A massive Staten Island mansion once owned by infamous Gambino crime boss Paul “Big Paul” Castellano has quietly disappeared from the market—just a year after being listed for a staggering $18 million.
Located in the upscale Todt Hill neighborhood, the grand estate was commissioned by Castellano in 1976 and took four years to complete.
When finished, it became one of the most extravagant homes on Staten Island—fitting for one of New York’s most powerful mob figures at the time.
But Castellano didn’t enjoy his palace for long. After just five years in the home, he was gunned down outside Sparks Steak House in Manhattan in 1985, a hit reportedly ordered by his own underboss, John Gotti.
A Home With a Deadly History
After Castellano’s murder, the mansion—boasting eight bedrooms and 16.5 bathrooms—changed owners several times. The most recent sale was in August 2000, when businessman Selim “Sal” Rusi bought it for $3.1 million.
The house has been listed multiple times since, starting in 2014 for just $3 million, then again in October 2023 for $16.8 million.
In October 2024, the asking price climbed to $18 million, making it the most expensive property listing on Staten Island at the time.
Still, no one bought it—and now, it’s off the market once again.
‘Look Beyond the Mafia History,’ Says Agent
Listing agent Melsa Skrapalliu of RJM Realty Empire insists the home’s mob history isn’t what’s keeping buyers away.
“When buyers consider the house, we ask them to look beyond its history and see the incredible beauty of this estate,” she told the New York Post.
She described the property as an elegant and welcoming home filled with “warmth, joy, and a legacy of family memories.”
“This home isn’t just about its famous past—it’s a place where the next owners can create new memories,” Skrapalliu added.
Luxury Fit for a Mob Boss
Covering 33,000 square feet, the mansion was modeled after the White House, complete with towering white columns, a circular driveway, and an ornate fountain in front.
Inside, every room screams over-the-top luxury. The formal dining room features marble floors, wallpapered walls, and two sparkling crystal chandeliers. The living room has gold-trimmed crown molding, a grand fireplace, and lavish décor straight out of another era.
The estate also includes a wine cellar, a home theater, a gym and sauna, and not one but two swimming pools—one indoors and another outdoors.
“Outside, you’ll find landscaped grounds designed for entertaining, with a sparkling pool, outdoor kitchen, and dining area perfect for large gatherings,” the listing once read.
A Haunted Reputation—Literally
Real estate photos of the mansion have leaned into its spooky past, showing Halloween decorations—including witches, ghosts, and a Jack Skellington statue—placed around the grand entryway.
A listing description even admitted that the property had been “made infamous” by its original owner, the late mob boss himself.
Since Castellano’s death, the mansion has hosted a few high-profile guests—including Hillary Clinton, who reportedly attended a fundraiser there during her 2015 presidential campaign.
The home also made headlines in 2011, when burglars allegedly tried to break in but were scared off after the homeowner fired a gun in self-defense, according to Staten Island Live.
A Legacy That Refuses to Fade
Whether it’s a piece of mob history, a White House-inspired palace, or simply one of Staten Island’s most extravagant properties, the Castellano mansion remains a symbol of old-school New York power and excess.
Even with its glossy renovations and million-dollar upgrades, one thing is certain—this mansion will always carry the shadow of its past.
Author Profile
-
The writer is a real estate journalist specializing in all types of New York City properties, including luxury residences, commercial spaces, and homes.
He also writes humorous articles about real estate, investors, and realtors.
Latest Posts
BlogDecember 15, 2025Houston Real Estate 2026: Growth and Hotspots Ahead
BlogDecember 3, 2025Why Houston Real Estate Investing Is Surging in 2026
BlogNovember 29, 2025Real Estate Market Insights: Why Every Call Matters
PerspectiveNovember 20, 2025Things to do in New York without real estate agents