The Shift Toward Practical Living: Why Mega-Mansions are Losing Appeal
For years, the “mega-mansion” was the ultimate symbol of success. However, a growing trend is emerging where high-profile homeowners are choosing practicality over prestige. The recent decision by Ashanty and Anang Hermansyah to sell their “Istana Cinere” highlights a pivot toward more manageable living spaces.
Maintaining a massive estate often comes with staggering overhead. Ashanty noted that large homes require significant monthly payments and high maintenance costs, making them inefficient for daily life. This shift suggests a broader trend where luxury is being redefined as comfort and ease of management rather than sheer square footage.
Many are now opting for “right-sizing”—moving into smaller, more comfortable homes that provide better functionality without the burden of excessive upkeep. This transition allows homeowners to redirect their resources from property maintenance to quality of life.
The ‘Intergenerational Pull’: Redefining Family Proximity
Another significant trend in residential relocation is the “intergenerational pull,” where parents move specifically to be closer to their adult children and grandchildren. This is precisely what drove the decision to sell the Cinere estate, following a request from their daughter, Aurel Hermansyah.

The desire for family closeness is outweighing the desire to stay in long-term family homes. This trend reflects a cultural shift toward tighter family nuclei, where the convenience of being near grandchildren takes precedence over the history of a previous residence.
As families evolve, the “family home” is no longer a static location but a flexible arrangement that adapts to where the next generation settles. This movement often triggers the sale of legacy properties in favor of strategic locations that facilitate frequent family interaction.
Sentimental Value vs. Market Reality in Real Estate
The struggle between emotional attachment and financial logic is a common hurdle in luxury real estate. Anang Hermansyah’s initial reluctance to sell was rooted in the home’s history; it was built from the ground up during the early stages of their career and was viewed as a catalyst for their success.
When homeowners view a property as a “lucky charm” or a repository of memories, they often resist market trends. This can lead to strategic overpricing—a tactic used to maintain a property in the family while technically keeping it “on the market.”
However, the eventual agreement to list the property at a “normal” market price of Rp 25 billion demonstrates the eventual triumph of logic and family needs over sentiment. For a sale to be successful, the price must align with current market realities rather than the emotional history of the owners.
For more insights on celebrity real estate and luxury trends, you can explore detailed reports on property market fluctuations or read about sentimental property valuations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the “Istana Cinere” house being sold?
The primary reasons include the desire for a more practical and efficient home with lower maintenance costs and the wish to live closer to their daughter, Aurel Hermansyah.

What is the current asking price for the property?
The home is currently being marketed at a normal market price of Rp 25 billion.
Why was there a delay in selling the house?
Anang Hermansyah was initially reluctant to sell due to the home’s high emotional and historical value, believing the house brought luck and success to the family.
