AOL Real Estate - Blog http://realestate.aol.com/blog AOL Real Estate - Blog http://realestate.aol.com/blog/media/feedlogo.gif AOL Real Estate - Blog http://realestate.aol.com/blog en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Drew Barrymore Lists Montecito Home for $7.5 Million (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/22/drew-barrymore-santa-barbara-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/22/drew-barrymore-santa-barbara-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/22/drew-barrymore-santa-barbara-home/#commentsFiled under: ,

Drew Barrymore home in Santa Barbara
By Erika Riggs

Although she walked down the aisle in the backyard, Drew Barrymore's home near Santa Barbara doesn't seem to have too much of a hold on her. The actress has listed the Montecito, Calif., home for $7.5 million just a year after getting married, according to property records and The Real Estalker blog.

Barrymore reportedly bought the home in June 2010 for $5.705 million. The estate is out of the way from the buzz of Hollywood on a secluded 2 acres -- ideal for a quiet, paparazzi-free wedding and starting her family with new husband Will Kopelman.

With a spacious 6,000-square-foot floor plan and six bedrooms, an upgrade in size isn't needed. However with Kopelman from New York, the couple could be considering a move back east. Barrymore also owns another home in Southern California that she bought in 2002.

The "Never Been Kissed" actress' two-story classic was built in 1937 with a long, gravel driveway and a separate guesthouse. Inside, the home is markedly traditional, although Barrymore's quirky nature is apparent in the kitchen, where a sunny yellow table serves as the island and the two fridges are vintage -- one in a bright aqua shade. The grounds feature a long stretch of lawn, as well as a grove of citrus and avocado trees.

The home is listed by Suzanne Perkins of Sotheby's International Realty.

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Inside Drew Barrymore's Intimate Wedding

 

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]]>celebrity homescelebrity homes for salecelebrity real estatedrew barrymoredrew barrymore homeHouse of the Dayluxury real estatesanta barbarasanta barbara real estateZillow2013-05-22T06:00:00+00:00Olivia Newton-John Lists Florida Home for $6.2 Millionhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/21/olivia-newton-john-florida-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/21/olivia-newton-john-florida-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/21/olivia-newton-john-florida-home/#commentsFiled under: ,

Olivia Newton John home

By Catherine Sherman

What do you get when you combine a four-time Grammy winner and the founder of Florida's Amazon Herb Company? Cypress tongue-and-groove vaulted ceilings, natural coral stone flooring, custom driftwood cabinetry, bean bag seating and a rainwater harvesting irrigation system.

Olivia Newton-John married John Easterling in 2008 and moved into the $4.1 million plantation-style pad a year later. Now the Florida couple is selling the place for $6.2 million, The Real Estalker reports.

Located in the affluent Jupiter Inlet Colony, the 5,500-square-foot home received several eco-luxury renovations totaling $2 million in 2010. The windows can now withstand hurricane impact, the kitchen is equipped with Sub-Zero stainless steal appliances, and the media room is decked out with a state-of-the-art sound, video, shade and lighting system.

And for those more interested in simple pleasures, a vine-draped lanai, lagoon pool and spa, beach access and dock are steps away. The third-of-an-acre property is situated on the Jupiter Sound Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach County, ideal for snorkeling, boating or kayaking.

The "Grease" star decided to remarry at age 60, and her singing career spanning more than four decades is still going strong. This year, the native of England embarked on a tour of the United Kingdom. As a breast cancer survivor, she's also committed to educating and promoting women's health.

We'll see whether Newton-John and Easterling remain Florida beach-bound. Jo Ann Jacobson of Seawind Realty, LLC is the listing agent for the property.

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Stevie Nicks' Old Hollywood Home Asks $1.6 Million
Country Legend George Jones' $8 Million Estate
Ray Lewis Lists Florida Beach Property, Gets Ready for ESPN

Olivia Newton-John Tours UK For First Time in 35 Years


 

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]]>florida real estatejohn easterlingOlivia Newton-Johnolivia newton-john houseZillow2013-05-21T16:30:00+00:00'Dexter' Star Michael C. Hall's Spanish Colonial in LA (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/21/dexter-star-michael-c-halls-california-spanish-colonial-hou/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/21/dexter-star-michael-c-halls-california-spanish-colonial-hou/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/21/dexter-star-michael-c-halls-california-spanish-colonial-hou/#commentsFiled under: ,

Michael C. Hall home in Los Angeles' Los Feliz district

By Catherine Sherman

After living in a home designed by famed Los Angeles architect Hal Levitt, Michael C. Hall's real estate bar must be set high. The actor's latest purchase -- a beautifully restored 1923 Spanish colonial home -- has an upscale kitchen, media room, guest house and green hillside views from almost every window.

Michael C. HallThe "Dexter" star (pictured left) purchased the six-bedroom, six-bath home in L.A.'s Los Feliz neighborhood for $3.825 million, according to property records. It's significantly bigger than Hall's former Hollywood Hills home, which he sold in August 2012 for $1.83 million.

Hall has earned a Golden Globe for his role as Dexter Morgan, a forensic analyst and serial killer, on the hit Showtime drama series, which is set to air its eighth and final season this summer. He's also known for playing David Fisher on "Six Feet Under" in the early 2000s.

Now the actor can look forward to a master suite with wood-beamed ceilings, a private sitting room, view of downtown L.A. and luxurious master bath. A large swimming pool in the backyard with white, plush lounge chairs also provides a place to relax and entertain. The home last sold in May 2012 for $2.09 million. Hall closed the deal for less than the asking price of $3.927 million.

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Michael C. Hall's Hal Levitt-Designed Home Hits the Market
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Michael C. Hall Chats About 'Dexter' and 'Kill Your Darlings' at Sundance!

 

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]]>celebrity real estatedexterLos Feliz Real EstateMichael C. Hallmichael c. hall homeSpanish colonial architectureZillow2013-05-21T06:00:00+00:00Hugh Hefner, Crystal Harris Buy First Matrimonial Home (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/17/hugh-hefner-crystal-harris-hollywood-hills-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/17/hugh-hefner-crystal-harris-hollywood-hills-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/17/hugh-hefner-crystal-harris-hollywood-hills-home/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hollywood Hills home of Hugh Hefner, Crystal Harris

By Catherine Sherman

Newlyweds Hugh Hefner and Crystal Harris may need to set a price limit for exchanging gifts. Shortly after Harris made her husband a homemade gift for his 87th birthday, the Playboy magazine founder dropped $4.995 million on a Hollywood Hills mansion for the 27-year-old Playmate. The couple finally tied the knot in January. They'd been engaged for awhile, but Harris called off the wedding in 2011. Now the newlyweds have sealed the deal with their first real estate purchase. According to TMZ, Harris is a co-owner of the property. (UPDATE: 10:20 a.m. EDT by AOL Real Estate -- The Huffington Post, meanwhile, reports that the title is in the name of Crystal Harris' mother.)

The modern manse is constructed in a decidedly different style than the traditional and Tudor-esque architecture of the Playboy Mansion. The 5,917-square-foot home was built in 2011 with several modern amenities, as well as a view of the city lights. A gated entrance leads into a contemporary kitchen and up a floating wood staircase into a luxurious master bedroom and bath. Outside, a white-glass infinity pool and deck provide secluded relaxation while sliding doors out front provide open-air living space.

Hefner has lived in the famous Playboy Mansion for several years, but it may come as a surprise that the millionaire doesn't own it. According to details of the lease, filed with the SEC as an appendix to his employment agreement, Hefner pays rent for the 29-room house. With the "Bunny Hutch" (across the street from Hefner's not-so-humble abode) recently listed for $11 million, time will tell whether Hefner decides to make the Hollywood Hills home his primary residence.

Find homes for sale in Los Angeles, or search listings in your area.

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See more on Zillow:
Anna Faris & Chris Pratt Upgrade to Hollywood Hills Home
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Crystal Harris Married Hugh Hefner So She Couldn't Be Replaced

 

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]]>crystal harrishollywood hillshouse of the dayhugh hefnerhugh hefner crystal harris homelos angeles real estateplayboyZillow2013-05-17T06:00:00+00:00Anna Faris, Chris Pratt's $3.3 Million Hollywood Hills Home (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/16/anna-faris-chris-pratts-3-3-million-hollywood-hills-home-hou/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/16/anna-faris-chris-pratts-3-3-million-hollywood-hills-home-hou/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/16/anna-faris-chris-pratts-3-3-million-hollywood-hills-home-hou/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Anna Faris, Chris Pratt home, Los Angeles
By Erika Riggs

Although both grew up in Washington, Anna Faris and Chris Pratt have traded the evergreen state for the ever-sunshine of Hollywood. The actors recently spent $3.3 million on a Hollywood Hills home, previously owned by Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino, according to The Real Estalker.

Anna Faris, Chris PrattBoth Faris and Pratt are well known for their comedic roles -- Pratt in "Parks and Recreation" and Faris in the "Scary Movie" franchise and "What's Your Number" -- but they were serious about snagging their new home in Los Angeles.

Property records show that the couple paid $3.3 million for the estate -- $325,000 over the last asking price of $2.975 million.

The two seemed to think the home was worth the extra amount, and it's easy to see why. The property is nestled above Nichols Canyon and sits on over half an acre. Described as an "ultra-private gated compound," the home has lush landscaping, giving it the quality of a villa. Other exterior amenities include a gym and tennis court, saltwater pool, motor court leading to three-car garage, and a built-in barbecue area.

Inside, the home spans 4,710 square feet, with four beds and 3.5 baths. Starting with a turret entry, the home's living spaces contain vaulted ceilings and open windows.

As Faris and Pratt's careers in Hollywood ramp up, so does attention from paparazzi. Therefore, not only is their new home private; it's also wired for a full security system.

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JLo Drops $10 Million on Hamptons Estate
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Got a tip for House of the Day? Know of an exceptional or unusual property currently listed for sale? Please email krisanne.alcantara@huffingtonpost.com with your suggestions and be sure to include links to listing details and photos. (Due to the volume of response, we unfortunately are unable to reply to each submission.)

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]]>anna farisanna faris homecelebrity real estateChris PrattHollywood real estateZillow2013-05-16T06:00:00+00:00Jennifer Lopez Reportedly Buys $10 Million Hamptons Mansionhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/15/jennifer-lopez-reportedly-buys-10-million-hamptons-mansion/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/15/jennifer-lopez-reportedly-buys-10-million-hamptons-mansion/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/15/jennifer-lopez-reportedly-buys-10-million-hamptons-mansion/#commentsFiled under: ,


By Erika Riggs

Jennifer Lopez might just be "Jenny from the Block," but her newest block might be a stretch of three acres in exclusive Water Mill, N.Y.

Jennifer LopezAccording to the New York Post, Lopez has toured the estate several times with her twins and current boyfriend, 25-year-old Casper Smart. Lopez reportedly paid $10 million for the home, which previously demanded $425,000 as a summer rental. Lopez has been looking for a Hamptons-area estate for years; previously there were rumors that she picked one up back in 2011, shortly after her divorce to Marc Anthony.

The singer and actress' new place is not only luxe -- a must-have for someone who brought in $52 million last year and is ranked above Oprah on Forbes' Most Powerful List -- but also incredibly private. Situated on its own cul-de-sac, the updated but classic estate is made up of two lots, with room for plenty of celebrity musts, like guesthouses and tennis courts.

Built in 2004, the eight-bed, 4.5-bath mansion measures 8,500 square feet. The landscaped grounds include a large pool, patio area and plenty of hedges to keep paparrazi at bay.

Lopez hasn't purchased a home in quite some time. The entertainer still owns an enormous spread near Los Angeles -- in Hidden Hills, Calif. -- that she purchased with Anthony in 2010, as well as two homes in Glen Head, N.Y. The star previously owned a waterfront estate in Miami Beach and another home in Beverly Hills.

Coincidentally, Anthony also bought a home this week -- but on the other coast. His new home is in Encino, Calif., and he spent about $2.5 million on it.

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Jennifer Lopez' Former Miami Beach Home on the Market
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Jennifer Lopez Reveals Her Unique Parenting Style

 

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]]>Casper Smartcasper smart jennifer lopezcelebrity homescelebrity real estatehamptonshamptons real estatejennifer lopez homeZillow2013-05-15T12:58:00+00:00NASCAR Driver Jeff Gordon Selling NYC Apartment for $30 Million (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/14/nascar-jeff-gordon-nyc-apartment/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/14/nascar-jeff-gordon-nyc-apartment/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/14/nascar-jeff-gordon-nyc-apartment/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jeff Gordon's New York apartment

By Laura Vecsey

Here's one New York City apartment that's definitely not the pits. In fact, listed for sale at $30 million, one thing's abundantly clear about this grandly located and luxuriously appointed apartment: owner Jeff Gordon has done more than fine during his years of NASCAR racing and hanging in its famous pits. With more than $129 million in career earnings, Gordon is NASCAR's all-time earnings leader. And this apartment puts the lead in high-octane living.

Jeff GordonThe race-car driver, who just competed in the 700th race of his career, bought the three-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence at the exclusive House section of 15 Central Park West back in 2007, just after marrying his second wife. The couple then turned Apartment 7C -- what was essentially a shell -- into a palace thanks to what the listing agent called "a painstaking, no-expense-spared renovation [that] has ensured that every detail of this 3,454-square-foot home exudes modern elegance and comfort."

If it seems incongruent for a NASCAR star to not only own a prestigious Upper West Side residence but also to have had the vision to invest and create such a luxurious ambiance, Gordon has long had a passion for the Big Apple. "I love that there are certain times that I'll get recognized, and it's kind of surprising and fun. But I can walk down the street most of the time and not be recognized, and I enjoy that, too," Gordon told the amNewYork newspaper three years ago.

Now, however, the 42-year-old father of two has decided that the New York real estate market for high-end properties is hot enough again to try and make a deal. The Gordons built a massive custom home in Charlotte, N.C., where the family has lived since 2010 when they aren't globetrotting with ski trips to Aspen and sightseeing in Belgium.

As for what Jeff Gordon is willing to leave behind in his former adopted hometown, it's top-of-the-line exquisite, including:

o. Spectacular Central Park and city views
o. Top-of-the-line appointments
o. Entry foyer graced by 6-foot' Santos Mahogany floors with solid brass in-laid edging
o. Open living/dining room that showcases direct east-facing Central Park views from a wall of oversized windows spanning over 46 feet
o. A flamed absolute black granite sushi bar with a blackened steel countertop, wine fridge and mini bar is cleverly concealed behind American walnut diving fins adorned with patinaed brass inserts
o. Chic eat-in chef's kitchen, highlighted with plate steel-like Italian ceramic tile flooring, flamed absolute black granite counters and Miele/ Wolf/ Sub-Zero appliances
o. A discreet private home office
o. A large master suite that measures over 740 square feet, with a separate dressing room, 2 walk-in closets and a luxurious ensuite limestone bath with Boffi soaking tub.

And if $30 million still sounds like a lot of cash for the apartment, consider the amenities that come from living in one of New York's most coveted addresses. Designed by famed architect and historian Robert A.M. Stern, 15 Central Park West is close to Time Warner Center, Lincoln Center, the Theater District, and some of the world's best shopping on Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue. The building is fully staffed and pet friendly with a landscaped motor court, garage, 14,000-sq. ft. fitness center with a 75-foot sky-lit lap pool, spa and sauna/steam rooms, screening room for 20 guests, private restaurant and catering, private wine rooms, library, business center, 1,400-sf meeting space, game room, outdoor terrace, and children's playroom.

See the listing for more details.

Find more homes for sale in New York City, or search listings in your area.

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]]>House of the DayJeff GordonJeff Gordon NYC apartmentNASCARNew York City homes for saleNew York City real estateZillow2013-05-14T06:00:00+00:00Breckin Meyer Lists Beverly Hills Family Home (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/13/breckin-meyer-lists-beverly-hills-family-home-house-of-the-day/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/13/breckin-meyer-lists-beverly-hills-family-home-house-of-the-day/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/13/breckin-meyer-lists-beverly-hills-family-home-house-of-the-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2220 Bowmont Drive, Beverly Hills, Calif.
By Catherine Sherman

Breckin Meyer made his "Escape from L.A." on screen in '96. Now the actor, writer and producer is potentially escaping Beverly Hills, parting ways with his longtime residence, located at 2220 Bowmont Drive, Beverly Hills, Calif.

Listed for $2.995 million, the 1936-built home has wood-beamed, vaulted ceilings, a Bohemian-inspired living room and a vine-covered pergola in the backyard. The master bedroom also features a secluded roof terrace and a newly renovated modern bathroom.

Meyer and his wife Deborah Kaplan moved into the four-bedroom house in September 2003, just three months before the birth of their daughter. Last fall, the couple announced plans to divorce after being separated for some time.

It will be interesting to see if the "Franklin & Bash" actor stays in the coveted 90210. Meyer has lived in Beverly Hills for most of his life, attending elementary school with Drew Barrymore, and a local high school.

The actor is returning as Elmo "Jared" Franklin in the third season of the hit TNT series this June. He's also been busy creating the second season of TBS' "Men at Work," which premiered on April 4.

Meyer and Kaplan bought the Beverly Glen home for $1.875 million in 2003. Their current asking price is 96.5 percent more expensive than the median-priced home in the area, but 6.3 percent less per square foot.

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Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Breckin Meyer Talk About Their Show Franklin & Bash

 

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]]>Breckin Meyerbreckin meyer homecelebrity real estateDeborah KaplanZillow2013-05-13T06:00:00+00:00Chris Brown's Curbside Art Angers Los Angeles Neighborshttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/12/chris-brown-curbside-art-angers-neighbors/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/12/chris-brown-curbside-art-angers-neighbors/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/12/chris-brown-curbside-art-angers-neighbors/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chris Brown home

LOS ANGELES -- Grammy-winning musician Chris Brown's neighbors are unhappy with what some are calling frightening art he's chosen to have painted along the curb of his Hollywood Hills home.

A neighborhood group said the grimacing, sharp-toothed, red-eyed goblins painted along a retaining wall have been scaring children, and is an eyesore to boot, according to the Los Angeles Times.

"There are lots of babies, lots of children, and they're literally frightened. It's like devils on the wall - big scary eyes and big scary teeth, and just the whole vibe is not what we're used to," Patti Negri, president of the Hollywood Dell Civic Association, told the newspaper.

L.A. city code officials responded to complaints about the monster art and cited the "Run It!" singer $376 for unpermitted and excessive signage.

Chris BrownUnder city ordinances, it's illegal to create murals on most private properties. Though that didn't stop Madonna from painting her Hollywood Hills home in red and yellow stripes in the 1990s.

Brown has been ordered to remove the goblin paintings within 30 days, but his attorney Mark Geragos said the musician is not backing down.

"They are trying to suspend the First Amendment," Geragos said.

Geragos alleges that neighbors are harassing Brown and have also made parking complaints about him and called animal control.

In a telephone interview with The Associated Press on Saturday, Negri said all she wants is for Brown to "tone it down and be a better neighbor."

Brown's tumultuous relationship with singer Rihanna and foul-mouthed Twitter presence have given him a bad boy reputation.

Brown won a Grammy in 2011 for Best R&B Album with "F.A.M.E." and was arrested shortly after the 2009 awards ceremony for assaulting Rihanna.

"I know a $300 fine is probably pocket change. But hopefully and maybe, he'll just see the light and decide to be a good neighbor," Negri told the Times. "We're happy to have him -- if he just tones it down."

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Missing Banksy Mural Shows Up in Miami Auction

 

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]]>Chris Brownchris brown curbside artneighbor disputesproperty rightswall muralsThe Associated Press2013-05-12T15:35:00+00:005 Homes Jay Gatsby Would Lovehttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/10/five-homes-jay-gatsby-would-love/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/10/five-homes-jay-gatsby-would-love/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/10/five-homes-jay-gatsby-would-love/#commentsFiled under: , ,


125 Northgate St., Woodside Calif.
By Catherine Sherman

"It was a factual imitation of some Hotel de Ville in Normandy, with a tower on one side spanking new under a thin beard of raw ivy, and a marble swimming pool and more than forty acres of lawn and garden. It was Gatsby's mansion."

These familiar words from F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby are coming to life on the big screen this Friday. While the highly anticipated movie was filmed on the coast of Australia, Fitzgerald's inspiration for Jay Gatsby's home has long been debated.

Where would the mysterious Gatsby host his lavish Jazz Age parties today? We've rounded up a few top contenders currently on the market.

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Where Gatsby Wooed Daisy?
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What It Would Cost to Live Like 'The Great Gatsby' Today




 

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]]>great gatsby homegreat gatsby moviehomes for saleluxury real estatethe great gatsbyZillow2013-05-10T15:56:00+00:00'Biggest Loser' Trainer Jillian Michaels Lists LA Home (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/10/the-biggest-loser-trainer-jillian-michaels-lists-l-a-home-ho/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/10/the-biggest-loser-trainer-jillian-michaels-lists-l-a-home-ho/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/10/the-biggest-loser-trainer-jillian-michaels-lists-l-a-home-ho/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jillian Michaels home, Los Angeles
By Erika Riggs

For sale: a home literally built on sweat and difficult workouts. Jillian Michaels, the raspy-voiced trainer who built a fitness empire through workout books, videos and starring on NBC's "The Biggest Loser," just listed her house for $2.45 million.

Jillian MichaelsThe listing doesn't include an indoor gym in the description, but with an open floor plan and well-landscaped yard, the house certainly has plenty of space for Michaels to hone her nationally-acclaimed weight-loss techniques.

According to property records, Michaels bought the home, located at 2180 Groveland Dr, Los Angeles, Calif. 90046, for $1.565 million in 2008. Measuring 2,701 square feet with 3 beds and 4 baths, the property has the kind of modern amenities you would expect in a celeb home: a security system with cameras, a pre-wired sound system and a modern kitchen with sleek marble counters.

While Michaels also owns another home -- a two-bedroom she picked up in 2005 -- it's unclear which has been her primary residence. Michaels and her partner, Heidi Rhoades, have two children, but both houses may be on the smaller side for raising their family of four.

With Michaels' continued success as a fitness guru -- both on TV and through her books -- she won't have a problem picking up a new, bigger home. Of course, it will require her staying in one place long enough to do some house shopping, which may be hard in between stops on her "Maximize Your Life" tour.

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Stop Sabotaging Yourself, from Jillian Michaels

 

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]]>biggest losercelebrity homescelebrity homes for salecelebrity real estateJillian michaelsjillian michaels homelos angeles real estateThe Biggest LoserZillow2013-05-10T06:00:00+00:00'Gone With the Wind' Author Margaret Mitchell's Atlanta Apartment (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/08/gone-with-the-wind-author-margaret-mitchells-atlanta-home-on/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/08/gone-with-the-wind-author-margaret-mitchells-atlanta-home-on/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/08/gone-with-the-wind-author-margaret-mitchells-atlanta-home-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Margaret Mitchell made her home in the top floor condo of this building.
Curbed logoBy Josh Green

Across the street from the Botanical Garden in Atlanta, a two-bedroom condo at 1 S. Prado defines cozy. Its solid bones translate through listing photos, but the most appealing aspect of the Neil Reed-designed building lies in what's no longer there: Atlanta's matriarch scribe, Margaret Mitchell.

The 1920 building is dedicated to Mitchell, who lived here for a decade beginning in 1939. The day after her death, her secretary and the building custodian burned the original "Gone With the Wind" manuscript in the boiler room, according to placards on the building. As for the top-floor condo, it's got 1,332 square feet, a separate dining and living room (sorry, open floor-plan zealots), a sun porch-slash-office and city views. The ask is $310,000.

Beware that, as with other buildings in this area, the number of assigned parking spaces (one) doesn't necessarily correspond with bedrooms.

This story was originally published on Curbed.

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See more on Curbed:
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Hollywood Happy Endings on Blu-Ray

 

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]]>AtlantaAtlanta condos for saleAtlanta homes for saleatlanta real estateGone with the WindMargaret Mitchell homeCurbed2013-05-08T06:00:00+00:00A Look Inside Rod Stewart's New Mansion, Durrington Househttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/07/rod-stewarts-new-mansion-durrington-house/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/07/rod-stewarts-new-mansion-durrington-house/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/07/rod-stewarts-new-mansion-durrington-house/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rod Stewart's home, Durrington House, in Essex, England.

According to the Daily Mail, rock superstar Rod Stewart has just picked up the 10-bedroom Durrington House in Essex, about 30 miles northeast of London.

Rod StewartIt's not Stewart's first foray into the world of Jane Austen-style real estate -- he and his wife still own the seven-bedroom Wood House manse, an Essex estate once owned by Winston Churchill -- so we're allowed to assume, mayhaps, that Stewart harbors an intense British rock star affection for "immaculate gardens," toile, croquet lawns and ornamental ponds. (Right? Right.)

Brokerbabble for Durrington House, last listed for 4.65 million pounds ($7.22 million), calls it "one of the finest houses in the area," with a primary country house and "ancillary accommodation" that includes four self-contained cottages -- one with an 18th-century clock tower! -- plus potting sheds and a greenhouse. Take a tour, below.

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See more on Curbed:
Domed American Thread Penthouse Now $1 Million More
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Rod Stewart Relives Heartbreak Through New Songs

 

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]]>celebrity homescelebrity real estatedurrington houseessexLondon real estaterockstar housesrod steward homerod stewartCurbed2013-05-07T15:00:00+00:00'Avengers,' 'Captain America' Star Chris Evans Wins Bid for Hollywood Homehttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/06/avengers-captain-america-star-chris-evans-wins-bid-for-holl/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/06/avengers-captain-america-star-chris-evans-wins-bid-for-holl/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/06/avengers-captain-america-star-chris-evans-wins-bid-for-holl/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chris Evans' Laurel Canyon home

By Rob Bear

Hunky movie star Chris Evans -- perhaps best known as Captain America -- paid some $3.52 million for a recently renovated midcentury ranch in the Laurel Canyon neighborhood of the Hollywood Hills.

The 4,600-square-foot house was purchased by a flipper in June for $1.9 million. That owner completely renovated the three-bedroom pad, adding an updated kitchen, refinishing the floors, and generally gussying up the otherwise typical home.

That work paid off, as the house was listed for $3.5 million and eventually sold to Evans over ask, amid a flurry of bids. The swimming pool and several outdoor entertaining spaces enjoy gobsmacking views of L.A., which may help to explain the profit reaped from such superficial upgrades.

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See more on Curbed:
Domed American Thread Penthouse Now $1 Million More
Cape Cod Beach House to Be Sold by Architect's Descendants
Buffalo Honey Bees Move Up to Shimmering Skyscraper

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Mid-Century Modern Architecture

 

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]]>avengersCaptain America: The First AvengerChris Evanshollywood hillshollywood hills real estatehollywood homes for saleCurbed2013-05-06T18:00:00+00:00Late, Great Homes With 'Gatsby' Tieshttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/06/late-great-homes-with-gatsby-ties/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/06/late-great-homes-with-gatsby-ties/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/06/late-great-homes-with-gatsby-ties/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Land's End in Sands Point, N.Y., might have inspired Daisy Buchanan's house

With the new film version of "The Great Gatsby" due to open May 10, we're taking a look back at some remarkable American homes associated with the author of that classic novel -- F. Scott Fitzgerald -- including one that might have been a setting for the book. A famous Sands Point, N.Y., mansion (pictured above) is said to have been the inspiration for Daisy Buchanan's house in "The Great Gatsby." Built in 1902, the once-stunning Colonial revival has since been razed: But in the spirit of nostalgia we like to remember how it looked in its glory days. As you can see from the gallery below, the estate dubbed "Land's End" was the epitome of opulence and grandeur, filled with Baccarat crystal, and plush drapes and linens.

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Though Fitzgerald set many of his stories in the homes of the rich, the Baltimore townhouse in which he penned some of his later works was humble by comparison. It's still a beauty though: The four-bedroom, four-bath, 3,600-square foot townhouse boasts ornate fireplaces, tall windows, French doors and a back porch overlooking a quant private garden. Best of all, the home still contains many of the original details from over a century ago! See the home below, which was recently on the market at a modest $450,000 and which Zillow lists as having sold last month for $464,000.

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A recent article by Gabrielle Lipton in Slate about the homes that Gatsby's mansion might have been based on -- among them Oheka Castle and Beacon Towers -- concludes that no one may ever know that for sure, since Fitzgerald "drew from many sources." But Lipton adds: "Perhaps it's not so much which mansion was Gatsby's; it's which one is destined to be the next." Well, we have one or two in mind....

See more homes with literary associations:
Fifty Shades of Grey' Penthouse in Seattle Sells For $6.2 Million
J.K. Rowling Lists Scottish Farmhouse

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'The Great Gatsby' New Cover Under Fire

 

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]]>Daisy Buchanan homeF. Scott FitzgeraldF. Scott Fitzgerald housejay gatsby homeLands Endthe great gatsbyAOL Real Estate Editors2013-05-06T17:14:00+00:00Pope Benedict XVI Returns to Live in Vatican Near Pope Francishttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/on/pope-benedict-returns-vatican-hoem/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/on/pope-benedict-returns-vatican-hoem/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/on/pope-benedict-returns-vatican-hoem/#commentsFiled under: ,


Not only did Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI return to the Vatican for the first time since he resigned in February -- the former pontiff also returned to his new home, the newly-renovated Mater Ecclesiae, a converted monastery on the edge of the Vatican gardens. (Pictured above).

The Mater Ecclesiae (Mother of the Church) features a substantial four-story modern home within it, complete with a chapel, garden and roof terrace. Fox News reports the home also has a small library and study, in addition to a guest room for when his brother Monsignor Georg Ratzinger, comes to visit.

"It is certainly small but well-equipped," Vatican spokesman Rev. Federico Lombardi told The Associated Press. As NBC News reports, the moving of the Pope Emeritus to a residence so close to the current reigning pope, Pope Francis, is an "unprecedented arrangement." In a further twist, the Vatican also announced that the pope emeritus will live in the home with his secretary, Monsignor Georg Gaenswein and the four consecrated women who look after him and will prepare his meals.

Currently, reigning Pope Francis continues to live in a simple hotel suite at the Casa Santa Marta hotel while his official home at Palazzo Apostolico is being renovated.



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Pope Benedict's New Home (VIDEO)
Inside Pope's Summer Home at Castel Gandolfo

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]]>Casa Santa MartaMater Ecclesiaepapal residencePope Benedict XVIPope Emeritus Benedict XVIPope FrancisPope homeAOL Real Estate Editors2013-05-02T18:12:00+00:00The Late George Jones' Tennessee Home Up for Sale at $8 Million (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/01/george-jones-tennessee-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/01/george-jones-tennessee-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/01/george-jones-tennessee-home/#commentsFiled under: , ,

George Jones home, Franklin, Tenn.

By Catherine Sherman

If a good country song tells a story, then George Jones was a master storyteller. The Country Music Hall of Famer, who passed away last Friday at age 81, spun tales both comical and heart-breaking, from his autobiographical drinking-gone-awry hit "Honky Tonk Song" to the emotionally charged ballad "He Stopped Loving Her Today," regarded by many to be the greatest country music recording of all time. Unfortunately, the story of selling Jones' Franklin, Tenn., estate could be a song in its own right.

First listed for $15 million in March 2011, the 80-acre property has received a series of price cuts since hitting the market. Jones and his wife even tried dividing the property into five parcels and putting it up for auction, but total bids only reached the $2 million mark, and the couple declined those offers. The price dropped in late March to its current $8 million -- but 500 percent more expensive -- per square foot -- than a middle-of-the-road Franklin home.

The equestrian estate was built in 1993 and boasts immaculate green pastures, with a 9,704-square-foot main house and several outbuildings. Showcasing its Tennessee character, the four-bedroom, 7.5-bath mansion also features a grand entryway, long porch and even a personal barber shop. The for-sale listing for Jones' longtime residence is held by Bailey & Ivey.

See the listing for more details.

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See more on Zillow:
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Country Music Legend George Jones Dies At 81

 

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]]>Franklin TennesseeGeorge JonesGeorge Jones deathGeorge Jones Tennessee homeHouse of the DayTennessee real estateZillow2013-05-01T06:00:00+00:00Vince Vaughn Buys 'Mundane' California Home for $3.9 Million (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/30/vince-vaughn-home-la-canada-flintridge/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/30/vince-vaughn-home-la-canada-flintridge/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/30/vince-vaughn-home-la-canada-flintridge/#commentsFiled under: , ,



By Amy Schellenbaum

Comedic actor Vince Vaughn ("Wedding Crashers," "Anchorman," "Dodgeball") has picked up what is perhaps Southern California's least offensive, unobtrusive and numbingly traditional house: a five-bedroom Colonial he bought for $3.925 million.

Though once noted as one of the priciest listings in the city of La Canada Flintridge, the 5,563-square-foot abode -- boasting a very "Father of the Bride"-style façade, some nice, unexceptional interiors, an amply treed tennis court, and a swimming pool -- ended up selling to Vaughn for less than a quarter of what the actor is asking for his other property, an exponentially flashier 12,000-square-foot triplex penthouse in Chicago that has been floundering on the market since 2011.

Of course, his new pad -- which, you know, doesn't include Hugh Hefner's original Playboy office -- is much more family-friendly, and considering that Vaughn's just announced that he and his wife are expecting baby No. 2, the shift in real estate holdings is hardly surprising.

Anyway, a look inside, below:

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Vince Vaughn Receives Advice From Sophia Grace And Rosie On 'Ellen'

 

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]]>California real estateHouse of the Dayla canada flintridgeVince VaughnVince Vaughn houseVince Vaughn La Canada homeCurbed2013-04-30T06:00:00+00:00Taylor Swift Reportedly Buys Oceanfront Manse in Rhode Islandhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/29/taylor-swift-home-rhode-island/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/29/taylor-swift-home-rhode-island/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/29/taylor-swift-home-rhode-island/#commentsFiled under: ,

Taylor Swift, mansion in Rhode Island

By Erika Riggs

This country girl has been digging the East Coast lately, at least in terms of her real estate purchases.

According to TMZ and real estate blog The Real Estalker, country-pop princess Taylor Swift has purchased a waterfront mansion in Watch Hill, R.I.. for around $17 million. Last year she picked up a home near the Kennedy Compound in Hyannis Port, Mass. She flipped it in November, so that might have left her wanting a new East Coast home base.

The white, Cape Cod traditional was previously listed at $24 million back in 2011. Swift reportedly paid in cash, which may have given her a discount on the purchase price. Not that Swift needs to worry about discounts; according to Forbes, the 23-year-old is worth $57 million-plus.

Sitting on 5 acres, the home has more than 700 square feet of beachfront on top of "the highest point in Watch Hill," that would give Swift unobstructed views of the water, all the way to Montauk Point. Watch Hill is an affluent New England coastal town but not necessarily a typical choice for A-listers to vacation in, which might have been a reason for Swift to choose it. The quiet neighborhood and likely guarded home would give the starlet some much-needed privacy.

Measuring 11,000 square feet, the 7-bedroom, 9-bath home was built in 1930. A circular drive leads to a pillared front door. Inside, the living spaces are generous, all with large windows facing the water and decked out in a classic New England decor.

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Celebrity Home Buyers Under 25
Taylor Swift Flips Home Near Kennedy Compound
Homes of Country Music Stars

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Taylor Swift's Trespasser Not Charged

 

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]]>cape code home stylecelebrity real estatehomes for sale in Watch Hilloceanfront real estaterhode island real estatetaylor swifttaylor swift homeZillow2013-04-29T13:40:00+00:00Nick Nolte Puts Malibu Home on the Market for $8.25 Million (House of the Day)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/29/nick-nolte-malibu-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/29/nick-nolte-malibu-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/29/nick-nolte-malibu-home/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nick Nolte Malibu home

By Erika Riggs

It's not a new trend for celebrities to buy each other's homes. Often, if one celeb likes a home, another star will find it just as appealing. Such is the case with Nick Nolte's home. Currently owned by the veteran actor, best known for his roles in "48 Hours" and "The Thin Red Line," the property includes Tommy Chong, Don Felder of the Eagles and songwriter/producer David Foster among its previous owners, according to the Los Angeles Times. Nolte has listed his home in Malibu, Calif., for $8.25 million.

What attracted the heavy list of stars to the property? Likely the secluded location. The Bonsall Canyon estate sits on 2 flat acres surrounded by sycamores, corrals and pines to create what Malibu listing agent Jane Kellard of Westside Estate Agency calls an "artist's paradise."

Nolte's home was built in 1963 and opens to a mahogany entryway with onyx floors leading to a living area with vaulted, 19-foot ceilings. The upstairs master suite features a sitting area with a fireplace and office. A lagoon pool, lighted tennis court and detached guesthouse with two bedrooms are included on the grounds.

See the listing for more details.

Find more homes for sale in Malibu, Calif., or search listings in your area.

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See more on Zillow:
Stevie Nicks' Former Hollywood Home Listed for $1.6 Million
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Nick Nolte: Fame Is Undesirable, a 'Rough Deal'

 

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]]>House of the Daymalibu homes for salemalibu real estateNick NolteNick Nolte Malibu homeZillow2013-04-29T06:00:00+00:00