Richard Gere’s Hamptons house, known as Strongheart Manor, has been a topic of intrigue for years. This stunning compound on Actors Colony Road in North Haven recently made headlines when it was sold to former “Today” show host Matt Lauer. The actor Richard Gere originally purchased the property for $11.3 million in 2005 and spent years renovating it into a luxurious estate. But what’s the full story behind this picturesque waterfront gem? Let’s dive into the fascinating history and features of this idyllic Hamptons retreat.
What is the history of Richard Gere’s House in Hamptons?
So, Richard Gere’s house in Hamptons is pretty legendary! He bought it back in the ’90s, and it’s been his chill spot ever since. The place is huge and super fancy, with some serious celeb vibes. And guess what? Today, it’s still one of the coolest spots in the area!
Who originally built the Strongheart Manor estate?
The story of Strongheart Manor begins long before Richard Gere set foot on the property. Built in 1902, this historic estate has stood the test of time for over a century. The original owner’s vision was to create a summer retreat that would capture the essence of Hamptons living.
But what made them choose this particular spot? And how has the property evolved over the years?
How did Richard Gere come to own the Hamptons mansion?
In 2005, Richard Gere purchased the property for $11.3 million. At the time, the estate was already impressive, but Gere saw its potential for something even more spectacular. The actor, known for his roles in films like “Pretty Woman” and “Chicago,” was drawn to the privacy and natural beauty of the location.
Gere’s purchase included three parcels of land, allowing him to create a truly expansive and secluded retreat. But what exactly did he do to transform this already stunning property into a world-class estate?
What renovations were done by Richard Gere on the estate?
After acquiring Strongheart Manor, Gere embarked on an extensive renovation project. He sought to renovate and expand the property while maintaining its historic charm. The actor invested heavily in upgrading the Richard Geres house and adding modern amenities throughout the estate.
Some of the key improvements included:
- Expanding the main Richard Geres house in Hamptons
- Adding two guest houses
- Installing a 60-foot heated pool
- Creating an outdoor fireplace pavilion
- Constructing a tea house
- Building a private pond with a bridge
Gere’s renovations transformed Strongheart Manor into a truly exceptional property. But what specific features make this estate stand out from other luxury homes in the Hamptons?
What are the key features of the Strongheart Manor estate?
So, you know about Richard Gere’s house in Hamptons, right? Well, Strongheart Manor estate is packed with some seriously cool features. It’s got this massive pool, a private dock, and even a tea house! Imagine chilling there on a sunny day. Honestly, it’s a dream spot.
How many bedrooms does the Hamptons mansion have?
One of the most impressive aspects of Strongheart Manor is its sheer size. The estate boasts a total of 12 bedrooms and 12 baths, providing ample space for family and guests. The main house itself is a sprawling structure, but it’s the additional buildings that truly set this property apart.
What amenities are included in the 6.3-acre estate?
Strongheart Manor is more than just a Richard Geres house in Hamptons – it’s a complete luxury compound. The 6.3-acre estate features:
- A chef’s kitchen for gourmet meal preparation
- Formal living and dining rooms for entertaining
- A screened-in porch for enjoying the outdoors
- Two fully-equipped guest houses
- A tea house for quiet contemplation
- A basketball court for active recreation
- Manicured gardens throughout the property
But the amenities don’t stop there. What makes this waterfront property truly unique?
What makes the waterfront property unique?
Strongheart Manor’s location on Peconic Bay is perhaps its most valuable asset. The estate boasts:
- 300 feet of bay frontage for unobstructed water views
- A deep-water dock for boating enthusiasts
- A private sandy beach for sunbathing and swimming
- An energy-efficient design to minimize environmental impact
With its combination of luxurious amenities and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder this property attracted high-profile buyers. But who ultimately ended up purchasing Richard Gere’s Hamptons estate?
Who is the new owner of Richard Gere’s Hamptons estate?
Hey, did you hear about Richard Gere’s house in Hamptons? It’s got a new owner! This place is seriously amazing, and guess who snagged it? Some tech billionaire! They closed the deal today. Must be nice, right? Living the dream in Gere’s old digs!
Why did Matt Lauer purchase the Strongheart Manor?
In 2016, former “Today” show host Matt Lauer made headlines when he bought the property from Richard Gere. Lauer, already a Hamptons resident, was reportedly drawn to the estate’s privacy and expansive grounds.
But what motivated Lauer to make such a significant investment, especially given his existing properties in the area?
How much did Matt Lauer pay for the estate?
The sale of Strongheart Manor was one of the most significant real estate transactions in Hamptons history. Matt Lauer paid $36.5 million for the estate, a substantial sum even by luxury real estate standards.
However, this final sale price was actually a significant reduction from the original asking price. How did the selling process unfold, and why did the price change so dramatically?
What are Matt Lauer’s plans for the property?
Since purchasing Strongheart Manor, Lauer has kept a low profile regarding his plans for the estate. Reportedly, he intended to use the property as a family retreat and potentially for entertaining guests.
However, given the subsequent controversies surrounding Lauer’s career, questions have arisen about the future of this prestigious property. Will it remain a private residence, or could it change hands again in the near future?
What was the selling process like for Richard Gere’s Hamptons home?
So, selling Richard Gere’s Hamptons home was quite the buzz! This sprawling acre estate really caught people’s attention. It features two guesthouses and tons of charm. The whole process was like a whirlwind, but hey, that’s the real estate market today!
How long was the estate on the market?
Richard Gere’s journey to sell Strongheart Manor was not a quick one. The property was originally listed in 2013 for a staggering $65 million. However, it would be three years before the estate finally found a buyer.
During this time, the property underwent several price adjustments. But what factors contributed to the extended time on the market?
What was the original asking price compared to the final sale price?
The selling price of Strongheart Manor saw significant fluctuations over the years:
- 2013: Originally asked $65 million
- 2014: Price drop to $56 million
- 2015: Further reduced to $47.5 million
- 2016: Sold for $36.5 million
This represents a nearly 44% reduction from the initial asking price. But why such a dramatic change, and how did it impact potential buyers?
Who were the potential buyers before Matt Lauer?
While Matt Lauer ultimately purchased the property, he wasn’t the only high-profile individual interested in Strongheart Manor. The estate’s unique features and prime location attracted attention from various celebrities and business moguls.
However, the high asking price initially limited the pool of potential buyers. It wasn’t until the price dropped significantly that serious offers began to come in.
What makes the Strongheart Manor estate a desirable property?
What makes the Strongheart Manor estate so desirable? Well, for starters, it’s a 6.3-acre estate that used to be home from Richard Gere. According to the New York Post, this place is now on the market for a whopping 65 million, down from the original 36.5 million.
Located in Pound Ridge, it’s got everything you could want: a waterfront pond, a swimming pool, and even two guesthouses. The Richard Geres house itself is super chic and spans thousands of square feet. Plus, the property includes a private patio for those cozy evenings.
Richard Gere, famous for his role in “Gigolo,” and his ex-wife Carey Lowell once called this place home. The property was initially listed at 44.8 million, then 45 million, and even 47.5 million at one point, but now it’s a steal at 11.3 million.
With a gate ensuring privacy, it’s no wonder Susan Breitenbach calls it a must-see. This Sag Harbor property is anything but a disgrace, offering a luxurious lifestyle wrapped in nature’s beauty. Check the privacy policy for more details!
What are the benefits of owning a waterfront property in the Hamptons?
Owning a waterfront property in the Hamptons offers numerous advantages:
- Breathtaking views of Peconic Bay
- Direct access to water activities
- Increased privacy and exclusivity
- Potential for appreciation in value
But beyond these general benefits, what specifically makes Strongheart Manor stand out?
How does the location in Sag Harbor add to the estate’s value?
Sag Harbor is one of the most sought-after areas in the Hamptons. This historic whaling village offers:
- A charming downtown area with boutiques and restaurants
- A vibrant arts and culture scene
- Proximity to other Hamptons hotspots
- A more laid-back atmosphere compared to some other Hamptons communities
How does Strongheart Manor’s location capitalize on these benefits while still maintaining its privacy?
What are the unique architectural features of the mansion?
Strongheart Manor’s architecture blends historic charm with modern luxury. Some standout features include:
- High ceilings throughout the main Richard Geres house in Hamptons
- A formal living room with panoramic water views
- Multiple fireplaces, including an outdoor fireplace pavilion
- A wraparound porch for enjoying the sea breeze
These architectural elements, combined with Richard Gere’s thoughtful renovations, create a truly one-of-a-kind property that continues to captivate the imagination of luxury real estate enthusiasts.
Summary
In conclusion, Richard Gere’s Hamptons house, Strongheart Manor, represents the pinnacle of luxury living in one of America’s most exclusive communities. From its rich history to its stunning amenities and prime location, this estate offers a glimpse into the world of high-end real estate and celebrity lifestyles. As the property enters its next chapter under Matt Lauer’s ownership, one can only wonder what the future holds for this remarkable piece of Hamptons history.