Livvy Dunne Resumes Her Quest for a New NYC Apartment After Missing Out on Babe Ruth’s Former Home

28 July 2025

Olivia Dunne revealed she’s apartment hunting after the drama over Babe Ruth’s former apartment in New York City. TikTok/Livvy Dunne

Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, the former LSU gymnastics star turned influencer and Sports Illustrated swimsuit model, is back on the hunt for her dream New York City apartment following the rejection of her cash offer on Babe Ruth’s historic Upper West Side residence published July 28 2025. The 22‑year‑old shared another TikTok in which she waved off her initial disappointment with a sunny skip down the sidewalk noting “It isn’t Babe Ruth’s apartment but it’ll do” and signaled that her search continues in full swing.

Just days earlier Dunne had revealed in a TikTok video that she had been set to close on the pre‑war three‑bedroom Upper West Side co‑op at 345 W 88th St once owned by the Yankees legend after making a $1.59 million all‑cash offer. She had even hired an interior designer and envisioned moving in alongside her boyfriend Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes. But the co‑op board unexpectedly rejected her application mere days before closing citing no financial issues and no formal explanation. Dunne attributed the decision in part to her high‑profile social media presence with 8 million TikTok followers according to a resident.

Livvy posted that the board “voted to not have me live there,” and described her reaction honestly: disappointed yet undeterred. She admitted confusion over why the deal fell through and lamented that it might have been her influencer status or college background at LSU that caused hesitation among co‑op board members. Still her tone remained optimistic as she swiftly pivoted back to apartment hunting in New York City.

This rejection highlights a broader pattern in New York’s co‑op real estate scene where boards increasingly scrutinize high‑visibility buyers. These boards often prioritize privacy and a measured lifestyle over fame or viral notoriety. Real estate experts cited by the New York Post emphasize that influencers even wealth‑qualified ones may struggle to gain board approval. They frequently rely on 1099 income, and their public exposure can raise concerns about security or disruption for residents.

In Livvy’s case the co‑op board reportedly took issue with her Instagram announcement about the pending purchase before it was finalized. Neighbors admitted that one misstep sharing too much too soon contributed to the rejection. Despite submitting an all‑cash offer Livvy learned that prestige and historical significance may only go so far when board members weigh potential celebrity intrusion.

The apartment in question since continued on the market, the Royal League selling agent expressed surprise at the board’s decision and attempted unsuccessfully to persuade them to reverse course. Meanwhile Livvy’s deposit was promptly returned and the process moved on.

Despite the emotional setback Livvy’s spirits appear undampened. Her second video in New York City radiated confidence accompanied by playful footage and a caption reflecting resilience. She made clear that although that particular apartment was off the table the search would go on and she remains determined to find a place she can call home in the city she clearly loves.

Dunne first drew public attention during her gymnastics career at LSU and quickly shifted to social media fame. She now commands a massive following across TikTok and Instagram. Her influencer persona and lifestyle helped earn her cover status in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue for 2025. Yet this real estate rebuff underscores the tension between fame and the realities of institutional selection processes: privacy matters as much as price when it comes to coveted New York co‑ops.

Livvy’s case is not alone. Other public figures such as Madonna Mariah Carey and Alex Rodriguez have reportedly faced similar challenges in securing co‑op approvals in Manhattan. Industry insiders advise celebrities to consider condominiums instead, which do not require board approval and offer greater privacy and flexibility.

Her perspective on co‑op dynamics is refreshingly frank. She now advises followers: “don’t try to live in a co‑op. You might get denied and you won’t get Babe Ruth’s apartment.” Yet she also showcased her wit and resilience, turning personal disappointment into content with purpose and continuing to pursue what she clearly wants: a place in NYC she can call her own.

This turn of events provides a behind‑the‑scenes glimpse into the intersection of influencer culture and traditional real estate gatekeeping. While social media reaches millions, the communal boards of New York’s most historic buildings still act as guardians of discretion. Livvy Dunne’s odyssey reminds us that even in the age of fame cash and desire may not override legacy rules and neighborhood norms.

Her next chapter in NYC apartment hunting is already unfolding. With her platform still growing and her intentions clear Livvy Dunne is proving that setbacks can be followed by second acts. The city search continues and the narrative remains a testament to tenacity persistence and the challenge of bridging digital celebrity with old‑school real estate realities