Kanye West, now going by Ye, is facing a legal battle as a contractor, Tony Saxon, sues him for over $1 million in relation to his Malibu home.
The rapper’s efforts to sell the beach-fronted mansion for $53 million have hit a snag due to Saxon’s mechanic’s lien, asserting unpaid fees.
This legal action acts as a hold on the sale, ensuring the contractor is prioritized for payment in case of liquidation, as per California law.
Tony Saxon, represented by lawyer Ron Zambrano, not only claims unpaid fees but is also suing for disability discrimination, multiple labor code violations, unpaid wages, and wrongful termination.
Zambrano stated that the aim is to secure payment of the outstanding $1 million before any potential sale of Kanye’s Malibu home can proceed.
Ye listed the four-bedroom house in December, managed by Jason Oppenheim from “Selling Sunset.”
Despite the property being priced at $53 million, it requires substantial interior renovations, as Ye had completely gutted the interiors before putting it on the market. Oppenheim acknowledges the need for additional investments, emphasizing the potential to bring the property up to 2024 standards.
Built in 2013 by Wall Street tycoon Richard Sachs, the roughly 4,000-square-foot house boasts Tadao Ando’s trademark smooth concrete design.
The three-story structure features giant window openings facing the water and includes an extra 1,500 square feet of deck space.
However, potential buyers should be aware that significant work, such as window and door installations, plumbing, electrical updates, HVAC enhancements, and interior finishes, is necessary.
Ye, denying the claims made by Saxon, faces challenges not only in settling the legal dispute but also in finding a buyer willing to take on the substantial task of bringing the Malibu home up to modern standards.
Despite the hurdles, the sale remains in limbo, with the legal proceedings adding complexity to the already intricate real estate transaction.