Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are reportedly searching for a new residence in the exclusive California private community of Hope Ranch.
It seems that the couple has realized their current sprawling home does not properly accommodate their family of four, though it remains unclear whether the issue lies with the size or the layout of their current residence.
Hope Ranch, located in the suburb of Santa Barbara, California, is renowned for its affluence and its focus on equestrian activities.
The community offers a range of amenities, including a country club, a tennis court, a golf club, and an extensive network of horseback riding trails spanning 27 miles.
Approximately 10% of the residents in Hope Ranch own horses, highlighting the community’s dedication to catering to equestrians.
While reports suggest that Meghan and Harry may have already purchased a property in Hope Ranch, this information has not yet been confirmed.
Speculation arose last week when moving trucks were spotted at their Montecito mansion, fueling rumors that the couple had sold their house.
One YouTube commenter, Barbara Moorman, suggested that perhaps the reason for their move is that they do not actually own the property and the true owner is forcing them out.
Interestingly, a local resident who grew up in Montecito shared their experience of exploring the previous house that stood on the site.
The property belonged to a McCormick, and after the construction of the new house, it became a favorite spot for birds to perch and relieve themselves due to the nearby eucalyptus trees that attract the birds.
Consequently, the house earned the nickname “the bird shit house” among Montecito locals.
Another theory proposed by some is that Harry and Meghan might be facing financial difficulties, unable to afford the mortgage and maintenance costs associated with their current residence, which reportedly incurs property taxes amounting to $70,000 every six months or $140,000 annually.
Despite previously expressing contentment with their current living situation, earlier this year it was reported that the couple’s property was plagued by unpleasant odors.
This issue stemmed from the 42-acre saltwater marsh upon which the area was built, which serves as a bird refuge.
The marsh emitted a foul smell akin to a giant toilet, according to reports.
A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described the smell as similar to offal and claimed it made their stomach churn.
Many homeowners in the area were said to close their windows when the stench wafted over.
Following the Queen’s funeral, Harry and Meghan returned to the United States to reunite with their children and resume their professional endeavors outside the royal family.
However, royal expert Eric Schiffer believes that the extensive coverage of Her Majesty’s funeral may have negatively impacted the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s standing in their creative pursuits.
Schiffer asserts that as younger royals like Prince George and Princess Charlotte take center stage at such events, they pose a threat to overshadow Harry and Meghan’s fame as they grow older, not only within the United Kingdom but also internationally.
The funeral proved to be a challenging day for Harry, as he had to confront the loss of a loved one while simultaneously grappling with his diminished influence and position within the royal family.
Schiffer’s comments coincide with reports that King Charles III may face mounting pressure to make decisive decisions regarding the future roles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, particularly in light of the Danish Queen’s recent decision to strip her grandchildren of their royal titles.
Royal correspondent Jacob Heinel Jensen draws parallels between the situations of Prince Harry and the Danish Prince Joachim, who recently expressed his grievances on television, highlighting the potential implications for the British monarchy.
Jensen further emphasizes the significance of Princess Margaret, who held a close relationship with the Queen and was referred to as “Lilibet,” the Queen’s childhood nickname.
Her prominent position near the Queen’s coffin during the funeral in London underscores her importance as one of Europe’s most senior royals.
Charles, who has long spoken about the need to streamline the royal family, will undoubtedly observe the developments in Denmark with great interest.