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Movie Magic: Fan Buys Iconic 'Short Circuit' Home
21 May
Summary
- Richard Bates fulfilled his childhood dream of owning the iconic 'Short Circuit' house.
- The house, featured in the 1986 film, was purchased for $330,000.
- It has been renovated and is now a popular Airbnb rental averaging over 20 bookings monthly.
Richard Bates, a Pacific Northwest Native, recently purchased the house from the 1986 film "Short Circuit" for $330,000, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Bates, who grew up watching the movie on VHS, first saw the house on a childhood trip to Astoria.
He rediscovered the house in disrepair in 2018 and was inspired to renovate it. Bates was able to secure a loan using the equity from his previous home, allowing him to purchase the property just 45 days after learning it was for sale. He undertook renovations before the COVID-19 pandemic began.
The "Short Circuit" house, built in 1882, is situated at 197 Hume Ave. in Astoria. It has been meticulously restored and is now operated as an Airbnb, commanding approximately $275 per night and is booked over 20 days each month. Bates also curates a movie memorabilia collection within the house.
This year, on June 5, the home will be the focal point for the 40th-anniversary celebration of "Short Circuit," further cementing its status as a beloved piece of cinematic history.
