The Harlem rich would not and could not spend any where near this amount on their everyday living expenses. One function of the estate or compound was to preserve social distance from the poor. It would be socially awkward for the rich and poor to closely mingle. The visitors will literally eat one out of house and home, like invading locusts. We are not ungenerous, but merely prudent.
Privacy is a cult for the rich.
A prime example of the compound or multiple-dwelling estate is the Rockefeller estate on 4,180 acres in the Pocantico Hills of New York State east of Tarrytown. The road is Route 117, which connects North Tarry town with Pleasantville, New York. Years ago the entire estate was open to the public now only part is open for hiking, horseback riding and hunting. The Rockefellers still live on the estate and the family homes are remote from the outside world. Almost like a military base with top secrets within.