Poltergeist House for Sale: A Haunting Piece of Movie History on the Market
If you’re a fan of classic horror flicks, here’s something that might just send shivers down your spine—in the best way possible. The iconic house from the 1982 film Poltergeist is up for grabs! That’s right, the very place where the Freeling family was terrorized by paranormal entities could soon be someone’s new abode. So, what’s the catch? Well, it’s not haunted, but it is steeped in cinematic history.
A Spielbergian Suburb: The Birthplace of On-Screen Terror
Spielberg’s Eye for the Ordinary
In 1982, Steven Spielberg was on top of the world. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial was capturing hearts globally, but it was his darker venture, Poltergeist, that left a lasting scar on the psyche of horror fans. Spielberg, known for blending the fantastical with the everyday, found the perfect canvas for this chilling tale in a quiet suburb of Simi Valley, California.
The House That Horror Built
Why this house? According to Jim Spencer, the production designer, Spielberg had a vision. He was drawn to the home’s unassuming, quintessentially suburban vibe. It was the ideal setting to unleash otherworldly horrors. “Steven liked that house because it was at the end of the road,” Spencer once revealed, emphasizing that its ordinary nature made the terrifying events unfolding within it even more unsettling.
Spielbergia: A Suburb Made Famous
This wasn’t just any suburb—this was what they called “Spielbergia.” Several of Spielberg’s films, including E.T., were shot in this residential haven. The idea was to ground extraordinary, sometimes terrifying tales, in a place that felt just like home. It’s where the line between normalcy and the supernatural blurred, making the fear all too real.
Inside the Poltergeist House: What You Need to Know
The Basics: A Peek into the Property
Now, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the place. The Poltergeist house, built in 1979, is being listed for \$1,174,999. It’s a solid piece of real estate, boasting 2,373 square feet of living space, with four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. You’ve also got an in-ground pool, a feature that fans of the movie will recognize—minus the skeletons, of course.
Exterior Shots and Set Secrets
While the house served as a major filming location, most of what you saw in the movie were exterior shots. The interior scenes, often involving some pretty intense special effects and property destruction, were filmed on sound stages. So, while you won’t find any portals to another dimension in the closet, you will get a home with a fascinating backstory.
The Pool Scene: Fact vs. Fiction
One of the most unforgettable moments in Poltergeist happens in a pool that’s eerily similar to the one on this property. Remember the scene with the unearthed skeletons? Legend has it that real skeletons were used in the film, a decision that sparked rumors of a curse. But rest assured, the pool at the Simi Valley house is skeleton-free.
The Spielberg-Hooper Collaboration: Who Really Directed?
A Tale of Two Directors
Poltergeist wasn’t just any horror movie—it was a Spielberg production. Officially, Tobe Hooper of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre fame was the director, but there’s been speculation for years that Spielberg was the one really pulling the strings.
Behind the Scenes: Who Was Really in Charge?
The question of who directed Poltergeist has lingered in Hollywood for decades. JoBeth Williams, who played the lead role in the film, once hinted at the blurred lines between the two directors. “It was sort of a combo of the two of them,” she said, pointing out that Spielberg was heavily involved, sometimes even giving directions alongside Hooper.
The Spielberg Effect
Spielberg’s touch is evident throughout Poltergeist. From the storytelling to the suspense, you can feel his influence. It’s no surprise that fans and critics alike have often wondered if this film should have carried his directorial credit. Regardless, what we got was a film that’s as scary as it is iconic, and the house where it all began is now available for the next brave soul to call home.
The House Today: From Fictional Frights to Real Estate Reality
A Haunted House? Not Exactly
So, is this house haunted? Well, according to Lauren Murdock of Equity Union Real Estate, it’s sold “without the ghostly antics.” While that might be a bummer for thrill-seekers, it’s likely a relief for anyone interested in actually living there. No ghostly encounters, just a piece of Hollywood history.
The Value of Cinematic Legacy
Owning this house isn’t just about square footage and location; it’s about owning a slice of film history. Imagine inviting friends over and casually dropping the fact that they’re standing in the Poltergeist house. It’s a story that never gets old, especially if you’re a fan of the horror genre.
Is It Worth the Price?
Let’s be honest, $1.17 million isn’t exactly pocket change. But when you consider the cultural significance of this property, coupled with the steady appreciation of real estate in Southern California, it’s more than just a house—it’s an investment in a legacy.
Location, Location, Location: Simi Valley’s Appeal
A Quiet Suburban Escape
Simi Valley is a suburb that’s far enough from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles to provide a peaceful retreat but close enough that you can still enjoy the perks of the big city. The neighborhood is quintessentially Californian, with wide streets, well-maintained homes, and a laid-back vibe.
Proximity to Major Freeways
For those who value convenience, the house is located near the 118 freeway. Whether you’re commuting to work or planning a weekend getaway, easy access to the freeway is a huge plus. And, if things ever get too spooky, you can make a quick exit!
The Spielberg Connection
Being in “Spielbergia” isn’t just about living in a nice neighborhood—it’s about being part of a legacy. This area has been the backdrop for some of the most beloved films of the past few decades, making it a prime spot for cinephiles and history buffs alike.
Living in a Piece of History: What to Expect
The Appeal of Historical Homes
There’s something undeniably special about living in a home with history. It’s not just about the bricks and mortar—it’s about the stories that these walls could tell. The Poltergeist house is more than just a home; it’s a conversation starter, a piece of the past that you can live in.
Renovation Potential
Despite its age, the house has been well-maintained by its original owners. However, with a home built in 1979, there’s always room for some modern upgrades. Whether you’re looking to preserve its retro charm or bring it into the 21st century, the potential for renovation is there.
Community and Neighborly Vibes
One of the best parts about living in a suburb like Simi Valley is the sense of community. The neighbors might not be aware they’re living near a movie landmark, but the friendly suburban vibe is something that’s hard to find in bigger cities.
The Myth of the Poltergeist Curse
A Hollywood Urban Legend
The supposed curse surrounding the Poltergeist franchise has become the stuff of Hollywood legend. From the tragic deaths of cast members to the eerie coincidences that occurred during filming, it’s a story that’s kept fans talking for decades.
Reality vs. Superstition
But let’s separate fact from fiction. While it’s true that some strange and sad events have been linked to the franchise, there’s no concrete evidence to suggest the house itself is cursed. It’s a case of life imitating art, with a dash of Hollywood flair.
Owning a Piece of Horror History
For the superstitious among us, the idea of buying a “cursed” house might be a dealbreaker. But for others, it’s all part of the fun. After all, what’s life without a little mystery?
Why Buy the Poltergeist House?
An Unparalleled Conversation Piece
Imagine the look on your guests’ faces when they find out they’re dining in the Poltergeist house. It’s a story that’ll never fail to impress, especially during Halloween parties. This house isn’t just real estate—it’s a ticket to instant fame among your social circle.
A Sound Investment
Beyond the novelty, this property is a solid investment. Southern California real estate tends to hold its value, and homes with unique backstories like this one can appreciate even more. Plus, there’s always the potential to rent it out to filmmakers or as a vacation home for horror enthusiasts.
A Unique Living Experience
Buying this house isn’t just about owning property; it’s about stepping into a story. Whether you’re a horror movie buff or just someone who appreciates a good tale, living in the Poltergeist house offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Conclusion: Dare to Live in a Legend
So, would you dare to live in a house with such a storied past? The Poltergeist house isn’t just another suburban home—it’s a piece of movie history, a testament to Spielberg
The iconic house used in the horror classic had been occupied by its original owners since being built in 1979.
Directed by Tobe Hooper and written by Steven Spielberg, Poltergeist told the terrifying tale of a family who became besieged by a malicious haunting that culminated in their youngest daughter being pulled through a portal to the ‘other side’.
Starring the late Heather O’Rourke, the film remains firmly entrenched in the minds of anyone who grew up watching it back in the 80s and is still considered a classic to this day.
Now, for the first time since the movie was released, the house used in the exterior shots of the family’s home is up for sale for anyone who happens to have deep enough pockets.
Situated in Simi Valley, California, it is available for an eye-watering $1,174,999.
It was picked for use in the movie because it just looked like any normal suburban home.
“Steven liked that house because it was the end of the road,” production designer Jim Spencer said back in 2015. “It was a two story Valley-type mock Tudor and it just fit everything.”
“The neighborhood [was what] we call ‘Spielbergia,’ where E.T. and a couple of his other films were shot. He always wanted to be in normal residential areas.”
Prospective buyers needn’t be too alarmed by the house’s paranormal reputation, however, as, according to the real estate company, it comes completely free of any resident spooks.