James Van Der Beek bought the 36-acre Texas ranch he had previously been renting just one month before his death.
Advertisement
The actor died on Wednesday at age 48 following a two-year battle with colorectal cancer.
The former Dawson's Creek star and wife Kimberly relocated their family to Spicewood, Texas from Los Angeles in 2020.
The couple, who wed in 2010, opted to lease the residence in order to try out the new area before committing to it.
Property records reviewed by Realtor.com show they purchased the sprawling home for $4.76 million in an off-market deal on January 9.
Advertisement
The Van Der Beeks used an LLC managed by a California attorney, per the outlet.
James Van Der Beek bought the 36-acre Texas ranch he had previously been renting just one month before his death; pictured in January 2019
The former Dawson's Creek star and wife Kimberly relocated their family to Spicewood, Texas from Los Angeles in 2020
In addition to the main house, the property boats multiple cabins, a pool, and a backyard with river views.
The decision to move was influenced by their children, with the late father of six sharing in a 2021 interview with Austin Life that he wanted them to be closer to nature.
Advertisement
'We wanted to give the children space and we wanted them to live in nature,' he said at the time.
The move also followed an emotionally taxing time for the Van Der Beek family.
The actor lost his mother Melinda Weber in July 2020, and Kimberly had suffered five miscarriages.
Van Der Beek and his wife shared daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, nine, and Gwendolyn, seven, as well as sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, four.
'It's a magical place. There's an energy that transcends any one religion or ideology,' he said of his new home base.
Advertisement
He added that Texas appealed to him because it is 'different' and a 'hands-on way of life,' which he had been craving.
The late star documented the family's move in an Instagram post in 2020
'We wanted to give the children space and we wanted them to live in nature' the actor said in a 2021 interview with Austin Life magazine
At the time of their move, Van Der Beek wrote on Instagram that he and his family were in search of a 'fuller life'
In the wake of his death family friends set up a GoFundMe account for Kimberly and her kids
Advertisement
In the wake of his death family friends set up a GoFundMe account for Kimberly and her kids.
After initially posting a $500,00 goal, the page has surpassed $2.4 million through more than 46,000 donations.
A description on the site reads: 'In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future.
'The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.'
The message continues: 'The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.
Advertisement
'Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.'

