Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are no strangers to the real estate game, having reportedly raked in a staggering $190 million from house flipping ventures over the past two decades. According to a recent report from The Wall Street Journal, the power couple has dabbled in purchasing and selling properties, amassing a significant fortune through their keen eye for lucrative investments. The outlet revealed that Ellen, 67, and de Rossi, 52, have acquired around 34 homes since the mid-2000s, with a particular focus on California locales like Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Montecito.
Their interest in architecture and interior design has played a pivotal role in their house flipping activities, with Ellen expressing her passion for contemporary and midcentury styles in a phone interview. The couple’s portfolio includes properties held onto for varying durations, some undergoing quick turnovers while others are long-term investments. In terms of financial returns, they have reportedly netted a whopping $190 million from property sales, boasting an average profit margin of 37%, as per The Wall Street Journal’s findings.
Despite these impressive figures, the couple’s business manager, Harley Neuman, suggested a more conservative estimate after accounting for renovation costs and other expenses associated with the transactions. Neuman highlighted the intricate process involved in preparing properties for sale, emphasizing that the true earnings may be lower than initially projected. Ellen’s penchant for including furniture in sales further complicates the financial calculations, as these costs are often overlooked in profit assessments.
The allure of owning an “Ellen house” has not gone unnoticed, with real estate professionals attesting to the added value associated with properties tied to the famous duo. Celebrity purchasers such as Will Ferrell, Ariana Grande, and the late Heath Ledger have reportedly acquired homes refurbished by Ellen and de Rossi, further underlining the appeal of their signature design aesthetic. Despite the sentimental attachment to their sold properties, Ellen reflected on the bittersweet feeling of parting ways with each home.
Having recently ventured into the UK market, Ellen and Portia listed their Kitesbridge Farm for approximately $30 million after purchasing it for about $20 million in 2024. The decision to settle permanently in the UK prompted them to explore properties accommodating de Rossi’s equestrian interests, signalling a shift towards larger estate investments. While the couple intends to continue their real estate pursuits overseas, Ellen hinted at a potential slowdown as she gears up to re-enter the workforce.
The dynamic duo’s foray into house flipping has not only yielded substantial financial gains but also cemented their reputation as tastemakers in the world of luxury real estate. With a blend of creativity, business acumen, and a touch of Hollywood glamour, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have established themselves as formidable players in the competitive property market. Their success story serves as a testament to the transformative power of strategic investments and unwavering dedication to their craft.