It’s been a long decade, but the Obamas’ luxurious beachfront mansion in Hawaii is finally nearing completion.
After years of construction, Barack and Michelle Obama’s stunning property is almost ready for them to move in.
However, amidst this milestone, rumors about the state of their marriage have put a damper on the excitement.
A Lavish Estate with All the Amenities
The estate, located on the island of Oahu, spans three acres and is valued at over $18 million.
It includes three separate properties with a total of 11 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, two pools, and two Jacuzzis.
Aerial photos obtained by the Daily Mail show a fully finished exterior, complete with wood paneling and a white roof.
The lush, manicured yard is lined with palm trees, and the private beach access offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
For years, construction trucks were a regular sight at the property, but now the work has almost completely stopped, signaling that the Obamas are ready to settle into their new home.
Yet, the question of whether their 22-year marriage will survive the move-in remains in the air.
Divorce Rumors Begin to Swirl
In recent weeks, the speculation around the Obamas’ marriage has intensified.
According to Meghan McCain, she’s heard from multiple reputable sources that a divorce may be imminent.
“I’m not talking about TMZ,” McCain said on her podcast, “I’m talking about serious journalists telling me that they’re hearing the rumors are true.”
The rumors about a possible split gained traction when Michelle Obama notably skipped attending both Jimmy Carter’s funeral and Donald Trump’s inauguration.
David Garrow, a biographer of the former president, explained that Michelle’s apparent disdain for Trump may have played a role in her absence from both events.
Despite the buzz, the Obamas have been quick to quell these rumors.
They recently shared a cozy selfie on Valentine’s Day, which fans took as a sign of their ongoing affection.
Plus, reports indicate that they were spotted together kayaking near their soon-to-be home in Hawaii, showing a more relaxed and happy side of their relationship.
Living in Hawaii: A Quiet Life in Waimānalo
While their new home is ready, the Obamas have been keeping a relatively low profile in their new neighborhood.
Located in Waimānalo, a small town with only 6,000 residents, the Obamas are rarely seen at the town’s local spots.
Residents note that Barack Obama no longer visits the shops or eateries as he did when he was campaigning.
“He comes and goes,” said one local, “and the only signs he’s in town are the traffic backups from his security detail.”
Still, some locals are more positive about the former president’s presence.
Vegetable farmer Jamie Sedeno feels that Obama’s arrival in town has brought positive attention to the area, especially to nearby Kaiona Beach Park, a pristine spot known for its powdery sand and crystal-clear waters.
However, not all residents are so enthusiastic. Some locals feel the increased security has made it harder to access the beach.
One resident, who has lived in the area for decades, expressed concern that Obama’s security detail has restricted access to the public beach, which has long been a local hangout.
Concerns Over Construction and Environmental Impact
The Obamas’ massive property, which overlooks the ancient Pāhonu Pond, has sparked some local controversy.
The pond is a historical site, once used by native Hawaiian chieftains to raise turtles.
Local residents have voiced concern about the impact the Obamas’ construction may have on the site, particularly if there are future building projects.
Additionally, some have questioned the legality of the construction process, noting that the property still hasn’t passed all required building code inspections.
The Obamas, alongside their friend Marty Nesbitt, also faced backlash in 2020 for bypassing usual permit restrictions to rebuild their sea wall.
While Nesbitt defended the decision, stating it was in line with the state’s environmental regulations, some locals continue to be wary of the ongoing development and its environmental effects.
A Controversial but Quiet Presence
Despite the issues surrounding their property, the Obamas’ decision to make Waimānalo their home has undoubtedly brought both attention and controversy.
As the couple prepares to settle into their new estate, the future of their marriage remains uncertain, leaving many to wonder if their grand new home will become a symbol of a fresh start—or the end of an era.