Everything’s bigger in Texas, luxury homes included. And the latest example of opulent real estate to hit the Dallas market is the former mega-mansion of six-time NBA All-Star Jermaine O’Neal, which recently resurfaced on the market for $12.4 million in the suburb of Southlake.
A former Indiana Pacers center and power forward, O’Neal played for an additional six teams throughout his athletic tenure — none of which were in Texas- before retiring in 2016.
Still, O’Neal chose to settle in Southlake for its prestige, allure, and vicinity to vibrant Dallas, which happens to be the home of his favorite football team, the Cowboys.
And while he parted ways with the house some while back, for us, the retired NBA star’s home at 940 W Dove Rd. scores as many points as its previous owner racked up over his career.
Designed by the esteemed local builder Michael Kindred and sitting on nearly 5 landscaped acres, the Southlake, Texas house is anything but humble.
The elegant and modern Mediterranean-style mansion has everything you could ask for in a property and more, with 8 bedrooms, 10 full baths, and 3 half baths spanning over an impressive 16,000 square feet of living space.
Curated details like the natural limestone and custom wood flooring elevate the mansion while offering a homey feel despite its massive size.
A two-story open living space stuns with statement chandeliers, glossy marble finishes, and colossal windows overlooking the grounds beyond.
Meanwhile, the upscale kitchen boasts all the bells and whistles of a multi-million dollar home, including double sinks and dishwashers, state-of-the-art Wolf Brand appliances, and a spacious walk-in pantry.
The dining areas and additional living room all feature large windows that provide ample natural lighting while offering views of the surrounding scenery — a common theme throughout the property.
Whichever couple or bachelor(ette) snatches the sizable mansion can truly spoil themselves in the master suite featuring a spacious shower and soaking tub, his and her closets, and a cozy bedroom with intricate crown molding for an extra dose of opulence.
In addition to the closets, a pair of exclusive his and her home offices mean the next owners can get down to business without distractions before unwinding lavishly in the home’s entertainment areas.
The future homeowner of 940 W Dove Rd. can get the party started in the posh game room, complete with a billiard table, bowling alley, wet bar, and private theater.
Outside, a resort-style oasis boasts an outdoor kitchen and two covered seating areas- including a cabana with a fireplace- to wine and dine al fresco in unparalleled comfort.
What steals the show, though, is the mega pool featuring a slide, mood lighting, and a spa corner for ultimate relaxation.
Moving back indoors, you’ll find a home gym that’s anything but average, offering lockers, a full bath, and a sauna for an elevated workout worthy of a pro athlete.
What’s more? You guessed it — an indoor basketball court totaling 8,300 square feet, almost like a tribute to the home’s former basketball star owner.
Anyone who values privacy or throwing lavish parties will appreciate all 4.828 acres of this sprawling compound. Thanks to its six-car garage and motor court in the back of the grounds and charming grand circle entry to the front, a lengthy list of guests can be easily accommodated.
We think the now-retired Pacers player’s home is just as outstanding as his athletic record. And while O’Neal parted ways with the property in 2022, he left the mark of his basketball legacy behind. Sherri Murphy of Coldwell Banker Realty Dallas is now listing the buff all-star home in the Lone Star state for $12.4 million.
Featured image credit: True Homes Photography, insert Noah Salzman, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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When people think of the most affordable neighborhoods in Chicago, they don’t always think being close to the lakefront is an option.
In Chicago, most of the pricier rent districts are those closer to the Loop. This means it’s entirely possible to find an apartment in Chicago that’s affordable, safe and close to plenty of nightlife and entertainment options for less than $2,000 a month.
Here are 10 of the most affordable neighborhoods in Chicago, depending on the type of amenities you like within your community.
Photo credit Megy Karydes
Logan Square’s identity has changed so much within the past 10 years. Once a sleepy neighborhood with a large immigrant population, this community is now teeming with young, hip Chicagoans that don’t want to pay top dollar for a home in the nearby neighborhoods of Wicker Park and Bucktown.
Logan Square is also still home to plenty of immigrant families who’ve been living in the neighborhood for years, giving it a true neighborhood feel. Rental rates here are quickly rising, but you can still get more space for your buck and be near the picturesque Logan and Kedzie boulevards.
Logan Square is serviced by Chicago’s Blue Line, giving residents easy access to all of the city’s neighborhoods. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) also services the area with a variety of bus routes, making transit a breeze. However, residents rarely need to leave the neighborhood unless they want to do so, as there are plenty of nightlife options, restaurants, shops and amenities within Logan Square.
Photo credit Megy Karydes
Just north of Logan Square and three stops away on the Blue Line is Irving Park. Much of this neighborhood’s charm lies in its beautiful homes and suburban-like setting.
Although it’s still distinctly urban, Irving Park has a much quieter feel than some adjacent areas. If you’re looking for pretty tree-lined streets, old houses and a community vibe, Irving Park is a good option to consider.
In addition to the area’s Blue Line and bus access, Irving Park offers direct access to Interstates 90 and 94, so those who need to drive to get to work will want to consider this convenient option. It’s also home to two Metra lines within Old Irving Park, making it even more convenient for those who want to live in the city sans car but not in the heart of the Loop.
Photo credit Megy Karydes
Avondale is having a moment right now. That said, while you can expect to spend more than $2,000 on rent in some parts of Avondale, you can absolutely find less pricey apartments that still make it among the cheapest neighborhoods in Chicago.
Newer businesses, including music venue/coffee bar Sleeping Village, bowling alley Avondale Bowl and newly-opened membership-based Guild Row, have welcomed those who want entertainment options without having to deal with the crowds or parking issues.
Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago
Like many neighborhoods throughout the city, gentrification is taking hold and causing rent to increase. Humboldt Park is no exception. You’ll know you’re in this West Side neighborhood when you pass under the large Puerto Rican flag metal sculpture or notice the large Humboldt Park swan boats in the park’s lagoon.
Today, you can hear a bunch of men congregating at the corner of the park, chatting and catching up on the day’s events while a young couple walks along the sidewalk with a stroller in tow.
Photo credit Megy Karydes
Pilsen is probably one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Chicago. Its bright and large wall murals can be found along the main streets but also within the neighborhood as single-family homes and apartment buildings use their walls as canvases.
Once a haven for artists seeking low rent and large loft spaces, the area has been slowly gentrifying. Renters have been attracted to its location, just a few miles from downtown, as well as lower rents than other parts of the city.
Pilsen also offers access to employment, entertainment and nightlife options throughout the South Loop, Little Italy, Chinatown and University Village (which is home to the University of Illinois at Chicago). It’s definitely one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Chicago near the Loop. Regardless of the influx of new residents, Pilsen is still home to a proud and rich Latino culture.
Photo credit Megy Karydes
Those looking to live on the north side of the city don’t have a ton of budget-friendly options, but Uptown is a great option for those who want to be close to neighborhoods like Lakeview, Wrigleyville and Andersonville without wanting to shell out a ton of cash.
Uptown’s locale is its main draw, as is its access to Lake Michigan and the northern areas of Lincoln Park (we mean the park, not the neighborhood of the same name).
7. New Chinatown
Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago
Many Chicago residents might refer to New Chinatown as basically the intersection of Argyle Street and Broadway Avenue, or “Asia on Argyle,” within the northern end of the Uptown neighborhood. Part of the Uptown community, “Argyle Street,” as the locals reference it, is home to some of the best pho and other Vietnamese cuisine in the city. Within a few blocks are dozens of Southeast Asian restaurants and businesses — mostly Vietnamese offerings, along with Chinese, Cambodian, Laotian and Thai.
On Thursday nights during the summer, Argyle Street hosts its popular Argyle Night Market, where you can sample food from local restaurants while enjoying live cultural and musical performances.
Photo courtesy of Chicago Park District
The childhood home of former First Lady Michelle Obama, South Shore offers easy access to Lake Michigan, Rainbow Beach and Stony Island Arts Bank — an art gallery, media archive, gorgeous library and community center.
Another perk is that it’s within walking distance to the South Shore Cultural Center, which includes a 65-acre park with a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, culinary center, nature center and a variety of cultural programming and classes.
Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago
If living in a really diverse neighborhood appeals to you, complete with businesses that cater to a number of ethnic groups, Albany Park might be the perfect neighborhood for you — it’s also among the cheapest neighborhoods in Chicago.
It’s not uncommon to walk along Montrose Avenue, Lawrence Avenue or Kedzie Avenue, the main streets in Albany Park, and pass restaurants selling everything from freshly-made pitas (Sanabel Bakery on Kedzie Avenue) to sweets and Middle Eastern groceries and staples (Dukan International Food Market, right off the Kedzie Brown Line stop) or serving delicious food at restaurants such as Afghan Kabob on Montrose Avenue or Noon-o-Kabab on Kedzie Avenue.
Photo credit Megy Karydes
Rogers Park is another diverse neighborhood, not unlike Albany Park. According to Choose Chicago, more than 40 languages are spoken in this area. Large apartment complexes and three-flats can be found between single-family homes, and there’s a mix of established families with transient neighbors thanks to Loyola University’s campus. It’s also among the cheapest neighborhoods on Chicago’s far north side.
Affordable Chicago neighborhoods
If you’re new to Chicago and looking for the cheapest neighborhoods, take the time to do some research and talk to those who live in the areas you’re considering. There are many ways you can do that now without knocking on doors. Social media platforms often have neighborhood group pages where you can let people know you’re considering a move to the area and would love to know what they like or don’t like about their neighborhood. You’d be surprised how honest people are when talking about their communities.
Some folks might think of Milwaukee as the quieter, cheaper city to live in that’s “close enough” to Chicago, but this city is so much more than a bedroom community. It’s also not just a brewery city for the rest of us.
Milwaukee has its quirks but she’s one of the nicest waterfront cities on Lake Michigan with loads of Milwaukee secrets and unique hot spots.
There are tons of Milwaukee facts you should know about this city if you want to think of yourself as a true local. Check ’em out.
Milwaukee facts you really ought to know if you want to call yourself a local
1. The first Milwaukee fact is all about winter sports, specifically ice skating. The “Slice of Ice” skating rink in Red Arrow Park downtown is larger than Times Square! The rink allows up to 100 skaters comfortably around the ice at one time.
2. Milwaukee goes by many nicknames. Some of the most well-known include The Mil, Miltown and Brew City. You might also hear mention of Mildoggy, Cream City, Ma-waukee or Milburb, too.
3. Brew City is home to the world’s only Harley Davison museum. Why? Well, a teenager who worked at the town’s bicycle factory (Meiselbach) got the itch for something “better” and built himself an engine, which he attached to a standard bicycle frame. That kid was William S. Harley and he joined forces with childhood friend, Arthur Davidson to create the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Milwaukee is where the motorcycle was born.
4. The Milwaukee Public Museum is home to the planet’s largest known dino skull – a T-rex skull, accompanied by a full-size replica of the beast’s body.
5. The same museum happens to have been around since 1892, though in a bit more modest form. The museum is home to over 4 million artifacts and specimens, too, making it a pretty impressive history museum for a smaller city like Milwaukee.
6. Cheeseheads might tell you Wisconsin and Milwaukee are all about the dairy and the football, but the town’s nickname of Cream City actually has nothing to do with the dairy industry. The nickname actually refers to the local clay. The area is rich in limestone and magnesium, resulting in beautiful bricks.
7. Milwaukee is known as the frozen custard capital of the world. The city has the largest gathering of frozen custard shops, selling that egg-yolk-based, rich, creamy version of “ice cream” so many of us love loading up with toppings and mix-ins. If you haven’t had custard concrete yet, you’re seriously missing out.
8. Milwaukee didn’t just give us the motorcycle, this magnificent city gave the world the QWERTY typewriter, the precursor to our contemporary computers and keyboards. The inventor, Christopher Latham Sholes, moved to Milwaukee to begin writing for a local paper and decided he needed a typewriting machine to keep up with the workload. So, now we have the typewriter.
9. Milwaukee’s art museum moves more than hearts and souls. It literally moves. Well, part of it does, anyway. The museum is one of the few in the world that has an intentionally moveable part. The wings of the “Calatrava” open in the morning to welcome visitors, then close up at night. It’s worth popping by for a watch, even if you don’t go inside.
10. Another creation birthed in Milwaukee is Carmex lip balm. In the 1930s, the creator, Wilfred Woelbing, whipped up his first batch on his home stove to relieve cold sore pain. Realizing he’d found a good thing, he started selling the product out of the trunk of his car. Eventually, he opened a facility for manufacturing it, and the lip balm is still being created right here in one of the Milwaukee suburbs.
11. What goes well with brewskies? A bowling alley, of course. And Milwaukee happens to have the oldest certified bowling alley in the U.S., located inside the Holler House on Lincoln Avenue. There are only two lanes, though, players score by hand and pinsetters still tend the lanes. You’ll have a pretty long wait to play, but if you’re into booze, you can sidle up to the bar and have a fabulous gab with the bartender. While there, you can check out another bizarre claim to fame: a collection of bras that hangs from the ceiling, started about 50 years ago by the beloved Marcy Skawronski, the late owner of the establishment.
12. How about this Milwaukee fact: There’s a lake under the city. The city, as some folks think, isn’t built on swampland, but over Lake Emily, located under the old Northwestern Mutual home office.
13. Cream City is the unfortunate location of the attempted assassination of former President Teddy Roosevelt, in 1916. Thankfully, his glasses cases and the manuscripts in his chest pocket saved his life. And, undaunted, the former president went on with his speech, despite having a bullet in him.
14. Milwaukee wasn’t always spelled the current way. It was “Milwaukie” in early records. The name itself comes from an Algonquin word, “millioke” which means “good,” “beautiful” and “pleasant land.”
15. The Bronze Fonz, a bronze statue of the character Arthur Fonzarelli from “Happy Days,” stands along the Milwaukee RiverWalk. The city’s proud of its most popular fictional character.
16. Another unofficial Milwaukee nickname is City of Festivals. The town knows how to party! With cultural events along the lake at the Henry Maier Festival Park and the incredible Summerfest, which has earned itself the “World’s Largest Music Festival.” As many as 900,000 folks show up to the amazing event every year. Yeah, approaching a million people at a single party!
17. Another invention to come out of Milwaukee is the answering machine. Joseph Zimmerman and George Danner created the first successful answering machine right in Milwaukee – and some of you reading this probably don’t even know what one of those is.
18. The Polar Plunge has been popular in Milwaukee on New Year’s Day since 1916. Folks strip down and jump into the freezing water of Lake Michigan. Some folks dress up in crazy costumes to up the insane factor for a little extra fun.
19. The city was pretty bummed when their baseball team The Braves moved south to Atlanta in 1966. But in 1969, the Seattle Pilots hit the bankruptcy wall and moved to Brew City to become the Milwaukee Brewers.
20. Located on the campus of Marquette University, there’s a tiny chapel named the St. Joan of Arc Chapel — and it’s older than America’s first official establishment by 300 years! The French village of Chasse built the tiny religious building and sent the ruins of the chapel to America after World War I where it was rebuilt in New York. The owners then gifted the chapel to Marquette University. The building was painstakingly transferred to the campus and installed. It’s the only medieval structure in the Western hemisphere that’s actively used for holding mass services.
21. Random Milwaukee fact: The city is home to the world’s largest collection of antique microphones. You can find them at an electronics store on East National Street — all 1,000+ of them! There are some pretty cool ones here, including one used during an expedition to Antarctica. There’s also an original telephone from Alexander Graham Bell, from 1876.
22. The Oriental Theatre of Milwaukee is a huge fan of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. In fact, the theatre has run the film every single month since January of 1978!
23. The American Family Field, where the Brewers play, has a retractable roof. It’s pretty cool to watch if you get the chance.
24. The walking path along the river downtown has a unique claim to fame: Its skywalk is the only one in the world that exists over boat traffic.
25. By the 1850s, Milwaukee was heavily inhabited by German immigrants and already boasted more than two dozen breweries. Some of them are still in business today, like Pabst, Miller and Schlitz.
26. And speaking of Pabst, in the Brewery District, located around the original site of the Pabst Brewery, is a vibrant community now with loads of Milwaukee apartments for rent here along with loads of nightlife.
27. In the early 1900s, Milwaukee ditched the idea of the two most popular political parties in the country and went with a third option: the Socialist Party. They voted in a Social mayor, Emil Seidel, then again twice more with other social mayors.
28. And speaking of mayors, Milwaukee has only had four mayors since 1960, including interim Mayer Marvin Pratt who only served for three months!
29. You’d think with all the breweries and beer in Beer City, Prohibition wouldn’t have been a thing. Well, you’d be wrong. The 1920s Prohibition laws nearly sank the city. The breweries, however, managed to find a way around this by serving up beer to their Catholic patrons eating fried fish on Fridays, as a means of “washing down” the fish fry. For those breweries wanting to abide by the laws, they served up soda, non-alcoholic beer, candy and even started snow plowing for survival.
30. The area surrounding Milwaukee was originally home to several Native American Nations, including the Menominee, Fox, Ho-Chunk (Winnebago), Sauk and Potawatomi.
31. The first Europeans to come through the area were French Catholic Jesuit missionaries who aimed to minister to the Native Americans and the fur traders of the region.
32. The Basilica of St. Josaphat is in the Lincoln Village neighborhood in Milwaukee, and it’s modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The building boasts one of the largest copper domes in the world.
33. During the second half of the 19th century, Milwaukee became a hub of industry. Flour milling, iron founding and leather tanning were all major industries in the area, bringing prosperity to the city. For a time, Milwaukee was heavily involved in manufacturing automobiles, as well — including the Kissel Kar, the Ogden and the Nash — but that industry has become obsolete in the city now.
34. One of Milwaukee’s most interesting houses from the old days used to belong to Frederick Pabst, founder of Pabst Blue Ribbon. The Victorian-style mansion is on West Wisconsin Avenue and has 14 fireplaces, 10 bathrooms and a study filled with secret compartments.
All right, folks. We gave you the Milwaukee facts, but what have we missed? Leave your comments below!
Whether you’re a beer-drinking cheesehead or a transplant looking for some nightlife, weird museums and historical hotspots, these Milwaukee facts will get you headed in the right direction to sounding like a local in no time. Find your own place to live to enjoy the city now!
Prominent YouTube content creator Jimmy Donaldson — best known as MrBeast — took on the world of luxury real estate, and hundreds of millions of viewers tuned in to watch him tour upscale properties with some of his most famous friends (Justin Timberlake, Mark Cuban, and Miranda Cosgrove).
The YouTuber, who holds the title of the most-subscribed individual on the platform (and also has the second-most-subscribed channel overall), is famous for his viral videos centered around expensive stunts, challenges, and donations.
And he’s set quite a few records since launching his channel in 2013.
In 2017, he released his “counting to 100,000” video — which became his breakthrough viral video — and he has become increasingly popular ever since, with most of his videos gaining hundreds of millions of views.
By 2021, MrBeast was making headlines for breaking the record for the fastest non-music video to reach 100 million views, thanks to his Squid Game-themed video. That video now has over 500 million views.
He’s also known for his charitable endeavors, and for the fact that the more popular he gets, the more money he gives away.
While many have claimed that his monetary giveaways could be the primary reason why he accrues millions upon millions of video views, one of his most recent viral hits debunks this theory.
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On October 14, MrBeast released a new video titled $1 vs $100,000,000 House!, where the YouTuber — alongside his crew and several famous pals — tour homes of different price points, from a $1 shack to a $100 million mansion in Los Angeles (that’s actually worth $139 million).
The video garnered more than 100 million views in its first 10 days and shattered the previous record for the most views within 24 hours — a record that MrBeast himself had set with his “7 Days Stranded at Sea” video — proving to naysayers that giving money away is not the reason behind Donaldson’s success.
Now, since the content crossed the threshold into our turf — the world of luxury real estate — we wanted to provide some background info on the properties featured in MrBeast’s video — including specs, updated prices, photos and more.
And we also got some behind-the-scenes tidbits that the listing agents shared with us, including how long ago the property tours took place, and what type of response they saw after the video launched.
All the luxury homes featured in MrBeast’s “$1 vs $100,000,000 House!” video
While there’s not much to say about the $1 shack that kicked off the video (that one might even be best summarized as “what you see is what you get”), there’s lots to learn about the other striking homes that made the cut. We’ll also skip the $1 million house, as that price point doesn’t necessarily fall into luxury territory in many of the real estate markets we cover.
We talked to some of the agents in charge of the listings featured in the viral video, and they shared their excitement about being part of the project.
“It was a cool experience to be affiliated with Mr. Beast,” says Rachael Williams with Revel Real Estate, who holds the listing for the $15 million property featured in the video. “Apparently this video broke the world record for most views in 24 hours. So essentially being a part of history is pretty awesome! 😎“
Wondering whether it was MrBeast’s team that sourced the houses? We were thinking the same, and it turns out that “Mr. Beast’s team reached out to us to be featured,” Ben Bacal, Founder and real estate agent at Revel Real Estate tells us. “We were told our property might, or might not make the final cut, but it did! And we’re so happy that they included it. “
The agents also told us that filming — at least for some of the properties — took place back in August, despite the final cut being released in October.
Naturally, that also means that some of the prices have changed in the meantime.
The $45 million house was most recently listed for $29.888 million, while the art-filled Malibu home dropped its asking from $69 million to $59 million. And the $100 million house is actually far more expensive in real life. So let’s take them one at a time.
The $100 million house, LA FIN
The focal point of the video, the striking $100 million house MrBeast tours alongside celebrity guest Justin Timberlake is actually a $139 million mega-mansion in Bel Air, California.
Newly built in 2021, the spec mansion is dubbed LA FIN, and is touted as “the pinnacle of homes designed for entertaining at a scale comparable to the best hotels in the world.” And for good reason.
Featuring an impressive total of 12 bedrooms, 17 bathrooms, and a guest penthouse, the luxury abode has an entire array of amenities that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else, including a 6,000-square-foot nightclub, a unique 6-car elevator that displays the car collection above the nightclub, and an ice-cold vodka-tasting room furnished with fur coats.
Other notable features include a cigar lounge, a cutting-edge gym equipped with Peloton equipment and a rock-climbing wall
The primary bedroom suite of the luxury Bel Air mansion is nestled in its private wing.
Cloaked in Italian oak, the bedroom’s centerpiece is a striking fireplace crafted from Portuguese marble, and has an adjoining bathroom reminiscent of a world-class spa with Calacatta gold marble, a sweeping 100-square-foot shower, and a bathtub sculpted from a singular marble block.
With so many unique features, we could talk about this property all day. But since pictures are worth a thousand words, why not take a closer look inside the ultra-luxurious Bel Air mansion instead (Swipe for more pics):
Price & property history: The $139 million mansion was first listed in February 2022, with Jon Grauman and Adam Rosenfeld (The Agency). And while it has retained its asking price, representation for the property has since changed, with Shawn Elliot or NestSeekers International.
The art-filled $69 million house
Joined by iCarly actress Miranda Cosgrove, MrBeast tours the second most expensive home, a Malibu architectural gem that bears the signature of lauded architect Ed Niles.
The art-filled glass-and-steel house — which we’ve covered in depth here following its recent price adjustment, that brought it from $69 million down to $59.5 million — is propped up on a hill just 75 feet away from water and pairs its excellent oceanfront location with a distinct architecture that makes it one of Malibu’s most impressive real estate offerings.
The avant-garde abode is defined by sharp geometric angles, varied shapes, and out-of-the-box materials like glass, steel, and concrete, all thoughtfully executed and flowing beautifully together.
Featuring 4 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms with a detached one-bed, one-bath guesthouse on 8,206 square feet, the glass-and-steel house incorporates many Feng Shui principles.
Price & property history: Originally listed in March 2023 with an ambitious $68.8 million price tag, the Ed Niles-designed home recently had its price re-adjusted to $59.5 million.
Madison Hildebrand and Jennifer Chrisman at Compass and Wendy Wong and Katherine Quach of Treelane Realty Group are spearheading the home sale.
The $45 million Brentwood house
Our favorite property on this list — though we might be a bit biased, as we’ve written extensively about this mansion before — is a newly built spec mansion in Los Angeles’ family-friendly Brentwood neighborhood.
Toured alongside billionaire Mark Cuban (who lives in an equally impressive luxury mansion), the spectacular property known as Allure is a 14,000-square-foot mansion that’s been carved into the mountainside — an arduous process that included the removal of approximately 680 truckloads of dirt to create over an acre of flat land.
First listed for $45 million (price later dropped to $29.888 million) ‘Allure’ is inspired by “The Greats” across various domains — including elite athletes, top Hollywood stars, influential C-suite executives, and international business tycoons.
And its long (and creative) list of amenities reflects that.
The 7-bedroom, 8-bath home has a movie theater with a Rolls Royce starlight ceiling, two striking living moss walls, a dedicated regulation-sized pickleball court, an NBA-sized half-court sporting a Michael Jordan design, a putting green, and a sanctuary spa with a fitness center and sauna.
The upscale Brentwood mansion was developed by Ramtin “Ray” Nosrati of Huntington Estates Properties, the mastermind behind some of LA’s most affluent homes.
Price & property history: The 14,000-square-foot house was first listed for $45 million. With a revised price of $29.888 million, Allure is listed with Sally Forster Jones and Nicole Plaxen of Sally Forster Jones Group at Compass, Santiago Arana at The Agency, Shauna Walters at Beverly Hills Estates, and Josh and Matt Altman of The Altman Brothers at Douglas Elliman.
Take a closer look inside: This $29.888 million Brentwood mansion is the Michael Jordan of homes
The $30 million mansion with an indoor water park
While most of the houses in MrBeast’s videos are located in California, the $30 million mansion takes us on a trip to Leverett, Massachusetts, to visit a highly unique property likened to “a candy store for adults.”
Known as the Juggler Meadow Estate, the $30 million Massachusetts property is the former home of late Yankee Candle founder Michael Kittredge II and is a local celebrity in its own right (which comes as little surprise after watching the video tour).
With an impressive 120,000 square feet of interior space — split between 8 structures — the compound features a 25,000-square-foot main residence, a 55,000-square-foot spa, an indoor water park, three tennis courts, a three-lane bowling alley, two grotto-like wine cellars, and a 10-seat movie theater, among many other amenities.
Price & property history: The former Yankee Candle founder’s house was listed in the second half of 2022 for $23 million. Popular listing websites like Zillow and Realtor.com still show the same $23 million asking price, while the official listing on the brokerage’s website (the house is repped by Johnny Hatem Jr with The Sarkis Team at Douglas Elliman) says the price is only available upon request.
The $15 million house
While the other luxury houses MrBeast visited strayed a bit from the price point shown in the video, the next property on our list is a true-to-story $15 million home in the Hollywood Hills — with a killer location and spectacular design.
Perched atop the famous Bird Streets (widely known as some of LA’s most desirable streets, (attracting celebrities like Leo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, or Jodie Foster), the 7,217-square-foot contemporary, Ameen Ayoub-designed residence was completed in 2021.
Packed with world-class amenities — including a chef’s kitchen with Miele appliances, an aquarium bar that looks into the infinite pool, a custom-built honeycomb quartz wine cellar, a decoupled home theatre, a subterranean garage, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with a sauna and steam shower — the 3-bed, 5-bath home is pure luxury.
It also has a jaw-dropping primary suite with a fireplace and private terrace, dual bathrooms, and a designer closet.
Price & property history: Listed for $14,900,000 with by Ben Bacal and Rachel Williams of Revel Real Estate, the $15 million was listed in mid-2023, and hasn’t had any price adjustments since.
After being featured in MrBeast’s $1 vs $100,000,000 House! video, the property’s agents share that the Hollywood Hills mansion already received an offer — for a one-year lease. And more will likely follow, as the viral video keeps accruing millions of views.
Which property did you love the most?
*Featured image credit: Fidias, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons, Nils Timm / Nils Timm Visuals & Simon Berlyn courtesy of Compass
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Cruising is a huge industry, so it makes sense that the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) — which started out shipping cargo — got in on the venture in 1988 with the purchase of its first cruise ship. Since then, the company has been steadily growing, adding new ships and destinations to its thriving cruise line.
Although it’s headquartered in Switzerland, you’ll find MSC cruises all over the world, including throughout the United States. Let’s take a look at MSC’s cruises, where they sail and what to expect when you’re aboard.
About MSC cruises
Here’s a quick overview of some of MSC’s key features.
Package types: There are three levels of experience to choose from on MSC. Bella is the least expensive, while Fantastica allows you to get free in-room breakfast and select your room type. Aurea is MSC’s top-tier package and includes access to exclusive amenities, as well as additional discounts and dining privileges.
Cabin types: On MSC ships you’ll find the standard cruise ship cabins, including interior, ocean view, veranda and various types of suites.
Main U.S. routes: MSC has only a handful of departure ports from within the U.S. Most of its routes depart from Miami to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.
Points currency and loyalty program: The loyalty program of MSC is called the Voyager’s Club. Points are earned for the cruises you take and the money you spend while on board.
MSC cruise destinations
You can find MSC cruises all over the globe, including the Caribbean, Canada, New England, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Northern Europe, South Africa, South America and Asia. There are also worldwide cruises that sail to several regions around the globe.
MSC’s worldwide cruises come in as the longest trips, with itineraries lasting as many as 127 nights. Meanwhile, the cruise line’s shortest options include weekend trips to the Bahamas sailing for just two nights.
MSC cruise prices
The reviews of MSC Cruises will likely mention the price of your trip, which is often cheaper than comparable trips on other popular cruise lines. Of course, the total cost will vary based on the trip duration, time of year and what kind of room you select. The least expensive options you’ll find are on short Mediterranean cruises, which can cost as little as $119 per person.
Prices are also affected by the dates that you’re traveling. A three-night cruise to the Bahamas can cost as little as $149 per person, but that same trip can cost up to $349 per person during periods of high demand.
As you’d expect, the most expensive cruises on MSC are the longest. For example, the 127-night World Cruise costs $21,929 per person.
What is the best MSC ship?
There are a total of 23 ships in MSC’s fleet. According to U.S. News, the best MSC ship is the MSC Bellissima. Launched in 2019, the ship boasts a full-sized bowling alley and multiple pools, along with an array of restaurants, a spa and live entertainment. The ranking was calculated using a mix of user reviews and health ratings.
What is the newest MSC ship?
The MSC World Europa, MSC’s newest ship, officially debuted at the end of 2022 in Qatar. This ship features more than 2,600 cabins, 33 restaurants and six swimming pools.
What’s included in an MSC cruise
MSC’s cruise packages are on par with other mid-tier cruise lines. No matter what package you purchase, all food and entertainment is included, as is access to the main parts of the ship. This includes pools, the buffet restaurant and a nightly seated dinner.
If you purchase a higher-end package, you’ll be able to enjoy more amenities. The Fantastica experience, for example, includes free room service delivery for breakfast. The top-tier Aurea package includes complimentary room service for all meals.
Neither Wi-Fi nor specialty drinks are included as part of the base price, but they can be purchased separately. The drink package has a range of options, including non-alcoholic drinks such as soda and different types of alcohol.
MSC loyalty program: Voyager’s Club
Voyager’s Club is the loyalty program for frequent MSC cruise passengers. There are four levels in the program, and each has its own benefits.
Voyagers Club levels
The Voyager Clubs levels are Classic, Silver, Gold and Diamond.
Classic
How to earn: Classic membership is earned by going on at least one MSC cruise or having a confirmed booking on an upcoming cruise. This tier is for members who have between 1 and 2,199 points.
Best benefits: 5% discount on future cruises, discounts on packages.
Silver
How to earn: Earn 2,200 to 4,299 points.
Best benefits: $50 onboard credit per person on cruises booked at least nine months before departure, double points for cruises booked more than 12 months in advance.
Gold
How to earn: Earn 4,300 to 9,999 points.
Best benefits: One hour of complimentary thermal area access, priority disembarkation, complimentary photos.
Diamond
How to earn: Earn 10,000+ points.
Best benefits: Complimentary tasting dinner, one free dance lesson, complimentary slippers and bathrobe, priority embarkation and disembarkation.
How to earn Voyager Club points
There are two ways to earn Voyager Club points. First, you’ll earn a set amount of points for taking a cruise — the specific amount will depend on the length of the cruise and the experience level you choose. Second, you’ll earn points for the activities you pre-purchase and for any onboard expenses that you incur.
Frequently asked questions
Does MSC have free Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is not included in MSC’s basic fare. There are different packages available to those who are sailing which can be purchased before you travel or during your cruise. MSC doesn’t publish its Wi-Fi package pricing online, but for example, you can expect to pay around $270 for a two-device upgraded Wi-Fi package on a seven-day cruise with MSC Seascape.
Is MSC all-inclusive?
MSC cruises are not entirely inclusive, though they do provide a lot with your base package. This includes your cabin, food, live entertainment, port stops and coffee, tea and water. They don’t include specialty drinks such as soda or alcohol, nor do they include Wi-Fi or any port excursions you’d like to go on.
How much is the MSC drink package?
MSC Cruises reviews will let you know that MSC allows passengers to add on a drink package to their cruise. The price will vary depending on your actual cruise, as well as the type of package that you choose. There are five types of packages available: Easy, Easy Plus, Premium Extra, Alcohol-free and Minors.
Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $88 per day for any drink packages that you purchase.
Does MSC require a COVID vaccine or test?
Whether or not you’ll need a COVID vaccine or COVID test while sailing on MSC cruise lines will depend on where you’re going. For cruises leaving from the United States, you don’t need either. However, you will need to provide other personal information, such as your name, address and date of birth.
(Top photo courtesy of MSC)
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
You’ve likely heard of Fort Lauderdale as a top spring break destination, but the town has loads of things to keep vacationers busy almost any time of year. Known as “the Venice of America” due to its inland waterways, you can explore Fort Lauderdale by water taxi or kayak, as well as take in its beautiful parks, shop on Las Olas Boulevard, and (of course) hit the many amazing beaches nearby.
Learn more about the top 10 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale here, as well as tips to make your getaway go as smoothly as possible. Once you’ve got your itinerary and travel plans wrangled, you’ll be set to enjoy the sun and the fun.
Best Times to Go to Fort Lauderdale
The best time to go to Fort Lauderdale is in the spring, between March and May. Average temperatures are in the 80s, and it is not too humid or rainy. The fall and winter (from early November onward) is also a good time to go to Fort Lauderdale, as it can be less crowded but still enjoy good weather, also in the 80s.
The winter holidays are a great time to escape cold weather and visit this Florida hotspot. You may not be able to go swimming in the ocean due to chilly water temperatures, but otherwise you can probably have a great time.
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Bad Times to Go to Fort Lauderdale
Summer in Fort Lauderdale can be hot, humid, and rainy. Average temperatures are in the 90s. June is the rainiest month, so summer travel may be the worst time to go to Fort Lauderdale.
Although spring is a wonderful time to go to Fort Lauderdale, try to avoid school spring break time, which is usually mid March through early April. It can be more crowded and expensive due to all of the families and students who are traveling.
Average Cost of a Fort Lauderdale Vacation
Fort Lauderdale is a relatively affordable vacation spot. Hotels in Central Beach, near the ocean, will cost you around $250 to $400 on a typical weekend in April. If you are wondering how to save money on hotels, try staying in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, which is still a central location and hotels cost $180 to $300 on the same weekend. The average hotel cost is around $192 per night.
On average, one week for a couple costs about $2,549; for one person, that would be $1,275 for a week-long stay. Of course, you should factor in other costs when budgeting for your trip, like car rentals, rideshares, food, entertainment, plane tickets and/or gas.
When budgeting for a trip, you should also think about where to keep travel funds. Ideally, you can sock away money in an interest-bearing account, like a savings account that earns an above-average rate of return. Typically, this means an online bank vs. a traditional one.
If you are thinking about booking a trip to Fort Lauderdale but are worried that you may have unforeseen circumstances and have to cancel your trip, you can look into travel insurance. If you pay for your trip with certain credit cards, they may provide travel insurance. You should understand how credit card travel insurance works when deciding whether to purchase private travel insurance or use your credit card protections.
10 Fun Must-Dos in Fort Lauderdale
Florida is mostly known for beaches, but there are plenty of other things to do in Fort Lauderdale. This list of the top 10 must-dos in Fort Lauderdale was curated from frequent travelers’ and residents’ recommendations, as well as online review sites. Included is a mix of favorite destinations, free activities, and some off-the-beaten-path ones. The list includes things that you can do with a family, by yourself, with a partner, and with a group of friends.
One important note: If you are going on a Fort Lauderdale vacation trip, you may want to look into renting a car. Many of the attractions on this list require a car to get to. If you don’t want to rent a car, you could also take rideshares or limit your activities to ones within walking distance of your hotel.
That said, here are the top 10 fun things to do while visiting Fort Lauderdale.
1. Head to Fort Lauderdale Beach
What is a trip to Fort Lauderdale without a beach? Fort Lauderdale Beach is a typical Florida beach to enjoy at no charge, making it one of the best free things to do in Fort Lauderdale. With four miles of palm-tree lined beaches, this coastline is an iconic destination.
Yes, Fort Lauderdale Beach has some typical partiers, but it is also very family-friendly. Bringing your own towel, chairs, food and beach toys can be how families afford to travel to beach destinations.
2. Eat Well
While you’re at the beach, you’re likely to get hungry. Fortunately, there are great restaurants nearby, serving everything from great grilled cheese or Cuban sandwiches (try the popular Padrino’s Cuban) to fresh fish, caught just a few dozen yards away (say, at Sea Watch on the Ocean). Or just beat the 3 pm slump with some coffee; the Alchemist’s patio is a top spot.
3. Shop Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is a well-known street in Fort Lauderdale with many restaurants, shops, art galleries, and museums. Many of the shops are upscale with recognizable designer names, so prices may be high (swipe or tap with your plastic to pay, though, and you could earn some hefty credit card rewards).
Traveling on a budget? Window-shop while enjoying that warm Fort Lauderdale weather.
4. Visit Historic Stranahan House Museum
The Historic Stranahan House Museum, Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving home, is located off Las Olas Boulevard. A founding farmer, Frank Stranahan, built Stranahan House in 1901. It’s a wood-frame vernacular building with wide porches in front that take in incredible view of the New River. The structure has served as everything from a home to a town hall to a post office in its 100+-year history. Today, visitors can visit the museum by taking a guided tour, which are offered at 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm, with the exception of major holidays, and cost $12. Advance booking recommended. stranahanhouse.org/
Recommended: Where to Find Book Now, Pay Later Travel
5. Stroll Through Flamingo Gardens
Flamingo Gardens is a botanical garden and Everglades wildlife refuge located 17 miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale. As the name indicated, yes, you can see those unusually colored flamingos, as well as freely roaming peacocks, plus sea otters, panthers, and alligators. There are lush gardens, too. Run by a nonprofit organization, Flamingo Gardens is open every day between 9:30 am and 5 pm, and costs $21.95 for adults and $15.95 for children. There is a free tram tour through the park that runs between 11 am and 4 pm. flamingogardens.org/
6. Immerse Yourself in Butterfly World
If you would rather see butterflies than flamingos, Butterfly World may be an attraction to visit; it’s definitely a fun thing to do in Fort Lauderdale. Here’s why: It’s home to more than 20,000 live butterflies and more than 50 species. It’s a magical experience to see them up-close and in such great numbers.
Butterfly World is located in Coconut Creek, about 15 miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale. Ticket prices are $32.50 for adults and $22.50 for children. It is open 7 days a week, typically from 9 am to 5 pm, and closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter Sunday. Hours are subject to change due to weather, so check before visiting. butterflyworld.com/
7. Be Amazed at the Museum of Discovery and Science
Keep your brain engaged in between beach visits. The Museum of Discovery and Science has a variety of fascinating exhibits, like ones that give you a deep dive into dinosaurs, space, gravity, ecology, and food. Located in the City View neighborhood, the museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm except Thanksgiving day and some local holidays. Tickets cost $24 to $27. mods.org/exhibits/
8. Hop on a Water Taxi
Fort Lauderdale is known for its waterways that weave through the verdant Florida landscape. The Water Taxi lets you see the city from the water, while learning about its history during the narrated ride. You can hop on and off at 11 stops on the Water Taxi. Tickets range from $15 to $35, and it operates 7 days a week between 10 am and 10 pm. watertaxi.com/
9. Spend Time at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Ready to hike, kayak, or just take in the view? Head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, located between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. The park has coastal dune lakes, where you can canoe or kayak, plus a top-notch coastal trail that will have you trekking through a native maritime tropical hardwood hammock ecosystem.
Incidentally, if you are traveling with pets, there’s a dog beach at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Canine Beach is a 100-yard stretch of coastline where you and your doggo can frolic.
The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is open every day from 8 am to sunset, and costs $6 per vehicle for up to eight people, or $4 for a single-occupant vehicle. floridastateparks.org/HughTaylorBirch
10. Live Large at Gulfstream Park
If you’re looking for a break from the beach and craving entertainment, try Gulfstream Park, another of the 10 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale. The Park features a thoroughbred horse racetrack, which can be a total thrill. Plus there’s dining, outdoor shopping, a casino, a bowling alley, and an entertainment venue. Horse races are held every Wednesday to Sunday from December through September. There are special events throughout the year, like the annual Florida Derby in March or April. And here’s a plus: There’s no admission fee to the racetrack, making it one of the fun free things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. gulfstreampark.com/
The Takeaway
Florida is a popular destination for some of the best weather and beaches in America, and Fort Lauderdale has all that and more. It can be a great place to vacation for its natural beauty and sun, but it also offers terrific museums, dining, shopping, and other attractions. Whether you have a full week or a long weekend, this Southern Florida destination can make for a memorable getaway.
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FAQ
What is Fort Lauderdale best known for?
Fort Lauderdale is best known for its beaches, arts, and shopping. Along with beautiful beaches, Fort Lauderdale has canals and a historic riverfront to explore as well.
What is the famous strip in Fort Lauderdale?
Las Olas Boulevard is located in Fort Lauderdale and has shopping, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and more. For those who like shopping or window-shopping at designer boutiques, Las Olas Boulevard is a top destination.
Is Fort Lauderdale a walking town?
Some areas of Fort Lauderdale are walkable, like Las Olas Boulevard. However, if you want to explore multiple areas or attractions of Fort Lauderdale, you will likely need a car to cover the distances involved.
Photo credit: iStock/Cassanas
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The decline of Fort Morgan didn’t happen suddenly. There wasn’t a giant factory that closed or a natural disaster that devastated the small, farming town on the plains in the northeastern corridor of Colorado.
Instead, Fort Morgan’s story is a familiar one playing out across rural America: children moving away to find better jobs in the cities and big-box stores and online shopping leading to empty storefronts on Main Street. But this isn’t how the story ends for Fort Morgan, about an hour and 15 minutes northeast of Denver.
HGTV is turning its star power on Fort Morgan with the Season 2 premiere of “Home Town Takeover.” The show will feature its biggest name stars, including Ben and Erin Napier of “Home Town” and Dave and Jenny Marrs of “Fixer to Fabulous,” as they take on revitalization projects around town. The six-episode series is to premiere on Sunday.
The popular network has a strong track record of transforming struggling, down-on-their-luck, small towns and cities into popular tourist and real estate destinations. Several of these communities have credited the shows built around them for their turnarounds. Can HGTV and its talent re-create the magic in Fort Morgan—and perhaps inspire other struggling towns to invest in their own revitalizations?
“At the end of the day, millions of people are going to see this show,” Jenny Marrs tells Realtor.com®. “They’re going to be inspired either to go and visit Fort Morgan, which would be amazing and help the town as far as tourism, but also just be inspired to maybe do the same thing in their own town.”
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Watch: Exclusive: Is HGTV’s ‘Renovation 911’ the Most Dramatic Home Improvement Show Yet?
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Over the four months of filming for the show, the teams completed 18 projects. They included fixing up homes of local heroes, businesses such as the town’s bowling alley, and community spaces such as the downtown business district and a local park.
“Our town could use a jump-start,” says local artist Ann Iungerich. “The last 10 to 15 years, it’s gone through a slump. We could use a boost to get us back on track.”
Helping out on the projects were guest stars Jonathan Knight, star of HGTV’s “Farmhouse Fixer” and former vocalist for New Kids on the Block; rapper Lil Jon, who also has a show, “Lil Jon Wants To Do What?”; and Ty Pennington of “Rock the Block,” among others.
“These towns each have a special story,” says Jenny Marrs. She was most impressed by the people she met in Fort Morgan and how they rallied together to improve their community. “People stop, they say hello, they wave at you when you drive by, they know your name at the grocery stores. These sort of simple things can be really powerful.
“Families have lived in these small towns for generations. This is their family legacy and history,” she continues. “They shouldn’t have to move if we can help make the town viable again.”
The HGTV effect on real estate markets
The Texas city of Waco is perhaps the best example of the power of HGTV and its charismatic stars.
“Fixer Upper” premiered in 2013 and launched Chip and Joanna Gaines into the stratosphere. The couple built an empire off of that show, with a furniture line at Target, eight bestselling books between them, and even their own network, called Magnolia. But their greatest accomplishment might have been transforming the public image of Waco.
Before the popularity brought by the Gaineses, the city had been best known for a deadly standoff in 1993 between federal agents and a religious cult run by David Koresh. Now, tourists flock to the city to shop at the Gaineses’ stores and eat at their restaurant, Magnolia Table.
Average home prices in McLennan County, which includes Waco, surged almost 52.1% from 2015 to 2019, according to data previously provided by local real estate broker Camille Johnson. (“Fixer Upper” ran from 2013 to 2018 on HGTV. It was rebooted as “Fixer Upper: Welcome Home” on the Magnolia network in 2021.)
Before “Home Town” began filming in Laurel, MS, Mayor Johnny Magee flew out to Waco. He wanted to see the impact that “Fixer Upper” had on the struggling city.
“What we saw were tourists everywhere, and people were claiming that the same could happen in Laurel. We were doubtful,” says Magee. He didn’t realize how popular the show starring the Napiers would be when it premiered in January 2016.
Today, Laurel is booming. Its hotels and restaurants are full, home sales have risen as more people have moved here, and the town’s tax base has increased.
Home list prices surged in Laurel, shooting up 84.1% from July 2016 through July 2022, according to Realtor.com data. That’s compared with a 71.9% increase nationally and 60.8% in Mississippi over the same period.
“I am a native Laurelite who is amazed about what has happened since Ben and Erin Napier have begun the ‘Home Town’ show in Laurel. When the show began, downtown was like a ghost town,” says Magee. “What we have experienced has blown the minds of everyone who knew Laurel pre-‘Home Town.’”
Bentonville, AR, where “Fixer to Fabulous” is filmed, is a bit of an exception as it’s a city of more than 55,000 residents. It’s also the birthplace and headquarters of Walmart.
However, the Marrses have seen tourism tick up as a result of their show. There are now golf cart tours of the homes that have appeared on “Fixer to Fabulous.”
“It’s a powerful thing,” Dave Marrs says of the HGTV effect on Bentonville.
But there are a few downsides.
Home prices can rise as a result of being in the spotlight, say the Marrses. The number of properties for rent and sale is likely to drop even further as out-of-towners move in. That’s likely to make it harder for locals to find places. And those who grew up in the community might find themselves competing with deep-pocketed investors and retirees.
When home prices increase, property taxes can also rise. That was a substantial problem that homeowners in Waco experienced.
Fort Morgan’s already benefiting from ‘Home Town Takeover’
Since the news broke in July that the new season of “Home Town Takeover” would be filmed in Fort Morgan, commercial properties downtown have been selling quicker, says Brian Urdiales, a Fort Morgan councilman and Compass real estate broker.
“It isn’t typical to see three commercial properties on Main Street go onto the market and then close in a short time,” he says. “It would be great to see all the foot traffic and people on Main Street like when I grew up.”
Tourists have also begun to trickle in, says artist Iungerich, 61, a lifelong resident of the town. She submitted the town’s original application to be on the show when it launched just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020. And she created an art installation that will be featured on the show: a 5-foot-tall bowling ball, a 9.5-foot-tall pin, and a crown, all placed in front of the local bowling alley.
The recent trickle of tourists is certainly something new for Fort Morgan, founded after an eponymously named military post opened in the mid-19th century along the South Platte River.
Today, the fort no longer remains and Fort Morgan is primarily a farming and ranching community of about 11,500 residents. There is a large Cargill beef processing plant, a mozzarella cheese processing facility, and a historic sugar factory.
The old railroad depot is boarded up, but folks can still catch an Amtrak train to Denver or into Nebraska. There are some restaurants, and the movie theater has recently been remodeled.
Fort Morgan has “the blue-collar jobs. They have the farming. They just didn’t have the draw to keep people there,” Dave Marrs tells Realtor.com. “So a lot of our focus was ‘Hey, you’re working here, stay here. Spend time here, spend money here so the town can develop even more.’”
Despite the town’s struggles, Fort Morgan’s real estate market has remained appealing to buyers priced out of more expensive parts of the state. During the pandemic, many Denver-area buyers came to Fort Morgan seeking more affordable properties, more space, and a more rural lifestyle. Homes sold briskly in a single weekend, often for over the asking price.
The real estate market has since come back down as higher mortgage interest rates are forcing many would-be buyers to the sidelines. Home list prices are mostly back to pre-pandemic levels, at a median of $330,550 in March, according to Realtor.com data.
Homes in Fort Morgan are still attracting buyers, especially as prices are about half of Denver’s median price tag of $663,000 and roughly $100,000 less than the national median of $424,500 in March.
“Our market’s always been pretty strong,” says Urdiales. He’s still seeing bidding wars, investors making all-cash offers, and first-time buyers jumping into the fray. “People are still buying.”
And the international exposure the town is about to receive is expected to be positive for the real estate market, especially as many viewers are working remotely and can live just about anywhere.
“It brings this aura of glamour to the small-town lifestyle,” says Jeff Engelstad, a real estate professor at the University of Denver. “You get on a million people’s radar, and you’re going to land a few of them.”
Home prices surge in Wetumpka after ‘Home Town Takeover’
Perhaps the best blueprint of what’s in store for Fort Morgan might be what happened in Wetumpka, AL. The small town was featured in the first season of “Home Town Takeover,” which premiered in May 2021.
As HGTV broadcast this small town into living rooms all over the world, the real estate market caught fire. Prices rose and homes flew off the market. Homes for rent or sale were scarce.
Home list prices in Wetumpka grew 42.3% from January 2021 through January 2023, according to Realtor.com data.
While some of that is due to the hot housing market during the pandemic, Wetumpka saw much larger run-ups in prices than the state or rest of the country. Over the same period, prices rose 26% in Alabama and 23.9% nationally.
The market has since slowed along with the rest of the nation, but some homes are still receiving multiple offers, says Wetumpka real estate broker Beverly Wright, of Re/Max Cornerstone Realty.
“It’s pretty crazy,” says Shellie Whitfield, executive director of the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce. “We’re still building housing, and once the shovel’s in the ground, they’re sold.”
When she moved to Wetumpka in summer 2017, about 40% of the stores downtown were boarded up. Now, only two storefronts are empty and busloads of tourists visit the town’s new bookstore, ice cream parlor, pet store, and even a high-end olive oil and vinegar store.
“They sped us up about 15 years. It’s been really great,” says Whitfield. “They just catapulted us just far beyond anything anyone could have imagined.”
Whitfield is confident the show will have a similar effect on Fort Morgan.
“They definitely will see some impact because there is such a strong following for the show,” says Whitfield.
The Marrses want viewers to be inspired to take action to turn their own towns around.
“I hope that people watch this show and say we can do that,” Jenny Marrs says. “It’s a spark that gets the fire started.”
It looks like Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Billy Joel isn’t in such a New York state of mind these days.
The New York native recently listed his trophy property on the very posh Oyster Bay Harbor for a hefty $49 million.
The 26-acre estate, known as Middlesea, comprises the original 14-acre property the musician bought for $22.5 million in 2002 and the adjoining parcels he’s picked up over the years, according to the Wall Street Journal. It comes with more than 2,000 feet of frontage on Centre Island.
The highlight of the estate is an elegant, 20,000-square-foot main house with spectacular water views.
There are five bedrooms, six full baths, two half-baths, a playroom, a spa and hair salon, a bowling alley, and a wine cellar. There’s also an indoor pool, which Joel has covered up so he could use the space as a music room, because of its excellent acoustics, according to listing agent Bonnie Williamson, of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty.
Parts of the main house are being renovated and are expected to be completed within the next several months.
The estate also features a three-bedroom beach house, a three-bedroom guest apartment, and a four-bedroom gatehouse.
Other luxe amenities include a floating dock and boat ramp, two outdoor pools, and a helicopter pad.
You might be wondering why, after spending more than 20 years developing this trophy property so close to his hometown of Hicksville, also on Oyster Bay, the musician would let it go. The Journal reports that Joel, wife Alexis Roderick, and their two young children are spending more time in Florida.
Joel purchased a $22 million Florida estate in 2015 and reportedly owns a Sag Harbor, NY, property. So it appears the music titan will not be moving out of New York completely.
Joel, 74, is a multiple-Grammy winner and one of the world’s bestselling artists of all time.
When future Basketball Hall of Famer LeBron James debuted in the NBA in 2003, he was an 18-year-old with the weight of enormous expectations on his shoulders. One example? Before even joining the league, he signed a $90 million shoe deal with Nike—a contract that was worth more than his rookie agreement with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Legend has it that King James spent only $2,000 of the initial Nike windfall. Regardless of whether it’s true, it indicates a certain financial savvy James has maintained over the course of his storied, two-decade career.
Now worth north of a billion dollars, James has managed to build an impressive real estate portfolio. We’ve chronicled his many moves over the years and have always appreciated his taste for luxury properties.
As the ageless wonder continues his reign on the court in the 2023 NBA playoffs, he’s also shown serious property acumen off the court. Let’s take a look at James’ impressive real estate lineup.
Home, sweet home in Ohio
There’s plenty of evidence that James did spend more than $2,000 in 2003. We’re not sure if he dipped into his shoe-contract money or his Cavaliers loot, but he did plunk down $2.1 million on a property in his hometown of Akron, OH, two decades ago. The existing home on the property was razed so James could build a custom mansion.
The sprawling residence tops 30,000 square feet and has six bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and six half-baths. Baller amenities are said to include a bowling alley, recording studio, and barbershop.
For a sense of the home’s massive scale and serious seclusion, check out this drone video:
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And before the huge house was completed in 2007, James purchased an adjoining 2,989-square-foot property for $425,000 in 2006. That five-bedroom home is now connected to the mansion via a long driveway.
Sojourn through the Sunshine State
After spurning the Cavaliers and taking his talents to Miami to form a superteam with the Heat, James needed a fabulous place in Florida.
He purchased a six-bedroom, waterfront mansion for $9 million in the Coconut Grove neighborhood in November 2010. He even snagged a bargain on the home, which had been listed for $11.9 million.
After four seasons and two rings with the Heat, James returned to Ohio, promising to deliver Cleveland a long-awaited championship.
James put his 16,000-square-foot Coconut Grove home back on the market in October 2014 for $17 million, a serious markup after four years.
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It was an ambitious gambit, but James wound up reducing the price to $15 million and eventually selling it in August 2015 for $13.4 million.
James’ former house changed hands again in 2021 for $12.75 million. It appears the mansion underwent a makeover and landed back on the market last month with a $21.9 million price tag. There’s no sign of James’ former presence, but the bay views are still sublime.
Brentwood, then Beverly Hills
In the midst of his second stint with the Cavs, James’ eyes wandered out West. In 2015, Cleveland fans were dismayed to learn he had picked up a six-bedroom mansion for $21 million in Los Angeles’ tony Brentwood neighborhood.
By this time, James had made his entertainment-industry ambitions clear, so the purchase of a home near Hollywood seemed logical—even if it left Cavs fans worried that he had one foot out the door again. But then he delivered the NBA Championship to Cleveland, in an improbable upset of the Golden State Warriors in 2016. The win guaranteed him lifetime cred with Ohioans.
However, in 2017—amid rumors of his intention to eventually join the Los Angeles Lakers—he purchased another home in Brentwood, this time for $23 million. The brand-new spec home featured eight bedrooms, marble floors, and walls of glass that open to the Southern California sun.
One year later, the rumors proved true and James signed on to rejuvenate the Lakers franchise. He was content with his pair of Brentwood homes. Then in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the league shut down, and James went house hunting.
He wound up with a true trophy—a compound in Beverly Hills once owned by the creator of the soap operas “The Young and the Restless” and “The Bold and the Beautiful.” The prestigious property had been on the market for $39 million, but James sealed the deal for $36,750,000 that September.
The spread offers two detached guesthouses, a screening room, and million-dollar views.
At the time of his purchase, agents cited the property’s seclusion and size (2.5 acres) as huge advantages. It ticks the boxes of land, views, and privacy—a rare trifecta in this extremely wealthy enclave.
After buying the Beverly Hills home, James decided to unload one of his Brentwood properties. He put the house he purchased in 2015 back on the market in 2021 for $20.5 million, a little less than what he had paid. After a few months, it was sold for $19.6 million, a rare loss for an all-time winner.
The average home in Utah sells for about $250,000 right now. Let’s just say the homes that made this list are slightly above average–in many ways. I scoured the web to find the highest priced homes for sale in Utah. I found quite a few properties in the over $10M price range. Of course, if you’re spending over $10 million on a house, you kind of expect it to be something special. $10 mil. was too cheap to make this list, though, with number 10 making the cut at a cool, $14.45 million asking price.
So, without further ado, here’s the list of the top 10 most expensive homes currently for sale in Utah (February 2016):
1. 8272 E Left Hand Fork Hobble Creek, Springville – $39,000,000
Home size: 49,568 sqft; 6 bedrooms, 12 baths
Lot size: 185 acres
What to like: Indoor swimming pool with slides, waterfall, lazy river and hot tub, movie theater, bowling alley, indoor shooting area, indoor basketball court and meeting area, elevator, heated drive, and outdoor lighting. Oh, and did I mention it’s on 185 acres in Hobble Creek Canyon? Nice!
2. 9806 N Summit View Dr, Deer Valley – $21,900,000
Home size: 13,536 sqft, 6 bedrooms, 10 baths
Lot size: .64 acres
What to like: Direct ski access on Deer Valley’s Mountaineer ski run, heated outdoor pool w/ waterfall, elevator, golf simulator, steam room, sauna, theater and 4,500 sq. ft. of heated decks. Buy this place fully furnished. Turn key luxury (at a price).
3. 1886 S Geneva Rd, Orem – $19,500,000
Home size: 21,998 sqft, 9 bedrooms, 20 baths
Lot size: 18.77 acres
What to like: An engineered pond with trophy-sized fish, a boat house and pool, a garage and hotel-style guest house, a motocross course and state-of-the-art motorcycle maintenance shop, a large outdoor gathering area in the pines surrounding a huge fire pit, a storybook tree house, a little red schoolhouse. Large mature trees, including the largest private grove of Sequoia trees in the state of Utah.
4. 174 White Pine Canyon Dr. #174, Park City – $18,700,000
Home size: 15,743 sqft, 9 bedrooms, 14 baths
Lot size: 5.31 acres
What to like: Ski-in/ski-out home off the Dreamcatcher, lift right smack dab in the middle of the newly expanded Park City Resort. Gated community.
5. 2425 E. 6200 S, Holladay – $18,400,000
Home size: 28,740 sqft, 7 bedrooms, 15 baths
Lot size: 3.99 acres
What to like: Lush and wooded stream-front property in the heart of the Cottonwoods. The grounds and heated patios are filled with all the amenities of a world class resort: pathways, decks, patio, pool, tennis court, and water features.
6. 72 White Pine Canyon Rd., Park City – $15,900,000
Home size: 17,422 sqft, 9 bedrooms, 15 baths
Lot size: 4.63 acres
What to like: Ski-in/ski-out property offers arguably some of the best skiing in the country right out your back door. Guest accommodations galore, including a separate caretaker’s house.
7. 7 Roamer Ct, Park City – $15,500,000
Home size: 14,100 sqft, 7 bedrooms, 10 baths
Lot size: 1.57 acres
What to like: Sits at the top of Deer Valley’s Silver Lake Village area in the very private gated Bald Eagle Club. Spectacular views for many miles down the valley, across the ski resorts and to the city lights. Has a billiard room, game room, multiple living areas, resort like ski room, indoor pool and spa and sauna and caretakers quarters.
8. 1401 W Two Creeks Cir., Park City – $15,500,000
Home size: 8,503 sqft, 6 bedrooms, 9 baths
Lot size: 7.34 acres
What to like: The mostly single level living home frames panoramic ski resort views through floor-to-ceiling windows from its seven flat acres, complete with a new pool, barn, and guesthouse right in the heart of town. Glass bridge over water, hand crafted ski lockers, custom stone, and Venetian plaster complement luxuries such as a wine cellar, theatre room, and ski prep.
9. 1559 E Tomahawk Dr., Salt Lake City – $14,500,000
Home size: 12,201 sqft, 5 bedrooms, 8 baths
Lot size: 25.6 acres
What to like: Distinctive, classically modern design honors its sense of place on over 25 acres amid open space on the Salt Lake City’s Federal Heights bench. Mountainside waterfall, balconies, swimming pool with a cascading edge, planter-edged patios, and an exquisitely complete outdoor kitchen. A bar, recreation room, library, theater, exercise room with spa, and game room complete the home’s livable luxury.
10. 184 White Pine Canyon Rd #184, Park City – $14,450,000
Home size: 20,309 sqft, 8 bedrooms, 14 baths
Lot size: 6.8 acres
What to like: Perfectly positioned near the base of the Flat Iron lift. This modern home in The Colony, offers three levels of luxurious living. Designed by architect Michael Upwall. Multiple outdoor areas were thoughtfully created for enjoying sunny winter afternoons and cool summer evenings. Balances modern simplicity and clean lines with the livable warmth of natural materials.
So there you have it. The 10 most expensive homes for sale in Utah right now. If you’re in the market for a new home, whether in the $15M and up price range, or a more modest budget like the rest of us, give our Buy Any Home a try.