Betty White’s house has long been a symbol of her timeless charm and enduring legacy. Nestled in the prestigious Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, this iconic mansion was purchased by the beloved actress in the 1970s and remained her sanctuary for over five decades. After Betty White’s passing, the estate was sold for an impressive $10.5 million in 2022, drawing attention from fans and real estate enthusiasts alike.
Why does this house matter? Beyond being a celebrity home, its 2023 demolition sparked heated discussions about the evolving landscape of luxury real estate in Los Angeles. Fans mourned the loss of a physical piece of Hollywood history, while the market moved toward modern, sprawling estates.
Location Spotlight: Brentwood, LA – The Elite Neighborhood of Betty White’s House
Betty White’s house was located in Brentwood, one of Los Angeles’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Situated on the Westside of the city, Brentwood boasts luxurious homes, tree-lined streets, and a reputation for privacy and prestige.
Why Brentwood?
- Upscale Environment: The average home price in Brentwood is around $4.2 million, more than four times the Los Angeles city average.
- Proximity: Brentwood offers easy access to beaches, hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, and major film studios.
- Celebrity Neighbors: Stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ben Affleck have called Brentwood home, making it a magnetic spot for the rich and famous.
Here’s a quick comparison of Brentwood’s real estate versus the broader Los Angeles market:
Feature Brentwood Los Angeles city
Median Home Price $4.2 million $950,000
Average Lot Size 0.5 acres 0.15 acres
Celebrity Resident Density High Medium
History of Betty White’s House: From Humble Buy to Hollywood Haven
Betty White’s journey with her Brentwood mansion began in the 1970s when she purchased the property for just $150,000—a modest sum even then. Adjusted for inflation, that would be roughly $1 million today, a steal considering the neighborhood’s soaring values.
Over the next five decades, the house became a private sanctuary for Betty. The property saw only minor renovations, preserving its original charm rather than turning it into a flashy mansion. This choice reflected Betty’s personality—a mix of simplicity, warmth, and elegance.
Life at the Mansion
The house wasn’t just a place to live; it was a hub for memorable moments:
- Pets: Betty was famously devoted to her animals. The house featured pet-friendly yards and quiet corners perfect for her furry companions.
- Social Gatherings: Friends and co-stars often visited for intimate dinners and celebrations.
- Quiet Retreat: Amid Hollywood’s chaos, the home offered Betty peace and privacy.
Inside Betty White’s House: Room-by-Room Tour
Step inside Betty White’s house, and you enter a world that blends classic Southern California style with personal touches reflecting her life and loves.
Exterior and Curb Appeal
The mansion showcased classic Spanish-style architecture, spanning over 5,000 square feet on a 0.75-acre lot. The exterior featured:
- Lush Gardens: Carefully tended plants and colorful blooms surrounded the property, giving it a welcoming vibe.
- Swimming Pool: A sparkling pool area perfect for relaxation and entertaining guests.
- Pet-Friendly Yards: Spaces where Betty’s beloved animals could roam freely.
Living Spaces
The main living areas embraced a cozy, inviting atmosphere:
- Living Room: Spacious and filled with natural light, it included fireplaces that added warmth and charm during cooler evenings.
- Kitchen: Functional and well-equipped, this was a favorite spot for Betty’s baking adventures, where she whipped up treats shared with friends and family.
Bedrooms and Personal Quarters
The private areas of the home spoke to comfort and tranquility:
- Main Suite: Featuring large windows that framed scenic Brentwood views, the main bedroom was a peaceful retreat.
- Guest Rooms: Designed to welcome friends and co-stars, these rooms balanced privacy with homey touches.
Outdoor Oasis
The backyard was an entertainer’s dream:
- Patios and Seating Areas: Multiple spots for outdoor dining and relaxing.
- Gardens and Greenery: Perfect for quiet meditation or lively gatherings.
- Pet Areas: Dedicated spaces where Betty’s pets enjoyed the sunshine safely.
The $10M Sale: What Happened After Betty White’s Passing
After Betty White’s passing in 2021, the estate was put on the market in 2022 with an asking price of $10.575 million. The sale attracted significant attention, quickly drawing buyers eager to own a piece of Hollywood history.
Sale Details
- Listing: The property was listed through a top Los Angeles real estate agency, highlighting its iconic status.
- Buyer Info: While the buyer remained private, rumors suggested a developer interested in creating a modern luxury estate.
- Market Context: The sale came amid a post-COVID real estate boom in LA, driving prices upward and increasing demand for upscale properties.
Demolition Drama: Why Betty White’s House Was Torn Down
In 2023, just a year after the sale, Betty White’s house was demolished. This decision sparked mixed reactions across the community and among fans.
Reasons for Demolition
- Modernization: The new owners planned a 12,000-square-foot modern mansion in line with current luxury trends.
- Market Trends: In Los Angeles, about 20% of luxury homes sold lead to teardowns, as buyers prefer brand-new builds with state-of-the-art amenities.
Controversy
- Fan Backlash: Many mourned the loss of a historic home tied to a beloved celebrity.
- Preservation Debates: Discussions arose about whether celebrity homes should be preserved as cultural landmarks or allowed to evolve with the market.
What Replaced Betty White’s House? The New Build Vision
While the original mansion is gone, the story continues with plans for a new home on the property.
The New Design
- Modern Minimalism: Permit filings suggest a sleek, minimalist design focusing on clean lines and open spaces.
- Sustainability: Rumors indicate the inclusion of eco-friendly features such as solar panels and efficient landscaping.
- Size: The new build will nearly double the original home’s square footage, offering expansive living areas and luxury amenities.
Lessons from Betty White’s House for Homebuyers and Fans
What can we learn from the story of Betty White’s house?
- Buy for Legacy: If you purchase a celebrity home, appreciate its history rather than viewing it solely as an investment.
- Preserve Where Possible: Maintaining original features can honor a home’s story and increase its appeal.
- Understand Market Trends: Luxury real estate often shifts toward new builds, but balance is key between modernity and heritage.
Where Does Betty White Currently Live?
Betty White passed away on December 31, 2021, so she does not currently live anywhere.
