Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is reportedly seeking a nine-bedroom home in the English countryside, a specification that matches her current $15 million Montecito, California estate. The couple, along with their children Archie and Lilibet, arrived in Britain this week and are currently residing in a friend's home while they search for a permanent residence in the Cotswolds.
Markle's reported demands also include a film studio, intended to support her lifestyle brand, As Ever. Prince Harry is said to be prioritizing a significant amount of private land with no public footpaths to ensure privacy. Despite earlier reports of a property acquisition, no deal has been finalized.
The Sussexes are said to be operating with a substantial budget for their UK housing search. This comes as their production deals in Hollywood have reportedly cooled. They are not planning to sell their Montecito mansion, meaning they could soon own three properties, including a vacation home in Portugal.
The financial implications of maintaining multiple high-value properties are notable. The Montecito estate alone incurs annual mortgage and tax bills exceeding $600,000. Luxury real estate brokers suggest that the Montecito property may be quietly put on the market, as such high-profile listings are often handled off-market.
Sources describe the move to England as a fresh start for the couple, with some friends likening it to "Finding Freedom 2," a reference to the 2020 biography about their departure from royal life. This time, however, the focus is on living as private citizens with more personal liberty.
While entertainment ambitions like the film studio are noted, the couple's priorities for their children's schooling appear to lean towards a nurturing, outdoorsy, and sporting environment, reminiscent of Prince Harry's own upbringing. The move to the UK also brings the couple back into proximity with familiar elements of their past, including the British press.
Prince Harry has stated his intention to focus on being a "full-time dad" and reintroduce his children to the British school system. Meghan Markle is expected to continue managing her business interests, potentially splitting her time between continents.