Pope Leo’s boyhood home hits the market again This time by private auction

The modest suburban Chicago home where Pope Leo XIV spent his childhood is back on the market, but not in the traditional way.

Following a brief removal from public listings after his historic election last week, the Dolton property is now being offered via a “luxury private auction,” according to its updated listing.

Described as a “Piece of Papal History,” the home is marketed as a rare chance to own not just real estate, but a symbol of faith and perseverance. “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,” the listing declares. The pontiff, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago in 1955, spent his early years in Dolton with his two brothers.

Originally listed on May 5 for $245,957, the 750-square-foot house at 212 East 141st Place was only on the market for a few days before it was taken down, just hours after the announcement of Pope Leo’s election. The home had last been purchased in May 2024 for $66,000, with the new owner planning to renovate and resell it.

Realtor Steve Budzik said the historic news caught everyone by surprise. “At first, I didn’t really believe it because I didn’t see the news,” Budzik told NBC Chicago. But once the phone began ringing non-stop, he quickly realised, “This is real.”

Following the pope's election, the seller temporarily paused the sale to consider options, including restoring the home to its original state, turning it into a historic landmark, or relisting it with an adjusted strategy. “He wants to kind of let the dust settle,” Budzik said last week. “He’s evaluating all the options.”

Now, the seller has settled on a private auction format, with bidding open through June 18. According to the listing, “The seller may accept or reject bids at any time.”

Though extensively renovated, the home retains its original footprint and character. “The home features a freshly renovated interior, offering a modern touch while maintaining its original character,” the listing notes.

Pope Leo XIV attended elementary school and Mass at St. Mary of the Assumption in the nearby Riverdale neighbourhood. His brother, John Prevost, reminisced about their early years in Dolton: “I think it was just a normal childhood.”

With some family members still residing in the area, the listing makes a compelling appeal to buyers: “Whether you're a homeowner searching for a meaningful space to call your own or an investor looking for a property with historical significance and high potential, this is an opportunity like no other. Own a place where history was made—212 E 141st Pl is a story of transformation, legacy, and limitless potential.”

By Tamilla Hasanova