T
he Badia family is looking to preserve the natural beauty of their Aspen home, and they're willing to pay a premium for it. Joseph A. Badia, the CEO of Badia Spices, recently purchased his neighbor's $37.3 million property, which spans 21 acres, including plans for two new mansions.

    The purchase was made to prevent development on the land, not to pursue it. Badia's agent, AJ Morris, said that the family didn't want massive spec homes built next to their house, which would have impacted their views and the natural beauty of the area. The property also lies along an elk migratory path.

    Badia bought out his neighbor, Marcelo Claure, former CEO of Sprint, who had purchased the land in 2020 with plans for a family compound. Claure listed the property for $45 million in 2023 after changing his plans. Badia acquired two parcels of land, one with an existing dwelling and plans for a new seven-bedroom home, and another with plans for a five-bedroom home and equestrian facilities.

    The Badia family has no immediate plans to build on their new property, but they did purchase the development rights from Claure for under $4 million. The acquisition is seen as a way to preserve the natural beauty of the area, which is subject to county restrictions on development.