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A piece of religious history is heading to the auction block Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home in Dolton, Illinois, is now up for sale. Yet, while interested buyers prepare to place bids, the Village of Dolton is actively looking to secure the property for itself, potentially using its eminent domain powers.

A Historic Property with Newfound Fame

Located in the southern suburbs of Chicago, the modest brick home features three bedrooms and about 1,050 square feet of living space. It’s the early residence of Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Prevost, who made history on May 8 by becoming the first American to lead the Catholic Church as its 267th pope.

The house was purchased in May 2024 for just $66,000. Following renovations, it was briefly listed for $199,000 before being pulled from the market on the same day Prevost was named pope. Now, the current owner has opted for an auction, with the bidding set to end on June 18 and a reserve price of $250,000.

Village of Dolton Steps In

Dolton officials, however, aren’t waiting for the auction’s final gavel. The village has informed the auction house Paramount Realty USA of its intent to acquire the property, either through direct purchase or via eminent domain. In a letter obtained by FOX Business, the village made it clear: prospective buyers should be aware that their ownership may be short-lived.

The letter reportedly warned, “Please inform any prospective buyers that their ‘purchase’ may only be temporary since the Village intends to begin the eminent domain process very shortly.”

According to village representatives, the goal is to preserve the home as a historic landmark in recognition of its significance to the Catholic Church and Pope Leo XIV’s legacy.

No Inflated Price, Says Dolton

Despite the increased attention the property has garnered pilgrims and tourists have already begun visiting the site the village has no intention of paying more than fair market value. According to their attorney, even with the home’s elevated status, the valuation will be based on local real estate norms.

A Path to Preservation

Pope Leo XIV, whose journey from priesthood in 1982 to the Vatican spanned continents, has deep roots in both Illinois and Latin America. He spent years in Peru, including as Bishop of Chiclayo, and held various pastoral and leadership roles in Chicago before ascending to the papacy.

His rise to the papal office has reinvigorated interest in his origins, with Dolton hoping to turn the property into a destination for reflection and commemoration. The outcome of the auction and whether Dolton follows through on its eminent domain plans remains to be seen.

For now, the house stands at the center of a unique intersection between faith, community heritage, and real estate. ➡️For more information About finance, visit Nadlan Capital Group