(Photo: Wikipedia / Steve Jurvetson)
Elon Musk, the enigmatic entrepreneur and visionary behind companies like Tesla and SpaceX, is no outsider to making headlines. From revolutionizing the automotive industry with electric vehicles to introducing the privatization of space exploration, Musk has garnered both admiration and controversy for his bold gambles. However, his unexpected tweet in May 2020 transferred shockwaves through the real estate world:" I'm selling nearly all physical possessions. Will own no house."
This declaration marked a significant departure from Musk's former lifestyle, which included an expansive portfolio of luxury properties, primarily in the Los Angeles area. Valued at over $100 million, Musk's real estate effects were a testament to his immense wealth and success. Yet, in a single tweet, he announced his intention to divest from the world of bricks and mortar, sparking enterprise and curiosity among his followers and observers.
1. Historic Hillsborough Estate (Guignécourt)
Musk purchased this nine-bedroom mansion in 2017 for $31.75 million. The mansion was situated on a sprawling 19-hectare site in San Francisco and symbolized Musk's opulent lifestyle. However, in 2021, he sold the property to serial entrepreneur Kirill Evstratov for $40.8 million, marking a significant step in his journey towards owning no house.
2. The Four Bel-Air Mansions
Musk's Bel-Air mansions, purchased for $74.7 million in 2015, attracted attention when luxury real estate developer Ardie Tavangarian acquired them for $84.1 million in 2020. These lavish properties, with their sprawling grounds and luxurious amenities, were emblematic of Musk's status as one of the world's wealthiest individuals.
3. Gene Wilder's Former House
Musk purchased this Bel-Air mansion in 2013 for $9.18 million. Originally owned by the legendary actor Gene Wilder, the mansion transformed Musk's ownership, becoming Ad Astra, a school for his children and the children of his SpaceX and Tesla staff. In 2020, Musk sold the property to Gene Wilder's nephew for $9.5 million, honoring his commitment to preserving its legacy.
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4. Bel-Air Colonial
Musk's Bel-Air Colonial, purchased for $17 million in 2012, became his main residence. In 2020, it was sold to Chinese billionaire William Ding for $29.7 million.
5. Modern Brentwood Estate
Musk acquired this Brentwood estate in 2014 for $3.7 million. Characterized by its ultra-modern design, the property was sold for $4 million in 2019.
Recent reports suggest that Musk's "will own no house" declaration may end. According to the Wall Street Journal, a top-secret project Tesla worked on over the last year was a home for Musk. If true, this revelation could signal a shift in Musk's stance on real estate ownership and raise questions about the future of his property holdings.
In conclusion, Elon Musk's decision to sell nearly all his physical possessions and own no house was a bold and unconventional move that captured the world's attention. While his provocations for divesting from real estate remain unclear, his actions have sparked speculation and debate among his followers and onlookers. As Musk continues to push the boundaries of technology and invention, his approach to real estate power will be closely watched and analyzed in the coming years.
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