T
he infamous "Spite House" in Seattle's Montlake neighborhood has a rich history behind its unique design. According to local legend, the 1925 home was built as an act of revenge by a scorned ex-wife after her divorce. The property sold for $745,000 in June, significantly lower than the median sales price of over $1.5 million for Montlake homes.
The house's distinctive shape is due to its narrow width, which tapers from 15 feet to just 55 inches at one point. Despite its small size, the interior spans 860 square feet across two levels, with a kitchen, living room, family room, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The kitchen boasts full-sized appliances, making it surprisingly spacious.
The story goes that the ex-wife was awarded a smaller slice of the yard after the divorce, prompting her to build a house that would block her ex's view from the front yard. The current owner, Emily Cangie, lived in the home and gave a tour to YouTuber Kirsten Dirksen, sharing the history behind the property.
The "Spite House" has been listed as an accessory dwelling unit or potential Airbnb opportunity due to its separate entrance on the lower level. With its unique design and affordable price point, the new owner of this Seattle landmark got a rare deal in the competitive Montlake market.
