On October 10th more than 250 global affiliates and VIP guest gathered at the famous Kerry Hotel in China’s capital city to welcome Beijing Sotheby’s International Realty to the worldwide real estate network. In attendance from Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty (RSIR), owners Dean and Stacy Jones and brokers Scott Wasner, Denise Seavitt, Connie Blumenthal and from RSIR’s new Asia Desk, Lili Shang.
Prior to the presentations the large screens were animated with listings from the MANSION PLUS magazine as markets came to life. Numerous RSIR properties were showcased – download the Luxury Homes & Lifestyles brochure.
The ceremony commenced with Philp White as President of Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates who announced his global network was now present in more than 725 offices in 52 countries and territories.
“Opening operations in Mainland China is a significant milestone in our worldwide growth,” said White. “The Sotheby’s Auction House and Realogy have explored many suitors for this thoughtful expansion and we are very pleased to be working closely with Kevin Corbett and George Liu of Plus Investment.”
White proudly introduced Kevin Corbett as CEO of Beijing Sotheby’s International Realty with whom he shook hands as Corbett took the podium. Corbett spoke in both English and Mandarin as he welcomed his guests from many countries who travelled long to participate in the Grand Opening. He explained how his experience doing business in China spanned a quarter century and that much of what stood around him today in Beijing didn’t exist when he first visited twenty-five years ago.
“We are witness to the Chinese miracle,” said Corbett. “We’ve all heard of the American Dream but I invite all our friends, many who are visiting China for the first time to consider the history that surrounds you goes back thousands of years – Beijing is the heart and the soul of China. We are honored to be in a position to unite this international brand with such an influential and important marketplace.”
In an especially touching moment for RSIR, Corbett acknowledged his friend and now fellow affiliate Dean Jones who stood as he was thanked for introducing Plus Investment to the brand.
“It was certainly unexpected but a very thoughtful recognition,” said Stacy Jones. “My husband had his own dream that was realized tonight and we all realize this is just the beginning.”
Following the speeches, White joined Corbett at a table on stage for a signing ceremony and to participate in placing two halves of a central icon symbolizing the house that was built for Beijing Sotheby’s International Realty. Upon uniting together the interactive wall graphic flourished with opportunities to which the audience applauded.
During a planned media conference, guests were encouraged to migrate to an exterior courtyard where a buffet of food, passed cocktails and entertainment awaited. It didn’t take long for the music to fire up and for the party to begin.
As the formal evening began to wind down, guests began heading out on the town. Many affiliates actually managed to hit several after parties in the same night filling popular restaurants, bars and even a three story nightclub, which in Beijing is a truly extraordinary experience.
“What an incredible journey and memorable experience,” says Dean Jones. “The entire team at Beijing Sotheby’s International Realty are truly gracious hosts. Our week here in Beijing is just the start of what I know will be many years of success for all.”