The Dakota is a landmark. It’s the place where John Lennon was shot; it’s also the home of a variety of insanely gorgeous, old New York style, one of a kind interiors – so it’s a bit of a surprise to hear that residents at this famed Upper West Side building are having trouble selling. Unit #54, specifically, is a 3BR that has gone down a staggering 20% since it was initially listed. Now, it’s a bad economy, but this is The Dakota we’re talking about. It’s played host to the toast of the Hollywood elite.

Curbed writes, “The Dakota has a history of famous occupants, so which boldfaced names have occupied #54? According to the listing, it belonged to model/actress Ruth Ford, a girlfriend of William Faulkner’s. Not only that, but ‘West Side Story’ was hatched in her living room, where a chance encounter between composer Stephen Sondheim and librettist Arthur Laurents led to their collaboration with Leonard Bernstein, another Dakota neighbor. It’s got history, connections, and just the right amount of mindblowing wallpaper, so what’s the problem? Maybe the monthly maintenance of $5,088.”

Would you pay $5,088 to live in The Dakota? Sure, it’s a staggering number, but we’d venture to guess that most people who are looking at living in this pricey building can afford a high maintenance payment. Unit 54 was originally listed for $7.5 million; in January, it went down to $6.25 million. Now, it’s down to $5.99 million (as stated above, this is a 20% decrease).

What’s the deal? Why are people hesitant to buy a little piece of history? Anyone have any ideas?