meet the team

Kevin Craig

Team Lead

After a 27 year career as a division manager for The United Parcel Service, Kevin retired at age 46 and started a 2nd career in real estate. He graduated from The Arizona school of Real Estate and Business in 2004 and joined Russ Lyon Realty where he became a multi-million dollar producer within his first 18 months. Kevin has been recognized as a top producer in each subsequent year. In 2008, Kevin joined Keller Williams Sonoran Living and founded the S4 Group which began by specializing in short sale transactions in a failing economy. As the real estate market struggled, the S4 Group grew and quickly became recognized as short sale experts. Ultimately, S4 became the real estate group of choice for the Arizona Bankruptcy Court System. As the market shifted again, Kevin incorporated another business segment creating a synergy between investors, contractors, and specialized trades in fixing and flipping distressed properties and at the same time, improving neighborhood values. As the market slowly rebounded, Kevin added a luxury division to his S4 Group which today includes luxury resales as well as custom spec homes and build to suit customs. In 2013, Kevin was ranked #28 in the state of Arizona by RealTrends.com. The S4 Group now has expanded operations into Southern California, Las Vegas and Maui. In 2015, S4 Group was selected as a top producing team with Keller Williams International ranking in the top 100 closing $48.5 million in sales. Kevin resides in Gilbert, Arizona and recently celebrated his 33rd wedding anniversary with his wife Ronda. Kevin and Ronda have 3 married daughters and a total of 10 grandchildren.

 

Direct: (602) 725.2609 | Email: kevin.craig@s4realestate.com

Heather Patterson

Managing Director

Heather Patterson works alongside the S4 Real Estate Group as their Managing Director using her coaching, consulting and management skills to help the team realize their goals. Heather has spent the last 15 years coaching and consulting business leaders and their teams across the country and brings that experience to the group so they can continue to grow and expand personally and professionally. 

Heather has happily called Scottsdale home since November 2018.  When she’s not working, you can find her working out, golfing and adventuring outdoors with her family and friends. 

Direct: (808)352.9290  | Email: heather.patterson@s4realestate.com

Stacy Esman

Realtor

Stacy Esman is partner and co-owner of the S4 Team | Launch Real Estate and a dedicated Real Estate professional who is passionate about the growth and
development of Arizona. With over 20 years of experience in buying and selling real estate in Arizona, Stacy has witnessed and played a key role in the positive changes that have taken place in the market.

Being a lifelong Phoenician, she has a unique perspective on the city’s development and considers it to be an amazing place to raise a family, to retire and build your real estate portfolio.

Stacy’s business is built on the principles of honesty, integrity, and hard work, which she believes are essential for exceeding her clients’ expectations. Her focus is on single-family homes and investment properties, which she believes are the keys to financial success and freedom.

Stacy is a Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE), a Short Sale/Foreclosure Resource (SFR), and she has received numerous awards and designations, including Keller Williams Rookie of the Year 2002.

Stacy’s specialties include luxury sales, residential sales and investment properties. She aligns her goals with the goals of her clients. Stacy serves the greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and the East Valley.

Direct: 602.881.9980 | Email:stacyesman@gmail.com

Alexis Enright

Luxury & Relocation Specialist

Alexis Enright is a REALTOR® who combines her love for the industry with her passion for people. A native of Northern California and a graduate of Saint Mary’s College, Moraga, she received her degree in Communication. While in the San Francisco Bay Area she was the lead dancer for the championship Golden State Warriors, choreographing exceptional routines, mentoring new dancers and representing the NBA.
She was a project and event coordinator at QVC, the leading global corporation in multimedia retailing. As the event coordinator for Dr. Davis Nguyen, a leading Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, marketing assistant for a renowned San Francisco plastic surgeon, and former assistant to an A-list celebrity, Alexis is known for her trustworthiness, knowledge, enthusiasm, and the ability to “get it done” in the face of challenges.
A dedicated and committed agent who consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, Alexis has successfully applied her expertise and market knowledge to guide local and national clients with real estate acquisitions, lease obligations, and relocation services. She has traveled the globe with her husband and understands the importance of finding the right house to call home. Her dedication to clients and love of helping others are what motivate her.
In addition to being a member of Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors (SAAR), Alexis is the founder of The Loving Paw, an online store dedicated to the support of animal rescue. She and her husband are also ambassadors for Athletes for Animals.

Direct: 209.298.7692 | Email: alexis.l.enright@gmail.com

Jeffrey Hester

REALTOR

Jeffrey, a Chicago transplant, has been living in Gilbert with his wife, Kristen, a yoga instructor, and their three year old son since 2016. Kristen’s family would spend every spring break in Arizona visiting her snow bird grandparents in Paradise Valley. When Jeffrey had the opportunity to relocate for work to launch what would become the industry leading hard seltzer brand in Arizona, it already felt like a second home.

As someone that relocated to Arizona with short notice, Jeffrey understands the challenges and stresses associated with leaving family and friends behind and finding housing in a very fast moving real estate environment.

Prior to his 7 year career in beverage alcohol, Jeffrey worked in the wedding industry where he acted as the Master of Ceremonies and Disc Jockey for over 300 couples. He enjoyed working closely with each couple to carefully craft the evening to suit their individual needs and expectations while ushering them through one of the most significant nights of their lives. Jeffrey brings that same passion for working with individuals, couples and families to his real estate career and his expertise and confidence will assure his clients that they are in good hands.

Jeffrey brings a sense of fun to everything he does. He is approachable, trustworthy and honest, and he delivers outstanding service to his clients.

Jeffrey’s bucket list includes taking a cross country train from Chicago to San Francisco, SCUBA diving with sharks and taking his wife to Bali for a yoga retreat. He loves hiking, camping and new adventures and looks forward to working with you.

Direct: 312.399.7758 | Email:  jeffrey.hester@s4realestate.com

Kari Hughes

REALTOR

Kari Hughes has been helping families find their forever homes since 2011. As a 3rd generation Arizona native, Kari offers exceptional market knowledge and expertise in the Greater Phoenix area. Established for over 60 years in the valley, Kari has experience in both purchasing and listing properties in Fountain Hills, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek, and Southeast Valley communities. Hughes is also a certified Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES).

As a real estate professional, Kari’s goal is to help clients navigate what might be the biggest financial transaction of their lives in a professional, efficient, and seamless manner. Kari prioritizes relevancy and trustworthiness within her transactions. In addition to providing clients with a great experience, she hopes that they, too, will truly come to love Arizona! Kari displays her compassion for her community through her previous role, working with a non-profit organization for 18 years.

Outside of the office, Hughes enjoys spending time with family and embarking on outdoor adventures throughout Arizona. This includes creating fun get-aways, camping, off-roading in her jeep, and going on walks with her two dogs, Hudson and Teddy.Direct: 480.326.8990 | Email: Kari@s4realestate.com

Christoph Hirota

REALTOR

Christoph Hirota is a graduate from University of California-Davis receiving his B.A. degree in Communications. Being a 3.0 honors graduate while playing two sports at a top 5 university, he knows the importance of time management and getting things done in a timely matter.

Sports has always been a passion, which has allowed him to be a two sport athlete playing football and track/field at UC Davis. He has also made the Junior Olympics in track/field and has always surrounded himself with the top people in everything he does. He plans to do the same with his career. He knows what it takes to make success happen and he knows how to work hard for it.

Christoph has exceptional customer service experience and communication skills. He loves to travel and having lived in different places such as: Hawaii, Washington, California,Florida and now Arizona, he has always been able to connect with many different individuals from different backgrounds.

He is now a full time realtor with the S4 Real Estate Group & Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living. His passion and commitment for wanting the best for his clients will separate himself from other realtors as he’s willing to work hard and efficiently to do the best job possible for them.

Direct: 425.458.8158 | Email:  chirota@s4realestate.com

Jim Caciola

REALTOR

Born in Tucson and raised in Phoenix, Jim has a special understanding of Arizona. There are specificities that you only learn from spending decades here, so Jim brings a lifetime of experience to the table.

Whether you are looking for a small condo or a massive acreage, Jim provides his buyers with personal service and an unrivaled attention to detail. Jim’s excellent communication and negotiation skills are noteworthy, but Jim’s ability to match his buyers with the perfect home is his greatest asset. He provides his sellers with personal service and an unrivaled attention to detail.

Jim’s sales business includes staging, professional photography, dynamic marketing, virtual tours, and cutting edge strategies to ensure your success. Jim attributes his success as a Realtor® to his passion for Arizona and desire to assist as many individuals as possible. As such, his mission is to help all people live their dream, in their dream home.

Direct:602.614.4083 | Email: jim.caciola@s4realestate.com

Rachel Rucker

REALTOR

Rachel is a real estate professional in the business world, striving to deliver nothing short of excellence. With experience in the customer service industry, she has a natural ability to connect with everyone. Her journey in Real Estate began with new home sales, and she has since expanded her expertise to all aspects of residential real estate. With a family background in the industry as well, she carries on the legacy of providing exceptional service and expertise to clients. Rachel’s passion for real estate stems from the satisfaction of helping clients achieve their goals, whether it be finding their dream home, selling their property for top dollar, or making a sound investment. She understands that every client’s needs are unique and takes pride in providing personalized service tailored to each individual’s needs.

Rachel’s goal with Launch and the S4 Group is to make sure every transaction is as easy and stress free as possible. Her steadfast determination and charisma go hand in hand with building lifelong relationships in the process. She is able to ensure nothing but the best for you and your family, as she is committed to the highest quality of service. Rachel believes home is a feeling, not a place, and her goal is to deliver that feeling to her clients. If you are looking for a realtor who is passionate, knowledgeable, and committed to your success, Rachel would be honored to work with you.

Direct: 559.999.6039 | Email: rachel.rucker@s4realestate.com

Laurie Carminucci

REALTOR

Laurie Carminucci is a Realtor who has a strong background in the sales and customer service industry. Her genuine love for helping people and passion for real estate are inherent in every step of the process.  

Originally from the east coast, Laurie received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from Franklin and Marshall College and her Master’s Degree in Teaching from Pace University.  

Laurie is a member of the Scottsdale Area Association of REALTORS® (SAAR) and believes that clients deserve strong communication, expert care, simplicity, and enjoyment in the real estate process. Her goal is to always make her clients’ experiences as smooth and seamless as possible.  

With her dedication, ability to listen, and strong expertise of the market, Laurie works closely with each client’s needs, whether it be selling, purchasing, or investing in property. 

When not practicing real estate, Laurie loves spending time with her husband, Chris, her 3 daughters, dogs and cats! Laurie loves dedicating volunteer time to Kneading Kitties pet rescue and organizations that support autism awareness and support, especially for young adults.

Direct: 914.837.1909 | Email: laurie@s4realestate.com | Instagram

JARED GRUETT

REALTOR

With roots in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jared Gruett stands as a testament to perseverance and dedication. A devoted father of four, a veteran, and a serial entrepreneur, his diverse experiences have woven a rich tapestry of skills and wisdom, which he infuses into his business and personal dealings.

Gruett, a licensed real estate agent in Arizona and Florida, brings 24 years of dynamic business, real estate, and development experience to his client relationships. He has navigated the contours of multiple markets across the country, deftly handling the sale, purchase, lease, and development of residential, commercial, and multifamily properties and projects. He’s built and managed a wide-ranging portfolio of industrial, commercial, and residential properties and businesses, showcasing his versatility and acumen in the field.

Jared’s secret sauce, however, lies beyond just his industry expertise and experience. He advocates what he calls the “Platinum Rule”—to treat others the way they want to be treated. This philosophy underpins his professional interactions, shaping his approach to client relationships and transaction management. Jared takes it as his responsibility to ask questions without assumptions, thereby building trust and delivering an exceptional experience for his clients based on their unique desires and needs.

Despite his impressive experience, Jared firmly believes that if he fails to uphold the Platinum Rule, all his experience would count for naught. It’s this humble attitude and keen understanding of his clients’ perspectives that set him apart in his field, positioning him as not just a real estate agent but a trusted advisor and ally in his clients’ journeys.

Over the years, Jared Gruett has been living proof that the road to success is paved with respect for others’ desires, a commitment to understanding, and a constant quest for growth and learning. Whether in the field of real estate or life in general, Jared’s Platinum Rule continues to guide his path.

Direct: 239.776.5888 | Email: Jared@s4realestate.com | Instagram

Gene Patent

REALTOR

Meet Gene Patent, the luxury and investment property focused Realtor who goes above and beyond to create an unforgettable customer experience. With a burning passion for real estate and an extensive background in management and sales, Gene brings a unique skill set to the table that sets him apart from the rest.

Before immersing himself in the world of real estate, Gene spent over a decade honing his skills in various management roles within sales organizations. This experience allowed him to develop a deep understanding of client needs, effective communication, and the art of negotiation. But it was his background in data analytics and psychology that truly sets him apart, enabling him to analyze market trends, predict investment opportunities, and provide invaluable insights to his clients.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Gene is a devoted family man. As a loving husband and a proud father to his son, he understands the importance of finding the perfect home that meets both the needs and aspirations of a family. Gene’s ability to empathize and listen attentively to his clients’ desires allows him to guide them seamlessly through the real estate journey, ensuring that every aspect of their dream home is realized.

Gene’s dedication to his clients is mirrored in his personal life. As a pet owner of two cats, he understands the significance of finding a home that accommodates the entire family, including our furry friends. With his keen eye for detail and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service, Gene goes the extra mile to help his clients find not just a house, but a place they can truly call home.

When he’s not assisting clients, you can find Gene indulging in his hobbies. Traveling allows him to broaden his horizons and gain inspiration from different cultures and architectural wonders. Hiking provides him with the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and recharge his soul. And as an automotive enthusiast, he’s always eager to explore the latest advancements and designs in the world of cars.

Gene Patent is not your average Realtor. His extensive experience, unique skill set, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction make him the ideal partner for all your luxury and investment property needs. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, Gene is ready to guide you through the exciting world of real estate with professionalism, expertise, and a touch of personal charm.

Direct: 480.371.0888 | Email: Gene@s4realestate.com | Instagram