Press Releases
Latest Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Grafton Homeowner Wins a $50,000 Home Face-Lift for the Spring Market in the Metrowest, Massachusetts Sell By Design Contest
Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty, in conjunction with Weston Nurseries of Hopkinton, Gilmore Building Company of Grafton and Phillips Design of Concord, have announced today that Amy Booth of Fay Mountain Road in Grafton, Massachusetts is the grand prize winner of the Sell By Design Contest. Ms. Booth’s Grafton home will receive a custom home face-lift valued at up to $50,000 provided by the participating sponsors before being listed for sale by Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty.
Hopkinton, MA (April 30, 2010) -- Amy Booth of Grafton, Massachusetts has been selected as the grand prize winner of the Metrowest, Massachusetts "Sell By Design Contest". Ms. Booth was among hundreds of homeowners in eighteen select Metrowest Massachusetts towns that submitted essays in the hopes of getting the professional design team to choose their home to beautify with a $50,000 face-lift package before listing it for sale this spring.
“I am so excited to be named the winner of this contest,” says Amy Booth. “I have a wonderful home in a nice private setting, it just needs some TLC to get it ready for the market.”
“I’m so happy for Amy,” says Contest Coordinator Muneeza Nasrullah of Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty who will be listing the home for sale once the renovations are complete. “This will demonstrate the importance of getting your home in market-ready condition before listing it for sale.”
Over the next six to eight weeks, Ms. Booth’s Grafton home will receive landscape improvements, minor construction alterations and interior cosmetic updates provided by the professional team of designers including Weston Nurseries of Hopkinton, MA, Gilmore Building Company of Grafton, MA and Phillips Design of Concord, MA. Once completed, the renovated home will be listed for sale by Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty of Hopkinton, MA.
“We’ve been telling our customers for years that landscaping improvements provide a fantastic ROI for the value of your home,” says Peter Mezitt, President of Weston Nurseries. “This project is the first tangible example I know of in our industry that will provide the proof.”
“It’s a wonderful opportunity,” explains James Lipcon of Phillips Design. “Amy is going to get a fantastic re-design project that will surely increase the value of her home and make it more appealing to buyers.”
"Through the good fortune of Amy Booth,” says Eric Gilmore, President of Gilmore Building Company, “everyone will have a great opportunity to observe the face-lift remodeling process and the benefits that can be realized by custom designing to enhance a home's attractiveness before the selling process begins."
“In today’s market, first impressions and curb appeal are more important than ever,” says Erika Paul, President and Broker-Owner of Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty. “The Sell By Design Contest will demonstrate how crucial it is to get your home in the best shape possible before listing it for sale.”
Video progress of the project can be viewed online at www.SellByDesignContest.com.
Additional sponsors of the Sell By Design Contest include: The Law Offices of Irfan Nasrullah, First Eastern Mortgage Corporation, Koopman Lumber and Hardware, Flanagan Interior Finish, Inc., Kelly’s Property Services, LLC, Lorusso Stone and Omni Stone Works, Inc.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Spinning Event Being Held to Raise Money for Injured Dog
HOPKINTON, MA (January 5, 2010) – Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty today announced they’re hosting a fundraising event to help a severely wounded dog named Turtle . Believed to have been a “bait dog” used to test other dogs’ fighting skills, Turtle was discovered dumped by the side of the road in critical condition. Thankfully, a passerby found her, and got her to Veterinary Emergency Treatment & Specialties in Walpole, where she received the critical care she needed. But her recovery will be long and costly.
On Saturday, January 16, 2009 from 11:00am -12:00pm, Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty is hosting a spinning class fundraiser at the Spynergy Cycling Studio in Wellesley, MA to raise money for Turtle’s care. People can buy a seat in the one-hour spin class for $20.00 each. Every dollar raised will go directly to Turtle’s care. The organizers hope that animal lovers from around the area will join the spin class to enjoy great music, get a terrific workout, and support a worthy cause.
Spynergy has graciously donated use of their spinning studio, and their instructor’s time, for this important cause. Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty is also selling $15.00 Turtle Dog t-shirts to raise money for the shelter. Merry Perry Design of Quincy, MA has generously donated her time to create the t-shirt design.
“Turtle has put a face to the countless animals who have suffered in the heinous crime of dog fighting,” said Leslie Mann of Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty. “We are deeply grateful to dedicated organizations like the Animal Rescue League of Boston who, each day, help provide care and loving homes to animals who have faced untold cruelty. We are so thankful to Spynergy Cycling Studio and Merry Perry Design for their kindness and generosity in supporting this important work. Turtle is a gentle, friendly dog and we hope this event will help bring much needed funds so that she can lead a happy and healthy life.”
To reserve a spin seat or order a t-shirt, visit www.arlboston.org/spynergy or send a check made out to the Animal Rescue League to:
Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty
11 Grove Street
Hopkinton, MA 01748
Attn: Turtle Dog Fund
To hear more about Turtle’s story, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxT4Ue5AO4g .
About Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty
Based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, Hallmark Realty established itself as a boutique brokerage firm that has always offered its clientele a level of service not often found in the industry. Now as part of the Sotheby’s International Realty network, the office has access to the very best in marketing resources and technology, which takes the level of service to new heights. For more information about Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty please visit www.hallmarksothebysrealty.com or call 508.435.9200.
CONTACT
Leslie Doyle
508.904.4967
leslie.mann@sothebysrealty.com
Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty Promotes
Michael Lefebvre to Technology Director
Hopkinton, MA (October 8, 2009)— Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty in Hopkinton, MA today announced that they have promoted Michael Lefebvre to the position of Technology Director at the local real estate firm. Lefebvre will be charged with helping Broker-Owner, Erika Paul and Director of Marketing, Erica Wallace oversee and implement a corporate technology plan that will ensure that all the company’s Realtors are leveraging the most current, effective technology tools to improve their business and benefit their clients. Focus on comprehensive technology training for all the company’s Realtors, multiple website development and maintenance, video production and social media strategy will be Lefebvre’s core responsibilities. Having won multiple national awards for his creative use of online video to market real estate, Lefebvre brings a unique approach to positioning Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty as a leader in the evolving world of real estate.
“Technology plays such an integral part in the changing landscape of today’s real estate industry and we pride ourselves on our ability to stay on the cutting edge of all current technological developments which will help us better serve our clients,” said Erika Paul, President and Broker-Owner, Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty. “We are thrilled to announce the addition of a Technology Director position. Mike’s expertise, knowledge and passion for emerging technology in our industry will not only help all of our agents better serve their clients, but will also ensure we stay ahead of the curve as a company and continue our pioneering focus as a local real estate leader.”
“I feel lucky to be part of a company with the unique combination of the strength of a legacy brand like Sotheby’s International Realty that is also keenly in-tune with the ways technology is improving our industry,” said Michael Lefebvre. “With over 90% of consumers now beginning their real estate searches online, it is integral that we as a company, as well as all of our individual agents, have the distinct advantage of being real estate technology experts.”
Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty represents residential real estate in the Greater Boston, Metrowest areas of Massachusetts, and is located at 11 Grove Street in Hopkinton, MA.
About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.
Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty Announces New Sales Associates
HOPKINTON, MA (September 10, 2008) – Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty today announced the appointment of Kyle and Leslie Mann as sales associates. The husband and wife team will represent home buyers and sellers across the region.
Kyle Mann joined Re/Max Signature Properties in 2003, where he quickly became a favorite among clients as a friendly, diligent, and knowledgeable agent who would make their next home sale and/or purchase a positive experience. He joined Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty to align with a firm committed to delivering stellar service to their clients. Recently he launched a website www.positiverelocation.com to benefit home buyers, giving them access to home comparison tools, online community tours, school reports, plus a Boston commuting guide.
A veteran marketing professional, Leslie Mann brings her Internet marketing and public relations experience to help show her clients’ properties in the best light. With more than a decade representing brands such as Adobe Systems, Bose Corporation, and American Express, Mann sought to bring her marketing expertise to the luxury real estate market. Having experienced relocation firsthand, she loves welcoming newcomers to the area and helping them find a community that works best for their family.
“I am thrilled to have Kyle and Leslie Mann join our team at Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty. They are highly regarded in their community and by their clients and peers. Kyle and Leslie’s extensive relocation experience, as well as their commitment to offering their clients the best in real estate services, will make them not only a valuable asset to our company, but a welcome addition to our team” says Erika Paul.
“We always felt an affinity for the Sotheby’s brand, and have been impressed with the care and quality that the company put into showcasing its clients’ homes,” said Realtor® Kyle Mann of Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty.
About Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty
Based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, Hallmark Realty established itself as a boutique brokerage firm that has always offered its clientele a level of service not often found in the industry. Now as part of the Sotheby’s International Realty network, the office has access to the very best in marketing resources and technology, which takes the level of service to new heights. For more information about Hallmark Sotheby’s International Realty please visit www.hallmarksothebysrealty.com or call 508.435.9200.
Sotheby’s International Realty Brand Honored by Franchise Business Review
Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced it won Franchise Business Review’s Best in Category for Real Estate Franchisee Satisfaction award for the second year in a row.
The Best in Category award measures franchisee satisfaction with their franchisors and is part of the 4th annual Franchisee Satisfaction Awards presented by Franchise Business Review. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC also was ranked No. 7 for all franchise categories with more than 200 locations. This is the second year the brand was rated in the top 10 of all franchise categories.
“Our goal is to provide our franchisees with the resources they need to better serve their clients and remain leaders in their markets,” said Michael R. Good, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC, “For us to receive this recognition two years in a row demonstrates that we have built a service and support platform our franchisees find valuable. I consider that a true measure of our effectiveness and success.”
Franchise Business Review surveyed franchisees from more than 400 leading systems, representing nearly 100,000 franchisees, for the 4th annual Franchisee Satisfaction Awards. Franchises were evaluated in five areas: training and support, franchise system, franchisor/franchisee relations, financial opportunity and overall satisfaction.
“With all the doom and gloom news about the economy lately, it’s great to see that the very best franchise systems are still performing well for their franchise owners,” says Eric Stites, president and chief executive officer, Franchise Business Review. “It is still a good time to buy a franchise business, assuming you choose the right one. This year’s 115 award-winners have a proven record of success and are clearly some of the top investment opportunities in the marketplace today.”
The Sotheby’s International Realty® network currently has more than 10,700 sales associates located in more than 500 offices in 39 countries and territories worldwide.
Franchise Business Review is a national franchise market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction and franchise buyer experiences. For a complete list of this year’s award winners, go to www.FBR50.com.
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com .
MEDIA CONTACT
Jennifer Zimmerman
Director, Public Relations and Communications
Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC
1 Campus Drive
Parsippany, NJ 07054
(973) 407-6375
Jennifer.Zimmerman@sothebysrealty.com