In one of the most jaw-dropping luxury listings to ever hit the Washington, D.C. area, former Commanders owner Dan Snyder’s 40,000-square-foot Potomac mansion — known as The Estate at River’s Edge — is officially going up for auction this December.

But here’s the twist: the entire sale benefits the American Cancer Society.

A Record-Setting Gift Turns Into a Once-in-a-Lifetime Sale

Back in May 2024, Dan and Tanya Snyder made headlines when they donated this sprawling French château-style estate — all 13.5 acres of it — to the American Cancer Society. It remains the largest real-estate gift in the nonprofit’s 110-year history.

Now, through Concierge Auctions, the home will be sold between December 5 – 18, 2025 at the Pendry West Manhattan in New York. The property is currently listed for $24.9 million, with every dollar of the winning bid (plus a 0.5 percent bonus contribution from Concierge Auctions) directed to fund cancer research and patient programs.

As CEO Chad Roffers told Robb Report, buyers are “heightened to the opportunity” to own a one-of-a-kind estate and make an impact for a national cause.


A Masterpiece on the Potomac

Perched high above the river, The Estate at River’s Edge covers more than 40,000 square feet across three buildings, all designed by architect John Ike (of Ike Baker Velten) and completed in 2004 by Horizon Builders.

Inside, interiors by Geoffrey Bradfield blend timeless French detailing with modern luxury:

  • A grand, double-height reception hall with limestone fireplace

  • Commercial-grade kitchen fit for a hotel chef

  • Library, theater, and billiards room

  • Five bedrooms and twelve baths

  • A primary suite with dual baths and automated dressing rooms

Outside, the grounds rival a resort — complete with a heated pool and loggia, manicured gardens, a full-size basketball and sports court, an 11-bay carriage house (with guest apartment), and a 4,500-square-foot staff residence.

(Photography by Derek & Vee / Courtesy Robb Report)


Royal Roots and Local History

Snyder originally purchased the core parcel from King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan back in 2000 for $8.6 million, later expanding the estate by acquiring six adjoining lots.

The home cycled on and off the market for years — once listed as high as $49 million — before the Snyders ultimately gifted it to charity.

For Tanya Snyder, a cancer survivor and former national spokeswoman for the NFL’s Crucial Catch campaign, the donation was deeply personal. She has long championed cancer awareness and was recognized by the American Cancer Society as Mother of the Year.


A Rare Opportunity for Washington Luxury Buyers

This isn’t just another mansion sale — it’s a moment in D.C. real estate history.

For ultra-high-net-worth buyers who love the prestige of Potomac and the proximity to D.C., River’s Edge offers everything: world-class architecture, unmatched privacy, and a philanthropic legacy attached to the deed.

It’s the kind of story that reminds us that even in luxury real estate, legacy matters as much as lifestyle.


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Chris Colgan’s Take

“You rarely see a property this significant come to market — let alone tied to a cause like cancer research. It shows the incredible connection between wealth and impact we’re seeing more of in the D.C. luxury space. Whoever buys River’s Edge isn’t just getting a mansion; they’re becoming part of a legacy.”


Learn More or Schedule a Private Consultation

If you’re exploring luxury real estate in the Washington metropolitan area, or want to understand how high-end properties like this shape the regional market, reach out to the Chris Colgan Team at Real Broker – Powered by PLACE.

Call or text 571-437-7575 | info@colganteam.com
www.RealNovaNetwork.com

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Sources: Robb Report (Abby Montanez, November 10, 2025) | Photography by Derek & Vee | Concierge Auctions | Compass

Posted by Chris Colgan on

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