Hand-crafted in 1997 using recycled materials, the residence was constructed from more than 1,500 recycled tires, mud, aluminum cans, and glass bottles. The sellers spent nearly three years constructing their home.
Now, more than two decades later, they are ready to hand over their eco-friendly abode to a buyer who is seeking a self-sustaining dwelling that was designed for comfort.
“It took the sellers just under three years to build the home, and they did 90% of the work themselves,” says listing agent Jennifer Browne of The Fletcher Team & Associates. “It was designed to maintain a 65-degree temperature inside year-round, and all of the windows have rain sensors so you can open and close them.”
An eco-friendly home on a lush parcel in Colorado Springs’ Black Forest has just landed on the market for $1.3 million. (Elite Home Tours)Hand-crafted in 1997, the residence was constructed from more than 1,500 recycled tires, mud, aluminum cans, and glass bottles, a process that took the sellers nearly three years to complete. (Elite Home Tours)Now, more than two decades later, they are ready to hand over their eco-friendly abode to a buyer who is seeking a self-sustaining dwelling that was designed to offer the utmost in comfort. (Elite Home Tours)
The home’s energy-efficient design incorporates both passive and active solar systems, along with slanted windows lining the front of the home and five skylights.
“The home offers energy efficiency through passive and active solar design, an [ethylene propylene diene monomer] rubber membrane roof, stucco exterior, slanted windows lining the front of the home, and five skylights that provide natural light,” the listing notes.
And while the property would be suited to any kind of buyer, particularly those with a penchant for extraordinary homes, Browne notes that it would be ideal for those who appreciate nature.
“The next buyer will be someone who wants to feel connected to nature,” Browne says. “It will be someone who is looking for an experience to feel more a part of the earth.”
An appreciation for nature runs throughout the property, with natural materials used throughout the design—even in the more decorative elements.
The four-bedroom residence boasts custom mosaics, 12 mandalas, and an entry piece that functions as a water feature. Exposed wood ceilings and enormous beams run throughout the living spaces, making it feel as if you’re living in a modern-day treehouse.
“It also has a poured-earth floor,” she notes. “The sellers love feeling a part of the earth and nature. It was a strong labor of love for them.”
Natural materials were used throughout the design—even in the more decorative elements. (Elite Home Tours)The organic design features rooms with curved walls. (Elite Home Tours)The 6.81-acre parcel offers ample room for expansion or the creation of a compound-style estate. (Elite Home Tours)
The shape of the home also has an organic flow, with several curved rooms that appear to merge with the world around them.
Also found throughout the 4,461-square-foot open floor plan are built-in seating, kiva fireplaces, and a split kitchen with a prep area, pantry, and dining space.
A spacious primary suite boasts dual closets, a spa-inspired bathroom with a heat-retaining tub built with stones, and a walk-out patio.
Two nonconforming bedrooms have exclusive access to private observatories.
The 6.81-acre parcel offers ample room for expansion or the creation of a compound-style estate.
Currently, the lot boasts a two-car garage, cross-fenced acreage designed for horses, a 23-stall barn with hay storage, a heated tack shed with water, storage outbuildings, a fenced dog area, and a pond.
According to Browne, the property is packed with potential for all kinds of buyers—including those who are seeking a sustainable primary residence and those who are on the hunt for an investment opportunity.
“There is a good chance that it could be used as a primary or secondary residence, but it could also be a great rental or retreat space,” Browne adds. “The amount of awe you get from the home and how it’s designed is incredible.”
A historic Virginia lighthouse has splashed its way back onto the market for $450,000—complete with a very rigid set of rules around the terms of its sale, including that the buyer must be willing to pay cash for the 129-year-old abode.
Accessible only by boat, the dwelling offers a truly off-the-grid living experience, a feature that has helped to propel it to the top of the week’s most popular homes list.
Constructed as a working lighthouse in 1897, the structure has since been redesigned as the ultimate getaway in Chesapeake Bay, undergoing a significant overhaul from 2006 to 2009 that transformed it into a remote vacation retreat.
That three-year renovation added a modern kitchen, living room with vinyl plank floors, and three bedrooms upstairs. A fourth bedroom can be found in the top floor watch room.
The property, which is known as the Smith Point Lighthouse and is located 2.5 miles off the shore in Reedville, VA, at the mouth of the Potomac River, last changed hands in 2005. The sellers first tested the waters on the housing market in 2024, but have now relisted the property at the same price—with several contingencies in place.
First, all interested parties must note that the property is “on the National Historic Registry and subject to restrictions,” the listing says—adding that multiple repairs are needed in and around the lighthouse, including updates to the rails, appliances, windows, and floors.
According to the listing, the Coast Guard maintains the lamp “as an active aid to navigation.”
Only buyers who are serious about making a cash offer should inquire, the description adds.
Other properties grabbing attention this week are a former bank building transformed into a stylish residence in Virginia, a midcentury time capsule in Oklahoma, and a bridge-turned-architectural marvel in Ohio.
Why it’s here: This colorful and modernized bungalow is a creative artist’s dream retreat!
The cheery open floor plan boasts 1,406 square feet of sun-soaked space with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and hardwood floors. Two bedrooms can be found on the lower level along with a sunroom that could be transformed into an office or studio. A private backyard overlooks a serene stream.
Located in mixed-use zoning just steps from the Saluda Grade Trail, the investment property could also be used for rental income or a business opportunity.
David Eshan of Keller Williams DRIVE is the listing agent.
Why it’s here: Built in 1889, this historic former bank building has been transformed into a stylish three-bedroom residence.
Grand exterior columns, double entry doors, high ceilings, wood beams, arched windows, exposed brick walls, and original hardwood floors all remain intact. The 1,572-square-foot open floor plan now offers an updated kitchen with white shaker cabinets and quartz countertops, and a primary suite found in the loft area that overlooks the living room.
A front porch or rear deck would be a nice spot for morning coffee.
Salina M Khanna of T.Y. Realty Incorporated is the listing agent.
Why it’s here: It’s an affordably priced, midcentury modern time capsule still full of period details.
Built in 1960, this “timeless” two-bedroom residence features vaulted ceilings, wood-paneled walls, brick details, built-ins, and a carport. A spacious living room boasts a floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace and retractable glass walls designed to seamlessly blend in with the outdoor living area.
An in-ground pool, sundeck, and firepit can be found in the private fenced-in backyard.
Jimmy Nicholas of Nicholas Residential R E is the listing agent.
Why it’s here: This investment opportunity could transform the property into a future multifamily development in a “rapidly growing area.”
According to the listing, the redevelopment site could be used to build a six-unit structure. Built in 1910, the existing 1,068-square-foot residence features two bedrooms on the main level with an additional one located upstairs. A sunporch overlooks the fenced-in backyard with gardens and fruit trees.
There is also a detached two-story outbuilding that offers additional potential.
Anton Stetner of KW North Sound is the listing agent.
Investment opportunity in Everett, WA (Realtor.com)
Why it’s here: This 5-acre property started off as a bridge before a three-bedroom “architectural marvel” was added on in 1953.
Now, a long living room with brick fireplace and expansive windows spans over the creek flowing underneath. The 2,195-square-foot interior features an eat-in kitchen with oversized breakfast bar and dining area overlooking the water. A floating curved staircase leads up to the sleeping quarters.
Buyers should do their due diligence to determine if the property is located in a high-risk Special Flood Hazard Area.
Joshua Neudecker of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services – Gahanna Downtown is the listing agent.
Former bridge turned residence in New Albany, OH (Realtor.com)
Why it’s here: It’s a luxurious farmstead located on a massive 457 acres that feature multiple ponds, a creek, pasture, and crop fields.
A four-bedroom estate surrounded by columns and stunning wraparound covered porch boasts a 7,673-square-foot interior designed for grand-scale entertaining.
Opulent details include ash wood floors, pocket doors, a grand curved staircase, a gourmet chef’s kitchen, designer lighting, private terraces, and eight fireplaces. A finished lower level could be transformed into an entertainment room. The fourth floor widow’s walk serves as the “lookout point of the property.”
A detached four-car garage, metal storage barn, and shed can also be found on the enormous lot.
Darci Ann Caesar of Onward Real Estate is the listing agent.
Mansion on 457 acres in Saint Joseph, TN (Realtor.com)
Why it’s here: The historic Lobach House is an 1893 Victorian that has been well preserved over the years.
Period highlights include a grand foyer with sweeping staircase, custom millwork, inlaid wood floors, stained-glass windows, built-in cabinetry, original pocket doors, vintage hardware, and a fireplace with hand-carved mantel. Designed for entertaining, the 4,112-square-foot interior boasts a sitting room, sunroom, formal dining room, first-floor guest suite, a new kitchen with Carrara marble countertops, and an upstairs primary suite with walk-in glass shower.
A covered wraparound porch overlooks the private fenced-in yard with brick patio and gardens.
Why it’s here: It’s a dome-style round home tucked away on 15.06 acres of privacy that also boasts a private pond.
Built in 1994, the uniquely designed time capsule features a throwback interior with glass block walls, skylights, some wall-to-wall carpeting, and a jetted tub. A primary suite has built-in cabinetry, mirrored bifold closet doors, and triangular-shaped windows. An enormous deck for entertaining sits atop a two-car garage.
There is also a shed for storage, and an outbuilding that could be transformed into a cabin or workshop.
Billie Madden of Keller Williams Pinnacle Group is the listing agent.
Why it’s here: It’s a secluded three-bedroom cabin located on a private wooded lot just minutes away from Still Creek and Mount Hood.
Built in 1924, the 1,460-square-foot cedar home, offering the “opportunity for thoughtful updates,” features a two-story living room with stone fireplace and a loft-style sleeping area upstairs. The eat-in kitchen has direct access to the backyard.
A front covered porch was designed for soaking in the peaceful views.
Cassandra Skelley of PDX Dwellings LLC is the listing agent.
Why it’s here: Smith Point Lighthouse has once again splashed on the market in Chesapeake Bay.
The decommissioned landmark was built in 1897 and sits just 2.5 miles from the shore. A three-year renovation completed in 2009 now offers an updated kitchen with cherry cabinets, range, portable dishwasher, and microwave. There is even a shower bathroom, a living room with original trim, three second-story bedrooms and a fourth bedroom nestled upstairs in the watch room.
Offered fully furnished, the lighthouse also comes with a portable generator, a water heater, and a wastewater treatment system. Some repairs are needed, and it is being sold as is.
Smith Point Lighthouse in Reedville, VA (Realtor.com)
Offering views for days, a timber-frame home built atop a granite formation in Conifer, CO, is this week’s most popular listing on Realtor.com®.
Set on 9.2 spectacular acres overlooking Pikes Peak and Pike-San Isabel National Forest, the home features Craftsman styling throughout 2,191 square feet of living space.
Other real estate you clicked on this week include a fully furnished A-frame in Pennsylvania, a Disney-inspired Italianate estate in Florida, and a desert retreat next to Joshua Tree National Park in California.
For a full look at this week’s 10 most popular homes, scroll on down.
Price: $275,000
Why it’s here: Calling all investors! This colorful double Victorian offers the opportunity to live on one side and rent out the other.
The affordably priced, six-bedroom home (three bedrooms on each side) is located within walking distance of the French Quarter. The 2,275-square-foot home was built in 1923 and boasts many period details, including high ceilings, ornate cornices, hardwood flooring, and decorative fireplaces.
Price: $89,900
Why it’s here: If you’re on a limited budget, it doesn’t get much more affordable than this fully furnished, A-frame mobile home.
The loft-style cabin was built in 1984. The 744 square feet of cozy interior space boasts a fireplace and a main living area that opens up to a galley kitchen. Two bedrooms with cathedral ceilings and exposed beams can be found upstairs.
Potential buyers should note the HOA fee will set you back $462 a month.
Price: $19,000,000
Why it’s here: This Disney-inspired Italianate estate is owned by heiress Hilda Bacardi.
The Bonavento boasts seven luxurious bedrooms, some featuring Disney film themes. There is also a Mary Poppins elevator and a home theater with replicas of Darth Vader and R2-D2. Luxe amenities include two primary suites, two outdoor showers, a pool with a cabana, and a golf cart garage.
When it was built in 2017 in the Golden Oak at the Walt Disney World Resort community, the 9,254-square-foot mansion served as the model home for the 30 Four Seasons Private Residences.
Price: $669,000
Why it’s here: This lakefront home was designed for outdoor fun with its four-person hot tub, waterfront deck, and boat dock.
Located on Fox Lake, the 2,100-square-foot home has four bedrooms (two on each level). The outdoor oasis is really where it’s at. The new seawall and waterfront deck are ideal spots to soak up the sunshine. Landlubbers can fish off the end of the pier or sit around the fire pit.
An area under the covered garage could be used as a game room or to project movies.
Price: $1,100,000
Why it’s here: This 2.5-acre lot with a three-bedroom home is located next to Joshua Tree National Park.
Bordering the national park on the south and west sides, the 2,020-square-foot home was built in 1960. An outdoor shade dome and in-ground pool offer fun spots to cool down.
Price: $12,850,000
Why it’s here: Priced at $2,009 per square foot, this is the most expensive condo on the market in Washington state. It was also a finalist for the 2023 HGTV Ultimate House Hunt Awards.
Featuring extraordinary views from Mount Rainier to Seattle, the ultraluxe penthouse offers 6,397 square feet of living space. There are four bedrooms, and the three terraces boast more than 4,000 square feet of outdoor space. The entire unit is surrounded by walls of glass.
Price: $875,000
Why it’s here: This cozy home about 15 minutes from San Diego was inspired by Spanish and Portuguese castles.
The two-bedroom home was recently renovated and features relics from around the world. Unique details include a living room with a raised wood platform on top of a stone base. A statue of an armored knight stands prominently in the dining room, while a colorful kitchen is covered in tiles.
A detached accessory dwelling unit has a loft that could be used as a third bedroom.
Price: $525,000
Why it’s here: This Greek Revival Colonial was built in 1868 and sits on 63 wooded acres.
The five-bedroom, 3,608-square-foot antique has been updated, but period details remain. They include an original staircase with ornate millwork, preserved wood floors, and a fireplace in the living room.
The updated kitchen has quartz countertops and a glass backsplash in a herringbone pattern. The home also includes a lower-level game room, media room, and gym.
Price: $800,000
Why it’s here: A 9.2-acre mountaintop parcel anchored by a timber-frame home built on a granite formation offers breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.
The 2,191-square-foot home was built in 1977 and features Craftsman styling. The two-story living room is lined with windows and stained glass and has a wood ceiling with exposed beams. The main-level bedroom is currently in use as an office, and two more bedrooms are upstairs.
The location is close to hiking and biking trails. The home, which will need some TLC, is pending sale.
