Maison Bonne Vive ("The Good Life"), owned by Aaron Slayter Sr., is considered to be the most expensive house in Alexandria, Louisiana. It is set to be auctioned by Bonnette Auction Company and Ritchie Real Estate on March 12.
"Without a doubt, this is the best-recognized home in Alexandria due to its size and location. Less than three years ago, it was on the market for $3.9 million, which would be the highest asking price in Rapides Parish. Now, we'll let the bidders determine its market price. Someone may well own this for a fraction of what Mr. Slayter has in it," said Barbara Bonnette, president of Bonnette Auction Company.
According to the press release of Bonnette Auction Company in PR NewsWire, the property is located at 2019 Horseshoe Drive, Alexandria, and is situated on approximately four acres of land. The 20,000-square-foot living quarters feature five bedrooms, six full baths, a large office with custom Mahogany bookcases, a rooftop deck, a grand double staircase, a custom wine bar, an Italian marble fountain, and a safe room with foot-thick walls. Maison Bonne Vive also boasts a separate 3,000-square-foot entertaining area, 150-year-old chandeliers, and a natural gas generator big enough to power the entire property.
"Given the size and location of Maison Bonne Vive, it could serve not only as a very exclusive private residence, but also as a corporate headquarters or professional office. It would be the ultimate prestige address for a law or financial services firm," added Bonnette.
The home was modeled after the famous Oak Alley Plantation Home, and was designed by Simone Guillory Architects. The property is going to be available for inspections on Feb. 21, 2016 from 2 to 4 in the afternoon. The auction will take place in the home on March 12, and will begin at 9 in the morning.