5 Distinctive Midwest Homes, from Bayfront Acres to Equestrian Living

Along the water’s edge on Sandusky Bay, this expansive bayfront tract on Bayshore Road in Marblehead offers a rare chance to shape one of the largest remaining undeveloped waterfront holdings along this coveted shoreline. Zoned R-C, the property sits beside the state-owned Dempsey Access boat launch, a 67-acre public asset that underscores its natural connection to boating and life on the bay. The setting is also notably central, positioned between Cedar Point and the Lake Erie Islands, with nearby wineries, fine dining, recreation, beaches, family entertainment, and world-class fishing close at hand. For a visionary developer, the land supports a range of possibilities—luxury waterfront condominiums, a state-of-the-art marina, or a modern RV/campground concept aligned with growing outdoor and boating demand—inviting a future destination defined by the shoreline itself.

Size: 57+ acres

Set on a beautifully landscaped half-acre in coveted Meridian Hills, this stately residence balances classic charm with thoughtful modern updates. A chef-inspired kitchen anchors the main level with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a generous breakfast island with prep sink, and a crisp subway tile backsplash. It flows easily into an elegant dining room detailed with custom wainscoting and refined crown molding, equally suited to casual weeknights and formal gatherings. The main-level primary suite feels quietly removed, offering private backyard access and a luxurious ensuite bath with spa-like finishes. Hardwood flooring spans the main and upper levels, while the finished lower level expands daily living with a bright rec room, full bath, custom wet bar, and a multi-purpose laundry/craft room. Outdoors, multiple living areas—including a terraced deck with electric awning and a brand-new hot tub spa—invite long, unhurried evenings beneath mature trees.

On a corner lot in Bloomington’s sought-after Covenanter neighborhood, this 2017 teardown/rebuild pairs timeless charm with contemporary design for effortless hosting. The open-concept Great Room sets the tone with a 24-foot vaulted ceiling, expansive windows for natural light, and a chef’s kitchen appointed with Thermador appliances plus two islands for seating and storage. A 10-foot walkout sliding door extends the gathering space to a wraparound porch—easy flow for game days and long dinners alike. Thoughtful space maximization includes California Closet Systems integrated throughout. A separate family room adds warmth with a custom fireplace and entertainment center. Interior Designer Lisa Smith guided the details, from custom wallpaper and wood paneling accents to European oil paint, window treatments, light fixtures, and hardware. Original elements remain—an existing chimney and three foundation walls—while exterior stone features and a front walkway were added more recently.

Along the water’s edge on Eagle Lake, this four-bedroom retreat pairs prime frontage with a clean, contemporary sensibility. Inside, a sun-drenched foyer with skylights and sleek tile flooring sets the tone, leading to a chef’s kitchen with stainless steel appliances and an elevated dining room designed for easy entertaining. A four-season room frames panoramic lake views, while flexible den spaces and a second dining area add welcome versatility. The main level includes a spacious primary bedroom and full bath for everyday ease. Upstairs, a second primary suite opens to a private upper deck with maintenance-free synthetic flooring and modern wire railings, joined by two additional bedrooms with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and lake vistas. Outside, a landscaped yard, private patio, flagpole, storage shed, and pier invite unhurried mornings and starlit evenings.

From its hilltop setting in Rootstown, this 20-acre equestrian property pairs everyday comfort with purpose-built amenities. The move-in ready 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home includes 2022 updates—new roof, siding, and furnace—plus a 2019 water softener and the benefit of free gas. A separate driveway leads to an insulated 10-stall barn built in 2022, complete with a locking tack room and income potential from established boarders who are willing to stay. Outdoors, the layout is made for riding: a dedicated arena, a half-mile trail, and a sand riding area designed for jumps and barrels. Three spacious fenced pastures frame a stocked pond, while a heated garage workshop and concrete storage bay for shavings keep the day-to-day running smoothly. Dense woods and nearby parks round out the setting.