Washington, D.C.’s luxury real estate market is set to break new ground as Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for Commerce Secretary, is reportedly under contract to purchase the grand French château-style mansion of Fox News anchor Bret Baier. The home, located in the exclusive Foxhall neighborhood, stands as a symbol of opulence and grandeur, offering a glimpse into the heights of Washington’s elite real estate.
The sale, which is expected to close this week, could make history as the most expensive home sale in the D.C. area, potentially surpassing the $24 million Georgetown home sold in 2007. Initially listed for $31.9 million, the asking price was later reduced to $28.995 million, with the final sale price still undisclosed.
A French Château Fit for Royalty
The residence, constructed on a 1.5-acre estate, is a modern architectural marvel inspired by classic French château design. Originally purchased by Bret Baier and his wife Amy Baier in 2018 for $5.4 million, the couple invested an additional $25 million to build a brand-new, state-of-the-art luxury home spanning approximately 16,250 square feet.
The home’s design blends classic elegance with modern luxury. Its stately facade, with arched dormers and grand entrances, is matched by lavish interiors that exude sophistication. The home’s symmetrical design and meticulous craftsmanship echo the timeless opulence of traditional European estates while incorporating contemporary luxury finishes.
Inside the Estate: Lavish Interiors and Luxurious Amenities
Step inside, and you’ll be transported into a world of grandeur and refinement. The home features five bedrooms and multiple living areas, each space curated with bespoke design elements and high-end finishes. The grandeur of the estate is complemented by an extensive list of luxurious amenities designed to cater to every whim and leisure.
- Game Room & Indoor Sports Court: Entertainment takes center stage with a game room for casual fun and a private indoor sports court, ideal for recreation and physical activity.
- Temperature-Controlled Wine Room: Perfect for wine enthusiasts, the wine room provides a dedicated space for the preservation and display of fine wine collections.
- Marble Fountain & Outdoor Spaces: The outdoor areas are just as opulent as the interiors, featuring a striking marble fountain at the heart of the estate. These landscaped grounds offer an inviting retreat for alfresco dining or serene reflection.
- Putting Green: Golf enthusiasts will be thrilled to find a private putting green on the property, offering a space to refine their skills without leaving home.
The blend of grandeur and functionality makes this estate not only a symbol of luxury but also a practical retreat for relaxation, entertainment, and daily living.
A Record-Breaking Sale for Washington, D.C.
While the exact sale price has not been disclosed, real estate insiders suggest the purchase could set a new D.C. record. If the final sale price exceeds $24 million, it will surpass the previous high for a home in the area—a Georgetown residence sold in 2007. With its impeccable design, expansive grounds, and prime location, it’s no surprise that this estate is poised to set a new precedent in Washington’s luxury real estate market.
Howard Lutnick: A Power Player’s New Home
As the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, one of the world’s leading financial services firms, Howard Lutnick is no stranger to high-profile real estate. His property portfolio includes a penthouse on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and an estate in Bridgehampton, New York. His entry into the Washington, D.C., real estate scene coincides with his nomination as President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for Commerce Secretary, further establishing his presence among Washington’s political elite.
Lutnick’s connection to Cantor Fitzgerald is notable, as the firm faced tragedy during the September 11, 2001 attacks, which claimed the lives of thousands of employees, including Lutnick’s brother. Despite the adversity, Lutnick steered the company through its recovery, eventually becoming one of the most powerful figures in the financial world.
With his purchase of Baier’s estate, Lutnick cements his position within Washington’s exclusive real estate market, a symbolic move as he prepares to take on his potential role as Commerce Secretary.
Bret Baier’s Real Estate Journey
For Bret Baier and his wife Amy, this sale marks a significant step in their real estate journey. After transforming the property from a vacant lot into one of the most talked-about homes in Washington, the Baiers have now shifted their attention to Palm Beach, Florida, where they recently purchased a $37 million waterfront mansion.
This relocation highlights a broader trend among high-profile figures seeking coastal retreats in Florida, driven by the state’s favorable tax laws and appealing climate. The Baiers’ move reflects a growing migration among the wealthy toward Florida’s luxury real estate market, which has seen unprecedented growth in recent years.
The Foxhall Neighborhood: Prestige and Privacy
The Foxhall neighborhood of Washington, D.C., is one of the city’s most prestigious and secluded areas. Known for its tree-lined streets and stately mansions, the neighborhood is home to diplomats, political figures, and business leaders. Privacy and security are paramount, and homes like Baier’s estate are designed to offer both discretion and luxury.
Residents of Foxhall enjoy proximity to the nation’s capital while living in a quiet, picturesque setting that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle. The area’s elite status and reputation for privacy make it a prime location for power players like Howard Lutnick.
The Symbolism of Luxury
Bret Baier’s estate is more than just a home—it’s a symbol of status and prestige. As one of the most luxurious properties in Washington, D.C., it has become a benchmark for high-end real estate in the area. The estate’s record-setting price point speaks to the ongoing demand for ultra-luxury properties, particularly among political elites and financial moguls like Howard Lutnick.
As Washington’s real estate market continues to evolve, homes like this one redefine what it means to live in luxury. From its architectural grandeur to its lavish amenities, this estate remains a symbol of wealth, power, and influence.