New Light Christian Center Church in Spring, Texas, a suburb of Houston, has put a massive estate up for sale with an asking price of $15 million. The sprawling property, which served as the longtime residence of its founder, televangelist Bishop IV Hilliard, spans 24 acres and includes six separate homes.
The property was used as a rectory in the past, which gave Hilliard a significant financial advantage: property tax exemption, according to realtor.com.
An attorney for the megachurch told the Houston Chronicle in 2021 that the property’s use as a clergy retreat and conference center justified these tax breaks because of its religious and charitable function.
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The property’s appeal is defined by the main house, which is described in the listing as “magazine-worthy,” according to the property’s website, which adds that the entrance makes a grand impression and leads into a home with numerous bedrooms, an unspecified number of bathrooms and spacious living areas ideal for both relaxing and entertaining.
A comprehensive renovation in 2020 introduced elegant finishes throughout, including granite countertops in the bathrooms and the two wet bars, and updated fixtures. The property is also equipped with luxurious amenities including a home theater, hair salon, banquet room, and commercial kitchen.
The master bedroom is particularly notable, with its 25-foot ceiling, en-suite gym, and sunken hot tub in the bathroom. Outdoor amenities complement the interiors with an oversized pool and spa, tennis court, fitness office complex, volleyball court, and stocked pond.
Car enthusiasts will find the 22-car parking space particularly impressive, underscoring the property’s capacity to accommodate a significant number of guests or residents, notes realtor.com. The property’s versatility extends beyond residential use. According to the listing, it is suitable for conversion into a family estate, boutique hotel or venue for weddings and gatherings.
The advert provocatively suggests: “Have you always dreamed of owning your own family estate or residential development? Running your own bed and breakfast? A wedding venue? An event centre? Then you must take a look at this luxurious property.” The aim is to attract a wide range of potential buyers who will be inspired by the property’s potential for private or commercial use.
The sale will take place in a place with remarkable history that attracted national attention in 2016 as the hometown of Olympic gymnast Simone Biles.
The financial impact of the estate is also significant. Harris County previously valued the property at $7,966,887. Without the exemption, annual property taxes would have been approximately $152,168.
