A dazzling $6.5 million colonial estate that sits on a lush 116-acre spread on the outskirts of Virginia‘s famed “horse and hunt capital” is set to go up on the auction block—where it will be sold to the highest bidder with no reserve price in place.
This means the expansive five-bedroom property, which was previously on the market for $6.5 million, could—in theory—sell for as little as $1.
But, according to auctioneer Trayor Lesnock of Platinum Luxury Auctions, which is managing the sale in collaboration with listing agent Tray Allen of Allen Real Estate Co., that is a risk the seller is willing to take.
“Every luxury home seller, understandably, hopes for the highest-and-best pricing outcome,” he tells Realtor.com®. “However, the seller also acknowledges that under this process, the ultimate price will be decided by the bidders.”
Yet questions will no doubt be asked about why the homeowners have decided to part ways with the property in such dramatic fashion—with a bid and a gavel cementing its price, rather than a submitted offer that they can review and, ultimately, reject.
The answer, Lesnock says, is that the sellers wanted to use the opportunity to entice a much larger audience of prospective buyers, while clearly stating their motivation to sell.
“The seller travels actively for various businesses, and his younger children have grown. He no longer uses the property as his primary residence, and would like to do something more productive with proceeds from the sale,” he explains.
“The ‘without reserve’ model of auction allows the properties to be exposed to the largest possible buying audience, and sends a strong signal to the marketplace that buyers are dealing with a real and motivated seller.”
Indeed, the March 5 sale is expected to draw significant interest from luxury and equestrian estate buyers alike—with plenty on offer to lure even the most discerning of buyers.
Located just outside of Middleburg, VA, the elegantly designed storybook abode lies in the middle of a dazzling parcel that unfolds across open fields, manicured grounds, and lush woodland that surrounds a private lake.
“Unassuming from the public road, a paved drive meandering through the woods gives way to the magnificent gated entrance,” the listing crows. “Through the massive gates, a sweeping lawn, lake with lighted fountain, and a winding, lamp-lit paved drive leads you home.”
Yet the true trophy on the property is undoubtedly the main residence, which spans close to 10,000 square feet and boasts a classic red brick exterior.
The meticulously designed abode was intended to embody the “symmetry and grace” of traditional Colonial architecture, elevated by a comprehensive 2021 renovation designed for modern living, according to the property’s description.
Upon entering the abode, guests are greeted with soaring ceilings, rich cherry hardwood floors, and a dramatic two-story foyer with dual staircases that set the tone for interiors that balance historic inspiration with contemporary comfort.
The open floor plan effortlessly flows into the gourmet kitchen, which is known as the “heart of the home” and comes complete with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, custom cabinetry, and refined stone surfaces.
The property is the perfect place for grand entertaining and intimate gatherings thanks to its several formal and casual areas.
“The lower level offers a redwood dry sauna, fitness room, wine bar, home theater, wet bar, and cedar closet,” the listing notes.
Beyond the main home, resort-style amenities including a covered loggia with retractable screens, a stone-clad pool and spa, rolling lawns, orchards, and a collector’s garage complex with solar power capabilities transform the property into a private “Piedmont” retreat.
Moving upstairs, guests are welcomed with the primary suite, which serves as a private sanctuary and features heated floors, a steam shower, and a spa-inspired bath that blends luxury with timeless design.
Additional bedrooms and thoughtfully designed guest spaces continue the home’s theme of refined comfort, complemented by multiple cozy fireplaces and intricate millwork throughout.
The jewels of the estate include an expansive library and sunroom that overlook the lush greenery, emphasizing the home’s classical Virginia country aesthetic.
The estate is complemented by a detached garage complex that boasts a modern design and automotive lifts.
On the grounds of the home, residents will find an array of amenities, including an outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven, pellet smoker, Green Egg, grill, hot plate, and ample seating.
A grotto-style swimming pool and spa sit just outside the back entrance to the property, as well as a firepit and a lounging area, ideal for soaking up the summer sun.
There is also a fenced orchard on the property that “produces apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, plums, persimmons, berries, and rare jujube fruit,” the listing notes.
“Recreation continues with a PGA-quality putting green, a stocked 1.8-acre pond with dock, stone patio, and a programmable lighted fountain,” the description continues.
But the property’s allure extends well beyond its boundaries, particularly for those with a passion for equestrian pursuits.
The estate sits just a few miles south of Middleburg, which is renowned for being the “horse and hunt capital” of the U.S., thanks to its robust tradition of foxhunting and steeplechasing.
The town itself has a rich history, having been established in 1787 by John Leven Powell, an American Revolutionary War lieutenant colonel who went on to become a Virginia statesman.
Historical dwellings and buildings line the streets of Middleburg—which is surrounded by dazzling green land that is dotted with elegant estates, many of which date back more than 100 years.
“In a region where generational properties rarely trade publicly, and even more rarely through auction, this offering combines architectural pedigree with contemporary upgrades in a way that feels both authentic and turnkey,” a press release announcing the auction states.
“For buyers drawn to Middleburg’s equestrian heritage and the enduring charm of Colonial design, the March 5 auction presents a distinctive opportunity to secure a refined country estate with timeless character and a compelling sales platform.”
