The ‘70s nostalgia – as strong as it is – fused with one of the most iconic sitcoms in television history, and people just fall head over heels in love with whatever you are selling. Case in point, The Brady Bunch house, which hit the real estate market in mid-2018. The fans of the popular show became embroiled with further developments regarding the plight of the house that served as the exterior for the Brady Bunch house. Soon, HGTV announced the renovation of the property to make it an exact replica of the original Paramount Stage 5 set.
The television network began the project under its new limited TV series dubbed A Very Brady Renovation in 2018, garnering national attention. The Brady Bunch house was a ranch-style, single-level home with three rooms and three baths located at 11222 Dilling Street in Studio City, California. The massive project included the six Brady kids working alongside eight HGTV stars to transform the home.
HGTV spent a total of $5.5 million ($3.5 million for the property and $2 million for renovations) to complete the project and finally put the house for sale at $5.5 million. The house was sold to a self-described fan namely Tina Trahan, wife of former HBO chief executive Chris Albrecht, only it was sold for a loss. Tina bought the house for $3.2 million, which is 42% of the asking price. Moreover, HGTV sold the property for about 9% less than what it paid for in 2018.
Describing the purchase as the “worst investment ever,” Tina – who is a collector of unusual homes – told WSJ that she will use the house for fundraising and charity events. She adds, “Nobody is going to live in it. No one is going in there to make pork chops and applesauce in that kitchen. Anything you might do to make the house livable would take away from what I consider artwork.”
While the fans of the show may want to live or visit the home in North Hollywood, it is certainly not possible at the moment. Tina has no intention of living at the lovely house she so clearly adores, but might end up setting it up as a vacation rental, giving other fans to bask in the ‘70s charm.
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Reportedly the 2nd most photographed home in the USA after the White House, this house has become a piece of pop culture history retaining trademark details from the show. According to the real estate listing, it is complete with the infamous staircase pictured in the beloved sitcom, the bright orange Formica kitchen counters, the blue bunk beds, and pink twin beds, along with the attic. Everything in the house evokes the nostalgia of an era long gone. It has curated furnishings and accessories are included to complete the ensemble.
The interior of the recently renovated property is dotted with iconic Mid-Century furniture, including avocado green Knoll-style Tulip chairs and a pedestal table in the kitchen. There is a matching refrigerator, low-hanging credenzas, and the Mondrianesque paneled screen above the staircase.
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However, as some elements such as the fireplaces and some appliances and fixtures are added for decorative purposes, making The Brady Bunch house into a permanent residence will be an added expense. Probably why Tina considers the property purchase the worst investment.
Besides, the quint, ranch-style charm of the property – which attracted tourists to it – has been lost through the renovations and although the interior looks beautiful, the exterior has suffered the transition.
This begs the question: Just because you like something that evokes a fond memory, should you invest in it? Let us know in the comments.
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