Fate Of Pope's Childhood Home: New Twist After Home Listed For Sale

DOLTON, IL — There's been a new twist in the sale of Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home after it was pulled from the market following the news of its famous former inhabitant.

Dubbed a "Piece of Papal History," the home has now been re-listed — and is now available via a "luxury private auction." The brick home was re-listed on Thursday, urging buyers to "own a place where history was made."

Bidding will start June 18, according to the updated listing, which goes on to describe the home: "A truly one-of-a-kind opportunity-this beautifully updated home isn't just a charming 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence... It's the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope in history. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago and raised right here in Dolton, Pope Leo XIV's journey from this humble neighborhood to the Vatican is a testament to faith, perseverance, and purpose. Now, you have the rare chance to own a tangible piece of his inspiring legacy."

The 1,200-square-foot three-bedroom, three-bathroom house at 212 E. 141st Place in Dolton was listed for sale in January for $199,000, but the listing was removed late last week, according to Realtor.com.

Steve Budzik, the real estate agent for the property, told NBC Chicago the seller decided to take the home off the market following the pope’s election last week.

"He was like, 'This is great. This is better than winning a lotto ticket,'" Budzik said to the outlet, adding the home received several offers over list price in the wake of the news.

The owner bought the home about a year ago for $66,000, according to Realtor.com, and fully renovated it, a listing from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices said.

It was built in 1949 and the earliest record of its sale on Realtor.com is for $58,000 in 1996.

The pope, born Robert Prevost in 1955, grew up in Dolton, near St. Mary of the Assumption, where he attended Mass and elementary school before pursuing a career in the church.

The current owner of the Dolton home considered making it a landmark, restoring it to reflect the era of the pope’s childhood, and selling it, according to NBC Chicago.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.