realestate

Sonoma County estate once owned by Jack London sells for $4.75 million

Jack London's Napa Valley estate sells for $4.75M, leveraging author's literary legacy in marketing.

T
he Jack London home in Glen Ellen, where the renowned author penned "White Fang," "The Sea Wolf," and other notable works, has sold for $4.75 million. The property's connection to London provided significant marketing opportunities, with over 50 news outlets covering it domestically and internationally. However, this exposure didn't directly impact the sales price of 4100 Wake Robin Drive.

    Buyers Kristen Berg and Wilfredo Vega purchased the home through Caroline Sebastiani at Sotheby's International Realty. The property's private location in Glen Ellen, close to popular outdoor attractions like Jack London State Park and Sonoma Mountain, was a major draw for buyers. The "resort-like amenities, spacious layout, and high-end finishes" also played a significant role in the sale.

    The three-bedroom, three-bath 4,300-square-foot home underwent a major remodel in 2014 but retained its original footprint from London's time there. Unique features like the octagonal living room, originally part of the Wake Robin Lodge lobby, and the lodge signage and front door, dating back to the 1890s construction, were preserved.

    Sellers Malcolm Walter and Elizabeth Fisher invested approximately $300,000 in upgrades before selling the property for a profit. They had purchased it for $4.5 million in September 2020 and found a new home in Sonoma, closer to where they spend most of their time.

    As part of the marketing efforts, the listing agents compiled an extensive history of the property, detailing London's connection to the Wake Robin Lodge and his time there with Charmain Kittridge. This history was shared with potential buyers, highlighting the property's significance and uniqueness in the wine country market.

Jack London's Sonoma County estate sells for $4.75 million.