Gene Hackman’s Santa Fe mansion has been put on the market for $6.25 million, a year after the actor and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in the residence. The property, located in a gated community on Old Sunset Trail, is a sprawling, Southwestern-style ranch that spans six acres and offers stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Real estate experts suggest that the home’s celebrity association may attract significant interest, despite the tragic circumstances of the couple’s deaths. An agent from Coldwell Banker noted, “The home is big, stylish, and has great bones, so there will be interest. Even though two people passed away in the house, there will still be plenty of offers.”
Details Surrounding the Couple’s Deaths
Gene Hackman, aged 95, and Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, were discovered in their home on February 26, 2025. Hackman succumbed to heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s disease, while Arakawa’s death was attributed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but serious illness spread through rodent droppings.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office released footage showing a dog left behind, mourning the couple as deputies entered the home. Investigative records revealed that Arakawa had been researching flu-like symptoms shortly before her death. Her search history included inquiries about medical conditions related to COVID-19, indicating she was concerned about her health and that of her husband.
Property Features and Market Potential
The Hackman residence has undergone extensive renovations, notably in 1990, but was described as cluttered at the time of the couple’s deaths. Photographs from the scene indicated that the home contained personal items such as clothing and dog cages, alongside signs of a rodent infestation. An environmental assessment conducted by the New Mexico Department of Health confirmed the presence of rodent feces in outbuildings, linking it to the hantavirus case.
Despite these issues, the property remains a desirable listing in a community known for attracting artists and celebrities. The agent emphasized that properties linked to well-known figures often command higher prices, stating, “Anytime there is a celebrity linked to a property, it drives up prices.”
The home has been featured in prominent publications, including an article in Architectural Digest, further enhancing its allure. As the listing gains traction, prospective buyers are likely to be drawn not only by the house’s charm but also by its historical significance.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths have not deterred interest in the property. The real estate market is known for its resilience, especially when linked to high-profile individuals, and the Hackman estate is expected to see significant activity in the coming months.
