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Tidal Waves of Elegance

Featured image: ©istockphoto.com / Chinnapong

It’s time to discover these 10 extraordinarily refined places, each with distinctly different waterfront experiences.

Birmingham, Michigan

What’s tucked inside a Great Lakes luxury property? The better question is, what’s not? Aside from fantastic lakefront views, plenty of room for entertaining, and a spot for any water toys you may fancy, the area itself is famously well-known. Janine Grillo, a Keller Williams Domain Associate Broker, tells Unique Homes that the Great Lakes region is the
No. 1 freshwater boating destination in the U.S.

“The sheer size of this territory affords boaters a whole world of fun and a number of diverse places to explore on the water,” she says, noting that every day here feels like a vacation. “This summer, we are finding buyers are looking to enjoy life more, relax (and work) from home. The updated, roomy waterfront properties sell fast,” Grillo says.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada & California

“The air up there in the clouds is very pure and fine. Bracing and delicious. And why shouldn’t it be? It is the same the angels breathe,” said Mark Twain in describing Lake Tahoe. Chase International President and CEO Shari Chase characterizes it in the same way, recounting this quote from where she calls home, on the Nevada side of the iconic area.

“Lake Tahoe is a real treasure,” Chase says in painting a picture of the 22-mile-long, 12-mile-wide body of water, which is majestically surrounded by mountains. “Everything has a very spiritual essence to it here. The water is beautifully pure, with blues and crystalized greens,” she continues. The land boasts an outdoor lifestyle, where residents can easily take in treasured hiking trails, ski lodges, boating, beaches, art and more. Within one hour of the space are gems such as Virginia City, Genoa, and Jackson, California, which all are filled with wonderful recreation.

Prices here range from $3.75 million to $48 million, with most buyers prioritizing a spacious pier when considering their search.

Chase International Broker Trinkie Watson says that diversity of year-round outdoor activities, alongside good restaurants, art galleries and unique shopping are a huge draw to the area, as well as convenience to Sacramento and the Bay Area. Residents can easily take in treasured hiking trails, ski lodges, boating and beaches. “Whether it’s at the lake or on a beautiful trail in the mountains, it’s all gorgeous,” Watson says.

Londonderry, New Hampshire

The New England waterfront is known for its variety of seasonal landscapes throughout the year. Residents are able to experience the full extent of floral springs, fluttering snowflakes, peaceful waters, and crisp autumn leaves. And right now, in the summertime, the sights could not be better, says Morgan Smith, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty.

“We have hundreds of clean lakes with 360 degrees of spectacular scenery. Owners love to watch the loons, fish off the dock, kayak and waterski, and lazily soak in the clear, fresh water warmed by the sun,” she says. Coastal properties in New England feature properties with rocky ledges, crashing waves, and beaches that can be strolled for miles and miles.

With regard to how the market is faring, lower-than-average inventories are leaving very few properties for sale at a time. Prices of waterfront properties range from $1 million to $25 million, with buyers privy to direct access to the water, spacious frontage, and plenty of room for a watercraft, Smith says. She enjoys her daily life in the area, and wishes to share the elegance with new buyers. “I love spending time in Cape Elizabeth,” she says. “If I can be on a boat (or a hammock), and smell fresh air next to a body of water, I’m happy.”

Coronado, San Diego, California

The California oceanfront is star-studded with luxury at every turn. Coronado, San Diego is absolutely no exception. Broker Associate Scott Aurich of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty has lived in 17 different houses throughout the town and loved every second of it. To get away from it all, Aurich enjoys his early mornings more than anything else; he spends it surfing in tranquil waters, golfing through immaculate links, or entranced by friendly creatures at the stables. He stressed that Coronado camaraderie cannot be replicated anywhere else he’s seen.

Whether it’s the unique amenities the town has to offer, the community center with a gym, or the iconic $34 million Crown Manor estate he is representing, Coronado is truly special. But his favorite piece of home, he says, is the people. “The best thing is the people; it’s hard to describe,” Aurich mentioned. He finds that the kindness of his neighbors is where he feels the most pride. It’s not just Aurich that has noticed the grandeur; the temperature of real estate in Coronado is booming, to say the least. The demand is so high that at press time, only 54 houses were for sale. “The market is white hot,” Aurich said, explaining that the value of homes has gone up exponentially in the last 20 years.

Egg Harbor, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin, is a gorgeous peninsula with 250 miles of coastline — it’s surrounded by the waters of Lake Michigan on the eastern side, and Green Bay on the western side. For weekenders or vacationers, the area boasts incredible opportunities for sailing, water sports, fishing, boutiques, restaurants and quaint villages that dot the shoreline, explains Jamie Sanger, a managing broker with Coldwell Banker Realty.

The county of Door has fantastic experiences in the arts, theater, and golf courses, but most of all, it is best known for its natural scenic beauty, she tells Unique Homes. With even multimillion-dollar homes and estates selling like hotcakes, any inventory that is available is selling for well over asking price. Sanger feels that her area and the lifestyles awaiting there are in particularly high demand: “I feel the pandemic has fueled our market, in that folks want to be able to ‘get away’ from the urban areas to enjoy a more peaceful, private, and healthy lifestyle,” she continues. This is what she sees in her own hometown as well, Ellison Bay, which she says has stayed tranquil and untouched by development in recent years.

Sarasota, Florida

Over in Sarasota, Candy Swick, president and broker at Candy Swick & Company, is dazzled by the diversity of people she meets every single day. “One minute you are having a conversation with an astronaut, a rocket scientist, an author, or an international ballet virtuoso from Russia,” she says.

Swick describes the water in Sarasota as “Carribean blue,” alongside a breeze that drifts in soft and cooling. Residents can enjoy multitudes of water sports, a world-class ice skating rink where Olympic figure skaters have trained, and ballet and opera performances.

As for the price tag, luxury homes are running from $2 million to
$20 million. Houses are frequently selling the day they enter the market, at list price or often in a situation with multiple offers. A typical bayfront home in Sarasota starts at $2.5 million, where buyers can view the magic, nightlife, and restaurants outlining the entire city. “We know that if an individual desired to enjoy a new restaurant for lunch and another for dinner, it would take more than a year to explore them all,” Swick said.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

“Think of a place that has beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear water and clean, silky-smooth sand; a place that is known as the yacht capital of the world, with spectacular vessels cruising in daily through the port,” says Shai Mashiach, a Coldwell Banker Realty agent, in painting a picture of his beloved home.

He notes that in the bustling housing market, several waterfront neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale are in high demand; particularly Las Olas and Harbor Beach, where prices start in the millions. Mashiach noted the convenience of the area as well; it’s only a one-hour boat ride to the Bahamas, a 30-minute drive south to Miami or north to Palm Beach, and one hour to the Florida Keys. “It’s a place that has the best restaurants, great nightlife, and magnificent people from around the globe,” he continued.

As far as his personal favorite to-dos, Mashiach and his family enjoy quality time on the water, fishing, or docking at a favorite restaurant on the Intracoastal for a spectacular meal. “From yoga on the beach to amazing deep-water fishing, Fort Lauderdale has a wonderful ambiance and everything you need to enjoy life,” he says.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel, Mexico is known as one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. A hundred-plus feet of visibility in the pristine, cobalt water is perfect for a deep dive, whether you’re a novice or expert. “The clarity of the water is just extraordinary,” says Cindy Case, a Realtor with Douglas Elliman. The island takes pride in differentiating itself from the mainland; as opposed to cities like Cancun, Cozumel boasts a private, more intimate community.

“It’s a unique, small island with a very relaxed vibe,” Case says. Yet, this does not eliminate the availability of ample restaurants, shopping, and hospital care. There are many properties available for sale along the water, and well-priced at that. Case notes the affordability of property on such a prime Caribbean island. When recalling her favorites, Case enjoys beach hopping along the backside of the island; she treasures the chain of beautiful, wide, white-sand beaches with restaurants and bars.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Picture year-round warm weather and sunshine, vast cultural diversity and delicacies, and a fabulous cosmopolitan lifestyle when thinking of residential life in Honolulu, Hawaii, says Tracy Allen of Coldwell Banker Realty.

“Breathtaking hikes along the Ko’olau mountain ranges and scenic coastal trails offer incredible vistas second to none. Visitors and residents love the vast cultural foods found in Hawaii, and come to the island to enjoy many different dining experiences,” Allen describes.

For purchases on the water, prices start at around $6 million, and can range from $8 million to $20 million as well. Allen says that waterfront homes in the area have generally been built within the last 10 years, and include modern touches such as lighter wood tones, smart technology, gyms, home offices, and large, professional kitchens.

Surfing, paddle boarding, kite surfing, jet skiing, and canoe paddling are just a few activities keeping residents entertained. Allen wants buyers to know: if you’re looking for a diverse experience, Hawaii is for you. And when asked her perfect way to spend a day, her answer is simple; “The beach! You can never go wrong with our turquoise crystal-clear waters!”

Kaua’i, Hawaii

In another part of the islands, luxury on Kaua’i translates to “soulful” according to Hawaii Life broker Neal Norman. It is that very soul and heart that keeps residents smiling in the sunshine, just as Norman found himself when he moved in 25 years ago.

“We’re seeing purposeful buyers who want to live the lifestyle: that luxury, soulful living that Kaua’i provides,” Norman says. In the North Shore region where he is located, buyers and sellers are connected on the ocean view at a variety of prices, ranging from $3 million to $50 million. Dream homes are purchased on the daily in this blue-sky paradise, where residents can spend quality time with loved ones and friends.

Offering numerous outdoor endeavors, hiking, surfing, sailing, snorkeling, swimming, beach combing and biking are just a few of the fantastic opportunities in Kaua’i. “Buyers are finding solitude and serenity on this little island in the Pacific Sea,” Norman says. “Kaua’i is a rare and special place.”

THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN THE UH Summer ’21 ISSUE OF UNIQUE HOMES. TO SEE THE DIGITAL VERSION OF THIS STORY, CLICK HERE.

A home is a true reflection of a person’s lifestyle. Crystal Pointe, nestled among the Lake Tahoe landscape in Nevada, is no exception.

“It’s built in harmony with this environment and is in the contour of the land,” says Susan Lowe, vice president and corporate broker with Chase International Luxury Real Estate. With over 16,000 square feet, Crystal Pointe offers stunning views of the lake throughout, with the main foyer featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows and absolute privacy all-around.

In essence, the home is meant to incorporate the beauty and elements that Lake Tahoe encompasses. From the hand-carved cedar beams to the outside fire pit and waterfall, the home puts Lake Tahoe’s outdoors on display while linking people to the area’s nature and spiritual lands.

Crystal Pointe’s waterfront guesthouse.

“The connection to Mother Earth through the water, through the sun and the essence of our souls is found in this property,” says Shari Chase, president, CEO and luxury specialist of Chase International Luxury Real Estate. “The property takes into consideration all the elements of the surrounding land and the stunning views of Lake Tahoe.”

The two funiculars on the property provide a 360-degree view of the sugar pine trees, bald eagles and cascading land that envelope the property. A continuation of the main residence, the beach house, sits further down the mountain, allowing for direct access to the lake below. The crisp air breathes into the beach house through the deck that connects to the main level, bringing the outside in. The dining area features a 2,400-year-old alligator juniper tree table, while fossils scattered in the sandstone flooring add finishing touches to this spectacular addition.

Crystal Pointe embodies the lushness and vibrancy of Lake Tahoe and pays homage to the unrefined environment. Put simply by Chase, this home is for “people looking to enhance the quality of their life.” Crystal Pointe is listed at $75 million.

 

This editorial appeared in Unique Homes Global ’19 Issue. 

Totaling $102 million in sales, the first new residential community on Lake Tahoe in 30 years nears Phase 1 sell out pre-construction — setting a record-breaking sales pace for Lake Tahoe real estate projects.

During the first 15 months of pre-construction sales, 41 of 46 Phase 1 residences at Tahoe Beach Club, a new private residential community on the southeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, were sold. The record-breaking sale was announced by MI Worldwide Properties, a leading luxury real estate marketing and sales firm.

A scarcity of new construction along the Lake has fueled high demand for the initial release of residences as the residential community presents a singular opportunity to own a home with direct private access to one of America’s most iconic landmarks.

“Reaching a near sell out of Phase 1 pre-construction is a remarkable milestone. The fact that a property like this may not come again for many years is certainly a driver for buyers who want to secure their family’s legacy on the Lake,” said Mike Collins, founding partner and chief executive officer at IMI. “Tahoe Beach Club offers not only a matchless location and modern lifestyle amenities, but also the benefits of a friendlier Nevada tax climate. Given this rare trifecta we’ve been able to achieve record sales prices while also keeping sales at a high velocity never before seen in the Lake Tahoe market.”

Set to open this fall, Tahoe Beach Club will bring a wholly unique living experience to the Lake. The 143 two- to five-bedroom condominium residences will be anchored by the iconic Beach Club, a world-class community hub designed by renowned architect John Sather of Swaback Partners. Known for high-profile, family-centered projects such as the Family Barn at Martis Camp (Truckee, California) and The SHED at Promontory Club (Park City, Utah), Sather’s Beach Club will differentiate Tahoe Beach Club by offering owner’s the best of today’s lifestyle amenities right out their front door, including fine and casual dining; a yoga and Pilates pavilion; a premier fitness facility; business center; concierge services; and a full-service spa.

“Reaching a near sell out of Phase 1 pre-construction is a remarkable milestone. The fact that a property like this may not come again for many years is certainly a driver for buyers who want to secure their family’s legacy on the Lake.”

Outdoor recreation awaits on the private white sand beach complete with cabanas and fire pits, a 160-foot floating pier, boat valet service and an infinity-edge pool overlooking Lake Tahoe. Hiking, biking and exploration are steps away within the surrounding 300+ acres of national forest and meadows to the north, or owners can hit the links at neighboring Edgewood Tahoe Resort and Golf Course. Tahoe Beach Club is also just minutes from Heavenly Ski Resort and all the excitement, entertainment and dining found in South Lake Tahoe, a destination experiencing a significant transformation as an influx of innovative restaurants, craft breweries, upscale hotels and entertainment venues attract a new generation of visitors to play and stay.

The residences at Tahoe Beach Club meld modern mountain livability with the timelessness of Tahoe. Materials have been creatively layered — wood abuts stone and metal create a contemporary textural vibrancy. Throughout the mountain modern residences, custom lighting, wide expanses of windows, large decks, fine appliances and appointments all speak to an elevated, active and relaxing lifestyle while maintaining an understated elegance. With special attention paid to comforts and conveniences such as sound attenuation and underground parking with elevator access directly into residences, Tahoe Beach Club brings a heightened living experience appealing to today’s modern families.

The Initial Release of Phase 2 residences will take place this spring, and will be treated on a first come first serve reservation process, which are being secured at this time. Residences start at $1.3 million.

For more information, visit ww.thetahoebeachclub.com.

While Clear Creek Tahoe is known for its breathtaking golf course, it also offers a range of winter activities.

Is winter even better than summer in Lake Tahoe? Many residents of Clear Creek Tahoe would argue that Lake Tahoe is an exciting destination year round.

During the winter, when residents are unable to take advantage of the Coore & Crenshaw golf course, members and guests can snowshoe or cross country ski around Clear Creek’s private, untouched land in the luxurious mountains above Lake Tahoe.

Also, located within miles of Tahoe’s best powder, Clear Creek shuttles residents 4 short blocks straight to the gondolas of Heavenly Mountain Resort. With 30 lifts and 100 trails crisscrossing across California and Nevada, through one of America’s largest snowmaking systems, Heavenly boasts some of the best views of Lake Tahoe.
After a slope-filled day, residents and members can return to Twin Pines Lake House & Ski House, designed by the iconic architect Julia Morgan, which becomes a cozy base camp for additional romantic or snowy adventures. Envisioned as a welcoming retreat for members to relax, the private lakeside home showcases its history with collections of local postcards, antique tobacco pipes, water skis and snow shoes, historic books on Tahoe, and local furniture.
 The 1,576 acres of Clear Creek Tahoe offer an expansive stretch of pristine land filled with towering pines and majestic, 360-degree views that will ensure it remains a private retreat for decades to come.  The developers also placed 853 of the property’s acres into a permanent conservation easement with The Nature Conservancy.
Complete with a world class golf course, state-of-the-art spa and wellness center, family campus, lake and ski house, and clubhouse, Clear Creek Tahoe offers all the amenities of modern, luxury living, nestled against one of the most amazing, intimate and serene environments of Lake Tahoe.
There are 268 estate lots ranging from ½ to nearly 5 acres and from $350,000 to $1,750,000 in price.  The first phase of 121 lots has been released for sale and more than 20 home sites have closed since January 1, 2017.

Photos courtesy of Clear Creek Tahoe

 

Crystal Pointe, a magical estate set on the cliffs of Lake Tahoe’s north shore, is on the market for $75 million. This legacy family home is the highest price listing near Lake Tahoe. Crafted for 21st century living, this stunning property offers original and innovative design and amenities.
 

This luxury home is set on 525 expansive feet of Tahoe’s lakefront and 5.14 acres — made up of two parcels. The main residence, guesthouse, caretaker’s apartment and beach house comprise 16,232 square feet of living space. The house also features 8 bedrooms, 10 full and 1 half bath and 13 fireplaces. The home also includes 2 glass funiculars, 2 elevators, a 10-seat theatre and a 1,687-bottle wine cellar.

 
The adjacent U.S. Forest Service land provides privacy, and the home’s creative design presents beautiful views of the mountainside. The grounds are simply amazing with level lawns, ponds and waterfalls.

Crystal Pointe is listed by Shari Chase, Susan Lo we, Kerry Donovan and Mike Dunn of Chase International, a powerhouse of luxury associates brought together by Shari Chase to bring success to the next generation of Tahoe properties. This new approach to luxury properties is dynamic, highly energetic, client caring and utilizes collective mind power to capture the latest trends and most effective technology for the greatest results in today’s global world.

Photos courtesy of  Jeff Dow

The approaching Audi FIS Ski World Cup is partnering with Pacific Union International, Inc., receiving a significant sponsorship for the event that will be held on March 9-12, 2017 at Squaw Valley.  As the leading real estate brokerage for Lake Tahoe’s most stunning residences, Pacific Union’s support in the community where its team lives and works is paramount.
“This is a rare opportunity to witness the best in sport in our own neighborhood,” Pacific Union CEO Mark A. McLaughlin says. “This elite competition is the return of World Cup ski racing to California after 19 years, and we are proud to support the superb athletes and volunteers who are making the extraordinary happen in Squaw Valley.”

Pacific Union is offering a limited number of top-tier tickets to the most exclusive guest venues — the VIP and Club level viewing areas at the base of the challenging Red Dog run — for sale to the brokerage’s clients for $450 and $1,400, respectively. The packages include two-day lift tickets, VIP amenities, parking privileges, exclusive hospitality, and private receptions, including access to lodging reservations in Squaw Valley.
On Friday, March 10 the highly anticipated competition includes Women’s Giant Slalom will occur and the Women’s Slalom on Saturday, March 11. Olympic champion, Mikaela Shiffrin, will be ripping up the terrain on the legendary Red Dog run, the site of the 1969 World Cup and the 1960 Winter Olympics.
Pacific Union is San Francisco Bay Area’s premier luxury real estate brand operating in nine regions. With more than 25 Bay Area offices and nearly 700 of the region’s top-performing real estate professionals, Pacific Union merged with Los Angeles-based brokerage John Aaroe Group in December 2016.
For tickets and more information go to skiworldcup.



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