Editor’s Letter

By Kathleen Carlin-Russell

Change ... it is the only constant, and as reliable as tax season, fall’s pumpkin spice invasion, and the spring-cleaning to-do lists I create (and ignore) every year.

Yet change often surprises us when it happens.

In the last few years, we have had more than our fair share of surprises and changes, starting with COVID-19, the way the world stopped and restarted, and the profound effects it had on real estate. One of the biggest shocks was just how strong the residential market became, from soaring prices to multiple offers to resort locales becoming more primary locations. The effects were monumental and sweeping, but, inevitably, have begun to shift and change once again.

For buyers and sellers, these new shifts can be dizzying, but such changes seem familiar to anyone who has worked in the luxury realm for some time, especially real estate professionals operating in the highest echelon, or the “Elite” category. These luxury specialists often bring decades of experience to the table and have pretty much seen it all before.

As the market evolves and trends shift, such experts can be truly essential to helping one navigate a challenging market. As writer Camilla McLaughlin notes in this issue’s series story, Elite agents can really help with whatever a buyer or seller needs. They can make or break a sale, have access to pocket listings, handle complicated comps, and so much more. For more, please see her story, starting on page 20, which also kicks of our 2023 Elite section.

Until next time …

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Richard A. Goodwin

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kathleen Carlin-Russell

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / MANAGING EDITOR Mark Moffa

ART DIRECTOR Jonathan Bayley

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Kristen Ordonez

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING COORDINATORS

Jamie Yoos, Jack Boles

EDITORIAL OFFICE 877.688.1110 / 609.688.1110

Fax: 609.688.0201 327 Wall Street, Princeton, NJ 08540 uhproduction@uniquehomes.com

PUBLISHER / DIRECTOR OF SALES

Bruce Griset 833.928.9020 / 310.977.5915 bgriset@uniquehomes.com

DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Nick Antonicello, 609.283.1346 nantonicello@uniquehomes.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sheri Norris, 813.760.2264 / 727.897.8356 snorris@uniquehomes.com

ADVERTISING SALES 833.928.9020 327 Wall Street, Princeton, NJ 08540

16479 Royal Hills Drive, Encino, California

2667 Via De Los Ranchos, Los Olivos, California

WELCOME TO TWIN OAK RANCH, an extraordinarily private and secluded ranch just minutes to Los Olivos, nestled within a grassy valley abundant with wildlife. The Italian Villa is timeless and blends seamlessly with Santa Ynez Valley’s natural landscape, totaling 249 acres of sanctuary. No expense was spared with the residence, featuring natural stone from Turkey, reclaimed hardwood and handmade furniture imported from Columbia, a half-ton front door, and an Italian plum tree — just a few of the unique features of this compound. www.2667viadelosranchos.com/tour/2667viadelosranchos.com

Offered at $14,480,000

$6,475,000

This spectacular Mediterranean estate, completed in 2021, represents the epitome of luxury living and embodies premier design, finishes and amenities. Immaculately constructed and set behind gates in coveted Royal Hills, this is a true private compound, featuring a stunning main house, luxurious detached guesthouse, expansive resort-type backyard and a unique art-inspired swimmer’s infinity pool and spa that forge an effortless connection with jaw-dropping views. Features include a magnificent main-level chef’s kitchen with stainless steel appliances, high vaulted ceilings, numerous custom fireplaces, a sparkling pool, spa and zen backyard. Minutes to Ventura Boulevard and the Westside. www.16479royalhills-drive.com

250 Garden Drive, Lake Sherwood, California

Located in the 24-hour guard-gated community of Lake Sherwood, this magnificent property is for the discerning buyer who seeks the finest quality home at an exceptional price. Features include a Brazilian slate roof, handmade oak shutters, extensive Pennsylvania bluestone masonry, an outdoor kitchen with Tappan barbecue, play pool with multi-jet spa, as well as galvanized ironwork, full-height driveway gate and a score of specimen trees with LED illumination. The family/game room affords easy access to a picturesque kitchen. The formal dining room as well as the poolside breakfast room lead to the remarkable 2-story library that boasts a floor-to-ceiling LED-lit custom bookcase. Throughout the residence, the attention to detail and exemplary craftsmanship are without peer. www.250gardendrive.com

$6,488,000

1626 Derringer Lane, Diamond Bar, California

Spectacular European villa within The Country, a highly secure community with the utmost privacy. The home boasts a grand entryway to the foyer, highlighting a magnificent staircase. Features of the home include dual master suites, an elevator, wine cellar, home theater, dry sauna, and gym all situated on over 2 flat acres. This property offers 8 bedrooms, 10 baths, and many unique amenities, including a tennis court, pool and spa, children’s playground, subterranean parking for 8-10 cars, a library, and an entertainer’s kitchen with double ranges, double dishwashers and a center island www.1626derringer.com/tour

$8,980,000

17647 Belinda Street, Encino, California

Contemporary Mediterranean villa with luxury amenities and a layout prime for entertaining. Encompassing just over 8,000 square feet, the estate sits behind gates and mature trees offering the utmost privacy. The main level includes a home theater, 3 en suite guest bedrooms, pool house, and gourmet kitchen with massive center island. The expansive family room with balcony access and glass doors offers an abundance of natural light. The primary master suite includes a spacious walk-in closet and spa-like bath. This property is unequivocally the best deal per square foot in Encino. www.17647belindastreet.com/tour

Private Tahitian Island of Motu Tane

JUST 10 MINUTES FROM THE MAIN ISLAND OF BORA BORA, the private island of Motu Tane encompasses approximately 10 acres of sandy beach, tropical foliage and coconut groves all set against a mountainous backdrop. Owned by cosmetics mogul François Nars, Motu Tane consists of traditional thatchedroof Polynesian huts or “fares,” with 22 separate structures. Enjoy 2 luxurious suites comprised of 2,500 square feet, each with a sunken lava bathtub, shower and dressing area. Find 9 beach bungalows and 2 suites to accommodate up to 20 guests, a library with museum-quality Polynesian art and artifacts, a photography studio, a chef’s dream kitchen and 2 staff quarters. thehjc.com/listings/private-tahitian-island-motu-tane/ Offered at $39,000,000

SOLD SOLD

1133 Tower Road, Beverly Hills, California

A SPECTACULAR GATED AND PRIVATE Contemporary Mediterraneanstyle estate on prime Tower Road north of Sunset. Completely renovated from the ground up with top-of-the-line finishes. Soaring ceilings throughout and walls of glass provide sun-filled living and an impression of great volume. Generous and sun-filled dining, kitchen, and family rooms. The master suite features towering ceilings, a stunning master bath with soaking tub, and dual walk-in closets. The home’s 5-star resort-like grounds are complete with Italian gardens and courtyard, outdoor entertaining areas, and a sparkling pool and waterfall. With parking for up to 7 cars, this is a rare and special offering on one of best and quietest streets of Beverly Hills. Offered at $9,388,888

Boca De Canon Lane, Los Angeles, California

THIS FABULOUS ESTATE PROPERTY is beautifully poised behind towering trees on picturesque Boca de Canon Lane in prime Brentwood. Completely redesigned and remodeled with the finest of finishes. A spectacular open floor plan features a massive great room boasting soaring ceilings and majestic beams. The chef’s kitchen is enormous, designed for major entertaining, and features a huge pantry. Indoor and outdoor living at its absolute finest as walls of glass open to flat grassy yards, lush grounds and a charming stone waterfall flowing down to a phenomenal swimmer’s pool, 2nd grassy yard and enchanting guesthouse. The magnificent grounds include a vineyard, imposing hedges, stone walls, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, batting cage and so much more. Offered at $15,000,000