Murdoch eyes NY's 'priciest' pad

By Jeremy Cooke
BBC News, New York

The apartment has panoramic views over Central Park

In what may be the ultimate Christmas present for his family, media mogul Rupert Murdoch is reportedly spending $44m (£22.6m) on a home in New York.

It is thought the deal would make the apartment on Fifth Avenue the most expensive in the Big Apple's history.

In this crammed high-rise city, space is at a premium.

So buying up floors 14-16 of Number 834 Fifth Avenue is an unobtainable dream for most - even to those who consider themselves among the city's super rich.

According to the New York Times, the Australian-born billionaire offered $44m, a sum which is staggering even by Manhattan standards.

For his money, Mr Murdoch will get 20 rooms, plenty of terrace space and panoramic views across Central Park and beyond.

Murdoch and his family need the approval of the other residents

This being New York, though, having the money does not necessarily mean Mr Murdoch, his wife and two young daughters will get to move in.

First, the other ultra-wealthy residents of the building must agree that he would make a suitable neighbour.

Once that hurdle is cleared, there is the question of the apartment's monthly $21,000 maintenance fee.

For a man reported to be worth more than $7bn, it is unlikely to present any significant problems.