2019 was a banner year for super high-end real estate. Six homes sold for $100 million or more in that year alone. Los Angeles emerged as the hot spot for high-end real estate, with several of the priciest homes sold in L.A. County. The trend was not limited to California; New York and Palm Beach followed closely with a significant number of nine-figure real estate deals. The boom in high-priced mansions in Palm Beach raised questions about how many wealthy New Yorkers are relocating to Florida, especially after the 2017 changes to federal tax laws.
Among the notable buyers was hedge fund manager Ken Griffin, who made headlines for his unprecedented real estate acquisitions over the years. He notably purchased a Manhattan penthouse for a staggering $238 million, marking it as the most expensive property in the United States. With such sales setting records, the luxury real estate market has proven to be a lucrative investment for the wealthy.
Below is a look at some of the homes that changed hands for $100 million or more in 2019, showcasing the extravagance and luxury that defines this segment of the real estate market.
Table of Contents
- The Playboy Mansion, Holmby Hills, Los Angeles
- Palo Alto Loire Chateau, Los Altos, California
- 301 N. Carolwood Drive, Beverly Hills
- A Charles Gwathmey House in Malibu
- One57, Manhattan
- PCH, Malibu
- La Follia, Palm Beach
- La Reverie, Palm Beach
- Mar de Amor, Malibu
- Mountain Home Road, Woodside, California
- Spelling Manor, Los Angeles
- Copper Beech Farm, Greenwich, Connecticut
- Chartwell, Los Angeles
- Jeff Bezos' Beverly Hills Estate
- 220 Central Park South, New York
The Playboy Mansion, Holmby Hills, Los Angeles
In January 2016, the Playboy Mansion was listed for $200 million. This iconic property features seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a wine cellar, a home theater, a gym, a tennis court, and a swimming pool. The buyer, Daren Metropoulos, co-owner of the snack company Hostess, aimed to merge its five acres with his own home, restoring an original 7.3-acre property that was envisioned by the 1920s developer.
Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles, California (FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)
Palo Alto Loire Chateau, Los Altos, California
This mansion on La Paloma Road was designed to resemble an 18th-century French Chateau, boasting both indoor and outdoor pools, a ballroom, and a wine cellar. It represents a perfect blend of luxury and classic architecture, attracting many high-net-worth buyers.
301 N. Carolwood Drive, Beverly Hills
Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores acquired this sprawling 38,000 square-foot property that once belonged to Barbra Streisand. Located across from Frank Sinatra's former home, it includes a lounge, theater complex, wine room, and a separate valet entrance. The estate features 10 bedrooms, 20 full baths, and an entertainment pad, providing ample space for hosting lavish events.
A Charles Gwathmey House in Malibu
This stunning Malibu beach pad was sold by NBC Universal vice chairman Ron Meyer to WhatsApp founder Jan Koum. Originally listed for $125 million, the property sits on over three oceanfront acres and spans approximately 14,000 square feet, featuring six bedrooms, a two-story library, a home theater, a gym, and a home office.
One57, Manhattan
The penthouse at One57, located in Midtown Manhattan, sold for $100.4 million. The luxurious home spans 11,000 square feet and includes six bedrooms. Until 2019, it held the title of the most expensive home sold in New York City.
PCH, Malibu
This Carbon Beach house is situated on what is often referred to as Billionaire's Beach. Designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, the estate features both a main residence and a guest house, making it an ideal retreat for wealthy buyers.
La Follia, Palm Beach
The Palm Beach estate sold for $110.25 million after previously being listed at $135 million. Nestled on Billionaire's Row, the home boasts 13 bedrooms and spans 37,500 square feet across nearly five acres, making it a prime example of luxury living.
La Reverie, Palm Beach
Hedge fund billionaire Steven Schonfeld and his wife Brooke purchased this expansive 70,000 square foot estate, featuring 11 bedrooms and 22 bathrooms, for $111 million, setting a new price record for Florida.
Mar de Amor, Malibu
Metro Networks founder David Saperstein listed his 10,600 square foot Malibu home for $115 million. Located in Paradise Cove, this property offers private access to the beach, an infinity pool, and breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
Mountain Home Road, Woodside, California
This nine-acre estate was the most expensive residence ever sold in California until 2019, when several other Los Angeles homes surpassed it. Located at 360 Mountain Home Road, it remains a prime example of California luxury real estate.
Spelling Manor, Los Angeles
Petra Ecclestone, the Formula One heiress, sold Spelling Manor for $119.75 million. Formerly the home of television producer Aaron Spelling, this expansive property comprises around 56,000 square feet, featuring amenities such as a bowling alley, a beauty salon, and a tennis court.
Copper Beech Farm, Greenwich, Connecticut
A 51-acre estate in Greenwich sold for $120 million in 2014. Originally listed for $190 million, the price was significantly reduced before it found a buyer, illustrating the dynamic nature of the luxury real estate market.
Chartwell, Los Angeles
Rupert Murdoch's son Lachlan Murdoch purchased Chartwell in Bel Air for $150 million, setting a record for the Los Angeles area, soon surpassed by Jeff Bezos. The mansion, originally listed for $350 million, showcases the high demand for luxury properties in desirable locations.
Jeff Bezos' Beverly Hills Estate
Reports indicate that Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, acquired a 13,000 square foot mansion in Beverly Hills for $165 million. The estate includes a tennis court, swimming pool, nine-hole golf course, and two guest houses.
220 Central Park South, New York
Ken Griffin made headlines for purchasing a 24,000 square foot penthouse apartment for $238 million. This purchase adds to his portfolio of high-profile real estate investments, making him a significant player in the luxury market.
