NO MORE SHOWINGS, currently in negotiations. On the market for the first time and nestled in a magical canyon beneath grand oaks is a private 9.5-acre retreat. Located in The Santa Monica Mountains and just minutes from Westlake Village, this private creek-side property was the home of one of Hollywood's most famous animal trainers, Hubert Wells. For over 50 years, he lived and worked alongside his exotic menagerie on this private, serene natural land, where lions roared, elephants roamed, and chimpanzees learned to perform for some of the most iconic films. The lions of ''Out of Africa'', panthers and primates of ''Jungle Book'', chimpanzees in ''Babe'', the wolves in ''Never Cry Wolf'', the menagerie of ''Sheena, Queen of the Jungle'' all got their start as movie stars of Animal Actors. Hungarian born, Wells was a master falconer and exotic animal trainer. He was responsible for training, care and performance on film sets that took them all over the world. This permitted 2 bedroom, 2 bath 1800+ square foot home is one of the last properties on the dead-end road and feels a world away from the chaos of Los Angeles. Yet, it is only minutes from the 101 corridor, Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, and Malibu. Access to endless amenities includes award winning schools, The Civic Arts Plaza, Gelson's, Sprouts and Stonehaus. There is a detached garage located off a shared driveway. Remaining onsite are animal enclosures, mews and exercise yards in need of deferred maintenance surrounded by the dramatic mountain views. The property would make a peaceful retreat for an artist, musician or anyone seeking the serenity of the natural setting with 360-degree natural mountain views surrounding the property. Rejuvenate enveloped in natural beauty soak in the song of wild birds and star gaze. A 10-minute drive beyond the county-maintained road, the single lane road leads to this hidden gem that calls to be reimagined. Deferred maintenance on the septic and well will be required and currently, supplemental water must be delivered to the property. Trust sale. Recently appraised, the property is particularly valuable because of the existing home's footprint which may allow for a second floor and renovation. Buyer to verify all potential improvements with the city and county. Seller and seller's agent do not guarantee lot size, square footage or zoning variances. Buyer responsible for all inspections. Owner died peacefully on the property.
This property is off market, which means it's not currently listed for sale or rent on Zillow. This may be different from what's available on other websites or public sources.
