Reality Star Realtors, Hollywood Owners Named in Allegedly Moldy Property Dispute
By Dolores Quintana
Something is, allegedly, moldy in Beverly Hills. Car dealership co-owner, Simon Sarriedine’s displeasure with a mansion that he purchased has resulted in a lawsuit as reported by The Real Deal. Sarriedine’s lawsuit was filed against the former owners of the Beverly Park home and the listing agents that he bought for $22 million. The lawsuit names an entertainment industry agent and his wife, along with The Altman Brothers, who are also reality TV stars on the show Million Dollar Listing.
Sarriedine made a deal on April 4 to purchase the property at 2505 Summitridge Drive but later discovered issues, allegedly including mold and disrepair, during an inspection after paying a $2.1 million deposit. The complaint claims a limited five-day inspection period was granted, hindering due diligence, and certain areas, including a wine cellar, were inaccessible. He also received documents that claimed neither the owners nor listing agents knew of any mold on the property.
The lawsuit, filed on Oct. 31, targets Josh Altman, the listing agent, Matthew Altman, the buyer’s agent, and brokerage Douglas Elliman. The sellers, the Venit Living Trust, headed by former Hollywood agent Adam Venit and his ex-wife Trina Venit, are accused of breach of implied covenant, negligent misrepresentation, and breach of contract. Venit is no longer employed by William Morris Endeavor after accusations, from which he was later cleared, of groping star Terry Crews, whom he settled with.
Sarriedine alleges harm exceeding $2 million and seeks cancellation of the contract. Efforts to mediate through the California Association of Realtors were reportedly rebuffed by the sellers, prompting the lawsuit. The property, a nine-bedroom mansion on 7.5 acres, boasts amenities such as an infinity pool and spa and was constructed in 2002. Josh Altman declined to comment, and there was no response from Douglas Elliman’s representatives.