When you hear the words private island, it usually conjures visions of coastal states. We’d expect to see these coveted properties in Florida, California, or even Massachusetts. But Ohio?
Yes, a luxurious retreat known as Journal Island on Buckeye Lake has splashed onto the market in Millersport, OH. Interest in the 11-acre island made it the most viewed home on Realtor.com® this week.
Listed for $5,750,000, the family compound in central Ohio is said to be owned by the Wolfe family, who are former owners of The Columbus Dispatch. The island escape features a main residence, guesthouse, two boathouses, and an outdoor entertainment pavilion.
Also grabbing attention this week: a New Jersey mansion decorated to mimic the Griswold home from the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” the 110-acre ranch of Oklahoma State’s head football coach Mike Gundy, and an affordable log cabin in North Carolina.
Keep reading for a full look at this week’s 10 most viewed homes.
10.Scenic 4 Se of 8th Rd, Carmel, CA
Price: $35,000,000
Why it’s here:This oceanfront, Spanish-style estate could set a record if the sellers get anywhere near their astronomical $6,330 per-square-foot asking price.
Built in 1928, the seaside residence known as Villa Del Mar offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and sits just steps from Carmel Beach.
9.31981 Cane Market Rd, Walker, LA
Price: $770,000
Why it’s here:This recently-built custom home boasts a number of high-end amenities and is perfect for entertaining.
Set on 2.4 acres, the 3,397-square-foot interior features designer light fixtures, exposed-wood beam ceilings, built-in seating, and lots of windows. A screened entertainment pavilion with a fireplace and an outdoor kitchen overlooks a pool, hot tub, and cabana.
8.503 Legends Ct, Mickleton, NJ
Price: $1,295,000
Why it’s here:Here’s the chance to own Clark Griswold’s family home! Sort of.
This luxury estate, owned by local developer Steve Harbaugh and wife Gina, is known for its annual holiday transformation that mimics the Griswold abode featured in the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
While the listing doesn’t mention including any of the props like the animatronic version of Cousin Eddie, it does boast about its 4,820 square feet of sumptuous space. A two-story family room, chef’s kitchen with wine fridge, 20-seat home theater with a stage, and a separate guest suite above the garage are among the home’s highlights.
7.9 Charnley Ave, Hopkinton, RI
Price: $599,000
Why it’s here:This waterfront log cabin sits on 3 wooded acres overlooking Brushy Brook.
Built in 1990, the peaceful retreat features a 1,524-square-foot open floor plan and a two-story living room with a wood-burning fireplace. Sunlight pours in from the abundant windows and glass doors.
6.5012 S Western Rd, Stillwater, OK
Price: $8,000,000
Why it’s here:This 110-acre ranch was custom built in 2012 for Oklahoma State’s football coach Mike Gundy and his wife, Kristen, who apparently have decided to downsize.
The private, 13,853-square-foot ranch offers “an awesome theater room,” fitness center, and a barn with additional living quarters. A backyard oasis includes stocked ponds for fishing, along with a pool, hot tub, and waterfall.
5.1650 Long Shoals Rd, Lincolnton, NC
Price: $489,000
Why it’s here: It’s quite a tempting offer. This log cabin at a modest price offers serene views of Beaver Dam Creek.
Set on nearly 4 acres, the 1,931-square-foot interior features waterfront views from the side deck and a pool on the back deck.
4.1 Whitehall Pl, Anderson, IN
Price: $650,000
Why it’s here:Large on space, surprisingly small on price! This four-story, Colonial Revival mansion encompasses a cavernous 19,713 square feet.
Built in 1937 along the White River, the 4-acre estate still features many period details.
Lavish highlights include a paneled “smoking room,” a solarium, one-lane bowling alley, and an attic once used as a grand ballroom.
3.1 Miranova Pl Apt 2425, Columbus, OH
Price: $2,750,000
Why it’s here:Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine has decided to skate away from his 4,031-square-foot condo at Miranova Place. The team acquired him in a trade in 2021, and the winger picked up the apartment in 2022.
The Finnish star entered the league’s NHL/NHLPA player assistance program in January and hasn’t suited up since mid-December.
His 24th-floor luxury unit features floor-to-ceiling glass walls with city views. A monthly association fee includes a 24-hour concierge, valet parking, pool, fitness center, and overnight guest accommodations.
2.1656 County Road 15160, Blossom, TX
Price: $250,000 (opening bid for auction)
Why it’s here: Place your bids! This newly-built barndominium on 23 acres is hitting the auction block on April 20. It’s being offered as is.
The 3,300-square-foot, modern interior features a two-story living room with vaulted ceilings and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace. Enjoy the workout room, two-bay garage, and views of the private pond from the covered patio.
1.13200 Journal Is NE, Millersport, OH
Price: $5,750,000
Why it’s here:Here’s the chance to buy a private island and create your own legacy compound.
According to the Columbus Dispatch, this is the first time the 11.6-acre property (with 360-degree water views) has been on the market in more than a century.
The secluded retreat includes a mainland launch point for easy access to and from the island, along with two boathouses and storage for golf carts that can be used to explore the sprawling property.
