Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky is looking to make a great profit on the expansive estate he and his wife Janet own in Thousand Oaks, California. The Wall Street Journal reports that the Gretzkys have listed the 6.5-acre estate for almost $23 million – and this will actually be the second time selling this home for the couple. This luxurious property is not just a house; it's a testament to their journey and a piece of history intertwined with the lives of its owners.
Gretzky first purchased the property back in the early 2000s, hiring architect Richard Landry to design a 13,000-square-foot mansion in the Colonial Revival style. It has an impressive array of outdoor features, including a fountain and a bridge between the main house and one of two guest houses. Amenities include a screening room, billiard room, gym, and tennis court (but no ice rink, it seems), and great panoramic views of the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains and nearby Lake Sherwood.
In an unusual bit of history involving the Gretzkys and the property, this is actually the second time they're selling it. The first time was in 2007, when they unloaded it for $18.5 million following Gretzky's position as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes. When they sold the home in 2007, it was to Lenny Dykstra, the former baseball pro who went on to become a "financial guru" before ending up bankrupt and more or less in disgrace. After purchasing the property from the Gretzkys, Dykstra saw his fortunes collapse along with the real estate market, and he repeatedly tried to unload the property with multiple price reductions, eventually losing it to foreclosure after declaring bankruptcy and being arrested for fraud.
After returning to California, Janet says they couldn't stop thinking about the possibility of returning to their old home, and they decided to acquire it once again in 2018 for $13.5 million: "My teenage daughter Emma became serious with her tennis and all I could see was how great it would be to have our home back…It has felt great—like we never left."
Now, however, their children are grown up, and they say they've decided to move to the West Palm Beach area in order to spend more time with their grandchildren. This move signifies a new chapter in their lives, filled with family and new memories.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Wayne Gretzky
- Personal Details and Bio Data
- Overview of the Gretzky Estate
- History of Ownership
- Current Sale and Future Plans
Biography of Wayne Gretzky
Wayne Gretzky, often referred to as "The Great One," is widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players of all time. His unparalleled skill and vision on the ice have earned him numerous accolades, including four Stanley Cup championships and multiple MVP awards throughout his career. Gretzky's influence extends beyond the rink, as he has become a prominent figure in sports and popular culture.
Early Life and Career
Born on January 26, 1961, in Brantford, Ontario, Canada, Gretzky displayed exceptional talent from a young age. He began playing hockey at the age of six and quickly became a standout player. His early career included playing for the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) before making his professional debut in the National Hockey League (NHL) at the tender age of 17.
A Legendary Career
Throughout his career, Gretzky amassed a record-breaking number of goals and assists, solidifying his legacy as a hockey legend. His ability to read the game and make split-second decisions set him apart from his peers. After retiring from professional play, Gretzky transitioned into coaching and business, continuing to contribute to the sport he loves.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Wayne Gretzky |
| Date of Birth | January 26, 1961 |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Spouse | Janet Jones |
| Children | Paulina, Ty, Trevor, Emma |
Overview of the Gretzky Estate
The Gretzky estate is a stunning representation of luxury living, showcasing the couple's taste and lifestyle. Spanning 6.5 acres, the property includes a 13,000-square-foot mansion designed in the Colonial Revival style. The estate is not only a home but a sanctuary that offers privacy and breathtaking views of the Santa Monica Mountains.
With outdoor features such as a serene fountain and a charming bridge connecting the main house to guest accommodations, the estate is designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The amenities include a screening room, billiard room, gym, and tennis court, making it a perfect retreat for family gatherings and social events.
History of Ownership
The Gretzkys purchased the estate in the early 2000s, creating a rich history within its walls. After initially selling it in 2007, the property changed hands to Lenny Dykstra, whose financial troubles led to its eventual foreclosure. The Gretzkys reclaimed their beloved home in 2018, highlighting their emotional connection to the property.
Current Sale and Future Plans
As the Gretzkys prepare to sell their estate for nearly $23 million, they are looking forward to a new chapter in their lives. The couple has decided to relocate to the West Palm Beach area, where they aim to spend more quality time with their grandchildren. This transition marks a new beginning for them, filled with family and new adventures.
In conclusion, Wayne Gretzky's estate is not just a luxurious property; it holds memories and experiences that reflect the couple's journey. As they prepare for this next step, fans and followers eagerly await what the future holds for "The Great One" and his family.
