Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have struck fear into a Hollywood suburb as it has been rumoured that they may move to the area, it has been reported.
Locals in the Hope Ranch neighbourhood of Santa Barbara, California have been making panicked calls to local real estate agents about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s rumoured move, the New York Post has reported.
Hope Ranch is well-known neighbourhood in California built around a strong equestrian community – no doubt giving Harry the chance to enjoy one of his life’s greatest passions.
But according to the New York Post, those living in Hope Ranch have laid bare their own frustrations at the prospect of the royal couple moving next door
But according to the New York Post, those living in Hope Ranch have laid bare their own frustrations at the couple being destined to live there.
One realtor, who wished to remain anonymous, said this week they had concerns over what could happen were they to move to the town.
Speaking nine months after it was first reported they were on the hunt for a new home, the insider said: “The people that made the calls to me don’t want change and they don’t want all the hoopla.
“People are not happy, that’s the word around town.”
It comes as the Sussexes deliberate their next moves, with the couple eager to move closer to central Los Angeles.
Currently, they live in an £11.4million mansion on the outskirts of LA, where thanks to heavy traffic, it can sometimes take up to three hours to make it into the centre of the city.
An insider told the Express this week that Malibu was a “place of interest” with the couple “secretly” visiting the area a number of times.
They continued: “And Meghan knows parts of the region from being there as a kid. It is uncertain if they will sell Montecito or just add a Malibu spot to buy.”
They added: “The move consideration comes as Meghan is shifting gears and focus back to Hollywood with William Morris Endeavour (WME) Talent Agency.”
Her deal with WME was signed earlier this year and seen by observers as a signal that Meghan was attempting to revive her career.
She is being represented by Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel – known as among the most sought-after agents in California.
The source concluded: “Being close to Beverly Hills and LA where the deals are done is smart. And of course there is a real Malibu scene where major stars, producers and studio executives all hang out, socialize and get deals done during dinner and beach parties.”
