5 Most Expensive Homes Sold in the US This Year
Even though 2011 saw a sagging real estate market and a high percentage of foreclosures, several wealthy home buyers didn't seem to notice. From ornate villas in the California countryside to penthouses with expansive views of Central Park, the ultra rich snatched up American properties with gusto. With amenities including onsite spas, wine cellars, koi ponds, indoor pools and guest houses, unbridled avarice never looked so comfortable. Interestingly, all of the most expensive home purchased in the U.S. were located on either the east or west coasts. This article will reveal the five most expensive U.S. homes sold in 2011, so prepare yourself to get a little jealous as you read on.
Condo Unit at the Plaza Hotel in NYC
Whether or not you have been to Central Park in New York City, you are no doubt familiar with the iconic Plaza Hotel. This elegant and ornate building sits majestically on the south edge of the park, with commanding views of the park and luxuriously appointed rooms, the Plaza is also home to several full-time tenants. In March, the Russian composer Igor Krutoy and his wife purchased a 6,000 square foot condominium on the 12th floor of the Plaza Hotel for a whopping $48 million dollars.
The Levi Strauss Estate in Northern California
An anonymous, yet clearly wealthy home buyer purchased the historic Levi Strauss Estate in Atherton, California this year for a cool $53 million dollars. This 12 acre estate features plenty to keep the mysterious home buyer busy, including a tennis court, multiple gardens, swimming pool and cabana. Previously serving as the summer estate for a San Francisco-based patron of the arts, the Levi Strauss Estate, also known as Pine Brook, was at one point owned by the descendants of Levi Strauss, the blue jean magnate.
The Spelling Manor in Los Angeles
Once the home of the Hollywood-based Spelling family, the Spelling Manor was sold this year to Petra Ecclestone, the 22 year old daughter of Formula One CEO Bernie Ecclestone. This iconic home, which features 123 rooms and 4.6 acres of land, fetched $85 million. Petra is one lucky heiress indeed, as she can look forward to amenities such as a tennis court and swimming pool, among plenty of other luxuries including a bowling alley.
Penthouse on Central Park West
Another elaborate piece of real estate facing Central Park has made the list of most expensive homes sold in 2011. This time, the buyer is another Russian: Ekatarina Rybolovleva, daughter of billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev. The penthouse features amazing views of the Park and was once owned by the CEO of Citigroup, Sandy Weill. Purchased for $88 million dollars, this penthouse features wide terraces and ten bedrooms.
Silicon Valley Mansion
A lucky investor has recently invested $100 million on a huge estate and mansion in Northern California. Yuri Milner, who is known for funding startups, dropped the record setting amount on the 11 acre estate this past March. Designed in the style of a traditional French chateau, this amazing property also features the requisite swimming pool, library and plenty of fireplaces.
