When it comes to iconic Christmas children's movies, one particular name comes to the top of the list: the “Home Alone” movie series. There is no kid now in their 30s and 40s that hasn't seen it during the most beautiful festive season. Kevin was everyone's idol, and the house he lived in was the actual dream of any American family. Today that dream can become a reality since the home from the movie series has hit the market once again.
The Dawn McKenna Group of Coldwell Banker Realty is listing the “Home Alone” house in Winnetka, Illinois, for an impressive $5.25 million. If you are a movie fan, you would love to own a piece of this cinematic history and fulfill some childhood dreams of living like Kevin McAllister. Now, you can, if you have that crazy amount of money. Let's look into the details of this iconic home and see how it was renovated to be prepared for selling.
When we talk about the “Home Alone” house we are not talking about just another piece of real estate, let's be clear, we are talking about real cinematic heritage. The movie is about the young Kevin McAllister, an epic character played by a young Macaulay Culkin in the 1990s, who is left alone at home during the holiday season and must fend off bumbling burglars. The house itself is a star on its own in the movie because it is the ultimate shield of Kevin's ingenious and comedic defense strategies. It was built in Georgian-style architecture in 1921, and it became so popular that movie fans visited it for decades.
The house first hit the market in 2012 and was sold for $1.585 million. But at that time, it was a bit outdated as a family home, even though it was as charming as ever. In 2018, the new owners undertook a comprehensive renovation, doubling the livable space and including modern amenities while preserving the home's iconic features. The result was a perfect blend of nostalgic charm and contemporary luxury. Here are the key features of the renovated house.
The house now has five bedrooms and six bathrooms, totaling to 9000 square feet of living space. It is an extensive house ideal for large families or those who enjoy hosting dinners, parties, and other festivities.
The kitchen is every person's dream come true for a gourmet kitchen, as it has double Islands, white cabinetry, and high-end appliances. The movie's kitchen was a bit traditional prior renovations but now it has blended functionality with style.
The incredible indoor sports court, completed with a three-point line, has been added, making it an excellent place for creativity and fitness as well.
The renovation included the private movie theater, and given the cinematic legacy, it was more than fitting to have such a room. This addition makes the house perfect for family moving nights or hosting friends to watch the latest releases.
After the renovation, this house has got a beautiful sunroom and a more open layout, which enhances the flow of natural light while creating an airy, welcoming atmosphere.
If you do a real estate tour of the “Home Alone” house, you will feel a sense of nostalgia. The Iconic wooden staircase we saw Kevin sledding down remains a focal point, but now it has modern finishes. The living room, with its inviting fireplace, will invoke memories of Kevin's family's Christmas morning reunion. The most significant change is replacing the movie's iconic red wallpaper and green carpets with more contemporary decor. However, the home's original charm has been completely preserved.
To own such a property with so much history and cultural importance means dealing with unique challenges and responsibilities. This is where the role of property managers became invaluable because, thanks to their work, this house has been able to preserve its charm. Here is how property managers properly managed the house over the years:
Property managers ensured that every aspect of the home is well maintained with regular inspections and family repairs. Preventive maintenance was even more important because it is crucial to preserve the home's value from fluctuation and avoid headaches down the road.
Since the house has been famous for so long, it has attracted attention from fans and curious visitors. Property managers implemented advanced security systems to protect the home and provide peace of mind to the owners.
The home-alone house could be a venue for events, photoshoots, or even film-related gatherings. So property managers handled the logistics, from coordinating bookings to ensuring the property is well-prepared for each event.
They helped preserve the home's historic elements while integrating modern features and amenities.
If you are one of those people who like the idea of owning the “Home Alone” house, here are some practical aspects to consider:
The sale of the “Home Alone” house is a significant event for fans of the beloved movie and not just for real estate enthusiasts. The house has been renovated and turned into a modern, luxurious home that preserves the charm and nostalgia from the film that made it famous. For perspective buyers, it is a true gem and a rare opportunity to own a piece of cinematic history. The home offers a one-of-a-time blend of history, luxury, and timeless appeal.
