Entrepreneur Richard Branson has spent nearly five decades developing real estate in the British Virgin Islands, according to a recent report. The Virgin Group founder, with an estimated net worth of $2.8 billion, has established a presence in the ultra-luxury property sector there.
Branson's property activities began in the 1970s. He purchased the 74-acre Necker Island for $180,000 at that time, a move he has described as an effort to impress his future wife, Joan Templeman. The island now serves as a central part of his holdings.
Necker Island operates as a revenue-generating hospitality asset under the Virgin Limited Edition brand. It features a Balinese-style great house and ten private estates. Private bookings can start at approximately $100,000 per night, with weekly rates often surpassing $1 million, as reported.
The property sustained damage from a fire in 2011 and Hurricane Irma in 2017. Branson oversaw renovations following these events. The island now runs largely on wind and solar power.
In 2007, Branson acquired the 125-acre Moskito Island for $13.2 million, according to a travel publication from that year. Development there involves a small group of ultra-wealthy owners building custom estates while sharing communal costs.
Developments on Moskito include Branson's own multi-villa compound and a collection of high-value rentals. In 2024, the final home constructed on the island, named The Aerie, was listed for sale at $58 million.
Branson's real estate approach is connected to the Virgin brand, using properties as hospitality showcases. This strategy extends to other assets like Son Bunyola in Mallorca, Spain.
Following the 2024 sale of Virgin Money to Nationwide, Branson has maintained a focus on travel and hospitality, with growth noted in the Virgin Voyages venture. His British Virgin Islands properties remain key assets in his portfolio.