All posts by Unique Homes Staff

What’s Next for Justin Bieber’s Vacation Home?

Justin Bieber’s vacation home in Hawaii has a new owner, ReUp Living.

Led by its visionary CEO Ryan Sawchuk, the company has ambitious plans to restore the property to its former splendor. By partnering with the original builder and remaining true to the home’s architectural vision, ReUp Living intends to rejuvenate this iconic estate.

The restoration project has captivated attention, not only due to the property’s celebrity ties but also because of the unique design and natural materials that were incorporated into its original construction. The property, which once hosted some of Bieber’s most private and luxurious escapes, is now undergoing an extensive facelift that honors its past while integrating modern touches.

To gain insight into the restoration plans, we spoke with Sawchuk, who shared his vision and the steps they’re taking to restore Justin Bieber’s Vacation Home to its former glory.

Q: What will the first step be in the renovation process?

A: “We will begin by focusing on the exterior, which features rare materials such as travertine tiles from India and Italian granites that were unfortunately painted over. We plan to restore these materials. Our exterior work will also include the pool and the nine-hole golf course. Once the exterior is addressed, we will shift our attention to the interior.”

Q: What aspects of the original architect’s vision are you most inspired by, and why?

A: “The original architect skillfully sourced natural materials from around the world that seamlessly blend into the Hawaiian landscape. We’re inspired by this vision and intend to restore the warm colors that harmonize with the Hawaiian seaside.”

The estate’s architectural design is deeply rooted in nature, taking inspiration from its stunning cliffside location. Sawchuk’s commitment to honoring this vision shows that the restoration will preserve the character of the home, restoring its harmony with the environment. This is particularly important, given the home’s position overlooking the Pacific Ocean on one of Hawaii’s most picturesque islands.

Q: What major elements of the home are going to change?

A: “A significant part of the project will involve restoring the original raw materials, including mahogany. Additionally, we’re focusing on creating a new exterior gym and ensuring that the tennis stadium and other amenities, like the golf course, are in excellent condition.”

Sawchuk highlights that while modernization is key to the project, preserving the original architectural vision is paramount. The renovations aim to enhance the lifestyle possibilities for future owners, creating an ideal blend of nature, luxury, and modern convenience.

“One of our key goals is to enhance the enjoyment of the property’s nine acres, which is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. We’re fortunate to have the original builder leading the renovations, which will help maintain the integrity of the original vision. That is very rare, and we are very excited about that.”

Q: Have the recent wildfires impacted this project, and how are you remaining sensitive to the situation in Hawaii?

A: “While the property is located on the wetter side of the island and hasn’t been directly affected by the wildfires, we’re committed to being environmentally conscious. We’re making sure the property doesn’t overuse water resources and are utilizing solar panels to minimize the environmental impact.”

Why This Project Matters for ReUp Living

ReUp Living is a company that prides itself on helping homeowners maximize their property value while delivering personalized, tech-driven real estate solutions. Restoring Bieber’s former vacation home offers the company an opportunity to showcase its expertise in large-scale, luxury renovations.

Q: What initially inspired ReUp, and how does it stand out as a company?

A: “ReUp was inspired by the desire to help individuals navigate the housing market more effectively by addressing every aspect of the real estate experience. We aim to help sellers maximize their property’s value and provide buyers with technology that allows them to design their dream homes, creating a more engaging and personalized real estate experience.”

Q: What inspired ReUp to take on this specific project?

A: “This project is a perfect fit for ReUp. It’s a large-scale renovation that allows us to showcase our ability to handle any house at any price point. The property, a stunning cliffside home with original materials that have not been fully appreciated, presented an opportunity to restore its natural beauty. We were inspired by the potential to rejuvenate this historic home, which also features one of the largest privately owned waterfalls. It’s a very exciting project.”

A Bright Future for the Estate

Once completed, Bieber’s former vacation home will undoubtedly reclaim its place as a pinnacle of luxury real estate. With ReUp Living at the helm, this project will be a masterclass in restoration, modernization, and eco-conscious design. 

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Elite Agents: Kevin and Tina Girard

Meet Kevin and Tina Girard

ELITE AGENTS

 

Phone: 905.802.4769 | 1.877.574.7741

Website: www.Girardteam.ca

Email: Kevin@Girardteam.ca

Featured Property

1272 Fiddlers Green Road, Ancaster, Ontario, Canada

 

Set amongst a 5.2-acre paradise estate with 1/3-acre pond, is a sprawling contemporary bungalow with lofted nanny’s quarters and over 26,000 square feet of spectacular luxury living plus a 5,210-square-foot detached garage with lounge, wash bay and private gas pump. This state-of-the-art home features the latest technologies including whole home automation with Control4 and a masterpiece 24-seat Dolby Atmos theatre with 24-foot ceiling, 254-inch screen, and a Kaleidescape movie server. Sensational outdoor amenities are surrounded by peaceful countryside, yet only 5 minutes from the heart of Ancaster including the Hamilton Golf & Country Club, as well as the Hamilton International Airport.

6 Bedrooms

13 Baths

$24,900,000

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What’s Changing on August 17th for Real Estate Agents?

In light of the upcoming and highly anticipated implementation of the NAR settlement changes, Unique Homes spoke with real estate expert Denise McManus to break down exactly what brokers and buyers alike can expect moving forward after August 17th.

Please tell us about your background and expertise in real estate knowledge.

“I am a licensed real estate advisor with the global brokerage of Engel & Voelkers and a licensed Loan Originator in seven states with Xpert Home Lending.”

Can you explain the significance of the new Buyer Broker Agreement requiring buyers to sign an agreement disclosing their broker’s commission? 

“The Buyer Broker Agreement is designed and implemented to protect both the consumer and the broker by outlining the duties and responsibilities of both parties. It is a legally binding employment agreement between the agent and consumer/buyer detailing what the agent will be paid for their services. It will also obligate the buyer to pay the negotiated commission to the buyer’s agent if the commission is not paid for by the seller.”

 

Impact on Buyers

How do you believe this change will affect the buyer’s experience during the home-buying process?

“It is really two-fold. First, hopefully buyers will take the professionalism of the agent they choose more seriously and recognize there is a tremendous amount of logistics and work that goes into representing a buyer in a real estate transaction.  On the flip side, buyer’s agents will need to button up their professional skills and “interview” for the job with each buyer.

Next, this could have great monetary impact on buyers now that it is no longer considered customary for the seller to pay agent commissions on both sides. If there is no commission offered by the seller, the buyer will need to come out of pocket to pay the negotiated commission fee to his own agent.”

Denise McManus

Impact on Brokers

How are brokers preparing for the implementation of this new requirement?

“Oh wow… Lots of meetings! It is important to get the forms right and make sure everyone is covered under the new regulation.”

What challenges do you foresee brokers facing with this change, and how can they navigate them?

“Just being ready and then the implementation in the early months. There is so much confusion and millions of interpretations and urban myths about how to handle transactions and commissions.”

Market Implications

What impact do you think this change will have on the broader real estate market, particularly in terms of pricing and competition?

“I don’t think it will have a huge effect on the market. For the most part, it is business as usual, but marketing will change and the level of communication between agents will need to increase.”

Future Outlook

What advice would you give to buyers and brokers as they navigate these new requirements?

“Brokers: Don’t assume. Call your local associations and ask questions about new regulations if there is confusion. Buyers: Be aware of what you are signing. Ask questions!”

Personal Insights

From your perspective, what do you see as the most significant benefit of this change?

“There is absolutely nothing wrong with fees being completely transparent. It also makes all agents step up their professionalism.”

Is there anything else you think buyers, brokers, or industry professionals should know about this new regulation?

“It will all be ok! This is just a change from the way it has always been. We will all get used to the new forms and life will go on.”

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Vickey England Elite Agent

Elite Agent: Vickey England

Meet Vickey England

ELITE AGENT

 

Phone: 702.595.7776

Website: cbvegas.com

Email: vickey.england@cbvegas.com

Get to Know Vickey England

Whether you’re looking for a golf/lifestyle community or a vertical country club, I can help you identify your perfect home in Southern Nevada. Scan the QR Code to read the 2024 Luxury Trend Report on these incredible property types or text me directly at 702.595.7776 to start a conversation about your Have-It All Property.

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Elite Agent: Leslie Dougherty

Connect with Leslie Dougherty

ELITE AGENT

805.423.2279

DRE 01715846

ccsothebysrealty.com

leslie@lesliedougherty.com

Get to Know Leslie Dougherty

Introducing Leslie, the visionary CEO of Central Coast Sotheby’s International Realty, where she orchestrates a dynamic team turning dreams into reality in California’s enchanting Central Coast. With a remarkable 18-year legacy, Leslie is more than a real estate powerhouse; she’s a master of negotiations, contracts, and the go-to expert in challenging situations. Clients trust Leslie implicitly, drawn to her finesse, professionalism, and ability to turn negotiations into masterpieces. In the luxury real estate realm, Leslie caters to a select clientele demanding the best. As a seasoned entrepreneur and advocate for home ownership, she proudly owns premier properties throughout the region. When seeking real estate representation, you want the best the Central Coast offers, and Leslie embodies the essence of Central Coast living in every facet of her journey.

7292 Exotic Garden, Cambria, CA

Featured Property

Nestled within the embrace of unobstructed 180-degree ocean vistas, ensconced by the pristine expanse of state park lands, The Retreat at Cambria unveils itself as an exceptionally private, gated 78-acre coastal haven where unparalleled relaxation and recreational opportunities abound. Gently undulating vineyards, expansive equestrian meadows, and serene pine-dappled forests are merely a prelude to its magnificence. Boasting a total estate square footage of 35,755 across all structures, offering 12 bedrooms, 15 baths and a 12,200-plus-square-foot main residence.

12 Bedrooms

15 Baths

$30,000,000

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Elite Agent Jim Hall

Elite Agent: Jim Hall

Meet Jim Hall

ELITE AGENT

 

239.850.3344

www.viprealty.com

Jhall@viprealty.com

542 Kinzie Island Court, Sanibel, Florida

Featured Property

The epitome of Southern charm and casual elegance exudes in this custom-built home. The covered ground level piazza is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped courtyard and fountain. The main level boasts a formal living area with a fireplace, dining room, and office. This move-in ready home, situated on a wide canal with a private dock, is a mere 5-minute walk to the beach. Recently installed hurricane impact windows and a 2-year-old tile roof add value and security. The gated community of Kinzie Island is a unique, private enclave of premier homes with superb amenities including private beach access, a heated pool, clay tennis court, pickleball and bocce. Call Jim Hall at 239.850.3344.

3 Bedrooms

4 Baths

$3,795,000

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Unique Homes Summer 2024 Issue

Unique Homes Summer 2024 Issue

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, the Unique Homes Summer 2024 Issue pairs perfectly with your seasonal adventures. Offering a collection of captivating stories and hidden treasures, our latest issue of Unique Homes is brimming with travel inspirations, gourmet delights, and timeless estates, making it a perfect companion for your summer days.

Imagine tranquil waterfront spots away from the usual tourist trails. Explore some  top waterfront listings that are maybe not where you would expect. Whether you are looking for a coastal escape or a lakeside retreat, these meticulously selected, secret havens are waiting to be explored.

From art, travel, and cuisine, our team has ventured far and wide to bring you six Unique Discoveries that epitomize luxury and indulgence. Savor the flavors of the world’s most expensive ice cream, luxuriate in incredible accommodations at La Maison Bleue in El Gouna, Hurghada, Egypt, and embark on journeys that redefine extravagance in East Africa. Each discovery is a testament to luxury living!

On the cover, this issue features a  legacy estate in Lake Tahoe. Unique Homes Summer 2024 allows you to step into the grandeur of the property, ideally nestled in the stunning surroundings of Lake Tahoe. Tour this magnificent property that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance in our cover spotlight. Learn more about its storied past, exquisite architecture, and the breathtaking vistas that make it a true gem.

Summer is here! The Unique Homes Summer 2024 issue is your gateway to a season filled with discovery and delight. Dive in, explore, and let your summer be uniquely unique!

Inside This Issue

Cover Spotlight

Unique Discoveries

Unique Location

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Elite Agent: Haley Garcia

Haley Garcia

ELITE AGENT

 

936.238.7122

haleygarciagroup.com

haley@haleygarcia.com

36 Saddlebrook Court, Tomball, Texas, 775375

Featured Property

Exceptional French estate situated on 6-plus manicured acres in the prestigious gated enclave of Saddlebrook Estates. This property is just minutes from The Woodlands and Parkway 99 for easy access to Houston. The home has been masterfully designed with hand-crafted finishes throughout, including imported wall coverings, window treatments, and Venetian plaster. You will also find hand-painted imported tilework, multiple custom stone fireplaces, reclaimed wood beams, authentic terra cotta tile floors, and a marble staircase with custom ironwork.

Throughout the house, you will find multiple antique crystal fixtures. The grand kitchen features a large hand-carved Bombay wood center island and a complete professional appliance package. There are seven beds and guest quarters above the five-car garage. Extensively landscaped grounds, designed by the esteemed McDugald Steele Landscape Architects, include a resort-style pool, spa, sports court, summer kitchen with bar top, fireplace, and covered outdoor seating. The 1,632-square-foot pool house has seven beds and guest quarters above the five-car garage. 

A full features list is provided upon request.

7 Bedrooms

12 Baths

$8,995,000

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Waterfront Homes on Lake Champlain

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Champlain, two extraordinary homes offer a glimpse into the serenity and luxury that define waterfront living in Vermont. With panoramic views of the lake’s shimmering waters and the distant Adirondack Mountains, each residence exudes its own unique charm and character. Join us as we explore these idyllic retreats, where modern comfort meets the tranquility of nature, setting the stage for a lifestyle of unparalleled beauty and relaxation. These beautiful homes are brought to you by Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman.

Unforgettable in Burlington

124 Sunset Cliff Road is Burlington’s best-kept secret. This dream home is set in a private neighborhood on a dead-end street, right on the water and with the feel of a lovely country road. 85 feet of sandy beach is waiting for you just a few steps from your deck and professionally designed garden. 

 

This 0.7-acre lot is close to the iconic Burlington bike path and Starr Farm Park. The property is just 15 minutes from downtown, the hospital, I-89, the airport, and UVM. 

A wall of windows fills the home with natural light, and provides a perfect view of ever-changing sunsets across Lake Champlain to the Adirondacks. 

 

Downstairs, the modern, 29-foot kitchen, updated with custom work, opens to a spacious great room that shares the spectacular lake and mountain views. The beautiful views can also be admired on the decks, patio, and office/conservatory.

 

The family room features a stylish gas fireplace. A guest room/office wing includes a 3/4 bath, large closets, and a mudroom. 

 

Upstairs, a flexible floor plan offers three bedrooms and huge expansion space over the new oversized attached garage. Two bedrooms open onto a large lake-view deck. Two newly upgraded bathrooms and a laundry room complete the upstairs. 

 

Step out to a large side yard privately enclosed for fun, pets, and gardening. There is a broad lawn, plenty of parking, and a detached garage perfect for all your waterfront toys. Easy bike access to Burlington, farmers’ markets, and waterfront parks. Swim, kayak, sail, and listen to the water in this peaceful, country-like setting.

 

575 Feet of Lake Frontage

3412 Harbor Road rests on the shores of Lake Champlain at Shelburne Point, encompassing 4.6 acres of pristine common land and 575 feet of lakefront. This exquisite condominium is part of the Eastlake Condominiums, a collection of five custom-built, three-level townhomes.

 

Meticulously upgraded over the past four years, this condo surpasses new with its extensive improvements including upgraded appliances, radiant heating throughout the first floor, four efficient heat pumps for cooling, new flooring, renovated bathrooms, and enhanced lighting.

 

The Eastlake Condominium Association has undertaken significant capital improvements, including newly landscaped walkways, a refurbished paved driveway, exterior lighting, chimney repointing and sealing, and new lake access steps, all capped by a new roof in 2018.

 

For boating enthusiasts, the association dock features powered slips for each owner, with a mooring included. Shelburne Bay’s sheltered waters offer ideal conditions for canoeing and kayaking.

 

This prime waterfront residence offers the epitome of Vermont’s scenic charm, perfect for both primary residence and vacation retreats, with the added benefit of condominium living.  Eastlake is an inviting sanctuary on the shores of Lake Champlain, where tranquility and endless possibilities await.

 

These homes embody the essence of Vermont’s scenic beauty and invite you to savor the tranquility and endless possibilities that await on the shores of Lake Champlain.

 

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Elite Agents: Elise and Corinne Kalles

Elise & Corinne Kalles

ELITE AGENTS

 

416.441.2888

elisekalles.com

elisekalles@harveykalles.com

413 Lytton Blvd, Toronto, M5N 1S3

Featured Property

Rare opportunity in Lytton Park! Perfect family home on a quiet, tree-lined street on a double lot in a prized, upscale neighborhood. This elegant custom home is defined by master craftsmanship and impeccable millwork throughout affording an exceptional living space both grand in scale for entertaining, yet eminently comfortable for everyday living. Features include a 2-story foyer crowned with a skylight, 10-foot ceiling height on the main level, a primary bedroom with deck access, and 5 additional bedrooms with en suites. The lower level boasts an indoor pool, whirlpool, dry sauna, fully equipped gym, wet bar with Sub-Zero refrigerator/ freezer, golf simulator and theater room. The backyard offers a sports court and built-in barbecue entertainment area.

6 + 1 Bedrooms

10 Baths

$12,500,000

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