Harrison Ford's Longtime Family Home He Bought for $1M Lists For $20M — Details & Photos

• In 1983, "Indiana Jones" actor Harrison Ford bought a home in Los Angeles for $1 million.
• In 2012, he sold it for $8.2 million to Kevin Reilly who then sold it, four years later, for $12 million.
• Get a glimpse inside the breathtaking property now selling for a whopping $20 million.

In the heart of Los Angeles, a home with a rich Hollywood history has hit the real estate market. The house was once the longtime residence of famous actor Harrison Ford. Ford is known for his iconic roles in "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones."

He purchased the Brentwood home in 1983 for a modest $1 million after the success of "Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi." Ford, a carpenter before his acting career took off, worked on the house himself. The actor used his carpentry skills to restore and remodel the property. Even though he remodeled, he still respected the original architecture.

In a Reddit Q&A, Ford discussed his early career. He shared that he was helping George Lucas with auditions for "Star Wars." He had no idea that he would be offered a role. Surprisingly, he was cast as Han Solo. He shared, "My principal job at the time was carpentry."

At that time, Ford used his carpentry skills to earn a living and remodel his house. In 1970, he built Brazillian singer Sergio Mendes' recording studio. His background in carpentry played a significant role when he later decided to renovate his Brentwood home. It is reported that he designed and crafted some of the woodwork in the house.

In 2012, Ford passed on this sanctuary to Kevin Reilly, the then Chief Content Officer of HBO Max, for $8.2 million. Reilly's tenure at the house was short, lasting only four years. In 2016, he sold the property for $12 million. The new owners were Evan Spiegel, the founder of Snapchat, and his wife, supermodel Miranda Kerr.

Spiegel was 25, and his then-girlfriend Kerr was 33. They purchased the property listed for $12.5 million, for a lower price of $12 million. The couple has since made their modifications to the home.

The property is a creation of renowned architect Gerard Colcord. It was designed and constructed in 1951. It is nestled in a desirable gated community in Brentwood, close to the Getty Center Museum. It occupies 0.8 acres of land and offers 7,164 square feet of living space.

The main house has four bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. Each bedroom provides breathtaking views of Brentwood, a cozy fireplace, and ample room for a sofa. The bathrooms are designed in a farmhouse style. They are complete with a bathtub and hardwood flooring.

It also features a spacious living room, a library, and separate guesthouses. As one steps onto the property, a lengthy gated driveway guides to an ample motor court. It introduces the estate's grandeur.

Mature trees envelop the estate. It has an inviting courtyard and expansive grassy lawns. These contribute to the breathtaking views. A two-story entry foyer welcomes visitors to the main house. It is decorated with elegant paneling. The neighboring living room, opening to a generous terrace, provides an ideal space for hosting guests.

The house also comprises a large formal dining room with a fireplace and a light-filled gourmet kitchen with a cozy breakfast nook. The kitchen has high-end features such as a freestanding island with marble and dual sinks.

The primary suite is a sight to behold with its stunning views, high ceilings, marble bath, and two spacious closets. The property also features a pool house, a catering kitchen, and another two-story guest house.

Additionally, there are two separate guest/staff suites, a wine cellar, and four fireplaces. Upon purchasing the property, Spiegel and Kerr took on remodeling projects. They refined the home's allure and sophistication.

After spending eight years in the home and growing their family, Spiegel and Kerr have recently decided to start a new chapter. They have moved out and listed the house for sale. The asking price is shy of $20 million. This marks the end of their journey with this historic property and the beginning of its next chapter.

The estate is a part of the vibrant Los Angeles real estate scene, known for its frequent celebrity transactions. Its allure stems from its architectural elegance, luxury amenities, celebrity lineage, and prime location.

Originally, the house was a creation of the esteemed Colcord. After his sudden passing, his assistant, Liza Kent, took over the task of completing the addition. Bret Parsons, in his book "Colcord: Home," characterizes the house as a "beautiful country-style colonial" offering "spectacular views."

He further notes that it is a well-preserved home in a picturesque location. Parsons shares an interesting anecdote involving Kent and Ford during the addition's construction. Kent advised Ford that "there is no limit for better." This sentiment impacted Ford and became a guiding principle in his life.

From the 1920s to the 1980s, Colcord crafted historical revival houses inspired by American and British architecture. His designs are celebrated for their simplicity, rustic charm, and wholesome ambiance. They are scattered across Bel-Air, Brentwood, and Westwood.

Harrison Ford's former home is among the many Colcord-designed residences owned by Hollywood personalities. Other distinguished owners of Colcord's designs include Dean Martin and Jerry and Connie Wald. Celebrities who live in Brentwood include Tobey Maguire, LeBron James, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Homes with a celebrity history hold a unique allure in the real estate market. They are not structures of brick and mortar, but repositories of stories, memories, and personal touches added by their famous inhabitants. These homes carry the legacy of their past owners, adding a layer of charm and intrigue that sets them apart.

The journey of such a home is cyclical. It begins with a purchase, often by a celebrity at the peak of their career. The property becomes a canvas, reflecting the owner's tastes and lifestyle. Over time, these modifications and improvements contribute to the home's value appreciation.

Ford’s involvement in remodeling his home, thanks to his background in carpentry, is a testament to this. Also, the remodeling efforts by Spiegel and Kerr added another chapter to the home's story, further enhancing its appeal.

When these homes are listed for sale, they attract attention for their architectural beauty, luxurious features, and the celebrity history they embody. Potential buyers are not just investing in a property, but are buying a piece of Hollywood history.

As we see with Ford’s home, now listed for $20 million, the value of these homes often multiplies over the years. This appreciation is not a reflection of the booming real estate market. It is also a testament to the personal touches and improvements made by the celebrities who once called these places home.

In the end, these homes are more than real estate transactions. They are narratives of personal journeys. They are testaments to careers and symbols of Hollywood's ever-evolving history. And as one owner moves out, another moves in. Thus, the cycle continues.