Martha ready to move on

2006-08-14 12:09

Westport, Connecticut - Six years after Martha Stewart said she was leaving Westport, the domestic diva really is bidding farewell to this wealthy seaside town - if only someone will buy her house.

Stewart has been trying for more than two months to sell her early 19th century federal-style farmhouse for $9m. Real estate experts say it's not unusual for luxury homes to take at least a few months to sell - even those with Martha's famous touch.

"It's the most beautiful property I've ever seen," said Eileen Hill, president of the Mid Fairfield County Association of Realtors. "Every blade of grass stands at attention."

The town, which is also home to actor Paul Newman and singer Michael Bolton, is taking Stewart's departure with a stiff upper lip.

"There was certainly no real sense of loss," said Cristin Marandino, editor of Westport Magazine. "I think 70% of the people who live in Westport have a Martha story. She just wasn't very easy to live with."

Stewart occasionally ran into trouble with neighbours upset with her film crews and behaviour.

The oft-photographed home, which she bought in 1972, was the inspiration for her first book, Entertaining, in 1982, and was the site of many television programmes and garden tours.

"I am so sad to be leaving this property which has meant so much to me and my family," Stewart said in a statement.

"The four acres of garden have been tended with great care for more than 30 years and the circa 1805 farmhouse and outbuildings have been the location of wonderful family celebrations, legendary television specials and comfortable gatherings of friends."

- AP