Michael Jackson

PHOTO: Michael Jackson

2020 closed a chapter on one of America’s most controversial properties – the ranch of late pop sensation Michael Jackson.

Neverland Ranch had been up for sale for nearly five years but Jackson’s sprawling property finally found a willing buyer late last year.

Billionaire and friend of the late popstar Ron Burkle purchased the 2700-acre (1092Ha) estate in California for about A$28 million.

It was considered a “bargain” since the original listed price was $100 million higher.

The property in the Santa Ynez Valley was first listed in 2015 for about $128 million but the price was reduced numerous times.

Jackson bought the ranch in 1988. Picture: Sothebys International.

Jackson bought the ranch in 1988. Picture: Sothebys International. Source: Supplied

The ranch sold for a $100 million discount. Picture: Sothebys International.

The ranch sold for a $100 million discount. Picture: Sothebys International. Source: Supplied

It returned to the market in 2017 for about $88 million and by 2019 the asking price was $41 million, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Neverland included a 1200 sqm Normandy-style residence, 50-seat movie theatre building, guest quarters, barn and a pool house.

Jackson was known to climb trees on the property and kept imported African giraffes and his pet chimp Bubbles.

Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch sold to billionaire

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