Heidi Klum bought her ex-boyfriend's mother a house.

The 40-year-old model splashed out on a home for Martin Kirsten's mum in their native South Africa, and also gave the bodyguard a ''hefty'' financial settlement after they parted ways in January.

A source told RadarOnline.com: ''Martin says Heidi treated him well so he would keep his mouth shut.

''Martin has been spending thousands of dollars on dinners, parties and clothes.''

It has been claimed that Martin ended his 18-month romance with the 'America's Top Model' host - who raises children Leni, 10, Henri, eight, Johan, seven, and Lou, four, with ex-husband Seal - because he was ''sick'' of having to look after the household while she worked six days a week.

A source said: ''He was sick of being a househusband. He did everything for the children.

''He says Heidi is a lovely person, but he had to do what was right for him. He's really sad.''

Since splitting from Martin, Heidi has embarked on a romance with 27-year-old art dealer Vito Schnabel and recently admitted she is smitten with him.

Asked what makes their relationship work, the German beauty said: ''I look at people with my heart. I look for their kindness and humour and compassion.''