Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and fiancee Lauren Sanchez have been busy recently receiving and doling out philanthropy-related awards.

The engaged couple became the recipients of Conservation International’s “Global Visionary Award” late last week. 

It “highlights Bezos’s and Sanchez’s unwavering dedication to addressing the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss by preserving Earth’s most critical ecosystems and supporting the local communities that safeguard them,” the environment-focused nonprofit said in a press release.

Bezos and Sanchez respectively guide the Bezos Earth Fund, which seeks to make various grants worth $100 million combined before the start of the next decade “to fight climate change and biodiversity loss,” as the executive chair and vice chair.

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Conservation International’s presentation of the “Global Visionary Award” to the couple occurred while they attended the organization’s gala dinner in New York City. During the event, they also participated in a discussion about their efforts with actor Harrison Ford.

“Jeff and I are so honored to receive Conservation International’s Global Visionary Award. It’s really a testament to the efforts of so many amazing @BezosEarthFund partners,” Sanchez wrote on Instagram. “It wasn’t just fun, but genuinely moving chatting with Harrison about our shared goals for taking care of this planet, inventing a path forward, and giving people reason for optimism about the future.”

The Bezos Earth Fund has identified “conserving & restoring nature,” “future of food” and “decarbonizing energy & industry” as some of the areas it focuses on.

The amount of funds that the Bezos Earth  Fund has doled out since its foundation four years ago totals $2 billion, according to its website. That includes over 230 grants.

Bezos and Sanchez’s receipt of the “Global Visionary Award” came about six weeks after the couple bestowed this year’s “Bezos Courage & Civility Award.” 

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That award, announced in mid-March, went to two individuals: actress Eva Longoria and retired Navy Admiral Bill McRaven. With the honor, they both got $50 million that they can put toward whatever charity they want.

The award aims to “recognize leaders who aim high and pursue solutions with courage and civility” to “today’s seemingly intractable problems,” according to a press release.

Longoria, who created the Eva Longoria Foundation to support Latino education and entrepreneurship, said she was “thrilled to have this opportunity to build and expand on that work to invest in the infrastructure of opportunity for my community.”

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The award given to McRaven will “change the lives of countless veterans and their families,” the retired Navy admiral said at the time.

Sanchez and Bezos held an event to bestow the 2024 edition of the “Bezos Courage & Civility Award” in Washington, D.C. with many big names in attendance.

Bezos had a personal fortune worth $202.4 billion as of Thursday, according to Forbes.

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Disney fans are getting a new dream destination.

Airbnb has created a replica of the home featured in the 2009 animated film “Up,” located in Abiquiu, New Mexico. The house features one bedroom, one bathroom and a pull-out bed in the living room, giving it the ability to hold four guests. The house, like the one featured in the movie, floats.

While Carl Fredricksen, the character that stars in “Up,” has a home that floats with the help of balloons, Airbnb appears to use a crane to hoist its house in the air.

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Still, over 8,000 balloons were used in creating the home, giving it the iconic look fans will recognize from the film. Devotees will also notice the extensively detailed interior, with everything from the armchairs to the motorized chair going up the stairs pulled straight from the movie.

Other items that can be seen around the home include helium canisters; the backpack that another character, Russell, wears; and the adventure book created by Carl’s wife, Ellie, in a touching moment from “Up.”

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The listing is written from the point of view of Carl, who notes that Abiquiu is “the perfect place to head out on wilderness adventures. It’s far away from the big city, so hopefully you’ll get some peace and quiet, and maybe I’ll be able to leave my hearing aid on for once. It’s going to be a great setting to explore nature, and who knows, you might even see a ‘Snipe.’ Please enjoy your stay, but don’t blame me if the house lifts off and floats to Paradise Falls. If that happens, you’re on your own!”

Renters won’t only get access to the home — the listing also includes several activities that guests can do to earn Junior Wilderness Explorer badges, another plot point. They’ll be able to create their own adventure books and go on small excursions, and after one of these, guests will come back to see the house floating.

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The recreation of the house was done for Airbnb’s Icon series, a summer event that includes other unique rentals and experiences. Guests can also book a replicant of Prince’s home in the 1984 film “Purple Rain,” or a stay in the Ferrari museum in Maranello, Italy, as well as in the Musée d’Orsay, which includes an opportunity to witness the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics.

People wishing to secure one of these rentals are able to put in a request, which includes a question about why they want to stay at the location of their choice. After that, random entries will be selected, and from there answers will be reviewed until guests are selected.

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In the world of real estate, the decision to buy or sell a property is often one of the most significant financial transactions in a person’s life. Entrusting such a momentous task to a real estate agent requires careful consideration and due diligence. Before selecting an agent to represent you in the market, be sure to do your homework.

Finding the right real estate agent to guide you through the buying or selling process is crucial for a successful transaction. Here are three essential factors to keep in mind when selecting your real estate advisor.

1. Establish Trust from the Start

When it comes to choosing a real estate agent, trust is everything. Whether you’re seeking recommendations from friends and family or researching agents online, finding someone you can trust is paramount. 

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Look for an agent who not only has a solid reputation but who also takes the time to understand your needs and priorities. A trusted advisor will have your best interests at heart and will work tirelessly to ensure your real estate goals are met.

2. Evaluate Experience, Track Record and Drive

Experience matters when it comes to real estate. Before hiring an agent, take the time to evaluate their experience and track record in the industry. Look for an agent who has a proven history of success and a track record of satisfied clients. 

Ask about their tenure in the industry, the types of properties they typically handle, and their average sale price. Additionally, request references from past clients to get a sense of the agent’s professionalism and reliability. Be diligent in following up by actually contacting the provided references to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

Choosing an experienced agent ensures you have a knowledgeable advocate on your side throughout the buying or selling process. However, it’s also important to see the big picture in terms of what experience entails. 

Age should not overshadow potential, especially when considering the dedication and vigor often exhibited by younger professionals. Don’t solely focus on years in the industry but also consider their commitment, drive, and client-centered ethos. 

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3. Build a Genuine Connection

In addition to trust and experience, building a genuine connection with your real estate agent is key. Look for an agent who takes the time to listen to your needs and concerns and who communicates openly and honestly with you. 

A genuine connection with your agent fosters a collaborative relationship and ensures you feel comfortable and supported throughout the real estate journey. Take the time to assess the agent’s dedication and commitment to your goals, and choose someone who genuinely cares about your satisfaction and success.

Trust Your Instincts

In closing, remember that your real estate agent will play a significant role in your journey to buy or sell a property. By prioritizing trust, experience, and genuine connection, you can ensure that you’re working with an agent who has your best interests at heart. Take the time to research and interview potential agents, asking insightful questions and evaluating their responses carefully.

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Ultimately, the decision to hire a real estate agent should not be taken lightly. It’s an investment in your future, and choosing the right agent can make all the difference in achieving your real estate goals. Trust your instincts and choose an agent who aligns with your values, communicates effectively, and demonstrates a commitment to your success.

With these key considerations in mind, you can embark on your real estate journey with confidence, knowing that you have a knowledgeable and dedicated advocate by your side every step of the way. Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling a property, a trusted real estate agent can make the process smoother and more rewarding.

Dave Liniger is the co-founder of RE/MAX, the Denver-based global real estate franchise. His latest book is “The Perfect 10.”

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