Lots of Land
In Lake Forest

What: Three-story Georgian, with nine bedrooms, six baths in 8,000 square feet on 6.7 acres.

Where: Lake Forest, Ill., a Chicago suburb about 30 miles north of the city.

Amenities: Outdoor pool, four fireplaces, library with wood paneling, solarium. Heated three-car garage, billiards room, three-room maid's quarters, butler's pantry.

Asking Price: $6.95 million

Opening Bid*: $6.5 million

Broker: Elizabeth Jenkins, Coldwell Banker, (847) 234-8000

Due Diligence: Frank Beidler's parents built this house in 1942 from a design by architect Ralph Milman, who also designed the town's post office. The house sits on land once owned by Cyrus McCormick, inventor of the first harvest reaper in 1831. Four of the property's 6.7 acres are in a conservation easement, restricting it from being subdivided or developed. The land includes perennial gardens, ravines and woodlands with paths. It's one of the largest properties in the Lake Forest area, according to its listing agent. "This property is for people who want to enjoy the land as part of the house," says Mr. Beidler, who is selling the home now that both his parents are dead. Ralph Milman, a local architect who designed the Lake Forest post office among other buildings, designed the house. The master bedroom has a fireplace and large windows overlooking the south and west lawns of the property. All of the home's 20 rooms have finished hardwood floors. In recent years, Mr. Beidler, a 60-year-old money manager, added central air conditioning and updated heating and electrical features.

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