What happened to Epstein’s Manhattan townhouse?

Jeffrey Epstein’s Manhattan townhouse at 9 East 71st Street on the Upper East Side was sold in 2020 for approximately $51 million. The sale was part of the broader wind-down of Epstein’s estate following his August 2019 death.

The Property: The townhouse is a seven-story limestone mansion measuring approximately 21,000 square feet — one of the largest private residences in New York City, purchased by Epstein in 1989 with help from Les Wexner for $13.2 million. Wexner later transferred ownership to Epstein, though the circumstances of that transfer have been questioned.

As Evidence: The property was extensively searched by FBI agents following Epstein’s 2019 arrest. During the search, investigators found large amounts of cash, loose diamonds, gold objects, a foreign passport under a false identity, and photographs and other materials that were seized as potential evidence.

Victim Accounts: Multiple victims described being abused at the Manhattan townhouse, which they described as elaborate and opulent — featuring an unexplained marble statue of a chess board with anatomically detailed figures, framed photographs of prominent personalities, and unusual artwork.

The Sale: The estate listed the property and sold it in August 2020 for approximately $51 million. The buyer’s identity was initially obscured through a shell company but was later identified as Fortress Investment Group founder Michael Novogratz and related parties. It was subsequently resold.

Current Status: As of 2025, the property has undergone renovation by its subsequent owners. The sale generated one of the larger estate contributions toward victim compensation.