Nestled on a private, tree-studded lot in The Ponds, this 3,112-square-foot Cape Cod-style home is a study in modern adaptability, with a rare first-floor primary suite and a large, partially finished lower level designed to evolve with life's changing rhythms. Classic white siding, black shutters, and a cedar shake roof set a timeless tone that continues to the interiors. A sunlit, two-story foyer opens to gracious spaces defined by crown moldings, hardwood floors, and traditional architectural detailing. In the great room, a wall of windows and French doors invite in western light and extend seamlessly to the outdoors, where a newly added entertainer's patio overlooks a deep, lush backyard. An open kitchen-complete with honed granite countertops, ample pantry storage, and an adjoining breakfast area-serves as the natural gathering place of the home. Elegant double doors lead to a formal dining room that can easily flex as a den or office. The first-floor primary suite enjoys serene views of the backyard, and features a wall of closets plus a spa-like bath with double vanities, soaking tub, separate shower, and generous linen storage. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms boast tall ceilings, expansive closets, and a skylit hall bath that fills the space with natural light. The lower level reveals a finished recreation room with generous ceiling height, accompanied by a flexible multipurpose room suited for a gym, hobby room, or second office, plus plenty of unfinished storage space. Outdoors, the spacious patio encourages al fresco living amid mature trees, creating a secluded, park-like retreat. Additional highlights include a first-floor laundry/mudroom, heated two-car garage, and recent updates such as a new front paver walkway and rear patio (2023) and upgraded attic insulation (2022). A rare opportunity to own a beautifully maintained home in The Ponds, one of Lake Forest's most coveted enclaves.

Date	Event	Price
12/3/2025	Sold	$1,200,000+10.6%$386/sqft
Source: MRED as distributed by MLS GRID #12496514 Report a problem
11/11/2025	Contingent	$1,085,000$349/sqft
Source: MRED as distributed by MLS GRID #12496514 Report a problem
11/7/2025	Listed for sale	$1,085,000+14.2%$349/sqft
Source: MRED as distributed by MLS GRID #12496514 Report a problem
11/30/2022	Sold	$950,000-2.6%$305/sqft
Source: MRED as distributed by MLS GRID #11644215 Report a problem
11/1/2022	Pending sale	$975,000$313/sqft
Source: MRED as distributed by MLS GRID #11644215 Report a problem

Year	Property taxes	Tax assessment
2023	$16,222 -1.6%	$292,046 +9.4%
2022	$16,477 +5.7%	$266,927 -2.6%
2021	$15,588 +2.7%	$274,111 +3.5%

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540 Buena Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045

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