From Streisand to Dunne: Celebrity Co-op Rejections in Manhattan's Real Estate
The era of celebrity rejections in Manhattan's co-op real estate has largely faded, but it was once common for the wealthy and famous to be barred from purchasing in sought-after buildings. Barbra Streisand and Olivia Dunne, a social-media influencer, both faced such rejections decades apart.
In the late 1960s, Barbra Streisand encountered multiple rejections from co-ops like 1021 Park, 927 Fifth, and 1107 Fifth. Concerns about her lifestyle and potential noise contributed to these decisions. The name of the co-op society where she initially tried to buy remains unknown.
Fast forward to today, 22-year-old influencer Olivia Dunne experienced a similar fate. Despite being a cash buyer, she was blocked from purchasing a three-bedroom apartment in an Upper West Side co-op. Her broker was 'so confident' the deal would succeed, making the rejection all the more surprising.
While the practice of celebrity co-op rejections has largely declined in Manhattan real estate, these incidents serve as reminders of a bygone era. Both Streisand and Dunne faced obstacles in their property pursuits, highlighting the unique dynamics of co-op living.