The childhood home of former US President Donald Trump has returned to the real estate market with a striking price tag of $2.3 million, following comprehensive renovations that have transformed the historic property. Located in the upscale Jamaica Estates neighbourhood of Queens, New York, this Tudor-style house represents a significant piece of American political history.
From Humble Beginnings to Multi-Million Dollar Property
Built in 1940 by Trump's father, real-estate developer Fred Trump, the property served as the future president's first home until he was four years old. The family subsequently moved to a larger brick mansion nearby, but this original residence remained an important landmark in Trump's personal history. The house spans approximately 2,500 square feet of living space and has become a point of interest for both Trump supporters and political protestors over the years.
In a 2016 interview with Jimmy Fallon, Trump himself reflected on the property, describing its earlier state of disrepair as "sad" while acknowledging it was "where I was born" and that he had a "really good childhood" there.
A Complex History of Ownership and Renovation
The property's recent journey has been marked by multiple ownership changes and significant restoration efforts. In March of this year, real-estate developer Tommy Lin purchased the home for $835,000 and immediately embarked on a top-to-bottom refurbishment, investing approximately $500,000 into the project.
Lin described the condition of the home at the time of purchase as "not livable" due to severe issues including water and power problems and a burst pipe that had caused significant mould damage. Prior to Lin's acquisition, the property had been owned by Michael Davis, a Manhattan-based private equity partner, who bought it for $1.39 million and also carried out renovations.
From Feral Cats to Fully Renovated Luxury
The home has experienced various unusual phases throughout its history. At one point, the property became a temporary hangout for feral cats, highlighting its period of neglect. Davis had attempted to rent it out on Airbnb, though this venture ended abruptly when Oxfam America staged a publicity visit during the United Nations General Assembly to draw attention to the global refugee crisis.
The current transformation is nothing short of remarkable. The fully renovated property now boasts:
- Five spacious bedrooms
- Three full bathrooms
- Two powder rooms
- A finished basement
- A detached two-car garage
The home features refined modern updates including herringbone wood floors and a high-end kitchen, blending historical significance with contemporary luxury. This complete makeover has positioned the property as both a historical landmark and a desirable residential opportunity in one of Queens' most prestigious neighbourhoods.
The listing comes at a time when properties associated with political figures often attract significant attention from collectors, historians, and real estate investors alike. The $2.3 million price tag reflects both the property's historical significance and the substantial investment in renovations that have restored it to its current elegant state.