Lance “Buddy” Franklin and his wife Jesinta have put their luxury Gold Coast mansion, Villa Casa, back on the market with a new asking price of $10.9 million. The Mediterranean-inspired estate, originally purchased in 2023 for $8.75 million, was briefly listed last year before being withdrawn. Now, with their sights set on a new lifestyle, the AFL legend and model-entrepreneur couple are ready to move forward.
The couple’s motivation stems from a family-focused decision. With two children already and a third on the way, they plan to relocate before Christmas to a hobby farm closer to family and schools. Their new property will allow them to raise horses, keep chickens, and establish vegetable gardens. Buddy described the decision as bittersweet, noting the memories made with children Tullulah and Rocky in a home that has been a dream residence. Jesinta added that while the sale is difficult, the move represents the culmination of nearly two years of searching for the right land.
Inside Villa Casa: A Mediterranean-Inspired Landmark
Villa Casa is not just another luxury listing; it is an award-winning home that captured the title of Gold Coast House of the Year in 2022. Designed by architect Reece Keil and constructed by Tidal Constructions, the mansion embodies elegance with modern functionality.
Spanning seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms, the property offers panoramic views of both the Gold Coast skyline and the ocean. The main bedroom features a custom 4m headboard and a unique vaulted tunnel connecting to a dressing room and ensuite. The kitchen is equally striking, with a half-moon island bench that opens seamlessly into a spacious living area.
Outdoors, the estate offers a magnesium pool complete with a swim-up bar, a sprawling terrace for entertaining, and a built-in barbecue. For family recreation, the property includes a games room and generous lawns. The residence blends resort-style amenities with intimate family-friendly design, making it stand out in a competitive market.
Key Features of Villa Casa
- Seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms
- Award-winning design by Reece Keil
- Gold Coast skyline and ocean views
- Magnesium pool with swim-up bar
- Resort-style terrace and entertainment zones
- Games room, built-in barbecue, and family spaces
- Main suite with 4m headboard and vaulted tunnel
The Franklin Family’s Next Chapter
For the Franklins, selling Villa Casa marks both the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new one. Buddy expressed excitement about celebrating the family’s first Christmas on their new farm. With plans for ponies and wide lawns, he joked about hoping Santa brings him a ride-on mower. Jesinta emphasized that the decision was deeply rooted in their long-term vision: raising their children in a setting connected to nature, closer to her parents, and better aligned with the children’s schooling needs.
The couple’s move aligns with broader lifestyle trends among high-profile families who are trading glamorous urban homes for semi-rural properties. The pursuit of privacy, space, and a closer connection to community values is increasingly driving such decisions. Their transition reflects not only personal preference but also market dynamics where lifestyle properties are commanding heightened interest.
Villa Casa at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia |
| Current Price | $10.9 million |
| Original Purchase | $8.75 million (2023) |
| Style | Mediterranean-inspired luxury |
| Architect | Reece Keil |
| Builder | Tidal Constructions |
| Awards | Gold Coast House of the Year (2022) |
| Bedrooms | 7 |
| Bathrooms | 8 |
| Outdoor Features | Magnesium pool, swim-up bar, terrace, built-in barbecue, games room |
| Highlight Design | Main suite with 4m headboard, vaulted tunnel to dressing room and ensuite |
Market Context and Investment Potential
Luxury real estate on the Gold Coast has remained resilient, with premium properties consistently attracting national and international interest. Villa Casa’s relisting comes at a time when demand for prestige homes continues to outpace supply.
The Franklin residence offers both lifestyle value and investment appeal. Its award-winning design, prestigious location, and celebrity association increase its profile among prospective buyers. Given its purchase price of $8.75 million just two years ago and its current $10.9 million listing, the property represents potential for significant capital gain.
For prospective buyers, Villa Casa provides an opportunity to secure a one-of-a-kind estate. The home’s resort-style features, expansive design, and recognition within the industry make it more than just a residence—it is a statement asset. Coupled with the Gold Coast’s strong market fundamentals, Villa Casa could attract both domestic buyers seeking lifestyle prestige and international investors looking for trophy properties.
Trending FAQ
Why are Lance and Jesinta Franklin selling their Gold Coast mansion?
They are moving to a hobby farm closer to family and schools, aligning with their goal of raising children in a rural lifestyle setting.
What is the price of Villa Casa?
The property has been relisted at $10.9 million.
Who designed Villa Casa?
It was designed by award-winning architect Reece Keil and built by Tidal Constructions.
What makes Villa Casa unique?
It combines Mediterranean-inspired luxury with resort-style features such as a magnesium pool with a swim-up bar, panoramic ocean and skyline views, and award-winning design.
When did the Franklins buy the property?
They purchased Villa Casa in 2023 for $8.75 million.
Where are they moving next?
They plan to relocate to a hobby farm where they can raise horses, chickens, and establish gardens, aiming to settle in before Christmas 2025.
This sale not only marks the end of an era for one of Australia’s most high-profile sporting families but also highlights broader real estate trends toward lifestyle-driven purchases. For potential buyers, Villa Casa offers a rare chance to own a home that blends luxury, location, and legacy in equal measure.
