$46mm COLORADO RANCH SAID TO BE MOST EXPENSIVE SALE SO FAR THIS YEAR

Demand is slowing, they say, for uber-luxury real estate, but nevertheless an energy executive recently elevated to the Forbes billionaire ranks has purchased what is written up as the most expensive house sold so far this year.

With acres of meadows and forest, lakes, 7-miles of river and an 82’ long pool, there is a 14,000 sq ft log cabin style main house plus several guest cabins and a glass lodge with retractable roof for spa activities.   

The Ranch, purchased for $46.5mm, is on 3500 acres near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  

 It had been listed for $88mm two years ago and price was lowered to $68mm.   

Landscape views are fabulous with lakes, mountains, ponds, and greenery.  Lots of room here to wander, enough for a lifetime.

RESTORING AND/OR RENOVATING HISTORIC HOMES – A LABOR OF LOVE

Restorations preserve architectural heritage.  Homes that are restored retain the original essence, exuding character and charm.  Renovations don’t require keeping the look and intent of the original structure but should complement the style and tone of the rest of the home.

Inspection first is a major factor, especially relating to structure, wiring and plumbing.   

Next, identify the period to be replicated, what features can be preserved and which ones need to be removed.

Find a builder or contractor who has a passion for preserving the style and historical beauty of the period you have identified.  Does he/she appreciate the history behind period architecture, pay meticulous attention to detail, demonstrate superior craftsmanship, follow rigorous standards and know about time-tested materials and methods?  Will the builder consider using salvaged and reclaimed materials as well as newer ones. 

Modern conveniences can be integrated, such as kitchen design reflecting the look of the era, commercial lighting and acoustics.  Restoration can be expensive requiring skilled artisans and is labor intensive.  With the wide range of materials available, in-depth detailed research may take much time.

There are over 4500 historical societies in North America and over 7000 history museums and house museums, over 1000 downtown and mainstreet groups.  

SHADOW POINT, KEY LARGO HOUSE BUILT IN 1917, NOW A RETREAT

Located at the north end of Key Largo Sound on the oceanside, with a 260 degree view of pristine Key Largo Sound, just a one hour drive from Miami International Airport at mile marker 103, this 2.5 acre Oceanside estate was built by a ship captain and later bought by a Chicago industrialist for his fishing friends.    When the daughter and son-in-law inherited the property, they spearheaded the design and construction of the nearby canal that links the bay side with the ocean side of Key Largo. 

Shadow Point is now a retreat for those wanting a quiet, private setting.  Here a vacationer can step back in time and experience the charm of days gone by. 

There is a main house with four large twin bedded bedrooms and a master bedroom with king bed and private bath.  Total is 6 bedrooms; sleeps 16.  The estate is pet friendly.  Large kitchen is used by all.   Dining table can seat 14.   

Lush tropical trees abound including buttonwood, gumbo limbo, lignum vitae and key lime.

This is Key Largo as it was at the turn of the century, with original Dade County hard wood floors, sinks in every room, unique pocket slider windows, and two guest houses.

A hammock is on the large breezy porch.  The guest cottage has a small kitchen, two twin bedded rooms, living room and screened porch.  Air conditioning, cable tv and wireless internet are there.  It has hosted family retreats, workshops, weddings and film shoots. There are cafes and pubs nearby, easy places to while away the hours with friends.  Price? $575/per night or $4000 per week.   

For further information contact owner at 772-708-9599.  See the Shadow Point Facebook page for photos of activities.   If you prefer a different type of vacation, a Hampton Inn is on the opposite side of the Overseas Highway (US 1) and a Dolphin Research and Educational Center just south of that property. 

LIFE IN WISCONSIN as painted by ROBERT DUNCAN

While this is NOT typical Florida life, I think you will enjoy watching this power point show.  If download does not work, click view.  Sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds.

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