Listing provided courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices ChicagoMREDMLS# 12404241MLS Provider
  • 301 days on site
  • 113 views

RARE LAKE FOREST OFFERING - Set on more than two private acres bordering the Derwen Mawr Nature Preserve, this exceptional estate represents one of Lake Forest's rarest offerings-a place where protected open lands, resort-style amenities, and walkability come together in a setting that is increasingly difficult to find. Imagine mornings with coffee overlooking the preserve as deer quietly wander through the backyard, peaceful walks along miles of scenic trails, and the convenience of being just a short walk from schools, downtown Lake Forest, and the beach. For years, this property has been a gathering place for family and friends. Summer afternoons unfold around the heated pool and terrace, tennis matches continue into the evening on the tennis and sport court, children create lasting memories in the charming playhouse, and thoughtfully designed gardens bring color and beauty throughout the seasons. The expansive grounds provide a sense of privacy and tranquility rarely found so close to town. The timeless brick residence offers more than 8,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, balancing grand entertaining areas with comfortable everyday living. Highlights include seven bedrooms, seven full and one half baths, a dramatic great room with vaulted ceilings and fireplace, an expanded primary suite with a spa-inspired marble bath, five en-suite bedrooms on the second floor, and a spacious third-floor suite with a family room, bedroom, and full bath-ideal for teens, guests, or extended family. Seamless indoor-outdoor living extends from the home's gracious gathering spaces to the terrace, pool, and surrounding grounds. A four-car garage with a private three-room apartment above provides exceptional flexibility for guests, extended family, an au pair, or a private home office/gym. Significant investments have been made throughout the property, including a cedar roof, new generator, updated HVAC systems, extensive landscape and hardscape enhancements, front-yard regrading and stormwater management improvements, pool infrastructure upgrades, and continued modernization of the home's interiors and amenities. These thoughtful improvements reflect a commitment to both preserving and enhancing the property for years to come. More than a home, this is a place where memories are made-a private sanctuary bordering protected open lands, offering an unmatched combination of nature, recreation, privacy, and connection to everything that makes Lake Forest special.

Source: MRED, MLS#: 12404241

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  • Property Type
    Residential
  • Lot
    2.02 acres

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Owning this Home

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* All calculations are estimates and provided by Reliance Network, for informational purposes only. Actual amounts may vary. ** Assumes 6.50% APR, 20% down payment, and conventional 30-year fixed rate first mortgage. Rates cited are for instructional purposes only; current rates are subject to change at any time without notice. You should not make any decisions based simply on the information provided. Additional required amounts such as taxes, insurance, homeowner association dues, assessments, mortgage insurance premiums, flood insurance or other such required payments should also be considered. Contact your mortgage company for current rates and additional information. Any mortgage broker or insurance agent that may appear is independent and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or provided by the MLS.

Life at 285 W Westminster Avenue


Schools


School data courtesy of LiveBy, Inc.
Ratings are based on a scale of 1-5, with 5 being the highest rating and 1 being the lowest rating. The schools displayed on this website are for informational purposes only and may not represent a complete or up-to-date list. School assignments are subject to change and should be verified directly with the local school district. Please contact the appropriate school district to confirm school zoning and enrollment eligibility for this property.

History

Date Event Value Agent
5/20/2026Source: MRED Status Change
Active
5/15/2026Source: MRED Price Reduction
$3,795,000 -2.7%
5/15/2026Source: MRED Status Change
Price Change
4/5/2026Source: MRED Status Change
Active
3/31/2026Source: MRED Price Reduction
$3,900,000 -9.3%
3/31/2026Source: MRED Status Change
Re-activated
9/7/2025Source: MRED Status Change
Active
9/2/2025Source: MRED Added to Database
September 02, 2025