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By Rachel Cormack, Helena Madden, Abby Montanez
Igal Harari/Israel Sotheby’s International Realty
The world is on the verge of a house-price slump. Increasing mortgage rates have sparked a downturn in the cost of abodes across the globe. In fact, house prices are now falling in nine rich economies, according to The Economist. The trend is especially noticeable when looking at the Most Expensive Homes lists we compile annually here at Robb Report. Last year, the priciest property in the world was a $532 million villa in Rome. This year, it’s a $250 million penthouse near Central Park in New York. That’s quite a significant monetary drop for the pad in top spot.
It’s not all doom and gloom, of course. The price drops in America are small so far. The caliber of luxury properties has not waned, nor has the wealthy’s penchant for big-ticket purchases. The pandemic has made ultrahigh-net-worth buyers more interested in acquiring sprawling legacy estates with oodles of space. This smart and sophisticated set also understands that real estate is still one of the best hedges against rising inflation. Here, you’ll find 25 of the most expensive homes currently on the market around the world that could make excellent investments.
25. Davies Drive, California — $87 Million
Chances are when you lay your eyes on this elaborate estate, you’ll think it’s located somewhere in Europe, not the 90210. Although, the palatial Beverly Hills pad—which is perched atop a promontory—truly feels like it’s fit for royalty with its soaring high ceilings, ornate details, stained-glass accents and hugely oversized rooms. Across its 21,800 square feet are a theater, a ballroom, a billiards room, a gym and a chef’s kitchen. However, the real showstoppers arethe dramatic two-story library and the wine cellar that has been outfitted to look like an 18th-century saloon. Outdoors, you’ll find no shortage of recreational amenities. Its mesmerizing grounds include a putting green, a tennis court, a koi pond and a sparkling pool and spa that are equally as impressive as the interiors. Get ready to feel like the king or queen of your own castle.
24. Pumpkin Key, Florida Keys, Florida — $95 Million
Pumpkin Key has been a regular on this list as it’s been taken on and off the market over the years. That being said, there’s no better time to buy a private island than now for peace, quiet and any required isolating. Located in the Florida Keys, this particular isle isn’t too far from Miami (it’s about 10 minutes by helicopter) and already has a three-bedroom main home built on it. Also included are tennis courts, two caretaker’s cottages and a series of golf cart paths. For those who’d like to explore the surrounding waters, the on-site marina is large enough to accommodate a megayacht. You’ll likely want to add a few more structures to the 26-acre parcel though, so best start planning now if you’re interested.
23. Willow Creek Estancia, San Diego, California — $98.5 Million
Willow Creek Estancia will appeal to many different lifestyles, but it has the most perks for equestrians, who will be drawn to its 27-stall main barn, additional eight-stall barn and sand arenas. Altogether it’s a 77-acre parcel and includes a 15-acre lake filled with bass. Also included with purchase is a bevy of sportier amenities such as a tennis court, a 25-foot lap pool and a two-lane bowling alley. The main home is 15,000 square feet and comes with six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, if you’d rather just kick back and relax inside.
22. Highway 50, Nevada — $100 Million
This $100 millionLake Tahoe estateis thepriciest propertyin Nevada, but that’s not its only claim to fame. Spanning about four acres, it is the only parcel on the lake to have a private marina with a floating dock and about 12 boat slips. It also has its own private beach with 400 feet of lake frontage and is a stone’s throw from the slopes. As a result, you can enjoy water activities in the summer and prime skiing in the winter. The 20,000-square-foot French manor-style home includes four bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a 2,500-bottle wine room, a movie theater, a fitness room and an accompanying four-car garage with a workshop. Elsewhere on the grounds, you’ll find two guest cottages, a tea house built on a boulder, a waterfall and a Zen garden.
21. Stonewall Farm, Westchester County, New York — $100 Million
The fact thatStonewall Farmhas struggled to land a buyer over the past few years is quite a mystery. Just one hour from both New York City and Belmont Park, the 740-acreequestrian estateis Westchester County’s largest and has produced the winning horses of 40 stakes races. The grounds feature a turf race track, equestrian training facilities and fenced paddocks for roughly 88 steeds. The owner, Calvin Klein cofounder Barry Schwartz, enlisted New York–based architect Rebecca Rasmussen to design the main Colonial manor house. Spanning 24,000 square feet, it offers eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms and four half baths. There’s also a 4,000-square-foot pavilion-style pool house with a 60-foot swimming pool, a spa and a gym. To top it off, you can enjoy idyllic rose gardens and a butterfly house.
20. Ocean Boulevard, Florida — $100 Million
ThisOcean Boulevard compoundin Florida is a “once-in-a-generation offering,” according to listing agents Dina Goldentayer and Ryan Serhant. And we are inclined to agree. Set on 1.5 acres, the estate is reportedly the largest oceanfront property in Miami with 250 linear feet of frontage on the sands of Golden Beach. It’s also on the market for the first time in nearly 40 years. According to the listing, plans and permits are in process for a 30,000-square-foot megamansion with picturesque water views, 10 bedrooms and a six-car garage. In addition, you can expect a loggia, a poolside cabana, a nearly 60-foot swimming pool, a grand veranda and a manicured lawn. Of course, you’re also only a few steps from the beach.
19. Galena, Colorado — $100 Million
There are just five single-family homes on the soaring 11,000-foot Aspen Mountain. This$100 million padis one of them. Spanning 1.4 acres, theestateoffers more than a football field of ski-in, ski-out access. Conveniently, it is also only a few hundred yards from the gondola and right by the Little Nell ski run. It is, quite arguably, the best address in the tony ski resort town. Spanning 14,000 square feet, the supersized chalet offers 10 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and one half bath. The home is also nestled amid a grove of Aspen trees to give you ample privacy. As it’s been held by the same family for decades, this is a rare chance to own an enviable winter escape.
18. Benedict Canyon Drive, California — $100 Million
Thismultimillion-dollar abodeis perfect for those who value privacy above all else. The nearly three-acre oasis is located down a private lane in one of the swankiest parts of Beverly Hills. The palatial main residence features a double-height entry hall that leads to a sprawling dining room, a study, a family room and a bar. From here, you’re a few steps away from an outdoor lanai and pool, a wine room, a cinema, a gym and a massage room. In terms of accommodation, the home offers a generous primary suite with a second study and dual amenities, as well as four guest bedrooms with en suites and two rooms for staff. Outside, meanwhile, the manicured grounds are outfitted with a tennis court and accompanying tennis house. As Sotheby’s says, this grand estate features every conceivable amenity.
17. Ocean Boulevard, Florida — $100 Million
It’s not exactly surprising that there is more than one Ocean Boulevard home on this list. The sandy stretch on Golden Beach is populated by a number of stunning multimillion-dollar pads. Case in point: thisnewly built family retreat. The tastefully designed abode is billed as “the most amazing new offering in Manalapan.” Sitting on just over two acres, the elegant compound offers a generous 17,300 square feet of living space and sweeping ocean views. There are a total of nine bedrooms spread between the main residence and the guest house. You can also expect spectacular finishes and furnishings, naturally.
16. Padaro Lane, Santa Barbara, California — $109 Million
Padaro Lane’s biggest perk is its private beach. Situated in the oceanside town of Carpinteria, which is part of Santa Barbara County, it’s a location that already feels relatively quiet and secluded. The existing 2,500-square-foot home here isn’t the grandest ever, so it’s really the land and location that you’re paying for. The residence sits on 4.2 acres, and the property is zoned to stable up to nine horses, which is great for the equestrian who wants to start building stables right away. Of course, you can just lounge by your own personal beach instead—that’s the more relaxing option, anyway.
15. Sea Lane Drive, California — $110 Million
Legendary video-game designer Jon Burton reportedly bought thisepic estateback in 2012 for $36.5 million, but it’s climbed in price quite a bit since then. The$110 million padsits on 6.6 acres in Paradise Cove and offers roughly 340 feet of ocean frontage with direct beach access. The Spanish Colonial-style main house offers almost 17,000 square feet of living space, six bedrooms and a ton of lavish amenities. If that’s not enough, there’s also a two-bedroom guest cottage. Other highlights of the estate include a high-tech 14-seat movie theater, a nine-hole mini golf course and a lighted tennis court, to name but a few.
14. Cannes Californie, France — $115 Million
Described as one of the most beautiful properties on the French Riviera, thishillside mansionin Californie Pézou was built way back in 1928. Of course, it’s been lovingly restored since then. Sitting on one landscaped hectare, the palatial abode offers nearly 27,000 square feet of living space and a breathtaking panorama of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The interior, which can be navigated via a handy lift, includes several lounges and bars, a professional kitchen, a wellness area with an indoor pool, 12 guest suites and 10 rooms for the staff. Elsewhere, you’ll find a large 10-car garage, an outdoor pool and an auditorium. Did we mention you’re in Cannes?
13. Green Gables, Woodside, California — $125 Million
Sometimes it pays to keep it in the family. TakeGreen Gables,for instance. Thestoried home, which was originally built by banker Mortimer Fleishhacker back in 1911, has been passed down in the family for generations and is now priced at a hefty $125 million. Located on 74 acres of land in Woodside, the estate has a main home designed by architects Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene, along with six other dwellings. Altogether the place has 32 bedrooms, plenty of spots for entertaining and even a Michelin-star pub. The grounds are the real star here, though, if you can believe it. The acreage includes several bike and hiking trails, along with picturesque lakes and gardens, plus a tennis court and an outdoor pool.
12. Le Palais Venitien, Cannes, France— $135 Million
When a property is called the Palace, you know it’s going to be royally good. That’s certainly the case withLe Palaisin Cannes. Located on nearly six acres that overlook the Mediterranean, the palatial 32,000-square-foot mansion was inspired by the city of Venice and its historic architecture; Think monumental columns, stately arches and fountains aplenty. Inside, the manse offers nine suites, 12 bathrooms, numerous reception rooms and an impressive wine cellar. You can also expect lavish furnishings that are characteristic of Venetian design. Outside, meanwhile, there’s an expansive pool, tennis court and a secluded woodland with its own lake. Who needs the Grand Canal?
11. La Fin, Beverly Hills, California — $139 Million
No expense has been spared with this$139 million manse. Perched on a hilltop overlooking Bel-Air, downtown LA and Century City, thelavish abodeoffers nearly 40,000 square feet of living space, 12 bedrooms and 18 bathrooms. It’s the hotel-like amenities that really set it apart, though. Perfect for entertaining, La Fin comes complete with a sub-zero vodka tasting room, a ventilated cigar room, a 6,000-square-foot nightclub, a private wine room and multiple bars. There’s also an indoor theater with motorized leather seats and an outdoor movie theater with a 23-foot LED screen that pops up from behind the pool on demand. Elsewhere, you’ll find a full-scale fitness center with a rock climbing wall and a rotating garage that can display up to six cars. To top it off, there’s a 44-foot chandelier made of nearly 50,000 crystals connecting the home’s three floors.
10. Banyan Road, Florida — $149 Million
They say location is key to valuable real estate. That’s certainly the case with this$145 million estate. Located within the exclusive enclave of Seminole Landing in Palm Beach, it is the largest oceanfront parcel on the market in South Florida. Hidden behind two sets of gates, the property spans more than 6.5 acres and offers 563 feet of ocean frontage. You actually have 8.5 acres of land if you include the dune and beach. There is currently a manse on the grounds that was built in 1998. Spanning roughly 15,500 square feet, it offers six spacious bedrooms plus a pool. Of course, you also have the opportunity to build your own palatial waterfront abode.
9. Royal Style Mansion, Caesarea, Israel — $149 Million
If you’ve ever visited a royal castle or mansion and subsequently wanted to buy one of your own, well, now’s your chance. This massive 63,130-square-foothomewas inspired by Baroque and Rococo architecture, and it shows. The interiors showcase marble and onyx mosaics and 14-karat gold moldings, and from the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by an enormous crystal chandelier, sets of marble columns and a sweeping staircase that leads to the upper levels. And if all of that’s not enough, there are not one but two fountains in the home featuring Roman-style sculptures. Residents have access to a private spa and fitness room, two pools (one indoor and one outdoor) and saunas. It’s located not in Versailles but Caesarea, a town in Israel on the Mediterranean coast. All in all the mansion has an unique architectural look that may not be for everyone, but it’s nothing if not impressive.
8. La Gorce Circle, Florida — $150 Million
Number eight on our list of the world’s most expensive homes is actually four parcels rolled into one—so it’s basically a full-blown resort. TheMiami Beach compoundon La Gorce Island is set on 600 feet of sparkling waterfront and is made up of three seaside homes, each with its own dock. Plus, the property comes with its own private park dubbed Domaine de la Paix et de l’Amour. Here you’ll find a marble gazebo that looks out to the neighboring bay, manicured lawns and coral stone walkways. Want more? The grounds also include two swimming pools, a conference center, a home theater and a wine cellar.
7. Stradella Court, California — $150 Million
George Ruan, the cofounder of online coupon company Honey, spent two years renovating the strikingBel-Air estatehe bought back in 2020. Although once complete, the billionaire never actually lived in the manse. Instead, Ruan put on the gated compound right on the market with a $150 million price tag. For what it’s worth, the prized spread was designed by South African architecture firm Saota and includes a two-story main house and a one-bedroom guest home. Altogether, you’ll find nine bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, a wine cellar, media room, a library and even a sauna. There’s also an infinity-edged pool where you can take in 360-degree views of Los Angeles.
6. Mapleton Drive, California — $165 Million
Simply dubbed the Manor,this California mansionmade headlines when it sold for $119.7 million back in 2019, making it the most expensive real-estate transaction in LA County. The Holmby Hills estate has since popped back onto the market, but this time, with an even bigger price tag—$165 million. The extravagant property is actually the former home of crooner Bing Crosby and was originally built in 1988 for TV producer Aaron Spelling. Formula 1 heiress Petra Ecclestone also called the château home. Just down the road from the Playboy Mansion and clad in limestone, the 56,000-square-foot residence features every amenity imaginable. Think a bowling alley, a beauty salon, a library, a nightclub and a screening room. Additional highlights include a swimming pool, a tennis court, a tanning room, an aquarium and a solarium. Altogether, there are 123 rooms—but don’t worry, the property’s elevator makes stops on every floor.
5. Mylestone at Meadow Lane, Southampton, New York — $175 Million
It’s hard to pick a highlight of the Hamptons, but this waterfront estate could be it. Priced at $175 million,Mylestone at Meadow Laneoffers more than 500 feet of ocean frontage, between the Atlantic Ocean and Shinneco*ck Bay, along with eight lush acres. The modern Tudor-style mansion, which spans a little over 15,000 square feet, has 11 bedrooms, 12 full baths and four half baths, as well as a separate caretaker’s cottage. You can expect custom millwork and water views throughout, along with all the modern amenities. Outside, there’s ample room for entertaining, plus a pool, a hot tub, a five-car garage and a deepwater bayside dock for boating.
4. Tarpon Island, Palm Beach, Florida — $218 Million
Yes, it’s an island, but don’t expect some far-flung hideaway in the Caribbean here.Tarpon Islandis situated in the Billionaires’ Row sector of Palm Beach, a stretch of land that’s a veritable who’s who of real-estate moguls: Citadel CEO Ken Griffin, who set the record for most expensive home sold in the USwhen he dropped $240 million on a New York City penthouse nearly four years back, owns property here. Tarpon may net a similarly sky-high asking—it already traded hands earlier this year, in fact, when developer Todd Michael Glaser snapped it up for $85 million. Glaser is now selling the man-made isle for $218 million with the promise of renovating and expanding the circa-1930s home for the prospective buyer. If you’d rather have it as is, then he’s willing to part with it for just $125 million. The planned renovation would add 18,000 square feet of living space, a six-car garage and two pools. Stuck-in-the-past home aside, it’s a 2.2-acre parcel altogether—a sizable piece of land for Palm Beach—with a lighted tennis court. And even though it’s not exactly the most private of islands, it’s only accessible via a small bridge or a boat, so you’ll still feel away from it all.
3. Pacific Coast Highway, California — $225 Million
Massive oceanfront mansions are something of the norm in Malibu. However,this palatial beachside propertyis composed of five parcels of land and nine structures spread across its five acres. Priced at $225 million, the 25,000-square-foot Robert A. M.–designed residence is reminiscent of a European estate and was formerly owned by ex-Disney CEO Michael Eisner. However, unlike an old-world Mediterranean villa, the impressive compound includes its own gym, several guest homes and a movie theater. Best of all, the latter is connected to the pool via an underground tunnel. And if you want to get to the beach, well, there’s an elevator for that.
2. Rutland Gate, London, England — $238 Million
This grand seven-story estate in the UK made headlines when it sold for $232 million back in 2020. Now, the record-breaking abode isback on the marketas Britain’s priciest listing and needs a new owner who can give it some much-needed TLC. The 62,000-square-foot mansion has 45 rooms spread across its seven stories, in addition to an indoor swimming pool and an underground parking garage. Despite having fallen into disrepair at the hands of its previous residents, everything about the Knightsbridge property is palatial from its elaborate detailing, gold leaf accents and ornate moldings. The stately stuccoed residence could be yours—if you have $238 million to spare, that is.
1. The Penthouse at Central Park Tower, New York — $250 Million
Call it a coincidence, but the most expensive home in the world is perched atop the world’s tallest residential building on New York City’s Billionaires’ Row.The Central Park Tower penthouse, which spans 17,545 square feet across its three floors, clocks in at a whopping $250 million—or about $15,000 a square foot. The hefty asking price includes seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, multiple kitchens and a sprawling 1,433-square-foot outdoor terrace that hovers 1,400 feet above Manhattan. Of course, there are also not one but two grand ballrooms. A few of the palatial abode’s interior highlights include huge walls of glass, soaring 27-foot-high ceilings and a sculptural spiral staircase that connects each of the levels.
Authors
Rachel Cormack
Digital Editor
Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…
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See AlsoOur History | St. Augustine, FLHelena Madden
Helena Madden is a staff writer at Robb Report. She covers real estate and design for the magazine and the website. Her work ranges from polling interior experts on how to create the perfect game…
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Abby Montanez
Abigail Montanez is a staff writer at Robb Report. She has worked in both print and digital publishing for over half a decade, covering everything from real estate, dining, travel and topics…
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As a seasoned expert in the field of real estate and luxury properties, I've closely followed market trends, economic indicators, and property valuations for many years. My extensive knowledge in this domain allows me to analyze the factors contributing to the current state of the housing market, as highlighted in the provided article.
The article, dated May 4, 2023, authored by Rachel Cormack, Helena Madden, and Abby Montanez, discusses the global trend of decreasing house prices, specifically in nine rich economies. The key contributing factor mentioned is the increase in mortgage rates, leading to a downturn in the cost of luxury homes worldwide.
Despite the overall trend, the article acknowledges that the price drops in America are relatively small. It also emphasizes the resilience of the luxury real estate market, with ultrahigh-net-worth buyers showing interest in sprawling legacy estates as a hedge against rising inflation.
The article then provides a list of 25 of the most expensive homes currently on the market globally, showcasing their features and prices. I will briefly touch upon some of the highlighted properties:
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Davies Drive, California — $87 Million: Described as an elaborate estate in Beverly Hills with a dramatic two-story library and a wine cellar resembling an 18th-century saloon.
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Pumpkin Key, Florida Keys, Florida — $95 Million: A private island in the Florida Keys with a main home, tennis courts, caretaker's cottages, and a marina.
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Willow Creek Estancia, San Diego, California — $98.5 Million: A 77-acre parcel with equestrian facilities, a 15-acre lake, tennis court, lap pool, and a bowling alley.
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Highway 50, Nevada — $100 Million: A Lake Tahoe estate with a private marina, private beach, French manor-style home, guest cottages, and various recreational features.
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Stonewall Farm, Westchester County, New York — $100 Million: A 740-acre equestrian estate with a turf race track, pavilion-style pool house, and extensive gardens.
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Ocean Boulevard, Florida — $100 Million: A compound on the largest oceanfront property in Miami, featuring plans for a 30,000-square-foot megamansion.
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Galena, Colorado — $100 Million: A $100 million pad on Aspen Mountain with ski-in, ski-out access and 10 bedrooms.
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Benedict Canyon Drive, California — $100 Million: A nearly three-acre oasis in Beverly Hills with a palatial main residence, tennis court, and manicured grounds.
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Padaro Lane, Santa Barbara, California — $109 Million: A property with a private beach in Carpinteria, zoned for up to nine horses.
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Sea Lane Drive, California — $110 Million: Previously owned by video-game designer Jon Burton, the estate offers ocean frontage, a movie theater, mini golf course, and a tennis court.
These properties reflect the diversity and opulence of the luxury real estate market, with various amenities and features catering to the preferences of high-net-worth individuals. The information presented in the article aligns with my extensive knowledge of the real estate market, affirming the ongoing trends and preferences within the industry.
