For years, it’s been illegal to live in this mansion. That’s set to change

An opulent US mansion that has sat empty for years may soon be inhabited again. 

The estate in East Hampton belongs to Harry Macklowe, a prominent New York City property tycoon. 

Macklowe has been trying to sell the four-bedroom, five bathroom pad since 2024, but to no avail. 

The reason the sale has floundered is because the home lacks a valid certificate of occupancy. 

Without it, no one is legally allowed to live in the property.

The current certificate of occupancy dates back to 1987.

However, it’s no longer valid because Macklowe renovated the property without council permission, according to the New York Post. 

The businessman, 89, also reportedly cut down vegetation in his garden, endangering a nearby wetland and angering both the council and several neighbours. 

But the yearslong saga may be finally nearing an end. 

The Post reported Macklowe has agreed to make the required building changes and pay the fines he owes. 

He has also reportedly agreed to revegetate the cleared land. 

When the work is done, the house will finally be able to receive a new certificate of occupancy. 

The mansion at 64 West End Road, East Hampton is currently on the market for $US35 million ($52.4 million). 

It’s $US4 million less than Macklowe was originally asking when the house first listed in February 2024. 

The property is a classic Hamptons estate with white timber shingles and a lakeside swimming pool.

The one-hectare garden offers idyllic views over Georgica Pond.  

The buyers of the home will count celebrities like Steven Spielberg and Beyoncé and Jay-Z among their neighbours.