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Mission: Impossible Sydney mansion sells for eye-watering price

One of Sydney's most iconic properties, known as the Boomerang in Elizabeth Bay, has sold for $80 million. The mansion is featured in the second instalment in the Mission: Impossible franchise, with the 2000 movie starring Tom Cruise being set and filmed in Sydney. It was the first house to officially sell for above $1 million in 1978, before setting another record in 2002 when it fetched $20.7 million. Now, multiple sources have confirmed it has been snapped up by a purchaser, originally from Asia, for four times what it last sold for. The property has long been rated as one of Sydney’s Top 50 homes, and has been in the name of Katrina Fox, the daughter of Melbourne-based billionaire trucking magnate Lindsay Fox, since 2005. The impressive home was put up for sale by Ray White in 2017 with hopes of selling for $60 million and then again with Brad Pillinger of Pillinger for $80 million in 2021 — the last agent to have it listed. Pillinger couldn’t be contacted ahead of publication, but other sources have confirmed the property has sold for the $80m asking price, while speculation from other sources that the result was $105 million have been dismissed. Boomerang sits on 4233 square metres of waterfront land, and features 25 rooms including a private cinema modelled on the State Theatre. Image credits: realestate.com.au / Paramount Pictures

Real Estate

Flower tycoon pays $76 million in CASH for epic mansion

A Sydney businessman and flower mogul has expanded his real estate portfolio, snapping up one of NSW's most prestigious properties. Leo Lynch and his wife Christina have bought a Federation mansion in Sydney's Bellevue Hill, with the eight-bedroom eight-bathroom property boasting impressive views of Sydney Harbour. The mansion, which was built in the 1890s, also showcases a pool, tennis court, and endless luxury amenities for the well-off buyers. "Designed by architect Walter Vernon," read the listing for the property, "the home is considered his most significant residence. Other heritage buildings designed by Vernon include the Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and Central Railway Station. A truly rare offering to earn a piece of Australian history." While securing the house seems like a huge feat in itself, the Lynch's decided to take the purchase to the next level, buying the home for $76 million in cold hard cash. Despite paying the whopping eight-figure for the mansion, the home needs work and is set to undergo renovations. The purchase of the property, named Leura, comes just after the Lynch's sold their former home for $52.4million more than he bought it. The same night he made the enormous purchase for the Leura estate, he sold his mystery home, just blocks away, for $61.5 million after rebuilding the property he had bought for just $9.05 million in 2014. Leo Lynch, 60, is a third generation of the wholesale flower family's company, founded in 1915 and for which private equity group Next Capital took a majority interest in 2015, before it was publicly listed in 2021. Image credits: Domain

Real Estate

James Packer's insane $132-million mansion up for grabs

Aussie billionaire James Packer has put up his $132-million mansion up for sale. The 12-bedroom Beverly Hills home was previously owned by Hollywood star Danny DeVito, before Packer bought it off him in 2018 for $93-million, according to realtor.com. Dating back to the 1930's, the luxury estate has been named “Beverly Hills at its finest," as it sits on 2260 sqm and boasts a three-storey accessory dwelling, a separate maids quarter and a guesthouse. “Boasting living space across multiple structures, enjoy an unparalleled gem in one of the most coveted neighbourhoods in Southern California," the listing read. It's the embodiment of luxury and "iconic L.A. living", with a home theatre that's fully equipped with a bar, a game room, wine cellar, resort-style pool and cigar lounge. The primary suite has a fireplace, sitting room, dual bathrooms, and access to a terrace. With 18 bathrooms you don't need to worry about whether they are occupied as the master suite itself features two master baths, double vanities, a linen closet, powder room, and the option of a shower or a sub and steam shower. Not only that, the private balconies allow you to take in the magnificent views of the estate's lush yard, but also the surrounding canyons, so there's never a boring day in the multimillion dollar mansion. According to The Daily Telegraph, the billionaire is selling the home because he has no desire to live in LA if his kid's won't be visiting, after his ex-wife Erica Packer and their three kids moved to London earlier this year. Images: realestate.com.au/ Getty

Real Estate

Ricky Ponting sells long-time beachside mansion

Cricket star Ricky Ponting and wife Rianna have sold their breathtaking beachside property. The 1920s Brighton trophy home was listed in May and is believed to have sold within the range of the $14.8 million-$16 million price guide. The former Aussie cricket captain, who’s currently trading barbs with Kevin Pietersen after Australia emerged victorious in a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/ice-in-his-veins-stunning-result-in-first-ashes-test" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stunning first Ashes Test</a>, obtained the sale through Forbes Global’s Mike Gibson in partnership with Andrew Smith of BuyerX. Gibson said it was the second property that his firm had sold in Brighton's golden mile, with another eight-figure sale at 12 Dudley St. The Herald Sun understands that the home went for more than $20 million. “It’s very interesting that both properties sold to local families,” Gibson said. “Brighton people love their suburb.” The two top-end sales in the affluent Bayside port were indicative of the market’s strength. “That market is alive and well,” Gibson said. However, he did highlight there would be lesser options for sellers as premier listings dropped away for winter. According to PropTrack records, the Pontings bought the seven-bedroom Brighton home for $9.25 million in 2013. “We’re thrilled with the sale of our house, especially to such a lovely family,” the couple told AFR. “It’s a beautiful family home, and we hope they love living here as much as we do.” The sales comes as the pair purchased a $20 million property in Toorak to be closer to their three children’s sporting activities. What drew the Pontings to the suburb was proximity to friends, including former teammate and longtime Brighton resident the late Shane Warne. Ricky retired from full-time cricket in 2012 and soon after sold the family home in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire and went down to settle in Melbourne’s Bayside area. “Landmark residences like this, especially in such a recognised blue-chip address, have a really broad appeal,” Gibson said of the home when it was listed. “Shandford is already one of Brighton’s landmarks but it could evolve from here to become one of Australia’s true residential trophies.” Although the Ponting’s next home in Toorak is smaller than the grand Shandford, it still covers an expansive 1,900 sqm of land. The dimensions and historic detailing are what makes Ponting’s former Brighton home one of the most significant in the neighbourhood. Beyond the elaborate foyer, it includes formal rooms, a timber-panelled study, a modern kitchen with a butler’s pantry and a mammoth home cinema. Outdoors showcase a full-sized tennis court, pool and private laneway to the beach. The Pontings also own a stunning weekender in Portsea, which they bought in 2019 for $3.52 million. Image credit: Getty/Realestate.com.au

Real Estate

Rod Stewart lists $105 million LA mansion

Legendary rocker Rod Stewart has put his mega mansion on the market. The listing comes just days after the star’s former Malibu home was listed for an asking price of $49.5m (AU$74.2m), with the Wall Street Journal first reporting his current Los Angeles compound is asking for $70m (AU$105m). With a European style, situated in the gated enclave of North Beverly Park, the property spans 3,065 sqm with a pool and a soccer field. Although a soccer field is a rarity in LA, it’s no surprise Stewart, 78, is an avid soccer fan. The 78-year-old was even spotted in Malibu playing football with the Scottish national team on the beach after inviting them to play there. The Journal noted that according to sales records, Stewart purchased the property in 1991 for $12,08m. He also owns a home in Palm Beach, Florida. Images of the home showcase Old World-style finishes such as ceiling mouldings and medallions, Corinthian columns, crystal chandeliers and stunning marble floors in various patterns. The main house boasts nine bedrooms, one being the primary suite with a sitting room and a terrace that looks over the pool. The main wardrobe is also found in the primary suite — one large enough to store the rocker’s massive show collection. Elsewhere offers entertaining areas, including a flashy speak-easy with eye-catching jade green-painted walls. A main-floor great room showcases a bar and a loggia to spend time with guests outdoors. The listing also includes a three-stories-tall guest house with two gyms. Michelle Oliver of Douglas Elliman has the listing and declined to reveal why the British icon has decided to sell. She noted it is suitable for owners who are seeking “a return to maximalism” and for “something that looks different and stands out.” Image credit: Getty / Realtor.com

Real Estate

Alan Joyce preparing to sell controversial $20 million mansion

Outgoing Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is saying goodbye to more than his long-time role at the airline as he prepares to sell his controversial harbourside mansion. The veteran airline boss purchased the gorgeous North Shore home for a staggering $19 million in May 2022. Soon after he was forced to launch a fierce defence of his excessive spending habits after Qantas announced a whopping $1.9 billion loss. The airline came under fire for poor customer service, extended wait times for flyers, and drama over lost bags and late flights, amid legal action over its move to lay off workers that lead to Joyce launching the defence of his own record as airline boss. He said he was tired of being forced to justify his professional and personal decisions. “Why is it relevant what I do in my private life? I’m not a public figure. People regard the CEO of Qantas as like a politician and it definitely shouldn’t be. It’s a business figure,’ Joyce told The Australian in 2022. “It’s been well reported over the years how much I get paid, so I do have the money because Qantas went to record profits and had a record share price.” According to reports, Joyce is set to sell his short-term blue chip pile in Mosman, overlooking Mosman Bay and move into a generous penthouse in The Rocks. It is understood that Joyce has undertaken some refurbishments on the Mosman home. That paired with the competitive market for prestige homes in Sydney means the home could sell for more than $20 million. The luxe home has been previously owned by former foreign exchange dealer Alison Ethell and her sister, Jane, since 1993 when it cost $1.25 million. Image credit: Getty / Realestate.com.au

Real Estate

Aussie version of The Great Gatsby mansion set to break real estate records

This property is nothing short of spectacular and it’s set to break a record in Brisbane real estate. Australia’s interpretation of The Great Gatsby mansion at 685 Musgrave Road, Robertson, has a price guide of $25 million and the eye-watering cost has not deterred potential buyers. The historic estate boasts cinematic quality and several parties have offered the agent more than $20 million, with interest currently sitting at more than $22 million. A contract for $25 million was proposed but never finalised, leaving the property open to entice the multimillionaires who would take up the offer never before seen in the Brisbane housing market. The current price record for Brisbane is believed to be $20.5 million paid for a New Farm address. The overall Queensland record is $42 million, which was snatched up at auction in 2023 in Tallebudgera. The Gold Coast estate was the second most expensive home to be auctioned off. At the luxurious Robertson address, water fountains in the boundless grounds are controlled by Bluetooth. A flick of a switch will allow for a blissful ambience. It features bespoke chandeliers, a “championship” size tennis court, a pool house that has a kitchen for parties, and “his and her bathrooms”. Buyers are spoilt for choice if they fancy a dip as there is a 25-metre pool with three lanes, a spa and a cold plunge pool. Paths and driveways surround the flourishing grounds, reminiscent of Jay Gatsby’s remarkable estate in Baz Luhrmann's 2013 movie with Leonardo DiCaprio as Gatsby and Carey Mulligan as his love interest Daisy. The exterior shots for the film featured St Patrick’s Seminary in Manly, Sydney. The Robertson estate is on the books of Place Estate Angents’ Patrick McKinnon and welcoming negotiations. Speaking to Nine, he said the refined grounds are one of the reasons house hunters have been drawn to the property. He added that he has received multiple offers of more than $20 million and a $22 million offer is on the table, atop the previous $25 million claim that was staked was not finalised. McKinnon previously told Nine the level of seclusion and privacy that comes with the property - which he called “Brisbane’s best-kept secret - is what held “huge” appeal for prospective buyers in this level of the market. Image credit: Domain

Real Estate

Margot Robbie eyeing up incredible Byron Bay mansion

Dubbed as “Australia’s most beautiful home” this remarkable Byron Bay property certainly fits Margot Robbie’s criteria for a dream house. The beloved Aussie actress and husband Tom Ackerley have flown back to Australia and have taken the time, in between visiting friends and launching a new spirits label, to go house hunting in beautiful Byron Bay. Robbie and Ackerley were spotted walking through the stunning “Cedar Hill” home in Newrybar, which sits around 10km south of Byron Bay. Property records state the 8-bed, 8-bath home that offers over 2 hectares of land has been on the market for two months. In its marketing campaign, it is described as a “Malibu Aspen Love Child”. “The perfect property is a place where calmness calls, fusing relaxed luxury with picturesque tranquillity,” the listing reads. “Such a rare destination does indeed exist with “Cedar Hill”. “Revered as one of Australia’s most beautiful homes and boasting lush hinterland and ocean views, it is a spectacular showcase of international design and unique architecture. “Cocooned within five acres of absolute peace and paradise, two sprawling premium hardwood residences rise up from this elevated, northeast-facing estate. “Linked by a glass-lined walkway that nicely separates social and sleeping quarters, elegance blends skilfully with cutting-edge design, including retractable glass walls, soaring ceilings with exposed timber beams and polished concrete floors. Brought to life by award-winning designer, Jase Sullivan, these globally inspired interiors are a textural triumph. “Recycled timber, blackbutt wall panelling, chic bohemian textiles, grass-cloth walls and natural stone combine to create an earthy ambience, pairing perfectly with custom furniture. “Likewise, the galleries of glass invite an abundance of natural light to cascade in, creating sumptuous and serene spaces to enjoy.” The property was last sold in 2019 for $2.415 million but has since been significantly upgraded. According to development records, around $4 million has been spent on the redevelopment of the home. If Robbie was to purchase Cedar Hill it would only serve to enhance Byron’s reputation as a home of the rich and famous. The area’s biggest star and longer-time resident is actor Chris Hemsworth, who bought in the area about five years ago before building his $20 million mega mansion. While his brother Liam owns upwards of $13 million of real estate in the area. Hollywood star Zac Efron also purchased a significant piece of land in the Byron hinterland region in 2020, after filming there. PropTrack reported just four houses have been sold in the tightly-held Newrybar market over the last 12 months. There is currently no price guide for Cedar Hill but is said to be worth around $20 million. Image credit: Instagram/Realestate.com

Real Estate

Aussie mansion of royal family patriarch hits the market

An Australian mansion with a rich royal history has hit the market for a staggering eight-figure sum. The sprawling property, named Jenner House and situated at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/2-macleay-street-potts-point-nsw-2011-2018408777" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2 Macleay Street</a> in Sydney's Potts Point, was once the Aussie residence for the future King George V of Britain when he was Prince of Wales. King George V is King Charles' great-grandfather, and was the first Windsor monarch. The royal family today are direct descendants of King George V and his wife, Queen Mary. The six-bedroom, six-bathroom home will go to auction on April 4th, and has an eye-watering $34 million price guide. The home was first built in 1871, and was home to the Prince of Wales prior to his ascension to the British throne in 1910. “It’s such a versatile house, and over the past 150 years, its rich history includes the family abode for the Hordern family, a stint as a private hospital, a residence for a prominent British Royal, and it was even used for a time by the Australian Navy,” listing agent Samuel Schumann says. The impressive property, which has already had strong interest from potential buyers, occupies 1970 square metres and boasts sweeping views of Sydney Harbour. Interiors are regal with soaring ceilings, French Oak Versailles parquet floors, Australian Cedar joinery and original 19th Century fireplace mantels made of white Carrera marble. Standout design features are the professional-grade kitchen with its top-notch appliances, the gym, wine cellar and tasting room, and self-contained garden studio. Image credits: Domain / Getty Images

Real Estate

Inside Matt Shirvington’s massive Mosman mansion

Matt Shirvington’s stunning 7-bedroom, 5-bathroom home on a huge 1,334 square metres of land sat languishing on the real estate market for almost 130 days last year. And now the family home of the Aussie Olympic runner and his wife Jessica for the past 15 years has quietly returned for sale in 2023. Matt and his wife purchased the home back in May 2014 for $7m, and now the asking price for Shirvo’s sprawling mansion is believed to be around $12.5m, and it is listed once again on the website of Atlas’ Michael Coombs. “Summoning an immediate sense of warmth and elegance, this stately Federation manor offers space, charm and functionality without compromise,” the marketing collateral for the Clanalpine St home reads. “Complete with harbour views, separate self-contained accommodation, pool and tennis court, it caters to every whim.” Images: CoreLogic

Real Estate

This could be Australia's most affordable mansion

What could well be Australia’s cheapest mansion has been found – and it's listed for roughly a quarter of the value of Sydney’s median house price. 89 Harris Street in Queensland's coastal town of Emerald is a Spanish-style property located three hours inland from Rockhampton, and it's on the market with an asking price of just $360,000. With a sweeping footprint, four bedrooms and statement kerb presence flourished by nine handsome arches, it is a true bargain. "EXTENSA MANSIÓN ESPAÑOLA!" headlines the listing. In English it translates to "extensive Spanish mansion". The town has experienced strong house price growth over the past five years. "This sprawling Spanish type mansion is one of a kind for sure. Extremely deceptive from the street, you will not believe the layout of this home," the listing reads. The vendors paid $300,000 for the five-bedroom, Spanish Mission-inspired property nine years ago, Domain's Pricefinder data shows. They scored it for under the asking price at the time, with historical campaign records on Pricefinder showing a $400,000 price guide. A mid-range home in Sydney, Australia's highest-value capital city, hovers around a median of $1,552,000. Inside Harris Street, vast red-tiled floors, wood chandeliers, a fireplace with an ornate chimney and decorative sconces in the living rooms and bedrooms lend character true to the Spanish style. The outdoor zone shows enormous promise, with a deep patio and large, built-in brick barbecue beneath an angled roof, with exposed beams. The median house price in Emerald is $345,000, according to Domain's latest House Price Report. Image: Getty

Real Estate

King Charles’ family friend snaps up historical Sydney mansion

A family friend of King Charles III has snapped up a historical home in Sydney’s lower north shore. Edward Dawson-Damer, the son of the seventh Earl of Portarlington and equerry (a senior attendant) to the Queen Mother, and his wife Joanne Grant paid an eye-watering $9.325 million for the 114-year-old Dalkeith mansion, per <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/king-charles-friend-buys-9-3-million-cremorne-home-2-1185842/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Domain</a>. The Cremorne home was built in 1908 by English wool merchant and Freemasons grand master Frank Whiddon and sits on an almost 1500-square-metre block. In the early 1950s, the property was bought by the Norwegian Church Abroad, becoming the Norwegian Seaman’s Mission and providing community services to Scandinavian seamen until 1978, according to <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/8-bannerman-street-cremorne-nsw-2090-2018035301" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the listing</a>. While steeped in history, their new sandstone home has also undergone major renovations and an extension, which the listing described as “contemporary updates”, including an open-plan layout, modern appliances in the kitchen and an alfresco entertainment area with an in-ground pool and sandstone cabana. The home also boasts a billiard room that was formerly used as a chapel, with stained-glass windows and the original pew featured. Inside, the art-nouveau period features have been maintained, and each of the five bedrooms come with adjoining sunrooms. It comes as an upgrade for Dawson-Damer and Grant, who offloaded their home in Vaucluse for $6.45 million last year. Images: Domain

Real Estate

The Block bidder Adrian Portelli to give away $2.3 million waterfront mansion

After missing out on a new home, one of The Block’s bidders has announced he will be giving away a $2.3 million home in Queensland instead. Adrian Portelli was thrust into the spotlight after the show’s recent season finale, amid accusations <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/block-winners-hit-back-at-dummy-bid-claims">he placed “dummy bids”</a> to ramp up the price of winning team Omar Slaimenkhel and Ozmand ‘Oz’ Abu Malik’s property. The duo made a record-breaking $1.6 million on their house in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges, but came under scrutiny after they greeted Portelli by hugging him on the show and it emerged that <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/block-winners-under-pressure-to-explain-their-relationship-with-mystery-bidder">the three were friends</a>. After Portelli engaged in a bidding war with veteran Block buyer Danny Wallis and came out unsuccessful, he didn’t bid on any of the other five homes offered on auction day, sparking the accusations of false bids. While speculation has continued to grow, the 33-year-old property investor and car enthusiast has said he will be giving away a waterfront mansion in the Gold Coast’s Sanctuary Cove. The property will be given away through Portelli’s promotions company, LMCT+, which offers giveaways of both houses and cars. “We didn’t win The Block house to giveaway so we’ve found a replacement. This will be our next HOUSE GIVEAWAY on the Gold Coast 🤯,” he wrote on the company’s Instagram. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CkprH1MyAgr/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CkprH1MyAgr/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by LMCT+ (@lmctplus)</a> </div> </blockquote> The house is one of a few Portelli owns in the area, including one in nearby Hope Island and another he is building in the neighbourhood, and “was never meant for a giveaway”, according to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/reality-tv/the-blocks-controversial-bidder-adrian-portelli-is-giving-away-23-million-mansion-after-missing-out-on-oz-and-omars-pad/news-story/30b16da4e02a7a5cec321f4c14e8828a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>. “It’s a stunning house. It was never meant for a giveaway but here we are,” he said. As for the bidding controversy, Portelli said he was interested in the other homes, adding that his intention had been to give the home he wanted to purchase away. “People thought I was a dummy bidder and mate of Omar and Oz. I was simply wanting to buy the four-bedroom house to give away through my business LMCT+, to give everyday Aussies the chance to win a house they’ve all become attached to over its renovation on The Block,” he said. “It’s not my fault Danny let his ego get in the way and drove the price up to a point where it didn’t make sense to me, so I backed out. “The other houses just weren’t appealing to me for its intended use.” Image: @adrian_portelli (Instagram)

Real Estate

King Charles III offloads Kiwi mansion

In an estate that boasts the likes of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, one property belonging to the newly-minted King Charles III is located in a surprising place: northwest Auckland. But, the documents for the two-storey heritage villa in Hobsonville show the registered owner to be the Queen herself, forming part of an expansive portfolio inherited by the new king. In actual fact, the home doesn’t belong to King Charles III since Crown real estate is owned by the Defence Force. As a result, the Auckland mansion, known as Clark House, was used for Royal New Zealand Airforce operations from 1950 to 2016, when they moved out and left the home boarded up and unused. According to historical records, the Crown paid just £8000 for the home, which now holds a category 1 listing on the Historic Places Register. The home was built in 1902 to showcase innovative new building blocks created by entrepreneur Rice Owen Clark, whose family stayed in the house until it was sold to the Crown. During its use by the RNZAF, the house became the office of Task Force Headquarters and even hosted a South East Asian Treaty Organisation conference in the grand rooms in 1955. Phill Gurnsey, a general manager of estate strategy for Defence, said Clark House had most recently been used as a medical unit, with rooms upstairs acting as offices and the lower floor used for reception and medical testing. Harcourts agent Graham Lewis said the sale of Clark House was an opportunity to own a piece of New Zealand history that might not be seen again in our lifetime. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a special buyer to purchase a slice of New Zealand’s history from the current owner, His Majesty the King,” Mr Lewis said. “The building is a fine example of the Italianate villa style. Because of its role as a showpiece, no expense was spared in the building.” Most of the original features have survived, including the grand staircase, ceilings and carved mantlepieces made with timber from the kauri tree, stained glass windows, a wrought iron verandah and a tiled entry floor. As a historical building, Mr Lewis noted that potential buyers should be aware of the responsibilities and restrictions that come it, adding that the home could be turned into a lodge or fine hotel, an art gallery, or even corporate headquarters. “It takes your breath away the first time you see it. This was a supreme legacy to Rice Owen Clark’s beloved family, status and ambitions,” Mr Lewis said. “I think he’d be pleased that the passion and care of a new owner will bring this home back to its former glory as a historic landmark for generations to come.” The house will be <a href="https://www.oneroof.co.nz/25-59-clark-road-hobsonville-waitakere-city-auckland-1823259" target="_blank" rel="noopener">available for tender</a> until November 21. Images: Getty Images, Harcourts Realty

Real Estate

Inside the mega-mansion of an actual burger king

Simon Crowe, AKA the founder of popular burger chain Grill’d, and his wife Sophie have served up $22.675 million for a beautiful heritage-protected mansion in the Melbourne suburb of Toorak. The property, once owned by Gold Logie winning comedian Steve Vizard, is a circa-1886 heritage listed home that boasts a tennis court and pool, among other luxurious inclusions. The home was sold in 2021 to a mystery buyer after being listed with a $22-24 million price tag, and documents have revealed that Mr Crowe is now the lucky new owner with the mansion being listed in wife Sophie’s name. The Toorak home has quite a history, being originally built for Martin Blundell, a previous manager of the Melbourne branch of the Bank of Australasia. Maltster William Barrett later had the mansion remodelled. Then along came actor, writer and lawyer Steve Vizard, famous for the television programs Fast Forward and Tonight Live With Steve Vizard, owning the property for about five months in 1998. Marshall White’s Marcus Chiminello handled the six-bedroom home’s sale and last year said that the previous owners had “torn off” the back half of the house and “completely reworked” the interior to blend modern elements with an update to the home’s heritage aspects. “When a home like this becomes available it draws out some of the most notable people, be they notable by fame or by fortune,” Mr Chiminello said at the time. The home has a basement cellar and five living spaces and a games room. Outside there are manicured gardens, a tennis court and basketball hoop. Entry is through a reception hall with original tessellated tiles, soaring ceilings and leadlight windows. Here's a look at the breath-taking mega-mansion. Images: Realestate.com.au

Real Estate

Sydney mega-mansion destroyed by fire

A Sydney mansion that was recently sold for $24 million has been destroyed by fire. The home in Northwood, on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, set ablaze shortly after 11 pm on the evening of Saturday September 3. Firefighters were confronted by the massive fire, with some flames reaching heights of up to 20 metres into the night sky, according to Fire and Rescue NSW’s Jim Murphy. He also says that “very strong winds” were blowing embers, posing threats to neighbouring homes. “At the time we realised we couldn’t save the house that was on fire,” Murphy told Weekend Sunrise. “Firefighters were concerned for neighbouring properties, so they immediately got to work and protected those properties, whilst our two crews did a very quick search to see if anyone may have been inside,” he said. It took more than 50 firefighters about an hour to control the fire, while the cause remains unknown, as well as whether or not anybody was inside the home. Alongside six bedrooms and extensive dining and entertaining areas, the property came fit-out with a tennis court, a stone boathouse with boat ramp, as well as a sandstone cellar with a bar. The couple only recently purchased the home in November 2021. Image: 7News

Real Estate

She was mistakenly transferred $10.5m – so she bought a mansion

A costly bungle has resulted in two Aussie women going on a spending spree and a cryptocurrency company left $10.5 million out of pocket. Thevamanogari Manivel received the hefty injection of cash after Crypto.com, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency trading platforms, attempted to process a refund of just $100 in May last year. But, instead of sending through the refund, an account number was entered in the payment section, resulting in the accidental transfer. Seven months later, the company has launched legal action against Ms Manivel and her sister, Thilagavathy Gangadory, after discovering the error during an audit in December, per court documents. The only issue is that the sisters have already spent a chunk of the cash. The court found that Ms Manivel transferred the funds into a joint account last year, before taking out some of the money to buy a $1.35 million property in the Melbourne suburb of Craigieburn in February 2022. It’s understood that Ms Manivel bought the five-bedroom home - which reportedly includes a gym and home cinema - as a gift for her sister. The home, which sold on February 3 according to property records, is described as having a “monochrome palette”, four “designer” bathrooms, an outdoor entertaining area and an expansive kitchen/dining/family area with a butler’s pantry, per <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-craigieburn-138330146">the listing</a>, According to the <a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/cryptocom-goes-to-court-to-recoup-105m-it-incorrectly-sent-to-melbourne-woman/news-story/1e2d91d007d1257593cf5d0d99f1477d" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Herald Sun</a>, Ms Manivel sent $430,000 to her daughter and transferred the ownership of the home to her sister, Ms Gangadory. Crypto.com has since won part of its legal battle after a judge in Victoria’s Supreme Court ordered that the luxury home be sold and that the $1.35 million be returned to the company, along with $27,369 in interest and other costs. It is believed that separate orders have been made for the remaining sum. Because Ms Gangadory failed to appear in court for the May hearing, Justice James Dudley Elliott said that “the allegations in the statement of claim are taken to be admitted”, after the reasons for his judgement were made <a href="http://publicly" target="_blank" rel="noopener">publicly available</a> last week. If Ms Gangadory doesn’t put the property on the market, a receiver could be appointed to arrange its sale or, if she ignores the orders, she could be in contempt of court, as reported by <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/vic/cryptocurrency-platform-cryptocom-accidentally-transfers-105-million-to-melbourne-woman-c-8058203" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a>. “There’s no doubt that if you saw that in your account you would know it shouldn’t be there, and the onus is actually on you to actually call the sender and to say look that shouldn’t have come into my account,” Justin Lawrence from Henderson and Ball Lawyers told the outlet. “If you’re withholding property of someone else you’re effectively holding property by deception, you’re not entitled to it, you need to give it back.” The case is scheduled to return to court in October. Images: Realestate.com.au/Getty Images

Real Estate

Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! ABBA’s Florida mansion hits the market

A mansion built specifically for ABBA is up for sale, and its new owners will also walk away with a collection of memorabilia, recording equipment, cassettes, and even a stereo that once belonged to the iconic Swedish pop band - as long as they can afford the $US 3.9 million ($AUD 5.59 million) price tag. The sprawling home was designed by the stars themselves in the style of a Swedish longhouse and built in 1982 - just before the band officially broke up. Bandmates Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad were believed to have lived in the house until 1986, when it was purchased by an unnamed couple who lived there until they passed away earlier this year. Even after all these years, the band’s recording equipment and tapes remain completely untouched inside the home. Lisa Farmer, the listing agent with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, revealed that the architect who worked with the band to design their home had no idea that the two Swedish couples were actually the people behind Waterloo and Dancing Queen. “We found the architect and spoke to him on the phone. He said he was in a trailer on the site before the home was built with both couples, all four members of the band, face to face, designing the home,” Farmer said. “At the time, he didn't realise it was ABBA until a few days later when he got a call from a reporter in London who apparently got wind of it. “He said he met with two Swedish couples and that's how he found out it was ABBA.” Farmer added that it was “super cool” that there were things left behind from the band that were never even used. “There's some stereo equipment that the people who bought the house never even used,” she said. “It's in this one area where [ABBA] might have done some recording. There's an actual ABBA cassette that was left inside the cassette player.” The six-bedroom home on the island of Tierra Verde features a “community space with two-storey vaulted ceilings” according to the <a href="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/sales/detail/180-l-3357-7xnejq/873-2nd-avenue-s-south-bay-st-pete-pinellas-point-tierra-verde-fl-33715" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listing</a>, as well as two identical wings on each side, complete with a master suite, loft area, and two bedrooms with jack-and-jill bathrooms. Recent upgrades include a new roof with skylights, battery-ready solar panels, renovated guest baths, and a fresh coat of paint. '[The band] specifically requested a Swedish longhouse design. It's got a really neat central, common living area that's big and open with a really nice stone fireplace,” Farmer said. “What's kind of unique is that the two wings on both sides of the house are exactly identical and symmetrical. “The layout of the home is pretty special and just makes for a great house for somebody who would like to entertain or has a big family.” Images: Getty Images / Sotheby’s International Realty

Real Estate

Here’s your chance to live like a gangster in the Godfather mansion

Fans of The Godfather have the chance to live like a Corleone for a month, with the house featured in the iconic gangster movies opening its doors to one lucky person and up to four of their friends. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Francis Coppola’s The Godfather, AirBnb is offering up the Staten Island mansion featured in the films to rent for one month but there’s a catch: there’s only one reservation available. Between August 1-31, the lucky guest can enjoy the 1930s home and its luxe amenities, including a large saltwater pool, a basement pub, a game room, and a gym. As with AirBnb’s previous unique stays, the chosen guests will need to organise getting to and from the mansion, since travel isn’t included in the price. Since the five-bedroom, seven-bathroom abode is usually a family home, stays are strictly limited to five people or fewer with no outside guests allowed. The stay comes after another home featured in the trilogy <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/movies/a-castle-from-the-godfather-is-up-for-grabs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hit the market</a> earlier this year, and is still available to purchase for a whopping €6 million ($AUD 8.78 or $NZD 9.77 million). To be in the running for a stay you can’t refuse, apply to book by 3am AEST (or 5am NZST) on Thursday, July 28 via <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/654402388376149877?irgwc=1&irclid=3SIwdd0duxyNUNxXd%3AQSRQA0UkD3DW0Zty2mSQ0&ircid=4273&sharedid=the-godfather-mansion-airbnb&af=&iratid=9627&c=.pi73.pk4273_1957199&irparam1=&source_impression_id=p3_1658895629_%2Bdy%2FFjhhdAmPq55R" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Airbnb website</a>. Images: Getty Images / AirBnb

Real Estate

Inside J Lo and Ben Affleck's massive new marital mansion

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have officially tied the knot and it seems they’ve celebrated their nuptials by living large and purchasing a lavish new property. The two stars were spotted house hunting back in May, and in June, it was reported that they had settled on a stunning Beverly Hills mansion that was once owned by Danny DeVito. While the couple has yet to confirm if they have purchased the property, moving vehicles were also reportedly spotted outside of each of their respective homes, leading many to believe that they have now moved into the mansion together. Lopez and Affleck's rumored new abode was most recently owned by Australian billionaire James Packer, who's the former fiancé of Mariah Carey. DeVito and Perlman sold the seven-bedroom home in 2015 for $28 million to developers Stuart and Stephanie Liner. The Liners then made numerous upgrades to the estate and listed it for $85 million. Packer then bought the property for around $60 million in 2018. It's unclear what Lopez and Affleck paid for the house, and there's a shroud of mystery surrounding the deal, since the house was not even listed for sale when they reportedly bought it. In fact, real estate experts have said it hadn't even been shown off-market, with the exception, potentially, being to Lopez and Affleck. The house sprawls across 29,000-square-feet, which would allow ample space for the couple's blended brood of five children. The massive estate is also said to have many luxury amenities and perks, including an at-home movie theater, a hair salon, a gym, an entertainment room, a wine cellar, a sprawling pool, and even multiple guest houses. The marble kitchen is a chef’s dream, complete with two ovens, an 11-burner stove, two islands, and multiple drawers and cabinets for optimal storage space. The spacious dining area can seat up to 12 people, so the family will certainly have enough space to stretch out during dinner time. The master bedroom is fit for royalty and comes with an enormous walk-in closet with rows upon rows of storage for the couple's glamorous wardrobes. The mansion sits on 1.29 acres of land, and it also comes complete with an eight-car garage. The couple was spotted shopping for homes around various swanky areas of Los Angeles for several months before reportedly making the purchase. Images: Hilton & Hyland

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Inside J Lo and Ben Affleck's massive new marital mansion

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