Christie’s slipped into the local market by way of La Punta Realty after an exhaustive search for the right match in Mexico. Richard Moeser of Christie’s informed us that, “La Punta Realty in Banderas Bay manifests our first foray into Mexico. But we are very strict both about who we choose and where we choose to be. Within time, we’ll have a presence in other popular destinations in the country as well. Just now I come from Mexico City where I interviewed about a dozen agencies that are looking to get on with us in that city. But we haven’t made up our mind yet.”
What does Christie’s offer their affiliates? “We call them affiliates because we offer certain benefits but we also have our requirements. For example, we help with marketing services on a worldwide scale. Christie’s has an international image that is recognized at the top end. With over 150 affiliates we guarantee exposure to La Punta Realty in the luxury market they are attracting. There is a fee they pay for the affiliation and they are required to participate in our magazine, “Christie’s Great Estates.”
“With our clientele, frequently they’ll be purchasing art, maybe a painting or a sculpture, and will mention that they’re looking for property in a certain area. We’ll put them in touch with the exclusive agency we are affiliated with there. As the agencies require, we help with marketing and other needs.”
Richard Moeser helped establish Christie’s Great Estates after the Sotheby Real Estate division he headed was sold to them. “They had no presence in Latin America until they took us over, and that was my specialty. I’ve worked hard to develop the market in Argentina, Brazil and elsewhere.” As an additional service, he explains that “we organize social or cultural events to bring people together, maybe a wine tasting or an art exhibition.” In the meantime, Christie’s is known for their presence in the art market worldwide so the partnership seems to be a win/win situation.
