The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, could be facing a significant financial setback as they risk losing the substantial funding they once received from King Charles.
This loss not only endangers their luxurious lifestyle in California but also undermines the very foundation of their post-royal existence.
Public records indicate that the couple’s names do not appear on the grant deeds associated with their property.
Instead, the estate was quietly sold in mid-June to a mysterious trust with an intentionally obscure name.
Interestingly, this trust shares a mailing address with Meghan Markle’s long-time Hollywood business manager.
Further investigation reveals that the buyers of the 7.4-acre compound secured a $9.5 million mortgage for the purchase.
The property is nestled away on a private, gated street, ensuring utmost privacy.
While the price tag remains undeniably hefty, it can be argued that Meghan and Harry managed to acquire the estate at a discounted rate.
The previous owner, Russian businessman Sergei Grishin, purchased it in 2009 for $25.3 million.
However, the couple encountered difficulties when it came to fulfilling their payment obligations within the agreed timeframe.
Although Prince Charles did not directly purchase the property for them, his passing in March 2023 could potentially lead to his wife enforcing the contract.
During negotiations, Meghan and Harry insisted on including the furnishings and decor as part of the purchase, particularly for their second home.
This arrangement allowed them to acquire a turnkey property.
The estate had been on the market for some time, and the seller was willing to include the furnishings to expedite the deal.
However, it appears that the funds provided were insufficient, prompting rumors that Tyler Perry had to lend the couple millions of dollars to help resolve their financial predicament.
Given Meghan’s tendency to obfuscate and her reputation as a pathological liar, doubts have arisen regarding the true ownership of the property.
Numerous YouTubers have delved into the matter, attempting to uncover the actual owner since July 2020.
The lack of transparency surrounding this place is striking.
What is certain is that it has always been available for rent or hire at a rate of $700 per hour for filming purposes.
Following Sergey Grishin’s passing, his wife now holds the papers and contract for the villa.
As such, she possesses the power to evict the Sussexes whenever someone with the means to purchase and maintain the property emerges.
The recorded sale price of the estate on June 9, 2020, was $14.6 million, marking a significant loss of $10.6 million for Sergey Grishin.
In 2019, the annual property tax amounted to a staggering $282,000, based on an assessed total value of $26 million.
However, following the sale, the assessed value of the property was updated to $13.5 million, resulting in a reduced annual real estate tax of $144,000.
The luxurious estate boasts nine bedrooms and fourteen bathrooms, contrary to the frequently reported sixteen bathrooms.
Additionally, it features six fireplaces and was built in 2003.
The property also includes a pool house spanning 903 square feet, a garage measuring 1,760 square feet, and a pool and spa area covering 234,353 square feet or 5.38 acres.
With the uncertainty surrounding their financial situation and the potential loss of their opulent residence, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex face a challenging future as they navigate their post-royal life.
The consequences of losing the support once provided by King Charles could have far-reaching implications for their lifestyle and aspirations.