Newly listed for sale in Southern California’s notoriously pricey realty market is half a house for half a million dollars. The 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom bungalow in suburban Monrovia, northeast of Los Angeles, was crushed by a tree in May with 2 renters and 2 dogs inside. There were no injuries, but a fence and most of the roof were damaged. Now what’s left of the property — with missing walls, hanging wires, and no ceiling — is for sale for $499,999. Listing agent Kevin Wheeler quipped that it’s an “open-concept floor plan.” The listed size of 645 square feet is based on measurements taken before the tree fell. Wheeler said the electricity is turned off, but the plumbing still works. Monrovia regulations require a review of any demolitions on properties that are more than 50 years old, which this house is. However, since it was destroyed by what’s known as an act of God, a review isn’t required. So, house-hunters can buy what’s left of the home and fix it up without dealing with some of the red tape that typically required during rebuilds.
