Massive $1.5M Home for Sale in NY—Internet Has Realization: ‘Not Good’

A compound-style home listed in New York is fueling speculation online, where many believe the property’s past may tell a larger story.

On Reddit, user GadnukBreakrOfWorlds shared a post showcasing an 18,000 square foot residence in Ithaca, New York. 

A Zillow listing for the home shows that it’s being sold for $1.5 million. However, the listing does not state how many bedrooms or bathrooms are inside the house. 

“At the heart of the property is the expansive four-unit Lodge, encompassing over 11,000 square feet of space,” the listing says.

“The property benefits from ample off-street parking, historically documented at approximately 30 parking spaces, significantly enhancing usability for residential, commercial, or mixed-use applications.

“Ideally located just minutes from downtown Ithaca, the Commons and major employers.”

Speculation About Property Use 

Reddit contributors began speculating about its history and current occupants with many pointing to signs that the property may have been used as a communal residence. 

“Twelve Tribes, for anyone wondering,” one person claimed, among more than 200 comments.

The Twelve Tribes is a religious movement founded in the 1970s that operates communal properties and businesses across the United States.

The Southern Poverty Law Center describes the Twelve Tribes as, “a Christian fundamentalist cult born in the American South,” according to its website.

Several online pundits focused on the fact that the house appears to be lived in.

“I wonder why they’re selling the property and where they will go,” an individual asked on the forum.

“Looks like they’re still living there–clothes in the washer/dryer, food in the refrigerator. PS, Noticed their leader died in 2021. I wonder if this has or will affect the church in some way.”

Meanwhile, another commentator offered a sardonic take on the listing’s future: “Its easier to start a new cult in an established cult location than to start fresh from scratch.” 

Beyond questions about the property’s background, some Redditors examined the technical details of the listing itself. 

“Anyone notice in the listing, bathrooms = 0? Not good,” one critic wrote, pointing to a line that appeared to show no bathrooms despite the home’s massive size.