The Lazy Willow Resort

Posted by Amitava Sarkar on June 13th, 2016

Luxury properties and history often go hand in hand. If you love historical homes, you’re not alone. Historical properties have a special charm and quality all their own and often tell amazing stories. Lazy Willow is one such property. Located in the Crystal Lake region of Illinois, this 86-year old property has stood the test of time, growing from a single, modest log cabin to a luxurious 14 acre spread with amenities galore and both residential and commercial space. Buying a property like this would be a smart investment, and now is a great time to buy. Well qualified buyers who do their homework and understand the risks can get some amazing deals on great properties. The housing market is enjoying a great resurgence, and both luxury and historical properties tend to keep and even increase their value. If you’re interested in country living with complete privacy as well as lots of luxurious amenities, Lazy Willow may be a perfect fit. It offers sweeping views, a private beach, multiple decks, sports fields and plenty of space. Read on to learn more about Lazy Willow, what it has to offer, and how you can make it yours.

History

Lazy Willow was built by a local architect in 1930. Back then it was just simple log cabin and a private hunting ground. A few years later it was purchased by Len Dressler, famous for being the voice of the Jolly Green Giant in many classic commercials. He added additional buildings to shelter his horses. The current owners bought the property in 1998 and replaced the log cabin with a 5,400 square foot timber-frame French Country style brick cozy chalet. The cabin was moved down to the private beach and is used for a pool house. Currently the property is used as both a private residence and a Christian retreat with space for over 7,000 people. Prospective buyers are encouraged to continue the dual use but of course can do whatever they wish.

Features

The residence is 5,400 square feet with 5 bedrooms, 6 baths and 4 fireplaces. It sits a full quarter mile off the road for maximum privacy. It sits atop an 80-foot hill and is accessed by a wood bridge and a long driveway that includes a 14 car parking area. It’s surrounded by 8 acres of woods and has 2 screened in porches and several decks, enhanced by a stream and and several waterfalls.

The property also includes a swimming pond with a private 90-foot beach and pool house. Nearby is a multi-purpose building that can host parties, meetings and other gatherings. It also has a shop on the lower level. The 6-acre lawn has been graded for sports and the entire property has multiple decks, sitting areas and fire pits. A golf course is located across the road, and the property is 37 miles away from Chicago O’Hare Airport and just 5.7 miles from a Chicago commuter train station. It’s roughly 50 miles outside of Chicago.

Sale Info

The asking price is .6 million. Interested buyers are asked to visit the property’s website for more info. There you can take virtual tours of the home and surrounding property, view photos and contact the seller to make an offer or ask questions. Interested buyers are welcome to make an appointment to view the property in person.

About the Author: Austin Closs is a contributing author and interior designer with realty experience. He specializes in historical homes for sale and recommends anyone looking for a premier historical property that will make a sound investment check out http://www.lazywillow.com/ for more information.