Subject: 🏰 Lost in Time: The Estate That Shaped A Literary Legend!

The Mansion That Sparked Literary Romance!

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The Timeless Allure of Kingdom Come Farm: A Gatsby-Era Estate Reimagined

For Kingdom Come Farm, a new era begins, breathing life into the estate that once inspired one of literature’s most iconic figures. Nestled in Lake Forest, Illinois—an area that once captured the heart of a famed American novelist—this grand mansion now boasts a stunning revival. The estate, built in 1906 by renowned architect Howard Van Doren Shaw, was not merely a home but a canvas for Jazz Age memories, including those that would shape some of the most recognizable fictional characters in American literature.


A Town That Defined an Era

Lake Forest, a wealthy enclave just north of Chicago, was once considered the most glamorous place in the world by a celebrated author of the 20th century. This affluent suburb represented the height of American elegance during the Roaring ’20s. It was a playground for the rich, filled with grandeur, sophistication, and societal expectations. Yet, for one author, it was the romance and mystique of a certain young debutante that made the town unforgettable.


A Muse Behind the Fiction

The sprawling Kingdom Come Farm was more than just a lavish estate—it was part of a love story that transcended time. The estate’s original owners, a prominent family in the area, entertained the author as he explored the complexities of romance and wealth in the American social elite. His brief relationship with the daughter of the house inspired many of his most famous fictional heroines. Although their romance was short-lived, the memory of Lake Forest and its influential residents left an indelible mark on his works.


Restoring a Piece of History

Kingdom Come Farm, after years of neglect and changes in ownership, has been meticulously restored by its current residents. Many of the home’s original Jazz Age features remain, providing a glimpse into the luxurious past that once defined this estate. Architectural details and period touches evoke the spirit of the era, allowing the home to maintain its connection to its storied past.


A Mansion Reborn

Although the estate underwent several renovations throughout the decades, by the mid-20th century, its grandeur had faded. It sat deteriorating, with chipped paint, overgrown gardens, and missing sculptures. The house was even on the brink of demolition. However, its charm was undeniable, leading its new owners to purchase it in 2018. After a painstaking restoration process, Kingdom Come Farm now shines once again, reclaiming its rightful place among the iconic estates of America’s Gilded Age.


A Forgotten Chapter in History

Despite the author’s worldwide acclaim, the significance of Lake Forest and Kingdom Come Farm in his life and works has largely been overlooked. The estate, once a backdrop to his personal and literary life, has remained somewhat of a hidden gem in the annals of literary history. Today, its story continues as it embraces a new chapter, blending the elegance of the past with the promise of the future.

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Live Like a Roy: The $23M Succession Apartment For Sale

For fans of the ultra-affluent world of Succession, the opportunity to step into the Roy family’s world just became reality. A stunning apartment featured in the latest season of the hit HBO series is now up for sale, offering the chance to experience life like a member of television’s most dysfunctional billionaire dynasty—for a cool $23 million.


A Billionaire’s Playground on Screen

The allure of Succession isn’t just the toxic family drama but the extravagant lifestyle that goes with it. From private jets to opulent estates, the Roy family's world is draped in luxury. Their understated yet undeniably lavish possessions, from Loro Piana to Cucinelli, are only eclipsed by their jaw-dropping properties.


The latest gem to hit the real estate market? The expansive apartment featured in the recent season of Succession, located atop the iconic Woolworth Building in Tribeca, New York. Fans may recognize it as the backdrop for Kendall Roy’s plotting sessions during the early episodes of the season. Now, it’s available for purchase, offering not just a luxurious home but a slice of TV history.


The Woolworth Tower’s Crown Jewel

Perched atop one of New York’s most iconic buildings, Pavilion A in the Woolworth Tower Residences offers more than just a coveted Tribeca address. The French architect Thierry Despont reimagined this 1913 landmark into a collection of 32 ultra-luxury lofts in 2015. Pavilion A, now on the market, is the crown jewel of the collection, boasting over 6,700 square feet of living space and a sprawling 2,770-square-foot terrace.


With five bedrooms, six skylights, a 52-foot great room, and breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattan, this apartment is a masterpiece in design and luxury. The building also offers amenities that are the epitome of indulgence, including wine storage and access to the former private lap pool of Frank W. Woolworth himself.


An Apartment With Roy-Level Prestige

Aside from the sheer beauty and space, owning this apartment means stepping into the world of the Roys. The prestige of living in a home made famous by Succession adds an entirely new layer of appeal. The cultural cachet of residing in a property featured in such an influential show could be priceless to the right buyer.


For those seeking the epitome of Manhattan luxury with a touch of television royalty, this $23 million apartment offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live like a Roy.

TODAY'S MEME

Live Next to Royalty: A $10.1M Cotswolds Estate Hits the Market

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live as a neighbor to royalty has arrived. The Elmestree House Estate, nestled beside the country home of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is now available for $10.1 million. This prestigious property, built in 1844, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era with its Elizabethan-style architecture and rich history. For the first time in 72 years, this sprawling estate in the heart of the Cotswolds is on the market.


A Rare Architectural Masterpiece

Elmestree House is a rarity in today’s market. Dating back to the 12th century, the estate holds a Grade II listing for its historical and architectural significance. The main house, a grand Elizabethan-style mansion, is a testament to timeless design. With more than 19,000 square feet of outbuildings, including a 17th-century farmhouse, a three-bedroom annex, and a separate cottage, this property offers ample living space and countryside charm.


Neighboring Royal Splendor

One of the estate’s most attractive features is its proximity to Highgrove, the countryside residence of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana. Situated just steps from this royal retreat, Elmestree House offers not only seclusion and tranquility but also the prestige of being part of an elite neighborhood. Highgrove, renowned for its extensive gardens personally tended by Prince Charles, has been a cherished escape for the royal family for decades.


Unmatched Countryside Charm

Set on 117 acres of lush parkland, Elmestree House exudes quintessential English countryside allure. The estate boasts walled gardens, a small boating lake, picturesque ponds, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This private haven offers the perfect balance of history and nature, making it ideal for those seeking an estate that combines elegance with rural serenity.


A Grand Interior with Endless Possibilities

Inside the main house, eleven bedrooms are spread across its expansive layout, with additional bedrooms found in the farmhouse, annex, and cottage. The property’s period features are meticulously preserved, from the grand wooden double doors to the sweeping staircase crowned by a glass dome. Mullioned windows flood the interiors with natural light, and intricate cornicing and stone floors evoke the estate’s historic roots.


A Unique Investment Opportunity

Elmestree House is a rare gem that promises to attract discerning buyers, both locally and internationally. Its prime location in the highly sought-after Cotswolds countryside, near the market town of Tetbury, ensures not only a luxurious lifestyle but also an exclusive address. Whether as a private residence or a historic investment, this estate offers unparalleled prestige.

New Mortgage Rules Reshape Borrowing for Homebuyers and Banks

The mortgage market has undergone significant changes with new regulations designed to protect consumers and ensure financial stability. Recently enacted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), these rules have altered the landscape for both borrowers and lenders, introducing stricter standards for loan approvals and mortgage terms. These reforms aim to create safer, more predictable mortgages while limiting risky features that have led to financial strain in the past.


Key Features of Qualified Mortgages

As of January 10th, the introduction of Qualified Mortgages (QM) sets specific standards for home loans. To qualify, mortgages must meet certain criteria designed to safeguard consumers. These features include:

  • Lower upfront costs: For loans exceeding $100,000, points and fees must remain under 3% of the total loan amount. Smaller loans may have higher fees.

  • Elimination of risky features: Mortgages cannot include confusing options like interest-only payments or negative amortization, which could financially harm borrowers.

  • Shorter loan terms: A QM cannot exceed a 30-year term, promoting manageable repayment schedules.

  • Fixed payments: Mortgages with balloon payments at the end are typically not classified as QMs, ensuring predictable payments throughout the loan term.

These standardized terms aim to simplify the mortgage process, making it easier for consumers to understand their loans and reducing the likelihood of unforeseen complications.


Stricter Loan Approvals

While Qualified Mortgages are designed to protect borrowers, they also come with a tougher approval process. During the housing crisis, some lenders issued mortgages without verifying borrowers' ability to pay. Under the new rules, lenders must ensure that borrowers' total monthly debt, including the mortgage, does not exceed 43% of their pre-tax income. This added scrutiny requires a comprehensive assessment of income, assets, and debts before approving a loan.


Non-Qualified Mortgages and Market Impact

Not all mortgages must conform to Qualified Mortgage standards. Lenders still have the option to issue non-QM loans, but they must verify that the borrower's debts do not surpass the 43% threshold. Borrowers considering non-QM loans should carefully review the terms and associated fees, as these loans may come with less favorable conditions.


Smaller lenders, including community banks and credit unions, have expressed concern over the burden of compliance with the new regulations. Some worry that the added complexity will limit their ability to offer mortgages, reducing options for potential homebuyers. In some cases, smaller lenders have already reported that certain loans they previously offered no longer meet the new QM standards, restricting access to credit for those who would have qualified under the old rules.


As the mortgage market adjusts to these changes, homebuyers may find fewer loan options available, especially from smaller institutions.

California’s Housing Market Tops Least Affordable List

A recent survey has revealed that California continues to dominate the ranks of the least affordable real estate markets in the United States. With 13 of the top 15 cities in the country falling within its borders, the Golden State remains one of the toughest places to buy a home. The annual International Housing Affordability Survey, conducted by Demographia, assessed 360 metropolitan areas worldwide, placing several California cities among the most expensive places to live, both nationally and internationally.


California's Cities Lead U.S. Affordability Crisis

California’s real estate market is increasingly inaccessible for the average buyer. Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego top the list, with home prices vastly outpacing household incomes. These cities, known for their luxurious lifestyles and thriving tech industries, make homeownership a significant challenge for all but the wealthiest buyers. Other locations, such as Santa Barbara and San Jose, follow closely behind, reinforcing California’s place as a state where affordable housing remains elusive.


Global Ranking Puts San Francisco Among World's Priciest

On the international stage, San Francisco ranks as the third least affordable city globally, with home prices reaching 9.2 times the median household income. This puts it in the company of other global real estate hotspots like Hong Kong and Vancouver. The city’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and proximity to major tech hubs continues to drive demand, making it one of the most desirable—and expensive—markets in the world.


The Least Affordable U.S. Real Estate Markets

According to the survey, the following cities round out the list of the least affordable real estate markets in the U.S.:

  • Honolulu, HI

  • Santa Barbara, CA

  • San Francisco, CA

  • Santa Cruz, CA

  • San Jose, CA

  • San Luis Obispo, CA

  • San Diego, CA

  • Los Angeles, CA

  • Oxnard, CA

  • Santa Rosa, CA

  • Napa, CA

  • Salinas–Monterey, CA

  • New York City, NY

  • Eureka, CA

  • Chico, CA

International Cities Struggle with Affordability

The international section of the survey paints a similarly bleak picture, with San Francisco leading the U.S. representation. The following global cities are listed as the least affordable markets:

  1. Hong Kong

  2. Vancouver

  3. San Francisco

  4. Sydney

  5. San Jose

  6. Melbourne

  7. Auckland

  8. San Diego

  9. Los Angeles

  10. London

Luxury Homes Drive Desirability

What makes San Francisco so attractive, despite its sky-high prices? The city offers a wide variety of premium properties, from grand mansions to cutting-edge modern designs. For those willing to invest, the city remains a premier destination for luxury real estate, offering stunning views, architectural masterpieces, and access to a vibrant cultural and economic hub.


For anyone considering making a purchase in one of these elite markets, it’s not just about the price tag—be prepared for an investment in one of the most competitive real estate landscapes in the world.


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