realty, where she consistenly ranked as one of their highest top producers and earned numerous Real Estate performance awards including Sales Team of the year multiple times as well as Gold and Platinum awards. Ms. Rogers also served on agent leadership boards.

A longtime Marco Island resident, she is actively involved in the community and was honored with an award for the 2009 “Women in Business”, and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

Ms. Rogers is a graduate of Sacremento State Unversity. Before her career in real estate, she enjoyed a successful career in customer service with a major airline.

She holds numerous Real Estate certifications to include her advancedCustom Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), Council of Residential Specialists Certification (CRS), Graduate Real Estate Certification(GRI), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Accredited Buyers Representative Certification(ABR) the highly sought after Million Dollar Guild designation.

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located between Bonita Springs and Marco Island with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in the Sarasota region.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

The channel features three categories of video: the Spotlight section provides candid views into some of the Sotheby’s International Realty® network’s most exceptional properties and their lifestyles; the Property section contains videos on the many homes represented by the network; and the Destination section spotlights the many luxury markets served by the network around the world.

The YouTube channel also showcases the latest news from the brand’s Facebook and Twitter pages, offers direct links to the Sotheby’s Auction House’s videos and the Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s official website, and provides a lifestyle and amenities video search.

“Video is not a unique medium in real estate marketing but we are leveraging it in an innovative way,” said Wendy Purvey, chief marketing officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “Our YouTube channel was designed to provide consumers with an inside view of some of the world’s most extraordinary properties by focusing on the distinctive lifestyle and amenities they offer at any price point. Consumers are looking to video now more than ever before as a research tool in the home-buying process, and YouTube, the No. 1 online video website, is where they are searching for video, with 60 percent of video streams happening there.”

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has more than 11,900 sales associates located in approximately 590 offices in 44 countries and territories worldwide.

“Now, consumers can learn more about the Naples area market and get an inside glimpse of the special lifestyle and amenities found in some of the world’s most exquisite homes,” said Judy Green, President and CEO of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. “The Sotheby’s International Realty YouTube channel enables us to offer our clients another powerful tool to market their homes. According to YouTube, 48 hours of video is uploaded there every minute. When you study that, this new channel substantiates consumers demand for video.”

In today’s evolving real estate market, home buyers and sellers need a dynamic, dedicated and knowledgeable agent. “You can have everything you want if you help people get what they want,” said Ms. Jones. “My only goal: to deliver the most professional experience imaginable to every client every day. That entails tirelessly studying the market, honing her skills and working closely with her clients. Every transaction is unique. I love the diversity and complexity of each project and I’m fascinated by the people I meet.”

Whether listing a luxury home or assisting an international buyer, Ms. Jones takes a full-service approach. “I relish the left brain/right brain aspect of my business,” she explains. “Good agents are creative in their marketing, appreciative of a home’s aesthetics, tuned into their client’s emotions and adept at analyzing data and managing a thousand details.”
Her tenacious work ethic and integrity are hallmarks of her success. “I follow my family’s mantra: work hard, set high standards, stick to your values and hold on to your sense of humor.”

Ms. Jones, an agent with the firm’s office at 390 Broad Avenue in Old Naples,  has been active in the real estate industry for ten years and  a Naples resident since 2002. Prior to her career in real estate, Ms. Jones held principal positions in advertising and management consulting firms in both St. Louis, MO and New York, NY.  In addition, she previously served as the Associate Dean at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.  Jones has conducted real estate transactions in excess of $135 million, and is also the recipient of Gulfshore Life Magazine’s Five-Star Agent Award for her commitment to client success.

Ms. Jones’ extensive education includes degrees from Smith College, Washington University and the School of Journalism at Columbia University.  Other licenses and accreditations include Certified Residential Specialist (CRS); Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR); Member, Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI); Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS); licensed Community Association Manager (CAM); and membership in NABOR, FAR and NAR.

In Naples, she was a member of Leadership Collier 2005, a graduate of Leadership NABOR 2004, and the NABOR Rising Star Award recipient for 2003-04.  She has served on a number of boards and councils including the Naples Historical Society, the Missouri Governor’s Economics Council, the Animal Protective Agency, the St. Louis Regional Child Care Partnership, and the St. Louis Public Schools Transition Subcommittee.  Ms. Jones is the first recipient of General Colin Powell’s Neighbor-to-Neighbor Award.

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located from Marco Island, FL to Bonita Springs to Sanibel and Captiva to Clearwater with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises. The Lutgert Companies is also developing the high-rises at Bonita Bay. In addition, The Lutgert Companies has developed two golf course communities, various shopping centers and office buildings including Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, The Village on Venetian Bay, The Promenade, The Northern Trust Building, and most recently, Mercato, a mixed-use center in North Naples. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in Sarasota, Longboat Key and Venice.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

This dynamic, three-day event provided a unique opportunity for all sales associates, managers and owners who are members of the Sotheby’s International Realty network to connect, exchange ideas and forge relationships designed to help build their businesses and drive new leads to their listings.

“The annual Global Networking Event provides a unique value to our firm and agents,” said Judy Green, President and CEO of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. “It allows our firm to share ideas and best practices with our fellow brand professionals from all over the world.  We also had the opportunity to learn more about the real estate business worldwide through informative breakout sessions on a variety of topics.”

Attending the event were Suzi Barton, Gary Blaine, Yvonne Blair, Michelle Burke-Phillips, John Coburn, Phil Collins, Scott Culbertson, Heidi Deen, Bernie Garabed, Judy Green, Harriet Harnar, Christopher Harrington, Joe Harris, Carol Johnson, Craig Jones, Michael Lawler, Mark Leone, Ginger Lickley, Michael Lickley, Patty Line, Jutta Lopez, Philip Maraschel, Cathy McCarthy, Sandra McCarthy-Meeks, Bradley Nelson, Jim Prange, Nikki Prange-Carroll, Larry Roorda, Marlene Suarez, Jean Tarkenton and Pam Umscheid.

The event was held October 24 to 27 at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach in Miami, Fla.  The keynote speaker was Aron Ralston, the inspiration for the film “127 Hours.”

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, which has offices from Marco Island, Florida north to Bonita Springs, with headquarters in Naples, offers exclusive Sotheby’s International Realty marketing, advertising and referral services designed to attract well-qualified buyers to the firm’s property listings. In addition, the firm and its clients benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house, which promotes real estate referral opportunities with auction house clientele.
As a Sotheby’s International Realty affiliate, the firm also has the unique ability to refer its real estate clientele to the auction house for jewelry, art, unique furniture and collectible appraisal services. Property listings from Premier Sotheby’s International Realty also are marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global Web site, as well as on the firm’s local website premiersothebys.com.

“The Global Networking Event enables Sotheby’s International Realty affiliates from around the world to join together to share their collective insights and experiences, highlighting the true strength of the Sotheby’s International Realty network” said Michael R. Good, chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “Every individual attending this conference is committed to working together to help us grow our network, and we appreciate their ongoing dedication and enthusiasm.  Attendees of this year’s event were able to network with their colleagues from all over the world and gather new ideas from leading industry experts.”

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located from Marco Island to Bonita Springs to Clearwater with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises. The Lutgert Companies is also developing the high-rises at Bonita Bay. In addition, The Lutgert Companies has developed two golf course communities, various shopping centers and office buildings including Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, The Village on Venetian Bay, The Promenade, The Northern Trust Building, and most recently, Mercato, a mixed-use center in North Naples. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in Sarasota, Longboat Key and Venice.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

Craig Jones

Jones will focus on luxury real estate sales from Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s office at 390 Broad Avenue, Naples.

Previously, Jones was with John R. Wood, Realtors. Prior to that, Jones held principal positions in advertising and management consulting firms in both St. Louis, MO and New York, NY. In addition, Jones previously served as the Associate Dean at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Active in the real estate industry for ten years, Jones became a Naples resident in 2002.

Jones has conducted real estate transactions in excess of $120 million, and is also the recipient of Gulfshore Life Magazine’s Five-Star Agent Award for her commitment to client success.

Jones’ extensive education includes degrees from Smith College, Washington University and the School of Journalism at Columbia University. Other licenses and accreditations include Certified Residential Specialist (CRS); Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR); Member, Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI); Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS); licensed Community Association Manager (CAM); and membership in NABOR, FAR and NAR.

In Naples, Jones was a member of Leadership Collier 2005, a graduate of Leadership NABOR 2004, and the NABOR Rising Star Award recipient for 2003-04. Jones has served on a number of boards and councils including the Naples Historical Society, the Missouri Governor’s Economics Council, the Animal Protective Agency, the St. Louis Regional Child Care Partnership, and the St. Louis Public Schools Transition Subcommittee. Ms. Jones is the first recipient of General Colin Powell’s Neighbor-to-Neighbor Award.

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located between Bonita Springs and Marco Island with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in the Sarasota region.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

On the facade, canopies in Premier Sotheby’s blue now replace the previous green awnings.

Inside, walls were painted in blue, and contrasted with a cream tone, granite has been added to the reception desk, and an agent workstation has been installed. Hanging throughout the lobby are paintings by renowned local artist, Paul Arsenault.

Sotheby’s custom racks were fastened on two walls to hold the numerous company marketing pieces, brochures and magazines.

Managing broker, Chris Harrington devised the office transformation. “We wanted the office to look professional but also be welcoming to our visiting clients and still capture the essence of Old Naples,” said Harrington. “A client walked in the other day and commented on how impressive the office looks and said his first reaction when he stepped in the door was to smile. We think that makes for a very good first impression!”

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is a division of The Lutgert Companies founded in 1984 by Chairman Scott F. Lutgert. The firm has offices strategically located between Bonita Springs and Marco Island with headquarters in Naples, FL. The Lutgert Companies has operated in Southwest Florida since 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert started the development of Park Shore, which includes 17 luxury high-rises. The Lutgert Companies is also developing the high-rises at Bonita Bay. In addition, The Lutgert Companies has developed two golf course communities, various shopping centers and office buildings including Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, The Village on Venetian Bay, The Promenade, The Northern Trust Building, and most recently, Mercato, a mixed use center in North Naples. The Lutgert Companies also owns Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, Premier Commercial, and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, with three offices in Venice and Sarasota.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.