Slideshow: 5 Ridiculously Romantic Homes with Hot Tubs

It’s Valentine’s Day. Roses, chocolates, fancy dinners and jewelry are the norm. Sure we could do a slideshow about homes with red in them or even chocolate-inspired decor, but honestly what is better than a hot tub? Seriously. You’ve had a long day at work and you just want to relax. Well here are some amazing homes that offer not just exceptional views and amenities, but the luxury of a hot tub as well.

1. Tower Bridge Views in London, United Kingdom – $32,000,000

A rooftop hot tub with arguably the most exceptional views in all of London. Try and top that. This home is the only Tower Bridge facing single dwelling which cantilevers over the River Thames. Oh and it has over 10,000 sq. ft. of luxury living as well. Now that’s a happy Valentine’s Day. Currently listed by Jade Mills with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Beverly Hills, CA.

2. Mountain Spa in Aspen, CO – $19,900,000

What’s more romantic that rugged mountain views during winter while you’re warm and bubbly in an outdoor hot tub? This hot tub and infinity pool combination is set outside an incredible how which boasts a master suite that takes up the entire top floor. Currently listed by Brian Hazen with Coldwell Banker Mason Morse in Aspen, CO.

3. Ocean View Luxury in Malibu, CA – $15,700,000

While you bask in the water of your private hot tub, you can enjoy the water views that only Malibu can bring. This gated beachfront estate is located on one of the best coves in all of Malibu and takes a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway to the extreme. Currently listed by Brian Goldberg with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Malibu, CA.

4. Luscious Landscape in Aspen, CO – $8, 750,000

We’re back in Aspen which evidently home to some of the most amazing homes with hot tubes in the United States. This one is no exception. Situated in the lush, gorgeous backyard with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop, it’s hard not to get have a romantic outing here. Currently listed by Carrie Wells with Coldwell Banker Mason Morse in Aspen, CO.

5. Jersey Shore Living in Monmouth Beach, NJ – $5,295,000

This is the real Jersey Shore. Secluded, private and ultra-relaxing backyard for this home with a hot tub, pool and just steps away form the beautiful beaches of the Jersey Shore. Currently listed by Pauline Poyner with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Rumson, NJ.

 

Slideshow: 6 Homes with Incredible Indoor Pools

It’s January. It was 16 degrees out this morning when I started writing this. The furthest thing from my mind was going out for a swim. But if I didn’t have to go outside and could enjoy some swim time within the confines of my well heated home, now that’s a different story.

So as I watch the snow gather on my lawn, I’m dreaming of a home where summer fun can be enjoyed year round with the luxury of an indoor pool. Here are the top five homes currently listed with Coldwell Banker:

1. La Villa Contenta in Malibu, CA – $22,500,000

Does this home look familiar? You’ve probably seen it on True Blood or Funny People or another Hollywood film or TV show that has shot at this amazing home in Malibu. On top of the amazing views this home affords, it also boasts arguably the nicest indoor pool known to man. Currently listed by Chris Cortazzo with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Malibu, CA.

2. Big Sur Cuast in Monterey, CA – $10,800,000

Situated above the windswept rocks and white water on the Big Sur wild coast, this soaring residence captures one of the most spectacular locations on the California coast. Approximately 10.5 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the estate offers 9,849 sq ft of living space including an indoor pool with a backdrop of spectacular rugged beauty. Currently listed by Ben Heinrich with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

3. Mediterranean Villa in Beverly Hills, CA – $9,995,000

Not only does this home have an indoor pool, but it’s part of an entertainment room outfitted with big screen TV, lounging area and workout equipment. Don’t let the size of the indoor pool fool you. It’s simply an add-on to the amazing outdoor pool and incredibly designed interior of this luxury home. Currently listed by Jade Mills with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Beverly HIlls, CA.

4. Indoor/Outdoor Spa in Boise, ID – $5,500,000

Experience the best of both worlds with this home whose pool goes both indoors and outdoors depending on the weather. This remarkable property sits on 12 acres and includes a guest home for all those pool party guests you’ll have over. Currently listed by Kathie Nahas with Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Group in Eagle, ID.

5. Pool Pavilion in Mercer Island, WA – $4,888,000

Now this home in the Pacific Northwest has tropical energy! Full integration of indoor pool pavilion with splashy open spaces of lounges, dining rooms, bedrooms, brilliant kitchen and greatroomall housed under a tremendous glass ceiling. Currently listed by Wendy Lister with Coldwell Banker Bain Seal in Bellevue, WA.

6. Big Cottonwood Creek in Holladay, UT – $4,500,000

European charm exudes from this classic chateau style home with windows everywhere soaking in the amazing setting. The indoor pool is surrounded by French doors and feels like a luxury resort with a spa and fully stocked bar. Currently listed by Michael Lindsay with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Midvale, UT.

Slideshow: 10 Most Expensive Trophy Homes Around the Globe

It’s award season in Hollywood. First you have the Golden Globes. Then the Grammys. And soon after that the Academy Awards. Trophies will be handed out left and right so we thought it was time to explore some of the most expensive “trophy homes” from around the globe that are currently listed on the Coldwell Banker Previews International website, coldwellbankerpreviews.com.

The slideshow above will give you a taste of some of these incredible properties, but for those who’s luxury appetite still hungers for a bit more here’s the list of homes and the links to their details on coldwellbankerpreviews.com:

1. Casa Casuarina in Miami Beach, FL – $100,000,000
Formerly known as the Versace mansion, this is truly the crown jewel of real estate. Take a look at our video exploring the inside of this incredible home. Listed by The Jills with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Miami Beach FL.

2. London, United Kingdom – $85,026,000
21 bedrooms and 21 baths across 18,675 sq. ft. makes this arguably the largest home in the United Kingdom after Buckingham Palace. Listed by Coldwell Banker PREVIEWS Demeure Prestige.

3. Rosenthal: The Malibu Estate in Malibu, CA – $59,500,000
Well guarded by large wooden gates and set 1,400 feet above the coastal fog, this private 235-acre estate has been introduced to the market for the first time since its inception in 1980. Listed by Irene Dazzan-Palmer with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Malibu.

4. “Les Palais” in Beverly Hills, CA – $58,000,000
Exquisite design, master craftsmanship and opulent finishes blend seamlessly to create an international masterpiece within the luxurious enclave of BH just steps from the historic Beverly Hills Hotel. Listed by Stacey Gottula with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Beverly Hills, CA.

5. Point Piper in New South Wales, Australia – $57,414,500
300 degree views capturing the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Sydney Heads and east to Rose Bay, this landmark 8 bedroom, 7 bathroom property is arguably set upon one of Sydney’s finest harbourfront estates. Listed by Jayne Whelan with Coldwell Banker Double Bay in Sydney, Australia.

6. Mountain Retreat in Aspen, CO – $$47,500,000
Rare views are common in this creek-front compound encompassing some 67 acres of alpine forests, manicured lawns, waterfalls, and designed jeep & hiking trails on Castle Creek just a few miles from Aspen proper. Listed by Brian Hazen with Coldwell Banker Mason Morse.

7. Strada Vecchia Road; Beverly Hills, CA – $45,000,000
Extraordinary site on a tree lined gated drive in the heart of Prime Bel Air. Extravagant plans for a 20,000+ contemporary residence. Listed by Stacey Gottula with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Beverly Hills, CA.

8. Rocky Oaks Estate; Malibu, CA – $43,000,000
Designed by esteemed architect Bob Easton and approached via a private gated driveway, this 9,000 SF grand home offers state-of-the-art amenities incliding an infinity pool and outside loggia. Listed by Sally Forster Jones with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Beverly Hills, CA.

9. London, United Kingdom – $41,859,200
An eleganthly presented 7 bedrooms freehold house with adjoing mews situated on the eastern side of this classic Regency Crescent with south-westerly views over the private communal gardens. Listed by Coldwell Banker PREVIEWS Demeure Prestige.

10. Indian Creek, FL – $38,000,000
A golfer and yachtsman’s paradise, Indian Creek offers peaceful, secure, waterfront island living for those who deserve the very best in life. Listed by The Jills with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Miami Beach, FL.

7 Drool-Worthy Pools

Oh summer. How it makes me long for my own pool. As a kid, I always wanted my own pool in my backyard. One year, my dad tried to grant my wish by setting up an above ground pool in the backyard. We got it all setup, but when we added water the thing crumbled faster than a stale cookie. That was the last time we tried for our own pool.

Instead I made friends with the Goodman’s, the Ferrari’s (no relation to the car), and the Pesnell’s who all had their own pool. Now I have my own home, but there isn’t quite enough room for a pool in the backyard so instead I indulge myself in the envious admiration of some of the amazing poolside homes on coldwellbanker.com. Below is a gallery of 7 pools to die for. I’ll take any of them, but I think the dockside one in Newport Beach might be favorite.

Browse the gallery below and try not to be green with envy. Share your favorite poolside home in the comments.

 

Guest Post from Madison Hildebrand: Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles Season 5

MH 300x207 Guest Post from Madison Hildebrand: Bravos Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles Season 5

Madison promises this season of Million Dollar Listing LA is going to have it all: high stakes drama, betrayal, and the most important aspect of the show…Incredible Luxury Real Estate!

Guest blog post from: Madison Hildebrand

Well, as far as reality television goes, this season of Million Dollar Listing LA is going to have it all: high stakes drama, betrayal, and of course the most important aspect of the show…Incredible Luxury Real Estate!  Viewers will see me compete and win gorgeous Coldwell Banker listings. I also feel, for the first time, viewers will see me completely unguarded.

Since I’m writing this blog without having seen any of the episodes this season, I can only speak from my filming experience.  The first episode has to be one of my most interesting listings, and my strategy to sell it, reminds me of some sort of Josh Flagg gimmick. I’ll give you a hint…caviar, Russian accents, and boat rides.  As the television teaser has suggested, there’s certainly some Heather/ Madison drama, a little disgraceful dousing of wine, and my very raw (but warranted) response.

As we all know, the market is hot hot hot right now, and this season of the show really parallels that upswing, making it more fun for everyone.  On a daily basis I’m dealing with an incredible influx of emails and phone calls from clients, prospects, and fans of the show.  I’m sure you can imagine I get some really bizarre requests and very interesting clients, which makes for some great material for T.V.  You won’t see it on the show, but I was recently asked to sell a grave site for a million dollars.  This, in and of itself, was a new one for me,  but the haunting twist ended up being that there was a  body in the plot, which had to be exhumed before I could sell it.  I politely declined that listing. This is just one example of what I’m dealing with in my office here lately.

It’s always a constant juggling act, trying to balance clients, office work, and filming schedules. People always ask me how long it takes to film and whether it’s fun.  Each season, my schedule becomes more efficient and smooth.  I’ve learned a lot about time management over the past 5 years. While I do like to be busy, sometimes it seems like there aren’t enough hours in the day to accomplish everything…like a little R & R. Sure, sometimes it’s fun.  I have a great crew, that after 10 months of constant filming, almost seem like family.  Just like family though, we have days where we all get on each other’s nerves.

Overall, I’m happy with this season, and the willingness and cooperation of both my clients and my company, that, no doubt, contributed to making this one of the best seasons yet.

Tune into Bravo Wednesdays at 9p, ET/PT to catch me on “Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles.”

A Home That Defines California Dreaming

$27 million oceanfront home in Malibu, CA listed by Chris Cortazzo

At Coldwell Banker Real Estate, we come across some incredible homes from across the globe, but this Malibu home listed by Coldwell Banker mega-agent, Chris Cortazzo, grabbed my attention from the first photo.

When you dream of heading to Southern California and living that Pacific Coast lifestyle, this is the exact home I envision myself in. Sure it’s probably not realistic for me, but hey it’s my dream. Perfectly located on the bluffs in Malibu and overlooking some of the most premium beachfront you can find is this California castle. Listed for $27 million it boasts 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, a 50 ft pool in the back and the interior design was done by Tim Clarke.

I love how Chris Cortazzo describes the interior in his property details on coldwellbanker.com, he says “Interior designer Tim Clarke’s coastal modern aesthetic imbues the home with warmth and livability.” I like warmth and I love livability.

Magnificent doesn’t do this place justice. I think it needs it’s own Spotify playlist to listen to while viewing the property details.

Check out all the pics and the full details on this 10,000 sq. ft. home on coldwellbanker.com.

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Tour Through the True Blood Mansion

It’s the season for creatures of a scary nature and what better time to have a house on the market that is known for vampires. Fans of HBO’s True Blood may recognize this palatial estate as being home to the blood-sucking Queen Sophie Anne, but it’s actually a home set on the bluffs of Malibu. The mansion is currently listed by the #1 agent in all of Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Chris Cortazzo, for $75 million.

Michael Corbett of Extra TV featured the property the other night which you can over at ExtraTV.com. What you’ll notice is that the indoor pool that has been seen on a number of episodes of True Blood is actually contained in a totally separate mansion from the main house! Chris Cortazzo describes the home as being influenced by Italian design and architecture, and the home has some of the most beautiful views in Malibu.

According to the property description, the home is actually named La Villa Contenta and is one of the world’s premier properties that has never before listed for sale. This ultimate compound is located on approx 8 acres of the most prime bluff top that Malibu has to offer. No vampires included.

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