By Guest Writer, Sarah Carter Jules (Coldwell Banker Associate in Easton, Maryland)

Whether driving past stately in-town homes, past long tree-lined lanes leading up to wonderful country estates, or looking up at penthouse condominiums, it's natural to wonder who owns such luxurious homes. Coldwell Banker is just the company to answer that question.

Coldwell Banker Previews International, a world leader in the marketing of luxury homes since 1933, and exclusive to Coldwell Banker affiliates since 1994, recently released a profile of million-dollar-plus homeowners. The profile revealed some very interesting facts:

Nearly one-third (31.5%) of luxury home purchasers paid cash. Of those who chose to take on a mortgage, 17% made a down payment of 50% or more. Many didn't immediately cosider this the "home of their dreams" — 41% planned on investing in major renovations.

The number one profession of luxury home buyers is corporation executive, with entrepreneurs who own their business a close second. These were followed in order by doctors, bankers, lawyers, stockbrokers, actors, musicians, and inventors.

With the "baby-boomers" leading the way, 67% of the buyers were between the ages of 35 and 55, but 28% were purchasing luxury homes as they moved toward retirement age (56 years and older.) Only 4% were under 34 years of age. Eighty-eight percent were married, and 55% had children.

Designer kitchens are a most requested amenity, followed in order by media/entertainment rooms with theater-style seating, wine cellars, tennis courts/basketball courts, indoor pool, and ballroom/cigar room.

In 2002, Coldwell Banker sales associates were involved in the sale of 11,158 properties priced at a million dollars or more with a toltal sales volume of $18.9 billion.