Get ready to dive into the world of real estate and uncover the impressive property portfolios of the leading ladies from the iconic TV series, Desperate Housewives. These women not only captivated audiences with their on-screen drama but also quietly built multimillion-dollar empires off-screen. Let's explore their financial success and the savvy investments that have made them household names in the real estate game.
Felicity Huffman: A Real Estate Powerhouse
Felicity Huffman, known for her role as Lynette Scavo, boasts a net worth of $68 million (AUD). Her real estate portfolio is nothing short of impressive. In 2015, Huffman and her husband, actor William H. Macy, sold a luxurious mountain retreat near Basalt, Colorado, for a whopping $5.9 million (AUD). But that's not all; the couple also owns a replica of Huffman's childhood home in Little Woody Creek, Colorado, adding a touch of sentimentality to their property empire.
When Desperate Housewives came to an end, the pair seized the opportunity to invest in a five-bedroom home in the prestigious Outpost Estate neighborhood in Los Angeles. By purchasing the house next door to their Hollywood Hills home, they created a three-acre compound with two main houses, valued at a staggering $12-$15 million (AUD).
However, Huffman's journey wasn't without controversy. In 2019, she became embroiled in a scandal related to the US college admissions process. Celebrities and wealthy individuals were accused of using their wealth to bypass legitimate admissions and secure places for their children in top schools. Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and served a two-week prison sentence. This incident sparked debates about privilege and the ethics of using wealth for personal gain.
Eva Longoria: The Savvy Investor
Eva Longoria, who played the glamorous Gabrielle Solis, has a net worth of $122 million (AUD) and has established herself as a shrewd real estate investor. In 2015, she purchased a Hollywood Hills compound previously owned by Tom Cruise for $17.3 million (AUD). She later sold it in 2020 for $12.5 million (AUD), showcasing her ability to spot lucrative investment opportunities. Longoria also owns a gated residence in Zuma Beach, Malibu, purchased in 2008 for $3.8 million (AUD), and a property in San Antonio that houses her charity, Eva's Heroes.
In 2017, the Young and the Restless alum bought a Beverly Hills mansion for $20.5 million (AUD). This property hit the market in 2023 with an asking price of nearly $35 million (AUD), highlighting the significant appreciation in its value. Longoria later reduced the price to $30 million (AUD) in May 2024, indicating a strategic approach to her real estate investments.
Despite her success, Longoria has shared insights into the challenges she faced on the set of Desperate Housewives. In a letter supporting Felicity Huffman during a 2019 court trial, Longoria revealed that she had been bullied by another cast member for years. She credited Huffman with intervening to stop the bullying, although the identity of the bully remains unknown.
Teri Hatcher: Maintaining a Significant Net Worth
Teri Hatcher, who portrayed Susan Mayer, has managed to maintain a substantial net worth of $75 million (AUD). Much of her wealth can be attributed to her successful acting career. In 2000, Hatcher purchased a home in Studio City, California, for $2.2 million (AUD). This three-bedroom house boasts luxurious amenities, including a private courtyard, outdoor kitchen, swimming pool, and spa.
In 2018, the Golden Globe winner transformed this property into an income-generating asset. She rented out the fully furnished pad for $38,000 to $45,000 (AUD) per month, demonstrating her business acumen. However, Hatcher's success on Desperate Housewives was reportedly marred by strained relationships with her co-stars. Multiple sources claim that Hatcher had significant rifts with numerous cast members, and this was further evidenced when the other actresses excluded her from a parting gift for the crew.
Marcia Cross: Keeping Her Property Holdings Private
Marcia Cross, who played the elegant Bree Van de Kamp, boasts a net worth of $30.5 million (AUD). While she has kept her property holdings relatively private, it is known that she moved into a residence in West Los Angeles in 2007. Cross's real estate sales details are scarce, adding an air of mystery to her financial portfolio.
Nicollette Sheridan: A Multimillion-Dollar Net Worth
Nicollette Sheridan, who brought the character of Edie Britt to life, has amassed a net worth of $38 million (AUD). In 2008, she and her then-fiance, Michael Bolton, purchased a mansion in Hidden Hills, California, for $1.9 million (AUD). Sheridan retained the residence after their breakup, which reportedly occurred just two days after they moved in together. The estate became her primary home, and in 2023, she listed it for sale at $24 million (AUD).
Sheridan was the only main cast member who did not star in the entire series. Her character was killed off in the fifth season after her contract was not renewed. She later filed a $31 million (AUD) lawsuit against series creator Marc Cherry, alleging that she was fired because she reported him for alleged assault on set. Cherry denied the allegations, and the case was ultimately dismissed.
As we delve into the property portfolios of the Desperate Housewives cast, it's evident that their on-screen success translated into impressive financial gains. From luxurious homes to savvy investments, these leading ladies have built multimillion-dollar empires. Their stories serve as a reminder that success often comes with its own set of challenges and controversies. So, what do you think? Are you inspired by their real estate ventures, or do you have a different perspective on their financial journeys? Feel free to share your thoughts and join the discussion in the comments below!
