Meghan Markle's real reason for selling jam revealed as couple's massive costs laid bare

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are still residing in their plush abode , with the Duchess unveiling the latest addition to her lifestyle brand.

The Sussexes, who are settled in their lavish multi-million-pound estate, have embarked on numerous business endeavours after stepping back from life in the UK . Given that their residence sprawls across more than five acres, complete with landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, and a tennis court, it's hardly surprising they've had little downtime.

Their grand Californian mansion reportedly racks up thousands in annual maintenance costs. Eric Bramlett, who runs Bramlett Residential, spilled the beans on what it takes to maintain a home like Meghan and Harry's to Fabulous Magazine: "Managing a $14 million (£12 million) mansion like Harry and Meghan's in Montecito takes a lot of work."

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Eric pointed out that such upkeep involves "high-operating costs" and a team of around "10-15" staff members, including personal chefs, gardeners, security personnel, and housekeepers, aside from utility bills and the cost of ongoing renovations.

Eric remarked: "It's like running a small boutique hotel with residential service. The costs pile up quick, but it comes with luxury living."

Despite their fame, over time the couple has expressed a desire to keep their family life private, a feat they seem to have achieved with their secluded 18,000-square-foot estate, nestled among lush trees and foliage.

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According to Page Six, the posh pad boasts nine bedrooms and a whopping 16 bathrooms, blending modern with Victorian styles for the family of four. They've even got "Archie's Chick Inn" in the garden, home to their rescue chickens.

The place features a stone fireplace with ornate metalwork and an array of lush house plants basking in the sunlight pouring through tall windows and French doors.

With a hefty list of bills to pay, it's no shocker Meghan has branched out her lifestyle brand into the world of condiments. The ex-actress has just launched an artisan jam collection, dishing out 50 jars to her celeb pals.

PR guru Waylon Tate praised Meghan's move into what appears to be a solo venture. He remarked: "What I've seen so far, although she's been pretty clandestine about it everything surrounding this new brand, is that it's Meghan and it's Meghan alone. You can even see it on Instagram. It's not Meghan and Harry - it's by Meghan."

He continued: "This is the emancipation of Meghan. It's her saying, 'I'm a smart, savvy businesswoman. And here's an introduction to my family on my terms'."