The Amityville Horror house, notorious for its purported paranormal activity, is not currently for sale. While its unsettling history continues to fascinate, the owners since the Lutz family have reported no similar experiences, contributing to its evolution from a site of terror to a historically significant, albeit ordinary, residential property.
The Price of Infamy: Understanding the Amityville House’s Value
Determining the “value” of the Amityville house, officially located at 108 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York, is complex. It’s no longer just a piece of real estate; it’s a cultural artifact, steeped in a history both tragic and sensationalized. Its market value is influenced by factors beyond square footage and location, including its notoriety and potential draw for tourists and true crime enthusiasts.
Historical Sales and Current Estimates
The house has changed hands several times since the Lutz family fled in 1975. Each sale has reflected a mix of market conditions, the house’s condition, and the lingering impact of its past. While precise sales figures are not always publicly available, records show previous sales in the hundreds of thousands, adjusted for inflation.
Currently, estimates for the house’s value, assuming it were to be put on the market, would place it well into the million-dollar range. This is due to its prime waterfront location, size, and overall improvements made by subsequent owners. However, any potential sale would undoubtedly factor in the “Amityville Horror” legacy, potentially impacting both the asking price and the pool of interested buyers. The current owners, like those before them, have actively sought to distance themselves from the house’s haunted reputation.
The Mystery Deepens: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the Amityville Horror house and its potential sale.
FAQ 1: Is the Amityville Horror house really haunted?
Whether the house is “really” haunted is a matter of personal belief. The Lutz family’s claims of paranormal activity were the basis of the book and film, but these claims have been widely debated and disputed. Skeptics cite inconsistencies and potential embellishment, while believers point to alleged evidence and the enduring fascination with the story. Subsequent owners have reported no similar experiences.
FAQ 2: Has the address of the house been changed?
Yes. After the notoriety of the original address (108 Ocean Avenue), the number was changed to 108 Ocean Avenue. This was done in an attempt to deter unwanted attention and curiosity seekers. However, the location remains well-known.
FAQ 3: Can I visit the Amityville Horror house?
The house is a private residence, and trespassing is strictly prohibited. The owners value their privacy and do not welcome visitors. Respectful observation from a distance is the only acceptable form of viewing.
FAQ 4: Are there tours of the Amityville Horror house?
No, there are no authorized tours of the Amityville Horror house. Any alleged “tour” is likely a scam or simply a drive-by viewing from public streets.
FAQ 5: How accurate are the movies based on the Amityville Horror?
The movies are heavily fictionalized and take considerable liberties with the purported events. While they draw inspiration from the Lutz family’s claims, they should be viewed as entertainment rather than factual documentaries. Significant creative license has been applied.
FAQ 6: Who currently owns the Amityville Horror house?
The current owners’ names are not publicly disclosed to protect their privacy. Public records can potentially reveal this information, but out of respect for their wishes, it is not widely circulated.
FAQ 7: What changes have been made to the house since the Lutz family lived there?
The house has undergone significant renovations and alterations since the Lutz family lived there. This includes changes to the interior layout, exterior appearance, and landscaping. The distinctive eye-like windows, often associated with the “horror house,” have also been removed.
FAQ 8: What is the “real” story behind the Amityville Horror?
The “real” story is subjective and depends on whom you ask. There’s the Lutz family’s version, the DeFeo family’s history (related to the murders that preceded the Lutz family’s occupancy), and the interpretations of paranormal investigators, skeptics, and countless others who have analyzed the case. The truth likely lies somewhere in the gray area between fact and fiction.
FAQ 9: Does the house have a history of paranormal activity before the Lutz family?
The primary focus of the “Amityville Horror” story revolves around the Lutz family’s experiences. While some claim the house was built on a Native American burial ground or had a history of other paranormal occurrences, there is limited documented evidence to support these claims. The DeFeo murders themselves contribute a layer of darkness, regardless of paranormal explanations.
FAQ 10: What is the legal obligation of the sellers to disclose the house’s history to potential buyers?
In New York State, sellers are legally required to disclose known material defects about a property. Whether the house’s history of alleged paranormal activity constitutes a “material defect” is a complex legal question. The courts have generally been reluctant to rule on paranormal claims, so disclosure often depends on the seller’s individual discretion and legal advice. The principle of caveat emptor (buyer beware) often applies.
FAQ 11: If the house were for sale, how would the stigma impact its value?
The stigma associated with the Amityville Horror house would undoubtedly impact its value. Some buyers might be deterred by the house’s reputation, while others might be drawn to it, willing to pay a premium for its notoriety. Ultimately, the impact on value would depend on market demand and the perceived severity of the stigma.
FAQ 12: What steps can I take if I believe my house is haunted?
If you believe your house is haunted, documenting your experiences is a good first step. Consider consulting with a paranormal investigator or religious leader for guidance. You can also research the history of your property for any potential explanations for the activity. Remember to approach the situation with a healthy dose of skepticism and consider all possible explanations before attributing events to paranormal causes. Seeking professional help for mental health concerns is also recommended.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Amityville
The Amityville Horror house remains a symbol of fear, mystery, and the power of storytelling. While it is not currently for sale, its history continues to captivate and intrigue. Understanding the facts surrounding the house, separating them from the fiction, is crucial to appreciating its complex and enduring legacy. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the Amityville Horror story serves as a reminder of the enduring human fascination with the unknown.