Crossword Genius

A lot to pay for broken down manors (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ransom

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'a lot to pay' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'broken down manors' is the wordplay.
'broken down' is an anagram indicator.
'manors' with letters rearranged gives 'RANSOM'.

'for' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ransom that I've seen before include "Money demanded for the release of a captive" , "Kidnap money" , "money from reluctant donor" , "Transparency; move smoothly" , "Ready to release prisoner" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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