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s Donald Trump's second presidency begins, the wealthy and influential are flocking to Washington D.C. in search of access and influence. However, this influx has created a real estate frenzy, with high-end properties in short supply. "We've been overwhelmed by the wealth factor that has come to Washington since the election," says Jim Bell, executive vice president at TTR Sotheby's International Realty.

    To meet demand, agents are getting creative, cold-calling past clients and negotiating prices. Jonathan Taylor, a managing partner at the firm, notes that "there are a lot of very wealthy people looking for a seat at the table." David Rubenstein, founder of the Carlyle Group, points out that D.C.'s housing market is relatively affordable compared to other luxury destinations like New York or Southampton.

    One example of this trend is Commerce Secretary pick Howard Lutnick's recent purchase of a $25 million mansion previously owned by Fox News anchor Bret Baier. The 16,250-square-foot estate features a heated pool and putting green, among other amenities. Sotheby's agent Daniel Heider notes that he's selling more real estate than ever before, calling it a "Trump surge" rather than just a bump.

    Other high-profile buyers have also made their mark on the D.C. real estate scene. Amazon's Jeff Bezos bought a 27,000-square-foot space in 2016 for $23 million, and Elon Musk is reportedly eyeing the Line Hotel to create a private club. With demand so high, some owners may consider selling up and getting out of town – especially if they're not fans of the new administration's style.