Hollywood filmmaker George Lucas purchased a £40 million mansion in northwest London, exemplifying continued American interest in the luxury London property market despite a recent slump, with notable recent sales including Tom Ford's £80 million mansion.
Rich Americans are increasingly buying old French chateaus, drawn by their romantic allure and relatively low prices compared to U.S. real estate. However, these properties often require extensive and costly renovations, with maintenance costs and French bureaucracy adding to the challenges. Buyers like Mark Goff and Phillip Engel, who purchased Château Avensac, and Abigail Carter, who bought Château de Borie, are turning these estates into event venues to offset expenses. Despite the difficulties, the dream of owning a piece of French history remains appealing to many.