Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch Sells For $22 Million

(Image credit: Suzanne Perkins)

Michael Jackson's Neverland ranch has sold for $22 million, a massive $78 million drop from the original price. The huge reduction is not surprising given that the estate has lingered on the market since 2015.

Here, we showcase the amazing exteriors of the house.

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Neverland was Jackson's fabled recreation of a childhood he hadn't had. The Neverland Ranch had every fun attraction a kid could possibly want, including three railroads with a custom-built electric train, an amusement arcade, and even its own petting zoo.

However, the new resident will be unable to experience Neverland's Jackson-era quirks. The property was completely stripped of all references to Jackson following the singer's sudden death in 2009.

Jackson had originally bought the ranch in 1988, following a visit to the estate while Paul McCartney was staying there. It was then known as Sycamore Valley Ranch and had the original name reinstated when the property was put up for sale in 2015, for the original asking price of $100 million.

Today, the ranch incorporates a 12,000-square-foot main house, guest houses, several barns, animal shelter facilities and a maintenance shop.

The main house, designed in French Normandy style, has six bedrooms, including a master suite sprawling over two stories and featuring a fireplace, a separate sitting room, and two baths.

The grounds of the ranch feature a free-form swimming pool, a covered barbecue area, basketball court, tennis court and a 50-seat movie theater with a private balcony and stage. The four-acre lake also has a fountain.

Who owns Neverland now?

The ranch has been bought by billionaire businessman Ron Burkle, who knew Jackson. He has landed an incredible deal on an estate with tremendous potential.

Why is it called Neverland?

'Never Never Land' was where Peter Pan lived and is associated with childhood – and particularly with never-ending childhood.

Pictures courtesy of Top Ten Real Estate Deals.

Anna is a professional writer and academic. She taught English Literature for several years before joining Future where she wrote for Real Homes, Homes & Gardens and Livingetc for four years. She is a regular contributor for Parade Home, BiggerPockets, and many other publications. In her spare time, Anna enjoys hiking and gardening.