Luxury Sales Expected to Thrive in 2014

Sentiment from top Luxury Portfolio International affiliates in the U.S. and Canada indicates a strong close to 2013 and a rising tide in the affluent segment of the housing market for 2014.

As the year closed, the $1- to $2 million tier of the market was very active, and most luxury leaders anticipate it will continue to be so due to a shortage of inventory, often with multiple-offer situations driving prices upward.

International buyers continue to be active. The mix of foreign buyers includes those from Saudi Arabia,  South America and the EU, while Asian buyers – particularly the Chinese – continue to be a significant force.

Luxury Portfolio brokers report a trend in Chinese buyers gravitating toward properties in the $1 million range, though those investing for children attending U.S. colleges generally are looking for lower-priced properties.

“The mood for our Luxury Portfolio brokers is upbeat as we move into 2014,” says Luxury Portfolio International President Paul Boomsma. “They believe that well-priced luxury homes will continue to be in high demand, resulting in increases of 10- to 20% in volume in most of their markets, with unit sales rising 5- to 10%. Compared to a few years ago, that represents a significant improvement.”

The Ebby Halliday Companies, which includes Ebby Halliday Realtors and Dave Perry-Miller & Associates, is the exclusive member of Luxury Portfolio International in North Texas.

Luxury Home Sales Increase in North Texas

Year-to-date luxury home sales in North Texas are up 13.7% over the same period last year. Even better for luxury homes sellers, the average number of days on the market for North Texas homes priced at or above $750,000 is down 9.1%, from 133 days to 121 days. These numbers are remarkable considering that 2013 was a record year for North Texas home sales.

Dave Perry-Miller & Associates is proud to represent many of the finest homes available for purchase in Dallas.

There are some quality luxury properties available in Dallas for those who act quickly. In today’s fast-paced market, homes like this don’t stay on the market for long. To see all of the luxury homes listed in North Texas, visit daveperrymiller.com.

Luxury Travel Trends for 2014

Planning your next big vacation for 2014? Our partners in luxury home marketing, Luxury Portfolio International, encourage you to check out Condé Nast Traveler’s forecast of trends to come for the inside scoop. Below are just a few of our favorite predictions for traveling in 2014!

1. European River Cruising – More intimate than a deep-sea voyage, river cruises offer passengers a personalized experience and almost always have land in sight, making for easy stops along the way. Fifteen new ships were launched along Europe’s rivers in 2013, with another 25 to be added this year, according to CNT.

2. Foodcations on the Rise – The foodies are taking over and we can expect an increase in culinary-oriented travel in 2014. “Our obsession with authentic regional cuisine and the origins of its ingredients will grow, with more travelers wanting to take local cooking classes, go with chefs to food markets, meet farmers and cheese makers and winemakers, even stomp grapes.”

3. Homes Over Hotels – Luxury home rentals are on the rise and CNT predicts that hotels will have to up their offerings to keep loyal customers. Renting a luxury villa provides more space, privacy and a local experience.

4. Heading South – South America that is. Colombia, Peru and Brazil will all be hot destinations for the world’s jet setters. Brazil especially will draw huge numbers with the upcoming FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics. Adventure, relaxation, luxury accommodations and world-class cuisine are all in abundance in South America.

Click here to read the article in its entirety!

Sales of Million-Dollar Homes Skyrocket in Dallas

The following story was written by Jonathan Rienstra on CultureMap Dallas on January 9, 2014:

4650 Meadwood Rd. in North Dallas rests on 3.42 acres and is listed for $8,995,000

 

Luxury home sales are on the rise across the state, measuring double-digit growth among Texas’ four main cities, including a 22 percent increase in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.

The most recent report from the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University shows that sales of homes $1 million and higher are up year-to-year based on sales between January and October 2013.

In Dallas-Fort Worth, sales are up 22 percent, just slightly above the 19 percent year-to-year increase of the housing market as a whole. In total, 809 luxury homes were sold in the area.

It’s no surprise that Dallas has plenty of luxury homes on the market. You can check out our luxury listings at daveperrymiller.com.

In Houston, luxury home sales were up 46 percent, and 1,060 luxury homes were sold between January and October 2013. During that same time, 439 luxury homes sold in Austin, making this the fastest-growing price class in the city, with a 55 percent increase from 2012.

Only 86 luxury homes sold in San Antonio, but it was still an 8 percent increase compared to the previous year.

D-FW Luxury Market Excels in 2013

Sales of Dallas-Fort Worth homes priced $750,000 and above were up 24.4 percent in the first eight months of 2013 over the same period last year. Learn more about the D-FW luxury-home market and other luxury trends in the fall/winter issue of Grand Vie: Luxury in Living magazine. North Texas’ premier luxury-home publication, Grand Vie features homes represented by the Ebby Halliday Companies, which includes Ebby Halliday Realtors and Dave Perry-Miller & Associates, and a bounty of great editorial content to enjoy on a crisp fall day. Below is a brief overview of the North Texas luxury market from the fall/winter issue of Grand Vie. To see more now, click here.

North Texas Luxury Market ($750,000 and above) by the Numbers:

Dallas County

Closed Sales – up 30.4%

Average Days on Market – down 18.3%

Current Inventory – 4.8 months

Collin County

Closed Sales – up 55%

Average Days on Market – down 25.6%

Current Inventory – 8.1 months

Tarrant County

Closed Sales – up 30%

Average Days on Market – down 29.5%

Current Inventory –5.2 months

The Historic Homes of Legends Hearst, Hughes & Marcus

The newest issue of Grand Vie: Luxury in Living magazine, our twelfth and largest to date, highlights the historic homes of American legends William Randolph Hearst, Howard Hughes and Stanley Marcus, each of which is listed through a Luxury Portfolio International® affiliate. We invite you to discover these compelling homes and more in the Fall/Winter issue of Grand Vie.

THE BEVERLY HOUSE, BEVERLY HILLS I $115,000,000

Listed by Jeff Hyland of Luxury Portfolio International affiliate Hilton & Hyland

THE HOWARD HUGHES ESTATE, CRYSTAL BAY, NV I $19,500,000

Listed by Karen Bruno of Luxury Portfolio International affiliate Chase International

THE STANLEY MARCUS ESTATE, DALLAS I $5,400,000

Listed by Nancy Johnson of Luxury Portfolio International affiliate Dave Perry-Miller & Associates

The Ebby Halliday Companies, which includes Ebby Halliday, REALTORS® and Dave Perry-Miller & Associates, is the exclusive member of Luxury Portfolio International® in North Texas. Unlike some other well-known luxury brands, Luxury Portfolio does not sell franchises – membership is by invitation only and is limited to the very best residential real estate companies worldwide. When buying or selling property outside of our local market, the Ebby Halliday Companies’ world-class connections can help with real estate needs throughout our continent and to points around the globe. To learn more, visit luxuryportfolio.com.

As Seen in Grand Vie Fall/Winter 2013: Enchanted Paradises

If you’re in the market for a vacation home – or even if you’re not but just enjoy discovering some of the most-fabulous homes currently on the market anywhere – New Mexico and Arizona are two states that definitely deserve VERY close looks. Sunshine, big skies, scenic vistas and great architecture abound in these Southwestern sanctuaries of luxury living. We hope you’ll enjoy learning about a few of the spectacular luxury second-home opportunities featured by Dallas-based real estate blogger Candy Evans in the fall/winter 2013 issue of the Ebby Halliday Companies’ Grand Vie: Luxury in Living magazine:

AMAZING GATED ESTATE, PHOENIX I $2,900,000

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Walt Danley Realty

Located in the heart of North Central, this amazing 2-acre plus gated estate offers the opportunity to own a piece of Arizona history. Ideal for entertaining, the seven-bedroom main house features a gourmet eat-in kitchen with fireplace, a catering room, a living room, family room, formal dining room, media room, exercise room, wine room and game room. The expansive backyard features sprawling patios, two guest houses, pool/spa and two ramadas for those beautiful desert nights.

To learn more, click here.

HISTORIC ADOBE ESTATE, SANTA FE I $2,399,000

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Santa Fe Properties

This historic adobe estate, which dates back to the 1800s, is in the heart of Old Santa Fe and central to fine shopping, dining, museums and points of interest as well as famous Canyon road. Privately sited on close to 1 acre, the 8,600-square-foot home is romantically set behind adobe walls with terraced rock and mature landscaping. This property, which offers a flexibility rarely found this close to the Plaza, is a wonderful opportunity to have your own downtown estate, family compound or your own hospitality property.

To learn more, click here.

AUTHENTIC ADOBE-STYLE HOME, PARADISE VALLEY I $2,000,000

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Walt Danley Realty

This authentic adobe-style home is near the base of Camelback Mountain on one of the Town of Paradise Valley’s premier streets. Formerly the residence of famed artist-builder Bill Tull, this tasteful Southwestern-style home offers intimate spaces coupled with larger rooms for entertaining. A detached guest house, seven fireplaces, an artist’s studio and exercise room add to the functionality of this exquisite home. Mountain views, a sport court, and lush backyard with pool complete this one-of-a-kind property.

To learn more, click here.

Longing for more?  Check back here at the Dave Perry-Miller & Associates Blog in the next few days for additional second-home opportunities in New Mexico and Arizona.

Comprised of Ebby Halliday, REALTORS® and Dave Perry-Miller & Associates, the Ebby Halliday Companies are proud to be the exclusive North Texas affiliate of Luxury Portfolio International.  The company is also the luxury market leader in North Texas, selling more homes priced at $1 million and above than any other broker.

As Seen in Grand Vie Fall/Winter 2013: Spotlight on The Stanley Marcus Documentary

Directed by an award-winning team at M3 Films, the much-anticipated Stanley Marcus documentary is in full production and is anticipated to premiere in 2014. The film pays tribute to the legendary retailer’s influence both inside and out of the luxury department store Neiman Marcus, and shares many untold stories about this extraordinary Renaissance man.

“We want to encapsulate Stanley’s legacy in a form that will last forever in the digital age,” says producer Melina McKinnon. “He continues to be a vital thread in the fabric of Dallas, and his is a story that demands telling not only on the page, but on the screen.”

To continue reading Spotlight On The Stanley Marcus Documentary, click here.

At the Ebby Halliday Companies, which includes Ebby Halliday, REALTORS® and Dave Perry-Miller & Associates, we’re proud to present the former home of legendary retailer Stanley Marcus, 10 Nonesuch Road, which is represented by Dave Perry-Miller & Associates.

One of Dallas’ first – and finest – examples of Modern residential architecture, this exceptional home on 3 secluded and gated acres has hosted Hollywood stars, royalty, and political legends alike, including James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, Yves St. Laurent and Eleanor Roosevelt. A designated Dallas Landmark, this architecturally significant property underwent an extensive, thoughtful renovation in 2011. This extraordinary residence is featured in a story on the historic homes of William Randloph Hearst, Howard Hughes and Stanley Marcus on pages 64-65 of the Fall/Winter issue of Grand Vie: Luxury in Living. We hope you’ll enjoy the story and perusing the pages of this latest issue of Grand Vie, North Texas’ premier luxury home publication.

For more information on the Stanley Marcus documentary, visit M3filmsllc.com.

As Seen in Grand Vie Fall/Winter 2013: Enchanted Paradises

The following properties were featured in the fall/winter 2013 issue of Grand Vie: Luxury in Living magazine in a special section about second-home opportunities in New Mexico and Arizona by Dallas-based real estate blogger Candy Evans.

If you’re in the market for a vacation home – or even if you’re not but just enjoy seeing more of some of the most-fabulous homes currently on the market – New Mexico and Arizona are two states that definitely deserve VERY close looks. Sunshine, big skies, scenic vistas and great architecture abound in these Southwestern sanctuaries of luxury living. We hope you’ll enjoy learning more about a few of the spectacular luxury second-home opportunities featured in the fall/winter 2013 issue of Grand Vie:

EXQUISITE PROPERTY IN PARADISE VALLEY I $13,750,000

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Walt Danley Realty

This estate home with approximately 19,475 square feet offers only the finest in craftsmanship and attention to every detail. Imported beams, carved stone, antique pavers, reclaimed wood floors, and European tiles are present in every room, hallway and alcove. The main house features five bedrooms; a guest house, caretakers quarters, maids quarters, temperature-controlled barn, five-star resort-style pool with grotto and slide tower, game room, wine cellar, multiple intimate patios, office, craft room, exercise room, massage room, numerous fireplaces, lovely fountains, two elevators, and gorgeous views.

To learn more, click here.

TESUQUE RIDGE RANCH ESTATE, SANTA FE I Price Upon Request

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Santa Fe Properties

Tucked into the rolling landscape of Tesuque Ridge Ranch, an exclusive gated community north of Santa Fe, this home exudes the ambiance of a grand European manor while remaining inviting and comfortable. Highlights of the approximately 14,000-square-foot estate include a magnificent living room, a formal dining room, and an expansive kitchen. The interior features reclaimed antique Jerusalem stone, walnut, hickory, and mesquite. The estate consists of three lots totaling 16.61 acres, allowing the home to face conservation land and offer unspoiled views of the Sangre de Cristos.

To learn more, click here.

STUNNING METICULOUSLY CRAFTED HOME, SANTA FE I $9,995,000

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Santa Fe Properties

Located on 5.88 acres in the community of Las Campanas in Santa Fe, this home is a fresh take on the classic Territorial Style, marrying centuries-old pieces with new custom-designed detailing. Crisp white columns and tall French doors define the U-shape around a grand outdoor space with pool, spa, waterfalls and mountain views. The exceptional kitchen opens to the family room and casual dining room with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The wine cellar along with the outdoor dining portal and BBQ area make it easy to enjoy overlooking the western mountains and sunsets.

To learn more, click here.

PRIVATE 14-ACRE LOST CANYON ESTATES I $5,775,000

Listed by our fellow Luxury Portfolio International member Walt Danley Realty

This ultra-private estate is nestled atop nearly 14 acres in guarded and gated Lost Canyon. A waterfall and footbridge provide a soothing welcome home where the finest luxuries blend with a sophisticated Southwestern style. Soft Venetian plaster and hand-carved woodworking lend a timeless, authentic appeal throughout the home. Recent updates include a Crestron home-automation system and professional-grade screening room. Other highlights include a detached “coffee cafe” with fireplace and views, remarkably detailed stonework and a negative-edge pool featuring valley-wide views.

To learn more, click here.

Longing for more?  Check back here at the Ebby Blog in the next few days for additional second-home opportunities in New Mexico and Arizona.

Comprised of Ebby Halliday, REALTORS® and Dave Perry-Miller & Associates, the Ebby Halliday Companies are proud to be the exclusive North Texas affiliate of Luxury Portfolio International.  The company is also the luxury market leader in North Texas, selling more homes priced at $1 million and above than any other broker.

As Seen in Grand Vie Summer 2013: Spotlight on Monuments Men Foundation for the Preservation of Art

Monuments Men officer Dean Keller is shown with Botticelli’s Primavera at Montegufoni, Italy, during the winter of 1944-45.

Production is now underway on the film version of Robert Edsel’s book, “The Monuments Men.” The film, which tells the story of a heroic group of GIs responsible for rescuing more than 5 million cultural objects stolen by the Nazis, is sure to be a major player in the coming Academy Awards race. The big-budget action-thriller, co-written and directed by George Clooney, stars Clooney, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, Bill Murray and John Goodman, among other Hollywood A-listers.

Edsel, who grew up in Dallas and is a current resident, is the author of the non-fiction books “Rescuing Da Vinci” and the “Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History,” as well as the just-released “Saving Italy.” The near-destruction of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper,” is just one of the incredible stories Edsel shares in his latest critically acclaimed book.

In 1995, Edsel sold the assets of his oil-and-gas exploration company and moved to Florence, Italy, with his family. “I made the decision to move to Europe and start studying architecture,” Edsel says. “I knew if I didn’t create the time, things of interest would get squeezed out.” While in Florence, Edsel became increasingly curious as to how so many of the monuments and great works of art and architecture survived the widespread theft and devastation of World War II.

What began as a question evolved into a journey to unravel the secrets and heroics of the Monuments Men, the unsung heroes who saved many of the world’s greatest art and cultural treasures. By 2001, that journey had become a full-time job for Edsel. “It’s been the most meaningful experience of my life to be their champion,” he says.

Edsel is the founder and president of the Monuments Men Foundation for the Preservation of Art, a Dallas-based nonprofit whose mission is to preserve the legacy of the unprecedented and heroic work of the men and women who served in the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives section, known as “Monuments Men,” during World War II.

At the Ebby Halliday Companies, which includes Dave Perry-Miller & Associates and Ebby Halliday, REALTORS®, we’re proud to present Robert Edsel’s Turtle Creek home, Bellosguardo, which is represented by Dave Perry-Miller & Associates.

Bellosguardo was built in a different era and has seen one of America’s great cities grow up around it. Although everything around it has changed, this architecturally significant home on more than 2 bucolic acres along Turtle Creek is a hidden gem surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city, much like the Frick Mansion in New York City.

Robert Edsel’s Bellosguardo is featured on pages 58-59 of the summer issue of Grand Vie: Luxury in Living.

For more information on the Monuments Men Foundation for the Preservation of Art, visit monumentsmenfoundation.org.