What Is George Peterson’s Net Worth?
George Peterson, an American businessman and reality television personality, has accumulated a net worth of $20 million. His wealth stems primarily from his career as a real estate and land developer based in San Juan Capistrano, California. While his business ventures contribute significantly to his financial standing, his appearances on “The Real Housewives of Orange County” alongside his wife, Lauri Peterson, have also played a role in his public profile.
George Peterson’s Career and Real Estate Holdings
George Peterson’s primary source of wealth is his real estate and land development business. The exact details of his real estate portfolio are not publicly available, but it is known that he has been involved in developing properties in the San Juan Capistrano area. His experience in real estate has allowed him to build a substantial net worth over the years. Furthermore, he is also known for his involvement in high-profile real estate transactions. For instance, in 2004, George purchased a 3,500-square-foot mansion in San Juan Capistrano for $2.85 million. This property, which serves as his primary residence with Lauri Peterson, is estimated to be worth between $4-5 million today. He sold a Laguna Niguel mansion for $1.85 million in September 2008, after having previously listed the property following the removal of his ex-wife Gina Peterson and Dennis Rodman’s belongings. Notably, in June 2021, the same Laguna Niguel property was listed for sale at $3.9 million, highlighting the potential appreciation in value over time.
George and Lauri Peterson’s Relationship and Public Appearances
Lauri Peterson was a main cast member on “The Real Housewives of Orange County” (RHOC) for the first four seasons, making subsequent appearances in seasons 5 and 8. Her relationship with George Peterson became a storyline on the show. Lauri’s on-screen presence and personal life decisions, including her marriage to George, were documented and broadcasted to a wide audience. George and Lauri began dating during the show’s second season. In September 2007, George and Lauri married, marking one of the first major reality wedding ceremonies to be televised, a trend that has become a staple in the reality television genre. George’s marriage to Lauri also meant he became stepfather to her children, Josh and Sophie Waring, from her previous marriage to Phillip Waring, and her daughter Ashley from another relationship. It also meant Lauri became stepmother to George’s four children from a previous relationship.
Family History and Legal Issues
Before his marriage to Lauri, George had been married to Regina “Gina” Peterson. They separated in 2002 and officially divorced in 2004. Prior to meeting George, Lauri was married to Phillip Waring. George also became the stepfather to Gina’s daughter, Adriean, during his marriage to Gina. Following their separation, Adriean lived alone in their former residence in the early 2000s. In September 2003, a Los Angeles Times article reported that Orange County sheriff’s deputies raided the 5,000-square-foot mansion in Laguna Niguel that George and Gina previously shared. Adriean and several associates were arrested for allegedly operating an elaborate meth lab. Deputies reportedly discovered 50lbs of methamphetamine in ready-to-be-sold tablets and liquids, with an estimated street value of over $1 million. This incident brought significant media attention to George and his family. In early 2008, George sought a court order to evict his ex-wife Gina from their former Laguna Niguel marital home. At the time, Gina was dating and living with former NBA star Dennis Rodman. Dennis and Gina resided in George and Gina’s former marital home. Dennis was storing two cars and a pit bull at the property. In April 2008, George obtained a temporary restraining order against Gina. A few weeks later, Gina and Dennis were involved in a physical altercation at a Los Angeles hotel, leading to Rodman’s arrest on suspicion of felony domestic battery. After his arrest, Rodman moved to Florida, leaving behind two cars and the pit bull at the home. One car was a tan H-1 Hummer with Rodman’s likeness airbrushed on the back. The other was a white Mercedes with purple flames. Neither car was in working condition. In July 2008, a judge ordered Gina to immediately remove Dennis’ cars, dogs, and any house guests from the Laguna Niguel mansion.
Josh Waring’s Legal Issues and Family Adoption
In 2016, Lauri’s son Josh was arrested on charges of stealing a car and shooting someone. He faced a potential life sentence but accepted a plea deal, resulting in several years of imprisonment. During his incarceration, he was violently assaulted by a fellow inmate. He was released in 2020. In 2015, George and Lauri adopted Josh’s daughter, Kennedy Waring, while he was dealing with addiction and legal troubles. This adoption demonstrates the couple’s commitment to family and their willingness to provide support during difficult times.
Property Details of Residences
George and Lauri’s primary home is a 3,500-square-foot mansion located in San Juan Capistrano, California. George purchased this property in 2004 for $2.85 million. Today, the estimated value of the home ranges between $4-5 million, reflecting the appreciation in real estate values over the years. After removing Gina Peterson and Dennis Rodman’s belongings, George listed the Laguna Niguel mansion for sale. The property was sold in September 2008 for $1.85 million. This same home was listed for sale in June 2021 for $3.9 million, indicating its increased market value. These real estate transactions demonstrate George Peterson’s involvement in the property market and his ability to manage and sell properties for profit.