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Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home
Sep 5, 2023
Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home Austin
By   Kellie Speed
  • City News
  • Mega Mansions
  • Indiana Homes
  • US Real Estate
Abstract: The sprawling 550-acre mansion in Santa Claus, Indiana has sold for a whopping $47.9 million, making it the most expensive property in the state.

The home, which is located in the middle of an "entertainment complex," came on the market a year ago. But it dropped off the market earlier this year after failing to find a buyer. Now, it's back and still priced well.


Called Big Tree Farm, the 50,762-square-foot home features multiple buildings. The name is said to come from a child who pointed to a tree.

Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home

Kara Hinshaw, listing agent with Key Associates Signature Realty, says, "It's a very beautiful property, but what really sets it apart is that it grew out of a cornfield and is now a private entertainment complex." It took 30 years to create this masterpiece. The owner always wanted a place where he could host charity-type events as a philanthropist. It is also used as a private family compound for his family during the holidays.


The home is located between Lincoln Childhood National Memorial Park and the Holiday World and Splash Safari theme parks. Cynshaw insists there is no other place like it.

Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home

She jokes, I mean, who's more important, Lincoln or Father Christmas?


Despite its proximity to major tourist attractions, it's a truly private playground in its own right.


The main house is a log home built in 2003, with a striking floor-to-ceiling freestanding fireplace in the living room.

Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home

"It's very special," Hinshaw says." Walking onto the property, you're greeted by a huge lake and barn. There is a dining room for entertaining guests, and from there you can open the garage door into the barn.


There's also a full bar, dance floor, rec room, covered outdoor patio overlooking a huge pool, and a bridge leading to a gazebo on the lake. There is also a shooting range, fire pit with built-in stone seating and guest accommodations.


The property even has investment potential, thanks to the high level of tourism activity in the area.

Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home

Hinshaw notes, "The property could be used for an elite wedding business or museum, or it could do something different to enhance tourism in the area, or even open the restaurant to the public. A health centre might also be interested in it. The possibilities are many. It all depends on what people are looking for."


While the home is being sold with all 550 acres reserved, the land could be subdivided and developed if the next buyer chooses to go that route.


"The sellers want to pass the land on to the next buyer and want to keep it as a legacy," Hinshaw says. It's a stunning property and we're proud of it. You really have to see it to believe it.

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Giant mansion and entertainment complex becomes Indiana's most expensive home
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