A man living in a council house who won a luxurious mansion prize through Omaze has decided to sell the property for almost £1 million less than its original value due to the extensive cleaning required. Chris Milnes, aged 61, was the fortunate winner of a £2.5 million mansion located near Poole, Dorset, in June 2024 after participating in the Million Pound Draw without his family’s knowledge. Hailing from a Leeds council estate background, the father was thrilled by the unexpected victory but struggled to maintain the 4,650 square foot new-build property due to its size.
Facing challenges in cleaning the mansion, Mr. Milnes opted to sell it, only to encounter difficulties in finding a buyer, necessitating a significant reduction in the asking price. Initially listed for £2.3 million in January, the value dropped by £200,000 in June and further decreased to £1,350,000 by the end of August. Eventually, the property was sold for £1.6 million, as reported by MailOnline.
Upon finalizing the sale, the new owner will acquire the expansive mansion complete with a spacious open-plan living area, designer kitchen, and cinema room, along with all its furnishings. Mr. Milnes intends to distribute the sale proceeds to his children to provide them with opportunities he didn’t have, aiming to purchase a home in West Yorkshire and visit his son and grandchild in Australia.
Reflecting on the happy memories shared in the mansion with his family, Mr. Milnes expressed gratitude for the dream home located in a picturesque area. Despite the financial security afforded by the win, the family is choosing to sell the property to secure their forever home and ensure a comfortable retirement while supporting their children’s future. The upcoming grandparenthood has also granted them the freedom to spend time with their first grandchild in Australia, a prospect they eagerly anticipate.