United States' most expensive 2009 sale

The buyer of a $43 million mansion above Aspen — the most expensive home sale in the United States so far this year — has been identified as fund manager Lewis Sanders.   Sanders and wife also own property in Palm Beach, FL and East Hampton, NY.  Obviously Sanders is familiar with all types of investment vehicles, the market, etc. and has the means to live ANYWHERE.  He purchased another property here in Aspen’s core 3 years ago for $15million.

I would venture to guess that Sanders was not outgrowing his other home, nor does he NEED 21,000 square feet to live in.  He may be personally enthrawled with the home, it’s Red Moutain location, it’s spectacular views, etc, but I’m guessing he also did this comparison:

• stock market 2006-2009

vs

• $15million dollar home he bought in 2006…now valued at approximately $23.6million (assessors data)!

What does this sale say about the Aspen market?  It says when you throw $43million dollars of your cash (yes, all cash deal) in a singular investment, you know it’s as solid as the Rocky Mountain bedrock beneath it.