What Katy Perry’s Mansion Purchase Could Mean for Real Estate Law Across the U.S.
When you think of pop star Katy Perry, real estate law probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But a recent high-profile legal battle involving Perry and her fiancé, actor Orlando Bloom, has sparked a potential shift in how real estate transactions could be handled for senior citizens nationwide.
The $15 Million Deal That Started It All
In 2020, Perry and Bloom entered into a $15 million agreement to purchase a luxurious mansion in Montecito, California, from 84-year-old veteran Carl Westcott. However, just days after signing the contract, Westcott attempted to back out, claiming he was under the influence of post-surgery pain medication at the time and did not fully comprehend the agreement.
Despite his objections, the court sided with Perry, and in 2024 she officially took possession of the property. Not only that, Perry also filed a lawsuit seeking $6 million in damages over the delayed transfer and associated legal costs.
The Birth of the “Katy Perry Act”
This controversial case has led to the drafting of a proposed piece of legislation known as the Katy Perry Act—short for Protecting Elder Realty for Retirement Years. The bill seeks to create a mandatory 72-hour “cooling off” period for any real estate transaction involving individuals over the age of 75. During that time, either party could cancel the agreement without penalty.
The goal? To provide elderly sellers a legal safeguard, especially if they’re dealing with high-stakes transactions while potentially under physical or mental stress.
Why This Matters
The Katy Perry case isn’t just a celebrity headline—it’s a real estate legal milestone in the making. If passed, the Katy Perry Act could change how agents, buyers, and sellers handle senior-involved transactions in the future, offering an extra layer of protection to aging homeowners.
The bill has yet to pass, but it’s already gaining bipartisan support in California—and similar legislation could soon be considered in other states.
What This Means for You
Whether you’re a real estate professional, a homeowner, or someone with elderly family members considering selling their property, this case highlights the importance of:
Clear understanding and communication during a sale
Legal safeguards for vulnerable populations
Staying informed about evolving real estate laws
It’s also a reminder that even celebrities can inadvertently help shape the legal landscape—sometimes by simply buying a house.