Winner of £3 Million Omaze House Returns Keys After Three Days

Glen Elmy, the winner of a £3 million house from Omaze, returned the keys to the property just three days after claiming it, citing concerns about coastal erosion. The stunning residence, known as Stealth House, is located on the North Devon coastline and features an infinity pool along with breathtaking views.

Upon winning the house in October 2021, Elmy expressed sheer joy at the unexpected windfall. “I’m totally gobsmacked,” he said, recalling that his only prior win was a modest three pounds at a holiday bingo night. He described the property as a dream home, stating, “If I could have designed one from scratch, it would look just like this—it’s like something from a Bond film.” Elmy noted that the house provided a much-needed boost for his family, particularly after the loss of his father-in-law to COVID-19 earlier that year and his youngest son’s recent redundancy.

Despite the initial excitement, reports indicate that Elmy left the property shortly after arrival due to worries about its proximity to a cliff edge. According to Devon Live, Elmy handed back the keys to Omaze and requested the cash equivalent of the home’s value instead. Sources close to the situation revealed that the house is situated only two meters from the cliff edge, raising concerns about potential erosion.

A local resident commented on the situation, noting that they had not seen anyone enter or exit the house since the win. “There is all sorts of speculation that it can’t be insured because of how close it’s been built to the sea and on the cliff edge,” the neighbor said. They added that when they moved in five years ago, the property was listed for £2.5 million but struggled to attract buyers.

In response to these concerns, an Omaze spokesperson firmly rejected any claims regarding the property’s structural integrity. “As with all its properties, Omaze carried out extensive professional surveys, searches, and inspections prior to purchasing the house in Devon,” the spokesperson stated. They emphasized that none of the reports raised material concerns related to coastal erosion and confirmed the property is fully insurable.

Elmy’s experience is not an isolated incident among Omaze winners. In August 2022, **Uttam Parmar** and his wife **Raki** won another property valued at £3 million along the Cornish coastline, complete with stunning views of the Camel Estuary. Reports suggest they left the home just eight weeks later, although Omaze has disputed these claims.

Similarly, **June Smith**, who won a six-bedroom house in **Fowey**, Cornwall, in May 2023, reportedly opted to sell the property after visiting it only once. Locals referred to her new home as a “fishbowl,” indicating concerns over privacy.

Despite these challenges, there have been success stories among Omaze winners. **Lauren Keene** made headlines last year as the youngest winner, claiming a five-bedroom house that resembles a Hollywood Hills property in the Wirral. “The house is unreal! It really does feel like something you’d find in the Hollywood Hills!” she exclaimed, looking forward to hosting friends and family.

Glen Elmy’s experience highlights the complexities that can accompany seemingly fortunate events. While the initial thrill of winning a dream home can be exhilarating, the reality of property ownership, particularly in vulnerable locations, can present unforeseen challenges.