Despite the significant challenges confronting the broader real estate market, a new single-purchase record was just established in St. Petersburg, Florida. Listed by Eileen Bedinghaus of ReMax Metro, the magnificent residence at 2040 Brightwaters Boulevard sold on Friday, August 5, 2011 for $9,000,000. The previous record was a $5,300,000 property, which sold in March 2006.

The 6-bedroom/8-bath home is located on a 1.6-acre waterfront property on prestigious Snell Isle, just north of downtown St. Petersburg. Boasting 12,412 square feet of gracious living area, the residence, known as Villa Terranova, features Mediterranean Revival architecture, 2,400 feet of covered loggias, well-equipped summer kitchen and Olympic-sized swimming pool. And with 380 feet of waterfront along Snell Harbor, the property can accommodate a 112-foot yacht, 45-foot boat, plus an additional boat on the lift. Although the home is undeniably impressive, Bedinghaus employed a full arsenal of resources to accomplish the sale.  

"I combined time-tested marketing practices with advanced technologies to sell Villa Terranova," she said. "It takes a very targeted and intelligent approach to reach buyers of the finest luxury properties."

The 27-year real estate veteran, who has also marketed noteworthy properties like condominiums at Vinoy Place, The Grande on Sand Key and the Tides Beach Club, first assembled an experienced advertising team to create a communications campaign. The writer and art director produced an elegant two-page cover spread in the duPont REGISTRY magazine to provide exposure to affluent buyers.