The infamous Amityville Horror house, forever linked to tales of demonic possession and gruesome murders, has exchanged hands numerous times. While its history is chilling, the real story behind its sales is far more grounded: the house at 112 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, New York, has sold for a variety of prices over the years, most recently fetching $605,000 in 2017. This price reflects market value more than its macabre reputation, though the notoriety undoubtedly plays a role.
A History of Sales: Beyond the Horror
The true value of the Amityville house is a complex equation, influenced by factors far beyond its purported paranormal activity. Location, property size, market fluctuations, and, of course, the enduring infamy all contribute to its worth. Understanding the chronological sales history is crucial to deciphering the price tag.
The Lutz Era and Its Aftermath
Following the horrific murders of the DeFeo family in 1974, the house remained vacant for some time before being purchased by George and Kathy Lutz in December 1975 for $80,000. Their brief and controversial stay, lasting only 28 days, spawned the “Amityville Horror” narrative, transforming the property into a magnet for paranormal enthusiasts and skeptics alike. The Lutzes subsequently defaulted on the mortgage.
Moving On: The Cromarty Purchase
In 1977, James and Barbara Cromarty purchased the house, aiming to dispel the myths and live a normal life. They paid a reported $55,000, a figure possibly lowered due to the property’s stigma. The Cromartys lived there for over a decade, reporting no unusual activity.
The O’Neill Ownership and Subsequent Sales
The Cromarty family sold the house in 1987 to Peter and Jeanne O’Neill. They also lived there for several years without incident, further debunking the horror stories. The selling price at that time is less publicly documented, but real estate records suggest a value aligned with market prices in the late 1980s.
Later Sales and the 2017 Transaction
Subsequent sales occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The house, after undergoing renovations and a change of address (108 Ocean Avenue), sold in 2010 for $950,000. As previously mentioned, the most recent sale was in 2017, with the property fetching $605,000. This fluctuation reflects changes in the housing market and potentially, shifting perceptions of the property’s value.
Analyzing the Price: Market Forces vs. Infamy
It’s clear that the Amityville Horror house’s price isn’t solely dictated by its spectral history. While the notoriety undoubtedly draws attention, several other factors are at play.
Location, Location, Location
The house is situated in Amityville, a desirable Long Island suburb. Proximity to New York City, good schools, and a waterfront location all contribute to the property’s inherent value. Even without the horror association, the location would command a premium.
Market Fluctuations and Property Condition
Like any real estate, the Amityville house is subject to the ebb and flow of the market. Economic conditions, interest rates, and buyer demand all influence its price. The condition of the property, including renovations and maintenance, also plays a significant role.
The “Horror” Premium (or Discount?)
The million-dollar question is whether the house’s infamous history adds to or detracts from its value. Some might argue that it attracts a niche buyer willing to pay a premium for the macabre connection. Conversely, others might be deterred by the stigma, leading to a lower sale price. The 2017 sale, significantly lower than the 2010 sale, might suggest the stigma is impacting value.
FAQs: Demystifying the Amityville Horror House Sales
Here are frequently asked questions to further clarify the story behind the Amityville Horror house sales.
1. What was the original asking price for the house after the DeFeo murders?
The original asking price after the DeFeo murders isn’t explicitly documented, but it’s safe to assume it was significantly lower than market value due to the stigma and the need to find a buyer willing to overlook the property’s history.
2. Did the Lutz family make a profit on their sale?
No, the Lutz family did not sell the house. They defaulted on their mortgage after only 28 days of living there. They left behind all their furniture and most of their belongings.
3. How did the Cromarty family feel about living in the “Amityville Horror” house?
The Cromarty family reportedly found no evidence of paranormal activity and lived in the house peacefully for over a decade. They actively tried to dispel the myths surrounding the property.
4. Did the address change impact the property’s value?
Changing the address from 112 Ocean Avenue to 108 Ocean Avenue was likely done to distance the property from its notorious past. Whether it significantly impacted the value is debatable, but it likely had a subtle positive effect by creating a sense of separation.
5. Are there any restrictions on filming or tours at the Amityville Horror house?
Due to past issues with trespassers and unwanted attention, the current owners are very private and discourage any filming or tours of the property. No official tours are available.
6. What renovations have been done to the house over the years?
The house has undergone several renovations over the years, including exterior modifications, interior updates, and landscaping changes. These renovations contribute to the property’s appeal and value.
7. How does the Amityville Horror house compare to other waterfront properties in the area?
Comparable waterfront properties in Amityville, without the associated stigma, typically command higher prices, especially those with similar square footage and lot size. This suggests that the notoriety might be acting as a slight drag on the price.
8. Is there a legal requirement to disclose the house’s history to potential buyers?
New York State law requires sellers to disclose certain defects and issues with a property. While the house’s history isn’t a physical defect, some might argue that its reputation constitutes a material fact that should be disclosed.
9. Has the Amityville Horror film franchise impacted the house’s real estate value?
The Amityville Horror film franchise has undoubtedly kept the house in the public consciousness. While it generates interest, it’s difficult to quantify its direct impact on the real estate value. The films amplify the notoriety, which can be a double-edged sword.
10. What is the estimated property tax on the Amityville Horror house?
Property taxes on the Amityville Horror house would be consistent with other properties of similar value in the Amityville area. This information is publicly accessible through local government records.
11. Are there any online resources for tracking the Amityville Horror house’s sales history?
Public real estate records and websites like Zillow and Redfin often provide information on property sales history. However, accessing detailed and verified historical data can sometimes require specialized real estate databases.
12. What is the future outlook for the Amityville Horror house’s value?
The future value of the Amityville Horror house will depend on various factors, including market trends, the overall economy, and the continued public fascination with its history. While predicting the future is impossible, it’s likely that the property will continue to attract attention and maintain a certain level of notoriety. Its value will likely rise and fall based on market conditions, but the notoriety will always play a role, however small.