Importance Score: 32 / 100 🔵
Defiant 93-Year-Old Widow Resists Multi-Million Dollar Offer for Home Near Masters Golf Course
Despite lucrative offers from Augusta National, owners of the prestigious Masters golf tournament, a 93-year-old widow with dementia remains steadfast in her refusal to sell her cherished home adjacent to the famed golf course. Elizabeth Thacker, residing in a care facility, continues to decline offers for her property located near the Augusta National golf course, even as the club aggressively expands its footprint.
Augusta National’s Expansive Land Acquisition
Since 1999, Augusta National has significantly increased its land holdings, adding 270 acres through an estimated $200 million investment in neighboring Augusta properties, according to reports. These acquisitions have expanded the golf club’s total land by 75%, resulting in substantial financial gains for most property sellers in the vicinity.
Stanley Road Residence: A Holdout Amidst Expansion
However, situated in close proximity to the tee-off point for the upcoming 2025 tournament, the property at 1112 Stanley Road remains under the ownership of Elizabeth Thacker and her family. They originally constructed the residence in 1959. Elizabeth and her late husband, Herman, who passed away in 2019, consistently rejected seven-figure bids from Augusta National for their home. The house, located near Gate 6, still stands, bearing minor damage from Hurricane Helene.
Unwavering Resolve to Retain Family Home
Even after moving to a care home, Elizabeth Thacker has no intention of selling. She plans to keep the modest three-bedroom house within her family, unmoved by the allure of “Masters millions.” She became the sole occupant of the home six years prior. Her late husband, Herman, a golf enthusiast, similarly expressed a firm stance in 2016, stating, “Money ain’t everything,” when questioned about their refusal to sell.
Property Value and Location Significance
While the house might be valued at approximately $400,000 if situated elsewhere, its unique desirability significantly elevates its worth, particularly for golf aficionados. The surrounding neighborhood has been acquired and demolished by Augusta National to accommodate the renowned tournament, which attracts approximately 40,000 spectators annually. Augusta National reportedly intended to demolish the Thacker residence to create additional parking space.
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Grandson’s Perspective on Family’s Decision
Scott Brown, Elizabeth and Herman’s grandson and a professional golfer who grew up in the house, recently spoke about his family’s unwavering decision to retain their home. In an interview prior to the 2025 Masters Tournament, Brown explained, “Basically, they used to have 11 months of privacy because everything else got bought up.” He added that his grandparents dismissed the idea of selling and were deeply attached to their home and location.
Lucrative Sale of Secondary Property
Interestingly, the family did sell a smaller, nearby property, where Brown resided during his college years, for a significant sum. Their patience in negotiations proved financially rewarding. Augusta National initially offered considerably lower prices for properties, but eventually increased offers substantially.
Financial Gains from Strategic Holding
The Thackers ultimately sold the second property for $1.2 million. Scott Brown remarked on his grandparents’ astute decision to hold out, noting that initial offers were “laughable” compared to final sale prices. He indicated early offers started in the hundreds of thousands but eventually reached millions for some properties.
Masters Tradition and Unfulfilled Dream
Brown reminisced about his grandfather’s support for his golfing aspirations, including Masters tickets every year. Attending the Masters on Sunday was a cherished tradition for 18 years. Despite achieving a world ranking as high as 107 and winning the 2013 Puerto Rico Open, Brown, now outside the top 2,000, never had the opportunity to compete in the Masters. He expressed his disappointment at missing the chance to play in the tournament so close to his family home, a lifelong dream that eluded him.
Grandfather’s Sentiments on Home’s Value Beyond Money
Herman Thacker’s statement, “Money ain’t everything,” encapsulates the family’s perspective on their home’s value, which transcends monetary offers. While its estimated market value elsewhere would be modest, its location near Augusta National renders it uniquely desirable, yet the Thackers prioritize family legacy and personal attachment over financial gain.
Anticipation for the 2025 Masters Tournament
The 2025 Masters Tournament is eagerly awaited, with golf enthusiasts anticipating top performances from favorites such as Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. Meanwhile, the Thacker family home remains a testament to their enduring connection to the area and their steadfast resolve in the face of encroaching development and lucrative offers.