Donald Trump, Patricia Kluge and the Kluge estate in Virginia
Donald Trump is taking on Bank of America over divorcee Patricia Kluge’s 24,000-square-foot, neo-Georgian mansion in Virginia, the Wall Street Journal reported. Having foreclosed on the 45-room property, Bank of America has now listed it for $16 million, though buyers may be put off by the fact that the front and back yards are not included — they’re owned by Trump, a personal friend of Kluge’s, and he’s erected signs on the lawn saying “No Trespassing. This Land is Owned by Trump Virginia Acquisitions LLC,” to prove it. He’s also purposely allowed the lawn to become overgrown.
“Maybe someone is stupid enough to buy the house,” Trump said. “I wish them luck.”
Kluge’s loss has been Trump’s gain over the last six months. Aided by Kluge, Trump has picked up little pieces of the former millionairess’ Virginia estate and winery. He purchased her 1,000-acre vineyard and winery for a fraction of their value, as well as 200 acres nearby for only $500,000.
Having divorced one of the richest men in America, Kluge was once worth more than $100 million. According to the Journal, Kluge then proceeded to spend all of her funds on fashion and a personal wine empire. She was eventually forced to sell off her Cartier diamonds and Givenchy gowns before declaring personal bankruptcy in June.
Patricia’s ex-husband, the late John Kluge, willed his Florida mansion to Columbia University after his death. The Real Deal attended an open house at the property, which hit the market in May, for $59 million. [WSJ]