Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation expands team and services ahead of its 50th anniversary

Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation expands team and services ahead of its 50th anniversary

News & Updates

by | Apr 28, 2025 | News & Updates

     PHOENIX, ARIZ.  (April 28, 2025) – As Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation approaches its golden anniversary in 2026, the woman-owned firm continues to expand, cementing its position as Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider.

This year marks another milestone of growth and innovation as the company welcomes four new employees, enhancing its commitment to delivering exceptional escrow services statewide and beyond.

Established in 1976, Arizona Escrow & Financial has built a stellar reputation for transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction, boasting an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Initially focused on serving Arizona’s business community, the firm has diversified to oversee complex business sales, commercial real estate transactions, and personal property escrows, offering unparalleled expertise and efficiency in every transaction.

“We are proud of the trust our clients place in us,” said Monica May-Dunn, CEO. “Our team’s 104 years of combined experience means we’re prepared for even the most intricate transactions. We believe in going above and beyond to ensure a seamless escrow process.”

The new hires bring the team to a total of nine professionals, including May-Dunn and President Annette Anderson. This growth sets the stage for the firm’s upcoming addition of account servicing and seller carryback financing, further expanding its range of specialized escrow services.

Arizona Escrow & Financial serves as a neutral third party, ensuring all contractual obligations are met while efficiently managing the closing process. They provide specialized escrow services to safeguard all parties involved and facilitate smooth transactions. Key services include:

  • Settlement and litigation escrows: Managing funds during legal disputes.
  • Holding and disbursement escrows: Holding documents and/or funds until such time as agreement terms are met.
  • State and county UCC/lien searches: Conducting official searches for liens.
  • Business/personal property transactions: Supporting sales of personal and business assets.
  • Stock and membership interest sales: The transfer of corporate stock or Limited Liability Membership interests.
  • Commercial real property sales: Facilitating real estate sales.
  • Escrow for M&A transactions: Managing complex business purchases, including Holdback Escrows and Good Faith Deposits.

Arizona Escrow & Financial tailors its services for various clients, such as real estate agents, brokers, buyers, sellers, attorneys, lenders, investors, and fiduciaries, focusing on transparency and risk reduction for complex transactions. Its expertise spans both real estate and business-related escrows.

“As anticipation builds for our 50th anniversary, we look forward to celebrating decades of excellence while embracing opportunities for continued innovation and growth,” Anderson said. “With a collaborative team at the core of our business, we remain steadfast in our mission to reduce risk, inspire trust, and serve as a reliable partner in every transaction.”

About Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation

 Founded in 1976 by Donald E. Graham, Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation is Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider, specializing in business sales, personal property, and commercial real estate transactions. Its customer base includes individuals, businesses, business and real estate brokers, law firms, commercial and SBA lenders, banks, major corporations, tribal communities, state and municipal government organizations and departments, internet entities, and other parties requiring an experienced and professional escrow company. Under the leadership of CEO Monica May-Dunn since 2023, Arizona Escrow & Financial remains committed to personalized service, instilling confidence in clients, and setting the standard for excellence in the escrow industry. For more information visit arizonaescrow.com.

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by Apr 28, 2025
NAIOP Arizona honors Mike Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield with 2025 Award of Excellence

NAIOP Arizona honors Mike Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield with 2025 Award of Excellence

News & Updates

by | Apr 23, 2025 | News & Updates

PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 23, 2025) – Mike Haenel, an Executive Vice Chair with Cushman & Wakefield in Phoenix, has been named NAIOP Arizona’s 2025 Award of Excellence recipient.

The award will be presented at the Best of NAIOP awards ceremony on May 1 at the Arizona Financial Theatre. The event will also celebrate Best of NAIOP’s own 30 incredible years of excellence in commercial real estate.

The NAIOP Arizona Award of Excellence recognizes individuals who have made a significant and positive impact on the commercial real estate industry in Arizona over a period of at least 15 years, along with direct contributions to the chapter.

The Arizona Chapter of NAIOP is among the largest of the 53 chapters, with over 1,000 individual members representing around 450 companies. NAIOP Arizona provides unparalleled industry networking and education, and advocates for effective legislation on behalf of its members.

“On behalf of the NAIOP Arizona Board, our members and staff, we’re thrilled to honor Cushman & Wakefield’s Mike Haenel as our 2025 Award of Excellence recipient.  A Vice Chair and Member of one of Cushman & Wakefield’s most productive teams, Mike’s resume of projects has transformed Greater Phoenix,” said NAIOP Arizona Chair Phil Breidenbach, SIOR with Colliers.

“Also impressive is his leadership as a former NAIOP Chair, and with many other professional organizations and charities. Of all Mike’s accolades, he is most respected for the deep personal relationships he has with so many of us.  Mike has changed lives in our community. We are grateful for both his friendship as well as his leadership,” Breidenbach said.”

Haenel has more than 40 years of experience in the sale and leasing of industrial/back-office buildings and land throughout Arizona. Haenel and his business partners, Andy Markham, Will Strong, and Phil Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield, specialize in the acquisition, disposition, and leasing of industrial real estate, servicing the needs of corporate, institutional, and entrepreneurial owners/users in Arizona and other markets.

“I am humbled in receiving this honor from NAIOP Arizona. NAIOP is an organization that provides a tremendous platform for committed members in the region and across the world to work more closely together toward the greater good of the commercial real estate industry, our business, and as people. I am very proud to be a longstanding member of NAIOP,” Mike Haenel said.

“I am grateful for all the wonderful relationships that I have made throughout the past 40 years in the commercial real estate industry and the Valley of the Sun. I have been helped by so many! A special thank you to my family, Cushman & Wakefield, our entire team, clients, colleagues and all those that have helped make a difference in our community,” he added.

Mike Haenel is deeply connected to his community and grateful to be able to give back. He is a member of The Thunderbirds and actively involved with St. Mary’s Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul. He also takes pride in his past involvement at Barrow Neurological Institute, Brophy College Preparatory and Xavier College Preparatory.

About Cushman & Wakefield 


Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core service lines of Services, Leasing, Capital markets, and Valuation and other. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit www.cushmanwakefield.com.

About NAIOP

NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, is the leading organization for developers, owners and related professionals in office, industrial, retail, multifamily and mixed-use real estate. NAIOP comprises over 21,000 members in North America. The Arizona Chapter is among the largest in the bi-national network with over 1,100 members. For more information, visit naiop.org or naiopaz.org.

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by Apr 23, 2025
AEC Growth Summit to ignite industry innovation, collaboration May 8 at Arizona Center in Phoenix

AEC Growth Summit to ignite industry innovation, collaboration May 8 at Arizona Center in Phoenix

News & Updates

by | Apr 22, 2025 | News & Updates

      PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 22, 2025) – Get ready for a game-changing gathering that’s redefining the future of the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries.

The AEC Growth Summit, one of the most eagerly awaited industry events of the year, will ignite Downtown Phoenix on Wednesday, May 8, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Arizona Center, 455 N. 3rd St. This powerhouse summit unites trailblazing leaders, visionary innovators, and bold changemakers, all set to shape the next era of AEC excellence.

      Hosted by four thriving construction industry support firms in IT/Cybersecurity, Business Development, Finance, and Marketing, the AEC Growth Summit will spotlight the rapidly evolving landscape of these four cornerstone departments and their functions. It features dynamic speakers, interactive panels, and curated networking experiences. This one-day summit is designed to inspire new ideas, foster strategic partnerships, and drive growth across the AEC ecosystem in Arizona and beyond.

      “The AEC Growth Summit is more than just an event – it’s a platform for forward-thinking professionals to connect, collaborate, and chart the future of our industries,” said Justin Neagle, Chief Storyteller at Spot Migration. “Arizona is experiencing record growth, and this summit will provide the insights and tools needed to scale sustainably and successfully.”

      Summit highlights include six interactive sessions covering IT and Cybersecurity, M&A, Business Development, Finance, and Marketing with emerging technologies/best practice evolution for AEC. Featured speakers:

There will also be panel discussions with regional experts on navigating challenges in mergers and acquisitions, business development, marketing planning, and cybersecurity for large fleets and remote teams.

Sponsors include Corporate Interior Systems, Danson Construction, Code Buddy, FFKR Architecture, FSJ Tactical, Bidtracer, to name a few. A networking happy hour on the 11th floor of Arizona Center’s vibrant mixed-use space is sponsored by Modern Business Development and Cherry Coatings.

The summit is expected to draw more than 100 construction firm owners from across the state, including architects, engineers, contractors, developers, urban planners, and technology providers.

Registration is open at aec-growth-summit.com; early-bird rates apply through April 30.         For more information, media inquiries, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Neagle at justinn@spotmigration.com.

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by Apr 22, 2025
Breana Quesada promoted to Environmental Group Manager at Terracon’s Tucson office

Breana Quesada promoted to Environmental Group Manager at Terracon’s Tucson office

News & Updates

by | Apr 21, 2025 | News & Updates

TUCSON, ARIZ. (April 21, 2025) – Terracon is proud to announce the promotion of Breana Quesada to Environmental Group Manager in the firm’s Tucson office.

Quesada, who has been with Terracon for almost four years, was promoted from Senior Staff Scientist. In her new role, she will manage a wide variety and size of environmental projects and a small group of environmental staff.

“Congratulations to Breana on her well-deserved promotion. Her dedication, expertise, and leadership have been truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact she’ll continue to make in this new role,” said Derek D. Koller, Senior Principal and Tucson Office Manager.

A native of Tucson, Quesada earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from the University of Arizona. She is active in the Southern Arizona CCIM Chapter, Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), the Southern Arizona Environmental Management Society (SAEMS), and Urban Land Institute (ULI), and completed the Metropolitan Pima Alliance (MPA) Emerging Leaders program.

Away from the office Quesada enjoys gardening and hiking.

About Terracon

Terracon is an employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm with more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 locations nationwide. Our talented employee-owners provide on-time and real-time data driven insights to create an unmatched client experience that spans the lifecycle of any project, any size, anywhere. ​Terracon consistently ranks as a top 25 design firm by Engineering News-Record. Start to explore with us by visiting terracon.com.

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by Apr 21, 2025
Taylor Morrison Homes purchases 218 lots within the Borgata at San Tan Heights in QC for $21M

Taylor Morrison Homes purchases 218 lots within the Borgata at San Tan Heights in QC for $21M

News & Updates

by | Apr 17, 2025 | News & Updates

Scottsdale, Ariz. (April 17, 2025) — Land Advisors Organization’s Homebuilding Team recently completed the sale of 218 single family final platted lots within the Borgata at San Tan Heights to Taylor Morrison Homes for $21 million. The parcel, which is located at the SWC of Thompson Road and Hunt Highway in Queen Creek is just over 131 acres in size.

The sale was facilitated by Ryan Semro, Ben Heglie, Bret Rinehart and Greg Vogel with Land Advisors Organization’s Homebuilding Team, who represented the seller Borgata at San Tan Heights LLC (Christopher Bennett). The buyer is Taylor Morrison Homes.

This purchase will kick off the second phase of the 270-acre Borgata at San Tan Heights community in North Pinal County along the southern border of Queen Creek, Arizona. The community is nestled next to the eastern boundary of the San Tan Regional Park, offering topographical variations and premium views for its 411 homesites.  Homes in the first phase are currently being constructed by Shea Homes and Tripoint Homes.

Queen Creek is the future home of LG Energy Solution’s $5.5 billion Stand-Alone Battery Manufacturing Complex (LGES) and has been experiencing significant growth since the LGES announcement in March 2023. With the LGES project well underway and on schedule to complete and commence production in 2026, the facility’s workforce and other population growth trends are prompting the need for more homes. Additionally, the State Route 24 corridor in Queen Creek is prepared for LGES supply chain providers and other businesses to expand or relocate to the area.

About Land Advisors Organization

Founded in 1987, Land Advisors Organization is the nation’s largest land brokerage firm specializing in providing deep market insights to landowners and purchasers for the most comprehensive and effective evaluation of land in markets across the country. By integrating current local market information with cutting-edge technology and geographically specialized professionals, Land Advisors Organization advises clients in identifying and capitalizing on valuable land opportunities in all economic environments. Land Advisors Organization serves landowners and purchasers from offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Casa Grande and Prescott, Arizona; Irvine, San Francisco, Century City, Pasadena, Roseville and San Diego, California; Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Charlotte, North Carolina; Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah, Kansas City, and Seattle, Washington. Stay connected with us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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by Apr 17, 2025
LAO Triple Crown event showcases Arizona’s great outdoors, inspires living life to the fullest

LAO Triple Crown event showcases Arizona’s great outdoors, inspires living life to the fullest

News & Updates

by | Apr 14, 2025 | News & Updates

Scottsdale, Ariz. (April 14, 2025) – Land Advisors Organization’s Advisor Max Xander is embarking on his fourth year of coordinating and participating in the Arizona Triple Crown – a full day of outdoor activities showcasing the best the state has to offer.

On April 19, Xander, 24, and his longtime friend Thaxton Calvetti, also 24, will take on their most active day yet, featuring the original three Triple Crown events that involve mountain biking, skiing and golfing along with two bonus activities known as the Bonus Gauntlet, which include trap shooting and wake surfing.

The full day of activities includes:

Ride: Mountain biking in Sedona

Slide: Skiing at Snowbowl

Drive: Golfing nine holes at Grass Clippings Rolling Hills

Sharpshooter: Shooting at Ben Avery Shooting Range

Wake Warrior: Wake surfing at Lake Pleasant

They will end the day with a well-earned prime steak dinner at one of Arizona’s favorite steakhouses.

The Triple Crown was created by Xander, an outdoor enthusiast who learned at a young age the importance of living each day to the fullest. At age 11, he suffered a significant injury from a biking accident that left him in the ICU for more than a week. That experience taught him to value each day, inspiring him to spend a full day each spring enjoying Arizona’s outdoors. Now in its fourth year, the Triple Crown has become an annual tradition. This year marks the third time for Calvetti to join Xander for the challenge.

“What started as an idea to create ‘the best day ever’ with mountain biking, skiing, and golfing has evolved into a tradition with greater meaning,” said Xander. “Now we include more activities and support an impactful Arizona charity, thanks to donations from our family, friends, and colleagues. It’s been a rewarding way to celebrate life in Arizona, share a message that each day matters, and support an incredible charity.”

“Max brings great enthusiasm to everything he does, whether advising landowners or developers on opportunities across the country or while he’s enjoying Arizona’s incredible trails, ski slopes or golf courses where he also excels,” said Greg Vogel, CEO of Land Advisors Organization. His philosophy truly inspires each of us at Land Advisors Organization and have a lot of fun tracking his progress and supporting the Triple Crown challenge.”

This year’s Triple Crown is benefitting the Arizona Humane Society, an organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for animals across the state. The team’s fundraising goal is $10,000, and they invite anyone interested to contribute via their GoFundMe page.

Mountain biking in Sedona is one of the of activities in which Max Xander will participate.

About Land Advisors Organization

Founded in 1987, Land Advisors Organization is the nation’s largest land brokerage firm specializing in providing deep market insights to landowners and purchasers for the most comprehensive and effective evaluation of land in markets across the country. By integrating current local market information with cutting-edge technology and geographically specialized professionals, Land Advisors Organization advises clients in identifying and capitalizing on valuable land opportunities in all economic environments. Land Advisors Organization serves landowners and purchasers from offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Casa Grande and Prescott, Arizona; Irvine, San Francisco, Century City, Pasadena, Roseville and San Diego, California; Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Charlotte, North Carolina; Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah, Kansas City, and Seattle, Washington. Stay connected with us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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by Apr 14, 2025
Progressive Roofing donates new, 6,000 SF roof to Harvest of Hope Pantry in Boulder, Colorado

Progressive Roofing donates new, 6,000 SF roof to Harvest of Hope Pantry in Boulder, Colorado

News & Updates

by | Apr 14, 2025 | News & Updates

PHOENIX, ARIZ. (April 14, 2025) – Progressive Roofing is proud to announce the completion of a significant renovation project at Harvest of Hope Pantry in Boulder, Colorado.

The facility boasts a newly coated 6,000 SF roof, ensuring the building’s durability and allowing the organization to allocate more resources to their vital mission of providing “food assistance.”

The roofing project at Harvest of Hope Pantry, 4830 Pearl St., in Boulder, began with the award of a $100,000 grant. After evaluating various options, Progressive Roofing approached the pantry with a generous offer. It suggested a high-quality silicone coating, donated by the manufacturer along with a warranty. Progressive Roofing then contributed all additional materials and labor, allowing the pantry to retain all of the grant funds for other essential needs. This collaboration ensured an effective roofing solution and maximized the benefit of the Harvest of Hope Pantry.

The roof has been coated with a top-of-the-line silicone product; the total value of the donation from Progressive Roofing is $45,000. A team of 10 dedicated crew members worked on-site for one week, with all labor fully donated.

“At Progressive Roofing, our safety mission is the protection of our workers, customers, and the public. We ensure that everyone goes home better than they came in,” said Bryan Chiasson, Safety Manager at Progressive Roofing.

Given the high pedestrian traffic around the site, full-time ground spotters were implemented, and barriers were put in place to protect the public and halt work during peak traffic times. Progressive Roofing’s excellent safety record reflects meticulous safety planning and execution.

Harvest of Hope Pantry has expressed gratitude for this generous contribution. The funds will be used for critical renovations that will secure its food supplies and daily operations from the effects of adverse weather conditions.

These improvements are essential for ensuring that the pantry can continue to provide reliable and safe food assistance to the community, regardless of weather challenges. This support will help Harvest of Hope Pantry to enhance its capacity and efficiency, ultimately benefiting the many families who rely on their services.

The donation not only enhances the building’s longevity but also enables Harvest of Hope Pantry to focus more resources on its critical programs, furthering its mission to support the Boulder community. For more information or to learn how to donate to Harvest of Hope Pantry visit hopepantry.org.

Harvest of Hope Pantry in Boulder, Colorado.

About Progressive Roofing

Progressive Roofing is a national leader in commercial roofing with over 40 years of proven experience delivering high-quality, innovative solutions across the education, government, healthcare, industrial, and commercial sectors. Built on a foundation of integrity, performance, and customer-first service, Progressive Roofing offers a full range of services, including new construction, re-roofing, maintenance, and emergency repairs. With a nationwide presence and a strong commitment to the community, Progressive Roofing is dedicated to protecting what matters most by enhancing the spaces where people live, work, and learn. For more information, visit progressiveroofing.us.

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by Apr 14, 2025
Progressive Roofing empowers Valley’s disability community with donation of roof for Ability360

Progressive Roofing empowers Valley’s disability community with donation of roof for Ability360

News & Updates

by | Apr 8, 2025 | News & Updates

     PHOENIX, ARIZ. (April 8, 2025) – In an unwavering commitment to community partnership, Progressive Roofing proudly contributed to the restoration of the roof at Ability360, a prominent center for independent living in Phoenix.

Ability360 provides essential resources and support, enabling individuals with disabilities to lead empowered, independent lives. This initiative underscores Progressive Roofing’s commitment to fostering resilient communities through meaningful collaboration.

The nearly $60,000 roof restoration project at 5031 E. Washington St., in Phoenix, is a testament to the strength of collaboration between Progressive Roofing, Duro-Last, and Holcim. Together, these industry leaders united their expertise to ensure Ability360’s facilities remain a secure and reliable hub for enriching lives across the Valley.

“This project reflects the core values of quality, service, and community that we hold dear,” said Kristi Riemer, Marketing Director at Progressive Roofing. “Ability360 is transforming lives and inspiring resilience every day. It’s an honor to support an organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to lead independent and fulfilling lives. This partnership highlights the transformative impact of shared values and collective action on strengthening a vital community resource.”

The roof, originally installed by Duro-Last 19 years ago, had deteriorated over time, prompting Progressive Roofing to step in with a solution. After negotiations, Duro-Last provided a silicone coating for the restoration, while Holcim generously supplied the necessary materials.

Progressive Roofing donated the labor to complete the project, ensuring this essential facility remains safe and operational for those who rely on it. The restoration also includes a 5-year warranty, safeguarding the future of Ability360’s mission.

For nearly four decades, Ability360 has been at the forefront of advocating for Arizona’s disability community. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and Center for Independent Living, Ability360 is led by individuals with disabilities for individuals with disabilities. The organization works to eliminate barriers to independence through programs like adaptive sports, home modifications, and advocacy.

Phil Fowlie, an Ability360 member, rediscovered his passion for sports through the organization’s adaptive golf clinic. After 18 years away from the game, his confidence soared as he participated with specialized equipment and expert guidance. His success has inspired him to take up other activities, such as curling, power soccer, and community events.

Progressive Roofing encourages other businesses to follow suit and invest in local organizations that foster meaningful change.

“Partnerships like this show the incredible impact of collective action. We urge businesses to get involved in their communities and make a difference that benefits all,” said Andrew Rogers, Vice President of Operations for Progressive Roofing.

Ability360 invites the community to support its mission:

  • Donate: Every dollar helps sustain more than 100 programs and services for individuals with disabilities.
  • Sponsor an event: Partnerships with businesses amplify Ability360’s impact.
  • Volunteer: Community support strengthens Ability360’s ability to serve.

For more details on how to get involved, visit www.Ability360.org.

For nearly four decades, Ability360 has been at the forefront of advocating for Arizona’s disability community. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and Center for Independent Living, Ability360 is led by individuals with disabilities for individuals with disabilities. The organization works to eliminate barriers to independence through programs like adaptive sports, home modifications, and advocacy.

About Progressive Roofing

Progressive Roofing is a national leader in commercial roofing with over 40 years of proven experience delivering high-quality, innovative solutions across the education, government, healthcare, industrial, and commercial sectors. Built on a foundation of integrity, performance, and customer-first service, Progressive Roofing offers a full range of services, including new construction, re-roofing, maintenance, and emergency repairs. With a nationwide presence and a strong commitment to the community, Progressive Roofing is dedicated to protecting what matters most by enhancing the spaces where people live, work, and learn. For more information, visit progressiveroofing.us.

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by Apr 08, 2025
Concierge firm ARIMIA launches to transform the complete luxury home construction experience

Concierge firm ARIMIA launches to transform the complete luxury home construction experience

News & Updates

by | Apr 7, 2025 | News & Updates

     SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (April 7, 2025) – Nataliya Palakanis, a visionary in high-end residential construction, proudly announces the launch of ARIMIA, a premier project concierge firm specializing in luxury home construction and major renovations.

ARIMIA is dedicated to redefining the homebuilding experience for discerning clients through seamless coordination, expert management, and white-glove service from concept to completion.

Designed to meet the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals, ARIMIA offers stress-free project execution, personalized attention, and strategic oversight, allowing clients to focus on family and career.

“Building a luxury home should be an exciting, rewarding journey—not a stressful one,” said Palakanis. “ARIMIA bridges the gap between client aspirations and project execution, delivering seamless collaboration, expert management, and a concierge-level experience.”

With a commitment to excellence, ARIMIA ensures every project receives meticulous attention to detail, proactive problem-solving, and superior craftsmanship. Clients can trust Palakanis and her team to turn dream homes into timeless legacies.

As founder and principal of ARIMIA, Palakanis curates elite design-build teams, oversees project planning, and construction management with precision and care. She partners with top-tier professionals to deliver exceptional outcomes.

Before entering the residential construction industry, Palakanis spent eight years in the airline industry, traveling the world and engaging with a wide variety of clients from different backgrounds and cultures. This exposure gave her a deeper understanding of diverse needs, allowing her to offer personalized services at ARIMIA, delivering a high-touch, tailored experience that truly reflects each client’s unique personality and vision.

ARIMIA was built on the principle that every client building a luxury home deserves the best design-build team, strong communication, and a seamless execution process. From pre-construction consulting to full project management, ARIMIA ensures clients experience stress-free, high-quality craftsmanship with expert guidance at every step.

Previously, Palakanis served as Director of Business Development for Modern Business Development, where she led strategic initiatives to expand clients’ reach and foster key partnerships.

Beyond her professional life, Palakanis enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, relaxing at the beach, and savoring seafood and Mexican cuisine. She is passionate about giving back, actively volunteering with nonprofits including St. Vincent de Paul and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

For more information about ARIMIA and its services, visit www.arimiapartners.com.

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     ARIMIA is celebrating its launch with an event on May 1 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Febal Casa Scottsdale, 7550 E. Greenway Road, Suite 115, in Scottsdale, to showcase rising industry leaders and bringing together visionary homeowners, top-tier builders, and industry leaders to network, collaborate, and experience the future of luxury home development. Those interested in attending can register at ARIMIA Launch RSVP.

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by Apr 07, 2025
ASU MRED students test their development acumen in 2025 REIAC/Rockefeller Challenge

ASU MRED students test their development acumen in 2025 REIAC/Rockefeller Challenge

News & Updates

by | Apr 7, 2025 | News & Updates

     PHOENIX, ARIZ. (April 7, 2025) – The 12th REIAC/Rockefeller Group Challenge again offers a cash prize to a winning team of graduating Masters of Real Estate Development (MRED) students from Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business.

The event is May 8 at Arizona Biltmore Golf Club Adobe Bar & Grille, 2400 Biltmore Estates Drive, in Phoenix. This year features a new twist – five “Real Estate Celebrity Judges.” Each team has 10 minutes to present. Presentations will be judged, and the winning team will be selected by industry leaders:

  • Sharon Harper, Plaza Companies;
  • John Graham, Sunbelt Holdings;
  • Charley Freericks, Howard Hughes Holdings, Inc.;
  • Heather Personne, Evolve Ventures;
  • Lorenzo Perez, Venue Projects.

Each member of the winning team receives a check for $1,000 from REIAC and the Rockefeller Group.

Registration and networking begin at 3:30 p.m. The presentations are from 4 to 5 p.m., and voting and the announcement of the winning team will follow shortly after. A networking mixer will be held after the announcement.

“Our REIAC chapter deeply values the collaboration with Arizona State University, as it allows us to mentor and support the next wave of talented developers in Arizona,” said Arthur J. Ferrari III, REIAC Southwest President and President of LineageCRE. “These remarkable young individuals are shaping the future of our industry, and we are proud to play a part in their journey.”

Competing teams of graduating ASU MRED students will each present their response to a request for development of the northeast and northwest corners of Rural Road and Rio Salado Parkway Gateway to the Novus Innovation Corridor.

Mark Stapp, Executive Director of the MRED program, described the students’ thesis as “a culminating experience that demands the application of everything students have learned. These projects present wicked problems that push the boundaries of students’ knowledge and would pose a challenge even for the most seasoned professionals.”

“The Rockefeller Group is honored to participate in what has become an annual tradition that has provided additional motivation for MRED students to be selected as one of the top three teams to compete in the Challenge,” said Mark Singerman, Past President of the REIAC Southwest Chapter and Vice President/Regional Director-Arizona for The Rockefeller Group, the event’s title sponsor.

“The inspiring and creative solutions the teams have presented at the Challenge over the years demonstrate what a fabulous job Mark Stapp and his staff have done in preparing the students for careers in real estate development and investment,” Singerman said.

Registration is required for the event. Registration fee is $30 for non-members; students will be admitted free. Register here.

  About REIAC

 The Real Estate Investment Advisory Council (REIAC) was established as a nonprofit trade association to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, concerns and experiences among senior executives who conduct commercial real estate transactions. The invitation-only group limits its membership to senior-level executives at companies, who act as principals, and whose function is to develop, acquire, manage and/or finance commercial real estate. Institutional quality programs and peer-to-peer relationship-building opportunities have established REAIC’s reputation throughout the national real estate investment community as one of its premier associations. www.reiac.org

 About MRED

 In nine months, the W. P. Carey Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) prepares students to lead real estate development projects that are environmentally respectful, socially responsible, and artfully designed. The MRED program is transdisciplinary, aligning principled instruction with dynamic real-world application. MRED is a unique partnership between four highly regarded schools within Arizona State University:

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by Apr 07, 2025