Historic Home Lawsuit Dismissed by Federal Judge
Owners of Marilyn Monroe's former residence saw the property value drop 91% following a city-mandated historic designation.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Residential
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A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by homeowners challenging the historical designation of Marilyn Monroe's former Brentwood estate. The ruling marks a significant legal setback for the owners, who purchased the home in 2023.
Why it matters
The case highlights the profound impact that historic landmark status can have on residential property value and owner development rights. For local homeowners, this underscores the financial stakes involved in how municipal zoning and preservation decisions limit potential property use.
The property, which was valued at $8.5 million before receiving historic monument status in 2024, is now valued at $820,000. This 91% decline in market value follows the owners' unsuccessful efforts to secure demolition permits, for which they spent $30,000.
The players
Percy Anderson
A U.S. District Judge who presided over the lawsuit regarding property rights and historical status.
Karen Bass
The Mayor of Los Angeles who, alongside the city, was a defendant in the legal challenge.
Brinah Milstein and Roy Bank
The current owners of the residence who purchased the home in 2023 and pursued the legal challenge.
The details
The lawsuit, filed by owners Brinah Milstein and Roy Bank, alleged that the city's historical designation prevented them from demolishing what they considered dilapidated structures. U.S. District Judge Percy Anderson dismissed the suit, stating the plaintiffs failed to present a viable taking claim. The city council move to consider the status in 2023 ultimately led to the designation that restricts development on the site.
Timeline
1962: Marilyn Monroe owned and died in the residence.
2023: The current owners purchased the property.
September 8, 2023: City Council moved to consider historical status.
June 26, 2024: The city approved the historical designation.
September 28, 2026: Judge Anderson dismissed the owners' lawsuit.
Money Landscape
This ruling reinforces the authority of the Los Angeles historical monument status approval process, which can fundamentally alter a property's utility and market valuation. It highlights the growing tension between private property development rights and municipal preservation mandates.
Homeowners in areas with active historic preservation boards should review local land-use designations before making major renovation or demolition plans. Such designations can significantly impact your property's future resale value and your ability to modify existing structures.
The takeaway
Preservation rulings can cause dramatic swings in property value, making land-use history a critical factor for prospective buyers. Consider reviewing property zoning and historical status records with a real estate professional before finalizing any purchase of an older home.
What happens next
The property owners have expressed their intent to appeal the court ruling, which will proceed through the federal appellate court system.
Further reading
For more information on market trends and housing policy, visit the Residential section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by People.
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