The Beverly Hills Phenomenon: Why Asian Billionaires Choose the 90210
Beverly Hills has long represented the pinnacle of luxury living. For Chinese billionaires and Asian celebrities, this exclusive enclave offers something truly irreplaceable: a combination of privacy, prestige, and profit potential that few locations worldwide can match.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Beverly Hills real estate appreciated 48.56% over five years from 2020 to 2025, with an average annual appreciation rate of 8.24%. This outpaces most luxury markets nationally, making it an attractive investment for sophisticated international buyers.
Chinese Billionaire Xu Hang's $257 Million Real Estate Portfolio
Perhaps no recent buyer exemplifies the Chinese investment trend better than billionaire Xu Hang, co-founder of medical device manufacturer Mindray. His buying spree demonstrates both the scale and sophistication of Chinese investment in American luxury real estate.
Mark Wahlberg's Beverly Hills Estate: $55 Million
In early 2023, an entity linked to Gu Fang (Xu Hang's wife) purchased Mark Wahlberg's Beverly Hills mansion for $55 million. Located in the exclusive Beverly Park gated community, this represented one of the year's most significant luxury transactions.
The property offered exceptional value. Wahlberg's house had been listed at $87.5 million, meaning the buyer secured a 37% discount off the original asking price—a masterclass in strategic real estate negotiation that savvy international buyers understand well.
Celebrity Lifestyle in Beverly Park:
Beverly Park residents enjoy unparalleled privacy while remaining minutes from Beverly Hills' finest amenities. Wahlberg likely frequented nearby celebrity hotspots including:
- Spago Beverly Hills - Wolfgang Puck's legendary restaurant where A-listers gather
- Equinox Beverly Hills - Premium fitness club with state-of-the-art equipment
- The Beverly Hills Hotel - Iconic "Pink Palace" for power lunches at the Polo Lounge
- Rodeo Drive - World-class shopping just minutes away
The Broader Investment Strategy
Xu Hang's real estate portfolio extends far beyond Beverly Hills. In October 2022, a buyer linked to Gu Fang paid $55 million for reality TV personalities Dr. Terry and Heather Dubrow's Newport Coast mansion, demonstrating strategic diversification across Southern California's luxury markets.
Xu has spent $257 million in cash on luxury real estate since late 2022, including properties in Beverly Hills, Newport Coast, Manhattan, and Hong Kong—a portfolio that represents approximately 2% of his $12.1 billion net worth.
Property Appreciation Potential:
With Beverly Hills median home values currently around $3.66 million according to recent data, luxury estates in gated communities like Beverly Park have historically appreciated at rates exceeding the overall market. For international investors seeking portfolio diversification, Beverly Hills real estate offers both tangible asset value and lifestyle benefits.
Roger Liu: Baby Formula Billionaire's $26.8 Million Beverly Hills Purchase
Another significant Chinese investment came from billionaire "Roger" Hua Liu, vice chairman and CFO of Feihe International Inc., who purchased a Beverly Hills estate for $26.8 million in an all-cash transaction in early 2024.
Feihe International is China's largest infant formula supplier, controlling approximately 20% of the country's market share. Liu's personal net worth tops $1.4 billion according to Forbes.
Property Details:
The 15,000-square-foot house was completed in 2000 and lies just a short walk from Taylor Swift's home, placing Liu in one of Beverly Hills' most desirable residential pockets.
Beverly Hills Lifestyle Activities:
As a new Beverly Hills resident, Liu can enjoy:
- Beverly Gardens Park - 1.9 miles of beautifully landscaped walking paths with iconic Beverly Hills sign
- Cipriani Beverly Hills - Upscale Italian dining frequented by Sofia Vergara, Eva Longoria, and other A-listers
- Private yoga studios - Beverly Hills features numerous high-end wellness centers offering personalized instruction
- Art galleries - The city's vibrant gallery scene attracts collectors worldwide
- Greystone Mansion - Historic Tudor Revival property perfect for leisurely weekend visits
BLACKPINK's Lisa: K-Pop Superstar's $3.95 Million Beverly Hills Haven
Thai-born K-pop sensation Lalisa "Lisa" Manoban of the global phenomenon BLACKPINK made waves in March 2024 when she purchased a stunning Beverly Hills property for $3.95 million. The 27-year-old star's investment in the exclusive 90210 zip code represents the growing trend of Asian celebrities establishing permanent roots in Los Angeles.
Property Details: A Century-Old Gem Reimagined
Lisa's Beverly Hills estate at 2172 Coldwater Canyon Drive is a Spanish Mediterranean-style residence originally built in 1924. The property spans approximately 3,387 square feet on an impressive 1.32-acre lot, offering the privacy and security that global superstars require.
The Los Angeles-based design firm House of Rolison purchased the property for $2.36 million in spring 2023 and completely transformed it into what they describe as an English countryside-inspired manor. Originally listed at $4.2 million, Lisa secured the property for just under $4 million—demonstrating savvy negotiation skills that international investors appreciate.
Property Highlights:
- Four bedrooms and four bathrooms
- Clay tile roof with vine-covered stone façade
- Vaulted wood ceilings throughout
- Stone flooring and original design elements
- Multiple decks with hillside views
- River rock fireplace and plaster fireplace
- Iron sconces and other preserved historical features
- Turkish imported wood front door
- Spacious wooden terrace with pizza oven
- Large grassy yard with room for a pool (plans included)
Investment Value and Appreciation Potential
Lisa's purchase demonstrates strategic real estate investing. House of Rolison's $2.36 million acquisition in 2023, followed by extensive renovations and a sale to Lisa for $3.95 million, represents a 67% increase in just one year—significantly outpacing typical market appreciation rates.
With Beverly Hills properties in the Coldwater Canyon area showing consistent appreciation, Lisa's investment combines both lifestyle benefits and strong financial fundamentals. The property's location near the Santa Monica Mountains provides scenic views while maintaining proximity to Beverly Hills' world-class amenities.
Lisa's LA Lifestyle: Favorite Dining Spots and Activities
As one of the world's most recognized K-pop stars with over 100 million Instagram followers, Lisa has been spotted enjoying some of Los Angeles' finest culinary destinations. Her documented dining preferences offer insight into the celebrity lifestyle that makes Beverly Hills so attractive.
Thai Cuisine - Lisa's Comfort Food:
Kruang Tedd - Located in Thai Town, this late-night spot (open until 2am) holds special significance for Lisa. After she and fellow BLACKPINK member Jisoo visited during the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, the restaurant renamed its signature dish "Lisa fried chicken skin" in her honor. Lisa autographed the bill, writing "Very delicious" after her $176.30 dinner. The neon-lit restaurant perfectly transports diners to Thailand with its authentic atmosphere and live music.
Emporium Thai - After attending the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Lisa visited this premier Los Angeles Thai restaurant, regarded as one of the city's finest Thai dining experiences. Emporium Thai even features "Blackpink's Lisa Meatball" on their menu—deep-fried meatballs with delicious dipping sauce, which Lisa has mentioned is her favorite dish from her hometown of Buri Ram, Thailand. The restaurant also serves Yum Ma Muang, the vibrant green mango salad that Lisa adores for its sweet, tart, and umami flavors.
MICHELIN Star Dining:
In her viral track "When I'm with You" featuring Tyla, Lisa raps about preferring MICHELIN-starred restaurants for dinner—a lifestyle choice she backs up with frequent visits to acclaimed establishments. Raised by a professional chef, Lisa has expressed her dream of opening her own Thai restaurant someday.
Beverly Hills Activities Lisa Can Enjoy:
Given her location in Coldwater Canyon, Lisa has easy access to:
- Yoga and Wellness - Beverly Hills features numerous high-end wellness centers and private yoga studios
- Hiking in Santa Monica Mountains - Scenic trails just minutes from her property
- Rodeo Drive Shopping - The world's most famous luxury shopping destination featuring Chanel's largest US store
- Beverly Gardens Park - 1.9 miles of beautifully landscaped walking paths
- Celebrity Hotspot Restaurants - Easy access to Spago Beverly Hills, Wally's, and other A-list dining destinations
- Exclusive Fitness Centers - Equinox Beverly Hills and other premium clubs
- Art Galleries - Beverly Hills' vibrant gallery scene attracts collectors worldwide
Lisa's Global Real Estate Portfolio
The Beverly Hills purchase represents Lisa's second major real estate investment. In 2023, she purchased a stunning mansion in Seongbuk-dong, Seoul's most affluent neighborhood, for $5.5 million—paid entirely in cash. She revealed this property in a YouTube video in March 2024, showcasing her sophisticated taste in luxury homes.
This dual-country investment strategy mirrors other Asian celebrities and billionaires who maintain properties in both their home countries and Los Angeles, ensuring they have luxury bases wherever their careers take them.
Lisa's Career Success Fueling Real Estate Investments
Lisa's ability to invest in multi-million dollar properties stems from her extraordinary career success. Her 2021 solo single "Lalisa" saw her become the first female artist to sell nearly 750,000 copies during its first week of release in South Korea. She recently inked a groundbreaking deal with RCA Records that allows her to release solo music while retaining full ownership of all her recordings—a rare achievement in the industry.
As a Bulgari brand ambassador and with her acting debut in the upcoming third season of HBO's The White Lotus, Lisa's diverse income streams support her growing real estate portfolio. Her latest album Alter Ego has been record-breaking, further cementing her status as a global superstar spanning music, fashion, and television.
Why Asian Celebrities Choose Beverly Hills
Lisa's purchase exemplifies why Asian celebrities increasingly choose Beverly Hills as their American home base. The combination of:
- Privacy and Security - Gated properties with sophisticated security systems
- International Community - A welcoming environment for global stars
- Career Proximity - Close to Hollywood studios, recording facilities, and entertainment industry headquarters
- Lifestyle Amenities - World-class dining, shopping, and wellness facilities
- Investment Value - Strong appreciation potential in one of America's most stable luxury markets
- Cultural Diversity - Easy access to authentic Asian cuisine and cultural experiences throughout Los Angeles
Asian Celebrity Real Estate: Dorothy Wang and the Rich Kids of Beverly Hills
While K-pop superstars like Lisa make headlines, Asian-American celebrities have long called Beverly Hills home. Chinese-American heiress Dorothy Wang, who appeared in the hit E! reality show Rich Kids of Beverly Hills, is the daughter of real estate magnate Roger Wang, worth $3.7 billion.
Dorothy owns a luxurious condo in Los Angeles' Century skyscraper, though her Beverly Hills connections run deep through her family's extensive real estate holdings.
Celebrity Dining Favorites:
Beverly Hills offers world-class dining experiences that attract celebrities daily:
- Wally's Beverly Hills - A-Listers including Justin Bieber, Bad Bunny, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, Tom Cruise, and Adele have been seen dining here
- Mr. Chow - High-end Beijing cuisine loved by Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney and more
- Funke - Chef Evan Funke's pasta palace where Kim Kardashian celebrated her birthday
Jackie Chan's Beverly Hills Connection
International superstar Jackie Chan has also invested in Beverly Hills real estate. Chan owned a sprawling mansion in Beverly Hills, featuring a total area of 7,600 square feet—a classic choice for movie stars seeking Los Angeles' premier address.
The Beverly Hills estate featured luxurious living spaces designed for comfort and entertainment, a beautiful swimming pool, and prime location in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods.
Fun Activities for Beverly Hills Celebrity Residents:
- Rodeo Drive shopping - Featuring the largest Chanel store in the United States
- Tennis at private clubs - Many Beverly Hills estates include regulation championship courts
- Hiking trails - Easy access to scenic Santa Monica Mountain trails
- Spa treatments - World-class spas like those at The Beverly Hills Hotel and Waldorf Astoria
- Golf at exclusive clubs - Including Bel-Air Country Club, one of California's finest courses
Beverly Hills Real Estate Market Trends and Property Appreciation
Understanding market dynamics is crucial for both buyers and sellers in the luxury segment. Let me share key insights as a top Chinese Beverly Hills realtor agent.
Current Market Overview
As of February 2024, Beverly Hills has a median sale price of $2.8 million, though luxury estates regularly command prices from $10 million to over $100 million.
Median home prices currently sit at over $3.9 million, with expected growth to over $4 million within the next year—indicating continued market strength despite broader economic headwinds.
Historical Appreciation Rates
The long-term investment case for Beverly Hills remains compelling:
Over the last ten years, Beverly Hills real estate appreciated 93.84%, which equals an average annual appreciation rate of 6.84%. This consistent appreciation significantly outpaces inflation and many traditional investment vehicles.
For luxury properties in prime locations like Trousdale Estates or Beverly Park, appreciation rates often exceed these averages. Beverly Hills house prices increased 208% between 2000 and 2018, demonstrating the neighborhood's exceptional long-term value retention.
Investment Advantages for International Buyers
As a top LA realtor working with Chinese and Asian clients, I've identified several key advantages:
- Stable Market Fundamentals - Limited inventory and sustained global demand support pricing
- Portfolio Diversification - US real estate provides currency diversification for international wealth
- Lifestyle Benefits - Immediate access to world-class amenities, schools, and culture
- Privacy and Security - Gated communities and sophisticated security systems
- Tax Advantages - Strategic structuring through LLCs can optimize tax treatment
Celebrity Lifestyle: What Makes Beverly Hills Irresistible
Beyond investment returns, Beverly Hills offers an unmatched lifestyle that attracts the world's elite. Understanding these amenities helps explain why Asian celebrities and billionaires continue investing here.
World-Class Dining Scene
Beverly Hills' culinary reputation rivals any global destination:
Spago Beverly Hills - Wolfgang Puck's fine-dining flagship serves seasonal California favorites and has seen everyone from Bradley Cooper to Tom Hanks and Gwen Stefani.
Il Pastaio - An upscale Italian restaurant featuring over 20 varieties of handmade pasta, consistently attracting A-list celebrities to its charming outdoor patio on Canon Drive.
Mastro's Steakhouse - Consistently hailed as one of the "Top 10 Steakhouses in the U.S." and "The Preferred Steakhouse of Celebs and Locals," with celebrities including Brad Pitt, Jessica Simpson and rapper T.I. frequenting this location.
Exclusive Shopping
The world-famous Rodeo Drive attracts celebrity shoppers with its luxury designers and flagship boutiques, while the Golden Triangle district offers an unparalleled concentration of high-end retail.
Wellness and Recreation
Health-conscious celebrities appreciate:
- Premium fitness centers like Equinox Beverly Hills
- Exclusive yoga studios offering private instruction
- Luxurious spa facilities at five-star hotels
- Tennis and golf at members-only clubs
- Hiking and outdoor activities in the Santa Monica Mountains
Working with a Top Chinese Beverly Hills Realtor Agent
The complexity of luxury real estate transactions—particularly for international buyers—demands specialized expertise. As a top Chinese realtor serving Beverly Hills and greater Los Angeles, I provide:
Bilingual Services
Fluency in Mandarin and English ensures clear communication throughout the transaction process.
International Network
Connections with qualified buyers and sellers across Asia and North America facilitate off-market opportunities.
Market Intelligence
Deep knowledge of Beverly Hills neighborhoods, from The Flats to Trousdale Estates to Beverly Park, guides optimal investment decisions.
Transaction Support
From LLC formation to property management to tax optimization, comprehensive support ensures seamless transactions.
Evaluating Your Beverly Hills Property Investment
Whether you're considering purchasing Beverly Hills real estate or evaluating your current holdings, accurate valuation is essential.
Professional Home Valuation Services
Our home valuation service provides:
- Comparative market analysis using recent luxury sales data
- Appreciation projections based on neighborhood trends
- Renovation recommendations to maximize value
- Strategic timing guidance for optimal market entry or exit
Exploring Available Listings
Browse our curated selection of luxury listings featuring:
- Beverly Hills estates and mansions
- Gated community properties
- New construction opportunities
- Off-market pocket listings
Beverly Hills Neighborhoods: Where Chinese Billionaires Invest
Different Beverly Hills neighborhoods appeal to different buyer preferences. As a top LA realtor, I help clients identify the perfect location.
Trousdale Estates
Trousdale Estates is an exclusive enclave at the base of the Santa Monica Mountains with incredible views, luxurious estates, and high level of privacy. The average price of a house in Trousdale Estates is around $8.2 million.
Mid-Century Modern architecture dominates, though contemporary masterpieces increasingly dot the hillsides. Many properties offer city and ocean views extending to Catalina Island on clear days.
Beverly Park
This ultra-exclusive gated community attracts the world's wealthiest individuals. Properties here offer:
- Multi-acre lots with complete privacy
- 24-hour guard-gated security
- Proximity to Beverly Hills amenities while maintaining seclusion
- Price points from $20 million to over $100 million
The Flats
Regarded as the epitome of luxury living in California, The Flats sets itself apart with its laid-back atmosphere and service. This neighborhood offers walkability to Rodeo Drive, restaurants, and shops—ideal for buyers seeking an urban luxury lifestyle.
The Future of Asian Investment in Beverly Hills
The trend of Asian celebrities and Chinese billionaires investing in Beverly Hills shows no signs of slowing. Several factors support continued growth:
Limited Inventory
With only 5.5 square miles and a population under 32,000, Beverly Hills' scarcity drives long-term value appreciation.
Global Brand Recognition
The Beverly Hills name carries cachet worldwide, making properties here immediately recognizable status symbols.
Stable Political Environment
Unlike some global luxury markets, Los Angeles offers political stability and strong property rights protections that international investors value.
Generational Wealth Transfer
As Asian wealth passes to younger generations, many heirs seek Los Angeles' lifestyle and business opportunities.
Connect with LA's Top Chinese Beverly Hills Realtor
Whether you're an international buyer seeking your first Beverly Hills property or an existing owner considering market timing, expert guidance makes all the difference.
As a top Chinese Beverly Hills realtor agent with deep experience serving Asian celebrities, Chinese billionaires, and international investors, I provide the market knowledge, negotiation expertise, and transaction support needed to succeed in this competitive luxury market.
Ready to explore Beverly Hills real estate opportunities?
Get your property's current value with our home valuation service
- Browse available properties in our luxury listings
- Contact me directly to discuss your Beverly Hills real estate goals
Conclusion: Beverly Hills as a Global Luxury Destination
The stories of Xu Hang's $55 million Beverly Park purchase, Roger Liu's $26.8 million estate acquisition, and countless other Asian investments demonstrate Beverly Hills' enduring appeal as a global luxury real estate destination.
With property appreciation rates consistently outpacing national averages, world-class amenities rivaling any global city, and an unmatched combination of privacy and prestige, Beverly Hills continues attracting the world's most sophisticated real estate investors.
As these Asian celebrities and Chinese billionaires recognize, Beverly Hills isn't just a place to own property—it's an investment in a lifestyle, a legacy, and a proven wealth preservation strategy that has stood the test of time.
About Bonnie Hyde
As a top LA realtor and top Chinese Beverly Hills realtor agent, Bonnie Hyde specializes in luxury real estate transactions serving Asian celebrities, Chinese billionaires, and international investors. With bilingual expertise and deep market knowledge, Bonnie provides unparalleled service throughout Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Holmby Hills, and greater Los Angeles' most prestigious neighborhoods.
Sources:
- Robb Report: "A Chinese Billionaire Has Spent $250 Million on Homes Around the Globe"
- Yahoo Finance: "A Chinese Billionaire Just Spent More Than $250 Million on Lavish Mansions"
- NeighborhoodScout: Beverly Hills Real Estate Market Appreciation Data
- Love Beverly Hills: "Best Restaurants in Beverly Hills for Celebrity Sightings"
- Joyce Rey Real Estate: Beverly Hills Market Analysis
- Robb Report: "A Baby Formula Billionaire Just Dropped $27 Million on This Massive Beverly Hills Estate"
