No, Bitcoin is not a Federally recognized currency in the U.S. (a fail on their part).
Yes, Bitcoin is accepted to purchase real estate. The reason is because the cryptocurrency is transferred to the Seller from the Buyer, so as long as both parties agree, it's ok. However, there are certain fees in escrow (if using an escrow company) that must be paid by "legitimate" currency.
A Frank Lloyd Wright house in Berkeley is accepting Bitcoin.
Buying a condo in DTLA? A house in the Hollywood Hills? You can swing a Bitcoin deal as long as you have your ducks in a row in cold hard Bitcoin, or even if you're financing a portion of the deal with Bitcoin--you just need the right lender.