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31 Articles

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty Welcomes Kim Ramos

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty today announced that Kim Ramos has joined the luxury brokerage firm as a licensed real estate salesperson.

Prior to establishing herself in real estate, Ramos lived in London and Los Angeles, where she worked in the film and television industry as a successful script and continuity supervisor. Ramos is a member of the National Association of Realtors and the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors and its multiple listing service.

“The Lower Hudson Valley presents a particularly distinct lifestyle and coveted experience that continues to attract homebuyers from Manhattan and Brooklyn, and this is where Kim combines her in-depth knowledge of the unique hamlets that offer easy access to New York City,” said Nancy Bashian Bunin, Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty director of business development. “She prides herself on her ability to source the ‘best of the best’ the area has to offer, and passes along her discoveries to help her clients feel comfortable in their new community.”

Ramos’ career travels took her to remote and beautiful locations throughout the United States, Europe, South Africa and the Caribbean where she developed an appreciation for architecture and design details, Bunin said, adding: “With a keen eye for seeing the greatest potential in a property, Kim excels in representing clients who seek a unique lifestyle experience, whether in the luxury market or just starting out as a first-time homebuyer.”

“Whether you wish to buy, sell, rent or invest, I am dedicated to providing clients a superior level of service, clear communication, innovative marketing and a highly personalized, boutique-style experience,” said Ramos.

Ramos, who earned a bachelor of arts degree in film at Emerson College, Boston, resides in Nyack where she spent her early childhood years and where she is now living with her family and raising her son.

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Lower Hudson Valley: Living Outside The City

40 Washington Spring Road, Snedens Landing

When the time comes to move out of the City, New Yorkers are increasingly seeking out locations that offer personal, meaningful and rewarding experiences. Topping their list of desired amenities includes: a rich lifestyle, flourishing arts scene, inspiring landscapes, a place to build relationships and a home for their families.

The Lower Hudson Valley—which includes the hamlets of the Nyacks, Piermont, Snedens Landing, Tuxedo Park, Wawick, Montebello and Grandview, to name a few—presents a particularly distinct lifestyle and coveted experience that continues to attract homebuyers from Manhattan and Brooklyn. Located just across the Hudson River and west of Manhattan, the Lower Hudson Valley offers exceptional lifestyle amenities, a bucolic landscape, historic architecture and a thriving real estate market.

Lifestyle

165 Kings Highway, Tappan

Living in the Lower Hudson Valley is truly an experience. From the seasonal farmers’ markets and the bevy of cultural attractions to the numerous recreational amenities and the family-friendly events, the Lower Hudson Valley offers a relaxed, rich lifestyle for any interest. Homebuyers are especially attracted to the flourishing art scene, close-knit communities, world-class golf courses and artisanal shops and restaurants.

Provenance and Architecture

259 Sickletown Road, West Nyack

For decades, the Lower Hudson Valley has been a haven for celebrities. Famous residents have included Angelina Jolie, Vivian Leigh, Orson Wells and Rosie O’Donnell—to name a few. Many homes have a storied past that includes former famous owners or guests, which makes for great dinner conversation with friends!

101 Pascack Road, Pearl River

In addition, many homes exemplify classic architectural styles such as Queen-Anne Victorian and Gothic Revival. Homebuyers fall in love with the Lower Hudson Valley’s historic and charming architecture, and the chance to own a piece of its history.

Coveted Real Estate

63 Washington Spring Road, Snedens Landing

The real estate market in the Lower Hudson Valley continues to be strong, with Rockland and Orange counties continuing to be favored by buyers who live in New York City, primarily Manhattan and Brooklyn. In addition, the recent completion of the new Tappan Zee Bridge spanning the Hudson River means improved access to New York City, further strengthening the region’s appeal.

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Lower Hudson Valley Lifestyle: A Haven for Celebrities

1 Gesner Ave., South Nyack (Sold)

There is something about the Lower Hudson Valley, particularly the west bank that has attracted widely known residents for decades. Perhaps it is the bountiful, bucolic scenery and views of the Hudson River that has long inspired actors, artists, musicians and dancers. Perhaps it is the privacy and sense of community it affords with easy access to New York City. Whatever the reason, the market continues to attract buyers who are at the top of their fields in film, television, creative and financial industries.

Tuxedo Park, Warwick, Highland Mills and other parts of Orange County have always attracted actors and other notables. “We have been fortunate to help several cultural icons find their homes,” said Richard Ellis, owner of Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty in Nyack, New York, who has sold homes in the region for 33 years, including the former childhood home of actress Angelina Jolie. “This area has almost always been an artistic getaway of sorts for a lot of creative types from New York City and, to a lesser extent, from LA,” he said.

In 2017, the brokerage sold homes to movie and TV personalities and business leaders from Upper Nyack to Snedens Landing. Comedian, actress, TV personality and longtime South Nyack resident Rosie O’Donnell listed her Hudson Riverfront compound with Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty, and sold her primary residence in February 2018 for $5,100,000. “These communities are the gold coast of Rockland County and are in demand not only by celebrities, but by New Yorkers looking to move out of the city full time or looking for a second home,” said Ellis.


95 Judson Road, Montgomery

Snedens Landing: A Star Market

Nestled among the steep cliffs of the Palisades in Rockland County just 12 miles north of the George Washington Bridge, Snedens Landing is a secluded enclave dating back to the 1700’s. With renovated turn-of-the-century homes, including 18th- and 19th-century cottages, farmhouses and estates in historic districts, Snedens Landing is one of Rockland County’s top markets,” said Ellis, who along with his Sales Associates specialize in the community. The rural hamlet has long resembled an artists’ colony, with celebs including Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, Noel Coward, Orson Welles, Uma Thurman and Bill Murray.

“We see people gravitate to the area for both Hudson River-view and non-river
view homes at varying price points, from under $1 million to well over that,” he said, adding that Snedens Landing had a banner year in the luxury market with multiple sales in the $2 million-and-greater range. “It is a great place to live, with privacy, incredible views and celebrity cachet, minus the pretense,” he said. “The new affluent consumers favor experiences a lifestyle can offer over simply a place to live. What you choose to surround yourself with—family, friends, history, an amazing view and art — are all part of what makes a space a home. Your best life begins with a home that inspires you, and clearly the lower Hudson Valley is inspirational.”


235 North Broadway, Nyack

Lifestyle and Experiences

“Consumers are seeking a much more personal take on what’s most meaningful and rewarding: experiences, art, inspiration, entertaining, family and relationships,” Ellis said. The millennial generation is the future of real estate. They respond to clean open spaces, don’t have time to renovate, want an experience and a lifestyle. “An extraordinary life is living the lifestyle you want and the Hudson Valley is all about experiences, and experiences create a lifestyle,” he said.

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associates are Local Experts with Worldwide Reach and Connections. We define Luxury as an experience, not a price point and create relationships with our customers and clients to last a lifetime.

 

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Global Citizens: Giving Back Locally and Globally

In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 15 – 21), Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty is committed to making a lasting humanitarian difference in communities, locally and globally. The firm holds annual fundraisers to support local arts education programs in the Hudson Valley as well as home construction in Haiti. Owner Richard Ellis said a key priority in 2018 and beyond is “giving back.”

Partnership with New Story

“Public-private partnerships continue to offer solutions for achieving common goals,” he said. Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty recently raised over $6,000 to build a hurricane-resistant house for a family in Haiti through its partnership with New Story, a nonprofit whose mission is to transform dangerous living environments into communities of safe, sustainable homes.

“Giving Sales Associates an avenue to give back is important to morale and builds a collaborative and inspired team,” he said. “Teaming up with New Story allowed us to extend the services we provide daily: to help people discover homes that allow them to build better lives.”

 

Preserving the Arts in Hudson Valley Public Schools

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty partners with Edward Hopper House Museum & Study Center in Nyack to host annual fundraisers benefiting arts education in local public schools, raising over $45,000 since the partnership was forged two years ago. Hopper is widely acknowledged as the most important realist painter of 20th century America.

“Funding for arts education has unfortunately been cut back,” said Ellis, who believes this curriculum is critical in creating a well-rounded individual. “The Hudson Valley has a rich history of nurturing great artists. We are committed to continuing that tradition for the next generation of residents as well as instilling confidence and building self esteem in children and adolescents through art.”

 

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Preparing Your Home For Sale: Insider Tips for Today’s Sellers


96 Washington Spring Rd, Snedens Landing

Putting your home on the market? Sellers need the professional advice of REALTORS® who not only know the marketplace well, but have the ability to market properties successfully. Just a few small investments can go a long way to increase your home’s perceived value by seeing your home through the eyes of the buyer.

Consider the following recommendations to ensure prospective buyers gain a great first impression:

18 Conklin Lane, Rockleigh, NJ

  • According to HGTV, landscaping can add as much as 10 percent in value to your home. Keep the grass cut and free of clutter. A few hearty, potted plants and inviting seasonal flowers or shrubs around the walkway will go a long way.
  • A freshly painted door will create a welcoming first impression.
  • Besides letting outside light in to brighten spaces, change your light bulbs from “soft white” to “clear” to maximize brightness.
  • Hide the critters: conceal pets and pet food from all common areas.

122 Circuit Road, Tuxedo Park

  • Repurpose an unused room into an office or craft room.
  • Remove extra clothes from the closets and dishes from the cabinets.
  • Paint with calming hues.
  • Power wash surfaces, including pavers, fences, as well as brick and vinyl siding.
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Best Farmers’ Markets and Farm Stores in the Lower Hudson Valley

With the snow still falling in the Hudson Valley, it’s hard to believe the spring season is upon us let alone that summer is right around the corner. The Lower Hudson Valley features a bounty of farmers’ markets and farm stands that offer locally sourced produce, baked goods, flowers and local crafts. Many of the markets are open year-round, while others open in April and run through the fall. Here is our list of the best farmers’ markets and farm stores in the area. See you at the farm!

Photo: Nyack Farmer’s Market via Facebook

Nyack Farmers’ Market, Nyack Center

April 5 – November 29, 2018 | Thursdays, 8am to 2pm

Join some of the greatest vendors in the region who come together to offer locally produced food, featuring fresh, delicious produce, baked goods, sweet treats and other great items. Local artists and craftsmen sell unique gifts and collectables.

Down to Earth Farmers’ Market, Piermont

April 22 – November 18, 2018 | Sundays, 9:30am to 3:00pm

Down to Earth Markets bring together local farmers and area food makers who source locally, expanding upon the traditional farmers’ market. Down to Earth Piermont includes vendors from Deep Roots Farm, Mcgrath Cheese Company and Sunset View Farm, to name a few.

Photo: Tuxedo Farmers’ Market via Facebook

Tuxedo Farmers’ Market, Tuxedo Train Station

Mid-June – October, 2018 | Saturdays, 9am to 2pm

Tuxedo Farmers’ Market brings locally grown, raised or produced fruits, vegetables, flowers, meats, eggs baked goods and gourmet specialty foods to our local community. Shop the market and get to know the vendors—knowing where your food comes from is important.

The Orchards of Concklin, Pomona

March – December | Daily, 8am to 6pm

The Orchards of Concklin has been a prominent fixture in Rockland County for over ten generations. The family-owned business features pick-your-own, locally grown produce, farm stand, bakery and farm-fresh eggs.

Photo: Von Houten Farms

Von Houten Farms, Orangeburg

Year-round | Daily, 8:30am to 6pm

Von Houten Farms is a local neighborhood garden center that has been in operation for over 60 years. The farm grows produce, flowers, plants, trees and shrubs, and offers a variety of gardening and lawn care supplies.

Auntie El’s Farm Market, Sloatsburg

Year-round | Daily, 8am – 6pm

Auntie El’s Farm Market and Bakery is a local-favorite and offers seasonal fruits and vegetables, chocolates, local honey, jams/jellies, baked goods, farm-fresh milk and eggs, and homemade dog biscuits.

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Lower Hudson Valley: Real Estate Market Update | Spring 2018

1 Washington Avenue, South Nyack

If current sales volume trends are any indication, consumers are discovering what Rockland County and Orange County residents already know: that the area offers a unique and coveted lifestyle with some of the most extraordinary homes available anywhere. Richard Ellis, owner of Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty in Nyack, New York, said those counties continue to be favored by buyers who live in New York City, primarily Manhattan and Brooklyn. He also has seen an increase in buyers outside of the United States who are purchasing homes at price points greater than $1 million.

In 2017, Orange County showed increases for dollar volume and units sold of 14.46 % and 9.81% respectively. This is good news! We cautiously predict 2018 will be a good year for real estate throughout the county, and particularly for luxury properties in Tuxedo Park. We believe the new tax laws foster more spending in the higher price points. While we have yet to see any significant appreciation in home values in higher price points, some lower priced homes are beginning to see appreciation.
16 Liberty Street, Piermont

SETTING RECORDS

Richard Ellis, owner of Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty in Nyack, New York, said 2017 was another recent record-setting year for unit sales by his brokerage, which achieved record sales and increased its sales volume nearly 19 percent from 2016 and selling more luxury, single-family homes in New York’s Rockland and Orange counties and Hudson River towns than its competitors.

187 County Highway 105, Highland Mills

Home sales recorded by the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service show the firm was the market-share leader in sales volume for luxury homes valued at more than $1 million, 29.22 percent in Orange and Rockland Counties and 35.57 percent market share in Rockland County. In the Hudson River towns of Grandview, Palisades, Piermont, Nyack, South Nyack, Upper Grandview and Upper Nyack, Ellis also commands the number-one position in market share for single-family homes, with 23.80 percent for homes across all price points and 56.88 percent market share for the $1 million-plus home market.

95 Judson Road, Montgomery

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty sold more homes on the Hudson River than any of its competitors: 57 percent, ranging from $850,000 to a record-setting price of $3.5 million in 2017. “Business has been booming,” he said. “It was quite a year for us.”

Luxury sales recorded by the MLS show a 21 percent increase in sales over $1 million in Rockland County and 11 percent in Orange County. “And 2018 is shaping up to be another great year with sales of $4 and $5M under our belt already” Ellis said.

Cautious Optimism

The recent completion of the new Tappan Zee Bridge spanning the Hudson River between New York’s Rockland and Westchester Counties means improved commutes to and from the city. It is expected to drive more sales activity to the west bank of the Hudson River and stimulate new construction, particularly in Rockland and Orange Counties. “More buyers who began their search in Westchester County will come searching for homes in Rockland and Orange Counties,”
said Ellis. “Quicker transportation options to New York City make the Hudson’s west side more appealing.

96 Washington Spring Road, Snedens Landing

We cautiously predict we may finally see home values start to appreciate, including in the luxury segment and the middle-market range for first-time buyers in Rockland and Orange Counties. We already see some appreciation in Snedens Landing, Clarkstown and Orangetown and cautiously predict 2018 will also be a good year for Tuxedo Park, particularly for luxury properties just under and over $1 million.”

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Golf Course Living: The Best Homes in the Lower Hudson Valley

The Lower Hudson Valley offers a myriad of lifestyle amenities and experiences for all interests. From hiking and biking to boating and golfing, the Lower Hudson Valley is more than a location—it’s a destination.

In fact, the region is home to a dozen plus public and private golf clubs and courses. Whether you are a golf enthusiast or just enjoy the serenity associated with the golf lifestyle, living on or near a golf course offers park-like beauty, social camaraderie and leisure recreation.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living the golf lifestyle, explore our collection of championship homes on or near one of the Lower Hudson Valley’s top golf courses.

Rockland County

201 Rt 9W Palisades

201 Route 9W, Snedens Landing

Located just under a mile from the Rockland Country Club, “The Big House” is one of the oldest homes in the country. On the National Register of Historic Homes, this beautifully restored and historically significant circa 1738 English manor has significant period details including massive ceiling beams, 18th century paneling, period cabinetry and wide board floors.

Rockland Country Club, Sparkill (Public): Set on 150 acres, Rockland Country Club features a relaxed, casual atmosphere and an 18-hole championship golf course.

11 mile road

11 Mile Road, Montebello

Located just 1.5 miles from Spook Rock Golf Course, this cut fieldstone Tudor was designed and built by New York City architect Henry Fowler in 1925. This exceptional property features leaded and stained glass windows, beamed ceilings, original chandeliers and wide plank floors.

Spook Rock Golf Course, Suffern (Public): Spook Rock Golf Course is an award-winning, par-72 course set on 150 acres.

635 South Mountain

635 South Mountain Road, New City

Located just 2 miles from Paramount Country Club, this intriguing modern home offers peace, quiet and tranquility in a secluded mountain top setting. Surrounded by protected woodlands, this bucolic sanctuary features vast open spaces, four fireplaces and a German designed kitchen.

Paramount Country Club, New City (Private): Nestled in the heart of Rockland County, Paramount Country Club is a private golf club that offers an exceptional experience with premiere amenities and family-oriented social activities.

15 Wo Bauer Lane Orangeburg

15 Wo Bauer Lane, Orangeburg

Located 3.3 miles from Blue Hill Golf Course, this elegant brick colonial sits on a cul-de-sac in the prestigious neighborhood of Sherwood Forest Estates. Set on nearly one acre and with a circle drive, the home features a dramatic staircase, open floor plan and a great deck, which is perfect for entertaining.

Blue Hill Golf Course, Pearl River (Public): As Rockland County’s oldest course, Blue Hill Golf Course is a 27-hole championship golf course in an idyllic setting overlooking Lake Tappan.

Orange County

103 mansion ridge

103 Mansion Ridge Blvd., Monroe

Located on The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge and overlooking the 18th hole, this sophisticated home is a tranquil refuge that is adorned with top-tier finishes. Enjoy long-distance scenic views from serene outdoor entertaining spaces surrounded by hand hewn stonewalls and elegant landscapes.

The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge, Monroe (Public): Voted Top 20 Best Public Golf Course in New York by Golf Digest, The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge is a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course nestled in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains.

75 Summit Road

75 Summit Road, Tuxedo Park

Located just seven tenths of a mile from The Tuxedo Club, “Stonecrest” is a bespoke masterpiece offering a classic design, exquisite materials, master craftsmanship and modern luxury amenities. From the new chef’s kitchen, to the cherry-wood laden office with fireplace and inviting dining room, the home is both stately and manageable all in a private and tranquil setting.

The Tuxedo Club, Tuxedo Park (Private): One of the most unique private clubs in the world, The Tuxedo Club is a historic social institution that dates back to 1886 and features unparalleled grounds and a notably tough opening blind tee shot.

5 trinity pl

5 Trinity Place, Cornwall

Located just one mile from the historic Strom King Golf Club, Knoll Shoal is a historic and elegant home with original architectural details, high ceilings, six bedrooms, four fireplaces and oak hardwood floors.

Storm King Golf Club, Cornwall (Public): One of the oldest golf clubs in America, Storm King Golf Club began in 1894 and is a true golfer’s club with a relaxed recreational course and social fellowship.

95 Judson Road

95 Judson Road, Montgomery

Located within a 15 minutes drive of Stony Ford Golf Course, this one-of-a-kind rustic retreat is nestled on 38+ private acres offering the perfect setting to relax, recharge and entertain. The compound includes a three-bedroom log cabin-style main residence, two-story showcase garage, two guest apartments, barn and numerous outbuildings.

Stony Ford Golf Course, Hamptonburgh (Public): Stony Ford Golf Course is a public course part of the Orange County New York Parks, Recreation & Conservation. This high-quality course offers a driving range, pro shop and practice green.

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Experience and Lifestyle: Living in the Lower Hudson Valley

outdoor activities lower hudson valley

In real estate, which is driven by supply and demand, it is easy to understand why price and inventory are discussed often. However, new research from the Boston Consulting Group and Sotheby’s International Realty® finds that affluent consumers favor experiences over personal goods. As such, a home is so much more than a physical place to live. A home is a lifestyle. What you choose to surround yourself with—family, friends, history, an amazing view and art—are all part of what makes a space a home. Your best life begins with a home that inspires you.

farmer's markets lower hudson valley

Living in the Lower Hudson Valley is all about the experience and lifestyle. Primary homebuyers find a thriving art scene, close-knit communities and blue ribbon schools. Secondary homebuyers discover the Lower Hudson Valley offers a quite respite from city life, a bucolic landscape and a myriad of outdoor activities including boating, hiking, kayaking and cycling.

11 Voorhis Point South Nyack

11 Voorhis Point, South Nyack

Buyers are drawn to the river communities—Snedens Landing, Piermont, and the Nyacks and Grandviews—for their water accessibility, restaurants and parklands, which cover roughly one-third of the county. By contrast Tuxedo Park, New City and Clarkstown are known for their family-friendly amenities and rural sensibility.

316 West Lake Rd Tuxedo Park

316 West Lake Road, Tuxedo Park

Leading indicators point to a strong spring selling market in Rockland and Orange counties with buyers having a continued focus on lifestyle amenities and homes that deliver meaningful and entertaining experiences.

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Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty Reports Record 2017 Sales Growth

DingDong

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty today announced that it achieved record sales in 2017, increasing its sales volume nearly 19 percent from 2016 and selling more luxury, single-family homes in New York’s Rockland and Orange counties and Hudson River towns than its competitors.

Home sales recorded by the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors’ multiple-listing service show the Nyack-based firm was the market-share leader in sales volume for luxury homes valued at more than $1 million: 35.57 percent market share in Rockland County and 29.22 percent each in Orange and Rockland counties.

In the Hudson River towns of Grandview, Palisades, Piermont, Nyack, South Nyack, Upper Grandview and Upper Nyack, Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty also commands the number-one position in market share for single-family homes, with 56.88 percent market share for the $1 million-plus home market and 23.80 percent for homes across all price points.

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty sold the most homes on the Hudson River, 57 percent, ranging from $850,000 to a record-setting price of $3.5 million. “These communities are the gold coast of Rockland County and are in demand by New Yorkers looking to move out of the city full time or looking for a second home,” said owner Richard Ellis.

“Business has been booming,” he said. “We are very proud of our sales associates’ activity in the lower Hudson Valley, including Snedens Landing, where we recently sold the iconic, pre-Revolutionary Ding Dong House for $3.21 million. It was quite a year for us.”

Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty also achieved the highest average sales price for single-family homes in Rockland County − $918,765 − and in the river towns − $1,268,176 − for offices with more than five transactions. The firm has been the luxury market leader for homes sales in the million-dollar-plus range in Rockland County for 10 of 11 years and in the river towns for 11 of 13 years.

“Sellers and buyers need the professional advice of Realtors who know the marketplace well, have the ability to market properties successfully and have the backing of a strong, respectable and global brand,” said Ellis. He said he is proud that Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty has 40 percent of the top 10 salespersons for luxury homes sold for over $1 million in the river towns and Rockland County’s Orangetown and Clarkston.

“These statistics demonstrate why we are in a unique position to provide confident recommendations to our clients, whether they are buying or selling,” said Ellis. “Our professional sales associates can guide clients based on our long-standing history as the market leader for selling and marketing a variety of luxury homes and doing so with the utmost respect and discretion.”

The group also made its foray in New Jersey, listing and selling homes, including a $2.15 million listing in Rockleigh, Bergen County.

“I’m so proud of our team and what we accomplished in 2017,” Ellis said. “It’s shaping up to be another great year. My team is passionate about real estate, and we expect to do even more business in 2018 and have fun along the way.”

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