John Weber

Royal LePage First Contact Realty

299 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 100, Barrie, ON L4N 7Y9, Canada
O. 705.728.4067 | C. 705.727.6111
John@WeberTeam.ca | www.WeberTeam.ca

I am pleased to be recognized as being in the Top 2% of Royal LePage REALTORS in 2017 with the Red Diamond Award. I work hard and I truly love what I do. Being good at what I do means keeping up with all the latest developments in my industry, understanding trends, and leveraging the latest technologies. But in the end, it’s old-fashioned service and a keen business sense that I learned from my years at Weber’s on HWY 11 that I believe really set me apart. I am pleased to offer these waterfront properties and look forward to answering your call.

Featured Listing by John Weber

Innisfil, Ontario

This estate was intended for multi-family enjoyment with 2 separate residences. Luxury features include 160 feet of waterfront, an 80-foot dock, 3-level boathouse, 2 detached garages, in-ground saltwater Gunite pool and more. Contemporary design with approximately 4,500 finished square feet in each home. MLS# 30635652 & 30635658

$6,500,000

John Weber originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’18: Elite edition. See his page here.

Jeanne P. Hockaday

Virginia Country Real Estate, Inc.

3765 George Washington Memorial Highway, Hayes, VA 23072

O: 804.642.6126 | C: 804.815.0097 | jph@virginiacountryrealestate.com

www.VirginiaCountryRealEstate.com

Jeanne Hockaday is the principal broker and owner of Virginia Country Real Estate, Inc. A licensed Realtor with 45 years experience, earning the status of the Nationally Recognized title “Emeritus” through the National Association of Realtors (NAR), as well as many Realtor designations which provide better knowledge and skills for performing at the top of our professions. CRS, Certified Residential Specialist, GRI, Graduate of the Realtor Institute, CRB, Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager, ABR, Accredited Buyer Representative, E-Pro Technical Training, QSC, Quality Service Certificate. A Dale Carnegie graduate, Elite Homes Luxury Property Representative, Sales Trainer and Manager, and Realtor agent since 1973. Served 3 times as President of the Chesapeake Bay River Association of Realtors and various other position’s. Currently serving on the State of Virginia Association of Virginia Leadership Academy Alumina Representative, and the State of Virginia Health Dept. On-site Sewage and Systems Appeals Board. A proud Rotarian, Chamber of Commerce, and National Home Builder’s Association member.

Featured Listing by Jeanne P. Hockaday

VIRGINIA

Camelot

Romance and leisure by the peaceful Piankatank River; be captivated by the appeal of a coastal Nantucket-style home complemented by a charming guest cottage. Features include a multi-car garage with a work bay and storage, a lounging pool and deep-water dock by sunning sand beach.

$1,175,000.

Jeanne P. Hockaday originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’18: Elite edition. See her page here.

When you think of the Bahamas, what comes to mind? Do you envision the white, sandy beaches of the Exumas? Or do you see Nassau’s happy nightlife? Did you run away to the Bahamas to escape the frigid temperatures of the winter and enjoy the warm sun of the Bahamas? Whatever your experiences, the Bahamas has provided a perfect vacation spot for you and your loved ones.

By Abby Drexler

Hotel Life — Is It For You?
If you come to the Bahamas every once in a while, then staying at a hotel may be a good fit. However, if this is one of your regular vacation destinations, such lodgings may become undesirable. One thing that might make this living paradise more complete would be your very own vacation home.
Think about it — no one will tell you when you can check in or out because it is your own home! Anyone who is in your abode will be completely vetted by you. You won’t have to worry about the quality of a hotel because it will be your house.
If you want to own a house in the Bahamas, congratulations! As with any enterprise, research is imperative. Here are five tips to help you accomplish your goals.
Knowledge is Power!

Research

Before you go into your Bahama Real Estate Adventure, do some preliminary research of the properties. Window-shopping will enable you to investigate the various communities. Find out about the availability of retail stores, schools, law enforcement, demographics, patterns of weather, religion — anything you may want to know about the area. You can also check on what is required to buy a home in the Bahamas. Knowing what to expect can prevent the adventure from any mishaps.

Affordability

That villa in Abaco is your dream! But if it is on four acres of land, costs $750,000 and you can only afford a home on one acre for $250,000, then you may want to rethink your villa! Buying your home is just one aspect of obtaining it. You have to have enough money to pay for the fees, taxes and moving costs to name a few. So yes map out your bedrooms, baths and kitchens of your dream house. Just make sure that you have enough currency to cover it.

Know Your Taxes and Fees

Part of managing your expenses relies on knowing how many taxes and fees you have pay for purchasing your new home. This includes the VAT (Value Added Tax), the stamp duty, the annual real property tax and the government tax, just to name a few. Some fees include registration, legal, the real estate agency, permits, appraisal of property, surveys and closing fees. These are just a few items to look out for when buying your new home.

Real Estate Agency and Lawyer

This advice should be a no-brainer but there are plenty of people who want to do everything themselves and get into plenty of trouble for their efforts. While it is good to be proactive and do as much as you can in acquiring your vacation home, you will need professional help eventually. Unless you are proficient in Bahamian law and how to buy a house there, procuring a lawyer and real estate agency will help you get the best deal for your money.

Rental Property

Living in the Bahamas can be quite costly. After you finally buy your house, keeping up with the costs of it can be a challenge — especially if you aren’t there all the time. One way to offset the cost is to make your property a rental. Non-Bahamians who lease their homes get a tax break.
Another advantage is your living quarters will have someone to watch over your investment. Even if you were to visit your place for ten weeks out of the year, who will tend to it during the other forty-two weeks? Leasing your dwelling will ensure that a trusted tenant will take care of your home during those times that you are away. An added benefit of this type of arrangement would be in the form of receiving rent money.

Abby Drexler is a contributing writer and media specialist for Holowesko Realty. She regularly produces content for a variety of travel and realty blogs.

Rhonda A. Smith

Algin Realty, Inc.

150 W. Washington Street, Madison, GA 30650

O. 770.616.4460 | C. 706.319.7980 | rsmithspa@yahoo.com | www.alginrealty.com

Rhonda is a member of Morgan County Rotary, a Board Member of the Madison – Morgan Boys & Girls Club, and the local Magnolia Garden Club. Rhonda enjoys working with both buyers and sellers where she is knowledgeable in the Madison, Rutledge, Lake Oconee, Athens and surrounding counties. She is a certified Real Estate Negotiating Expert, a member of the Institute of Luxury Home Marketing, and a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. Whether you are a first time home buyer or retiree looking to downsize, it is her pleasure to assist from starting with a lender to beyond the closing. Her motto is “there is no home too small or too big — there is the right fit for everyone!” Rhonda is always helping families plant roots one home at a time!

Featured Listing by Rhonda Smith

MADISON, GEORGIA

Joshua Hill House

The most historically significant home in Madison, the Joshua Hill House perfectly depicts the slow, luxurious lifestyle of Southern living. This Greek Revival sits on its own block surrounded by gardens, a potting shed, guesthouse and a beautiful pecan grove.

$3,000,000.

Rhonda Smith originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’18: Elite edition. See her page here.

Tammy Campbell-Plummer

The Signature Homes of Campbell-Plummer & Merritt-Coldwell Banker

Global Luxury Specialist

727.455.2351 | Tammy@CPMSignatureHomes.com

Tammy has consistently been recognized as a top producer and was on Coldwell Banker’s #1 Small Team in Florida and 6th in the U.S. (awarded in 2017), as well as #1 agent for West Central Florida for many years in a row (2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015). Her dedication to excellence is only matched by her uncomparable experience and knowledge of the Tampa Bay area’s luxury real estate market and trends. Tammy’s team has over 45 years of combined sales experience in the luxury market and more than $750 million in closed sales. Tammy is recognized as a skilled negotiator in the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury network.

Featured Listing by Tammy Campbell-Plummer

TIERRA VERDE, FLORIDA

Sands Point

This waterfront masterpiece offers extraordinary craftsmanship throughout with a gorgeous presence. A private deep-water dock offers open water access of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico within minutes. MLS #U7846557
$2,800,000

Tammy Campbell-Plummer originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’18: Elite edition. See her page here.

Michele Cummins

RE/MAX Little Oak Realty

33119 1st Avenue, Mission, BC V2V 1G5

O. 604.820.0555 | C. 778.885.4659 | cumminsrealestategroup@gmail.com | www.michelecummins.ca

Michele brings a fresh perspective and an energy to the home buying and selling process because she takes the time to understand people’s needs, and then can translate that to getting the most out of the real estate market. Michele’s pace is quick and her work ethic proven. She focuses on her clients and getting the most out of the real estate market for them. She pushes hard for their satisfaction in the house they are buying or selling, as well as maximizing their money. It’s a passion of Michele’s to know that her clients are happy and their needs are met completely. This is crucial to her success — and what drives her to work so hard! Michele believes that the home is what gives people balance in their lives, and creates their futures.

Featured Listing by Michele Cummins

AGASSIZ, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Harrison Hot Springs

This gorgeous 5.6-acre retreat is perfect for day-to-day living or as the ultimate vacation spot just 2 hours from Vancouver. Enjoy breathtaking views from your 4,800-square-foot waterfront home with soaring vaulted ceilings, a gourmet chef’s country kitchen and world-class fishing.

$1,350,000.

Michele Cummins originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’18: Elite edition. See her page here.

At the International Builders’ Show, John Burns Real Estate Consulting identified six new home construction and repair/remodeling design trends.

Backed by significant consumer research — which has become easier thanks to consumer behavior on websites such as Houzz and Pinterest — building products companies continue to offer new products to stay one step ahead of the competition. John Burns Real Estate Consulting’s growing building products research and consulting business, as well as its DesignLens™ business, continue to help the company inform its expanding builder and developer clients.

Internet of Things (IoT) technologies open the door to whole-home connectivity.

Amazon’s Alexa and other personal assistants have opened the flood gates for smart home products, especially in plumbing, appliances and home security.

Plumbing: Companies debuting the latest smart bathroom products at 2018 International Builders’ Show included Moen, Delta, KOHLER and American Standard.
Appliances: ioT connected products for the kitchen and other parts of the home were also on full display. ioT connectivity is important because it makes using smart products throughout the home a seamless, user‐friendly experience.
Home Security: Smart products related to home security have been around for a few years, but companies like Broan‐NuTone and Baldwin have rolled out new introductions with enhanced features including voice‐control though Amazon and Microsoft platforms.

Labor efficient products take center stage.

Building product manufacturers continue to invest in products that streamline the installation processes, with KATERRA’s large booth the poster child for potential labor disruption this year.

Turn‐Key Construction Solutions: KATERRA’s booth highlighted its plans to revolutionize construction, controlling nearly every part of the value chain from procurement of raw materials to framing and finish work. It plans to be a one‐stop shop for production building, controlling cabinet manufacturing, finish plumbing installation and wood floor manufacturing.
Wall Panels: Manufacturers have been designing products that eliminate labor in the framing process for several years. At the 2018 International Builders’ Show, Huber Engineered Woods debuted advanced versions of its R-Series Modular Wall Sheathing Panels, in four different thicknesses, as insulated wall panel solutions for various climates. Structural wood panels with protective barriers eliminate the need for house wrap and on-site framing. It also provides a continuous barrier to moisture and air that optimizes energy efficiency.
House Wrap/Seals: Residential‐grade sealants and tapes have been around for decades but companies are beginning to design better, more forgiving products that create efficiencies in the framing process. Many companies, including DuPont and Georgia Pacific, introduced new flexible tapes that cover wide surface areas while creating tight seals around exterior wall outlets or between structural panels. Framing crews can spend less time measuring and cutting outlets to precise fits because these products seal any imperfections that exist as a result of a quick cut.
Fittings: A modular under the sink rough‐in plumbing solution that eliminates the need for on the job‐site pipe fabrication, sweating and sealing was launched by Keeney Manufacturing Co this year. The pipes can be connected in just three steps, similar to other labor‐eliminating quick‐connect fittings and supplies on the market.
Plumbing: Updating a shower is one of the most expensive, labor intensive components of a bathroom remodel. In recent years, many plumbing manufacturers have launched retro‐fit ‘custom‐shower’ solutions that allow plumbers to upgrade a shower without going behind the wall, saving time and money for the installer and homeowner.

Engineered products offer better design and less maintenance.

Engineered products look increasingly like their natural counterparts, often at better or comparable prices, and continue to offer meaningful value propositions to the trade and consumers.

Windows and Doors: Door manufacturers continue to build lower‐maintenance doors made from metal or composites that look just like solid wood alternatives.
Structural Lumber: LP debuted a new subfloor, infused with Gorilla Glue, that it markets as stronger and more water resistant than traditional OSB.
Decking: Trex and other composite decking manufacturers continue to expand offerings that make deck installation and maintenance simpler for the installer and homeowner.
Engineered Wood Products: Weyerhaeuser launched a new parallam® that it claims is one of the most durable engineered wood beams on the market and it comes in the form of a fireplace mantel — a unique application that has become fashionable in interior design.
Siding: Companies continue to develop siding made from metal or composites that offer the look of wood but are designed to shorten installation times and eliminate maintenance for the homeowner.
Plumbing: Paneling solutions for custom showers continue to gain popularity in the custom‐shower segment as these products not only eliminate labor (panels are far less labor intensive than tile), but they also requires less homeowner maintenance (no grout, fewer leak paths). Although plumbing manufacturers have been designing similar products for years, solid surface and laminate manufacturers such as Wilsonart are now introducing products for this segment as well.
Countertops and Surfaces: Engineered Stone (also known as ‘Quartz’) product offerings continue to grow, emphasizing easier to maintain products than natural stone slabs like granite, marble and soapstone. Consumers often prefer engineered designs because the factory‐controlled process provides a consistent look. With major laminate and solid surface players such as Corian making large investments in this now very‐competitive market, prices may come down as more capacity comes online.

Black is back.

Black finishes dominate the appliance, plumbing, hardware and window/door exhibits.
In the design community, it’s often difficult to delineate between what is fast‐fashion and what will become a mass trend. In 2018, it is clear that black finishes are a huge trend in the building products industry. Home appliance manufacturers debuted ‘black stainless’ several years ago, and plumbing, hardware and window and door manufacturers have quickly followed. Mixed metals, perhaps a developing trend, often include black as well.

Customizing becomes simpler.

Customized product offerings this year focused on minimizing costs and complexity for the consumer. Standouts included private-label hardware options, mix-and-match handle/spout colors and finishes and appliance panel customizing options.
The design community and homeowners love choice. Custom product specification has historically been a complex and expensive process, but product manufacturers have invested heavily in lines that offer the customer more options to truly customize or personalize a space. Higher‐end finishes such as specialty door hardware no longer need to be specified from a separate vendor or commissioned made‐to‐order from local artisans. Today, consumers can get similar modifications directly from the door, cabinet, appliance or window manufacturer, making product customization easier than ever.

Design has shifted to ultramodern.

Exhibitors highlighted ultramodern interior designs in the 2018 International Builders’ Show, mirroring the home builder shift to ultramodern home elevations.
Many new product launches across categories leaned ultramodern in their design aesthetic, mirroring the home builder shift to ultramodern home elevations. Themes included large/oversized formats in doors, surfaces and plumbing products; modern cubist/geometric design in tile, surfaces and plumbing products; and unique ombre finishes.

Photo courtesy of Steve Basten at John Burns Real Estate Consulting

Judi Wright

Ebby Halliday Realtors

1415 Legacy Drive, Suite 100, Frisco, TX 75034
214.597.2985 | judiwright@ebby.com | www.judiwright.com

Judi Wright and The Judi Wright Team have been named “Best Realtor in Dallas,” by D Magazine for 11 years. Experience and responsiveness matter when buying or selling a home and Judi and her team handle all the details so buyers and sellers can relax. Whether you own an estate property or a first time home buyer property, the team’s focus and attention to your property and needs is the same. You will never be just a number to The Judi Wright Team. The team utilizes both print and digital marketing extensively to promote listings. Judi is an inaugural member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and was one of the first Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialists in Dallas. Make the “Wright” choice for all the right reasons!

Featured Listing by Judi Wright

PLANO, TEXAS

5716 Seville Court

Magnificent country estate home on 1.14 acres with grounds, a pool/spa and tennis! This home offers 11,262 square feet, 7 bedrooms, 6 full and 3 half baths, a study, outdoor living center and more!

$2,399,900

Judi Wright originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’18: Elite edition. See her page here.

W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal will feature two properties — the townhomes of Aromo and the Llama del Bosque — both of which include professional services, first-class amenities and an iconic and contemporary design.

Desarrollos Hoteleros Guanacaste S.A., a subsidiary of Florida Ice and Farm Company S.A., announced that it intends to develop W Hotels in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal is anticipated to open in early 2019.
With destinations in outstanding locations throughout the world, W Hotels merges the high-design aesthetic and boutique spirit of an independently owned hotel with the attentive, professional service, amenities and dependability of a first-class business hotel. Each W Hotel is distinctively inspired by its surroundings, infusing cutting-edge design, décor, cuisine and ambiance with authentic local influences.
The new W Hotel will be developed in Reserva Conchal, one of the most exclusive mixed-use developments of Costa Rica, and it will be operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts as per the terms and conditions of the operation agreement executed between Starwood and DHG.
The townhomes in Aromo and the Llama del Bosque are the new properties that will be featured in W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal. In the Llama del Bosque, guests are minutes away from several restaurants, the Beach Club and the heart-stopping beauty of Playa Conchal’s white sands. The residential component of the property is incorporated into a condominium infrastructure, which guarantees harmony and design continuity throughout the neighborhood. The iconic design and contemporary luxury of both properties will set the stage for an extraordinary experience at W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal.
Amenities will include 151 guestrooms, the “W Living Room” lifestyle lounge, specialty restaurants, a destination bar and lounge, a fitness center, natural trails for biking and hiking, tennis courts, an infinity edge pool, a spa and meeting space. Unique promotions, exclusive partnerships and signature Whatever/Whenever® service will set W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal apart as a place to work in comfort, play in style and escape the average hotel experience.

Photo courtesy of Reserva Conchal

Nancy Dolan & Lynn Dolan

William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

251 Main Street, Southport, CT 06890

203.258.2303 | 817.620.0554 | ndolan@williampitt.com | ldolan@williampitt.com

Nancy Dolan and Lynn Dolan are multimillion-dollar producers in Connecticut’s Fairfield, Southport and Westport markets and are proud to be affiliated with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, the leader in successfully selling luxury homes in Fairfield County. Our marketing through the Sotheby’s Realty International Network and William Pitt is unmatched by any other real estate brand in the world! “EXPERIENCE IS OUR BEST ASSET”

Featured Listing by Nancy and Lynn Dolan

SOUTHPORT, CONNECTICUT

French Country Estate

Sited on 2± amazing level acres on a cul-de-sac in the heart of Southport Village, this gracious home has a formal living room with a fireplace, formal dining room and large family room with a fireplace, all offering French doors opening to a bi-level terrace that overlooks sweeping lawns, stone walls and mature trees. The billiards room/library, 4 bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half baths and a large artist’s studio complete this residence. There is a 4-car garage and a separate 2-car garage with a huge finished loft. This house is perfect for all-year living or a fabulous weekend retreat. Any way you go… it is only minutes to the Harbor, Beach, Village and Train. All only one hour to NYC.

www.seetheproperty.com/173158
$3,495,000

Featured Agent: John Weber of Royal LePage First Contact Realty