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$1,475,000
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Property Description
Few opportunities arise to live on the boulevard of Center Avenue in east Lake Bluff, especially within two blocks of the shores of Lake Michigan. Beautifully improved by the same family for decades, the home's character has been thoughtfully preserved and enhanced through tasteful renovations and well-planned expansions. The residence exudes classic storybook charm with its steeply pitched gables and inviting wraparound porch nestled amid mature trees and lush greenery. This gracious porch is truly the heart of the home, featuring a partially screened section ideal for relaxing or entertaining throughout the seasons. Inside, an inviting foyer flows seamlessly to light-filled interiors: a charming library with a fireplace, a formal dining room, and living room with porch access and large windows. The kitchen, timelessly remodeled as part of an addition, opens to a generously sized breakfast room with a planning desk and ample built-ins, flanked by a wall of windows and access to the screened porch. Opening from the breakfast room, a spacious family room centered around a fireplace and abundant built-in storage knits together a harmonious setting for everyday life. A convenient powder room, mudroom/laundry, and attached two-car garage also reside on the main level. Upstairs, the primary suite unfolds like a sunlit aerie with dramatic cathedral ceilings, abundant windows and skylights, multiple walk-in closets, a spa-like bath with a separate tub and steam shower, and a private expansive treetop sun deck. Three additional bedrooms share two updated full baths-including one ensuite. Another deck resides off the hallway, overlooking the front entry. Rich architectural detailing throughout, multiple spaces for indoor and outdoor entertaining, and a location just minutes from the lake make this home an enduring Lake Bluff treasure. With many stories to tell, it's ready to begin its next chapter. Showings to begin July 24th.
Full Property Details
Full Property Details for 601 E Center Ave
General
- Sold For: $1,475,000
- Taxes: $24,182 (2024)
- Status: Closed
- Type: Single Family
- Source: MRED
- MLS ID: 12395643
- Added to Site: 211 day(s) ago
Interior
- Interior Features: Vaulted Ceiling(s), Cathedral Ceiling(s), Built-in Features, Walk-In Closet(s), Bookcases, Separate Dining Room
- Fireplace: Yes
- Fireplace(s): Family Room, Living Room
- Appliances: Double Oven, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Freezer, Washer, Dryer, Disposal, Cooktop, Range Hood, Gas Cooktop
- Flooring: Hardwood
Rooms
Bathrooms
- Total Bathrooms: 4
- Full Bathrooms: 3
- Half Bathrooms: 1
- Bathroom Features: Separate Shower, Steam Shower, Double Sink, Garden Tub
Bedrooms
- Total Bedrooms: 4
Additional Information
- Other Features: School Bus Service, Commuter Train
Parking
- Garage: Yes
- Attached garage: Yes
- Garage Spaces: 2
- Total Spaces: 2
- Parking Features: Garage Door Opener, On Site, Garage Owned, Attached, Garage
- Parking On-Site: Yes
Location
- Area: Lake Bluff
- County: Lake
- Driving Directions: Sheridan Rd to E Center Ave, go east to property on south side of street
School Information
- School District: 65
- Midd School District: 65
- Elementary School: Lake Bluff Elementary School
- Middle School: Lake Bluff Middle School
- High School: Lake Forest High School
- Private School: Lake Forest High School
Community
- Assoc. Fees Include: None
Heating & Cooling
- Cooling Type: Central Air Conditioning
- Heating Type: Natural Gas
Utilities
- Water: Lake Michigan
Structural Information
- Construction: Cedar
- Exterior Const.: Cedar
- Basement Desc.: Unfinished, Partial
- Foundation: Concrete Perimeter
- Roof: Asphalt
- Windows: Skylight(s)
- Sub-Flooring: Hardwood
- Square Feet: 3,345
- Sq. Ft. Source: Appraiser
- Year Built: 1880
- Built Before 1978: Yes
- Remodeled/Updated: 2000
Lot Features
- Lot Size (Acres): 0.2376
- Lot Size Range: Less than .25 Acre
- Lot Dimensions: 10350
Financial Considerations
- Parking Included: Yes
- Assessment Year: 1880
- Tax Amount: $24,182
- Tax Year: 2024
Disclosures and Reports
- Ownership: Fee Simple
- Special Conditions: List Broker Must Accompany
- Property ID: 12212200010000
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Schools
Schools serving 601 E Center Ave
School Districts:Lake Bluff Elementary School District 65, Lake Forest Community High School District 115
| Name | Grades | Distance |
|---|---|---|
Lake Bluff Elementary School, Lake Bluff, IL 350 West Washington Avenue, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 | K-5 | 1.3 mi |
Lake Bluff Middle School 31 East Sheridan Place, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 | 6-8 | 0.6 mi |
Lake Forest High School 1285 North McKinley Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045 | 9-12 | 1 mi |
Disclaimer:
School attendance boundaries provided by Pitney Bowes and are for reference only. Contact the school directly to verify enrollment eligibility.
Price & Sales History for 601 E Center Ave
Date
Details
Price
Change
Source
8/11/2025
Sold
$1,475,000
7.27%
MLS
7/23/2025
Listed
$1,375,000
—
MLS
Disclaimer: Historical sales information is derived from public records provided by the county offices. Information is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
601 E Center Avenue, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 (MLS# 12395643) is a Single Family property that was sold at $1,475,000 on August 11, 2025. This property was listed by Dawn McKenna Group from our Hinsdale Office.Want to learn more about 601 E Center Avenue? Do you have questions about finding other Single Family real estate for sale in Lake Bluff? You can browse all Lake Bluff real estate or contact a Coldwell Banker agent to request more information.


