What Entertainers are Looking for in Luxury Real Estate
For entertainers and creatives, a home isn’t just a place to unwind—it’s a canvas, a stage, and often, a reflection of their artistic identity. Compass Luxury and the Compass Sports & Entertainment Division sat down with agents of high-profile clientele to explore how today’s creatives are redefining the concept of home.
What trends are emerging among artists in the real estate space?
Luxury homes are increasingly designed as gallery-like spaces to display private art collections. "High-profile architects like Reinaldo Borges and Kobi Karp are creating homes that are works of art themselves," says Liz Hogan. Many artists see their homes as canvases, merging timeless design with personal expression.” Artists blend design with creative vision to reflect their individuality," adds Melissa Young. Bold art and expansive gallery walls are becoming must-haves. "Gallery walls and large-scale art are essential," says Gianna Cerullo. Utilizing expansive wall spaces in properties to stage a gallery inspires buyers with ideas for showcasing art in their homes.
Are creatives and entertainers increasingly turning to art as a real estate investment?
The connection between art and real estate is undeniable, with entertainers and athletes leading the charge. "Some entertainers collect art, especially from Europe and North America," says Liz Hogan. “Most of our clients collect art—creatives are drawn to creative things,” adds Michael Maguire. From contemporary to historical works, high-net-worth individuals are turning art into an essential asset class.
This growing fascination isn’t just about portfolios—it's transforming luxury real estate. “Nothing makes a house feel more valuable than good art,” notes Melissa Young, highlighting the rise of art rental companies for staging. Today, properties are becoming personal galleries, elevating spaces into works of art for collectors and creatives alike.
Is there a particular region they’re gravitating towards?
When it comes to location, there are some clear preferences emerging based on their line of work. "In Los Angeles, they still want to either live in the hills with massive views or in areas that are walkable but behind gates," says Victoria Massengale & Michael Maguire. For some, proximity to their work or lifestyle is key. “Given the proximity to Nashville, we see a significant number of country music stars drawn to this area,” says Jonathan Spears. Meanwhile, European influences continue to make their mark, with many clients seeking residences that reflect the old-world charm of Europe’s cultural capitals.
How significant is the presence of home theaters in their property preferences?
A home theater has become a coveted luxury, especially for entertainers who value both privacy and functionality. "Home cinemas are a huge selling point for these compound estates," says Liz Hogan, while Johnny Johnston emphasizes the versatility of these spaces, noting that in California, the home movie theater often doubles as an office or entertainment venue. But it’s not a must-have for all—Melissa Young explains, "In my market, clients prefer a great comfy sofa compared to old-style movie seating." Still, for some, a private theater is non-negotiable. "In Los Angeles, the movie industry is huge, so to have a theater in your home is a tremendous plus," Victoria Massengale & Michael Maguire shared with us.
Do they tend to lean towards private opportunities? What drives this choice?
Private properties provide privacy and exclusivity, key for high-profile clients. Victoria Massengale & Michael Maguire note, "Celebrity clients won’t buy an public home unless they absolutely have to… it’s not safe if it’s widely published. Stalkers are real." Ben Moss adds, "There’s a lack of high-end inventory, so clients want what they want, whether on or privately." Shelly Tretter Lynch says," Private property opportunities help secure their identity or find specific properties." Elizabeth McNulty highlights its appeal for privacy, while Marie-Claire Martineau recognizes that pocket listings aren’t always essential.
Is the presence of a doorman a must for these buyers?
Security remains a top priority, with many celebrity buyers seeking homes with doormen or private entrances. "A doorman is a major amenity high-profile clients demand in today’s market," says Liz Hogan. In California, the equivalent of a doorman is a gated street—areas that cater to high-profile clients who want to retain some semblance of normalcy. "There are enclaves of homes specifically created for high-visibility clients who still want to be able to walk their dog in their front yard," says Johnny Johnston. Whether it’s a doorman or a gated community, the focus is on safety, and many clients prefer these added security features when purchasing a property.
Are NDAs a standard practice in their transactions?
While NDAs are not always a requirement, they are common for high-profile clients. "The more famous or high-profile the client, the more likely an NDA will be used," says Liz Hogan. “100% of the time, we usually don’t even ask; we just say send us the NDA over,” shares Johnny Johnston, explaining how standard the practice has become in the luxury market. However, not every client insists on an NDA. “It’s often the agents more than the principals who request them,” says Gianna Cerullo.
In a world where privacy, exclusivity, and individuality are paramount, today’s high-profile entertainers are pushing the boundaries of luxury real estate. From private listings to the integration of art as a key investment, this elite group is redefining the future of luxury living—one creative space at a time. As Ben Moss puts it, "These properties are real pieces of art in their own right."
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