Kyle Richards Set to Receive Major Portion of Mauricio Umansky’s $57B Real Estate Empire in Divorce, Experts Say
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards is expected to secure a substantial share of her husband Mauricio Umansky’s $57 billion real estate empire once they officially divorce. Although the couple announced their separation over two years ago, they have yet to file divorce papers, a move many speculate is aimed at protecting their assets.
Separation and Asset Protection
Despite their separation, Mauricio and Kyle have not yet filed for divorce, leading to widespread speculation that the delay is strategic. Los Angeles-based attorney Jamie E. Wright explained to The U.S. Sun that the complex financial entanglements inherent in their situation make it common for high-profile couples to delay legal proceedings.
Shared Business Interests
While Mauricio is the founder of The Agency, a prominent real estate brokerage, the company was launched during their marriage in 2011. Wright noted, “Under California law, because the business was created during their marriage, it is considered community property. This means both parties have a stake in it, regardless of who founded it.” She added that Kyle’s involvement, including signing company documents and her public profile, could strengthen her claim to ownership or a share of the company.
Valuation and Potential Divisions
The legal expert emphasized that dividing assets in this case goes beyond a vacation home or car. The empire includes multiple high-profile properties, branding rights, and revenue streams from Kyle’s long-running role on RHOBH. “This isn’t just about real estate; it’s about brand equity, business interests, and shared financial contributions accumulated over years,” Wright explained.
Financial Implications
With Mauricio’s real estate holdings and Kyle’s income from her television career, the stakes are high. Wright warns that both parties must approach the divorce like a strategic game of chess, as one misstep could result in significant financial losses, potentially amounting to tens of millions.
Background and Marriage Timeline
Kyle, 56, and Mauricio, 54, married in 1996, long before Mauricio founded The Agency. Kyle has often mentioned their joint involvement in the business during RHOBH, stating she signed paperwork multiple times as the company grew. Forbes reports that The Agency has sold over $57 billion in real estate, though Kyle’s exact stake remains unclear.
A Changing Personal Landscape
In summer 2023, Kyle and Mauricio, once considered one of Bravo’s most stable couples, announced their separation. Rumors circulated that Kyle had moved on with country singer Morgan Wade. Mauricio also started dating publicly, including appearances on Dancing With the Stars and dates with partner Emma Slater.
Since then, Mauricio has been seen publicly with various women worldwide, sparking ongoing speculation. During a December episode of Watch What Happens Live, Kyle told host Andy Cohen she was not yet ready to file for divorce, explaining, “We still haven’t talked about it. We’re good friends and living separate lives. When the time comes, we will address it.”