News Summary
Explore a stunning custom woodland retreat for sale in Scio Township, MI, priced at $1,375,000. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers endless remodeling possibilities amidst tranquil natural surroundings, with modern amenities and a design that harmonizes with its environment. Enjoy luxury living while being just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor. Perfect for those seeking a blend of privacy and accessibility, this property invites homeowners to create their dream space in a beautiful setting.
Discover Your Dream Home with Unique Remodeling Potential
If you’re on the lookout for a home that combines serene natural beauty with modern amenities, then you’ll want to check out this custom woodland retreat nestled right near Ann Arbor at 1286 Stags Leap Lane in Scio Township, MI. Priced at $1,375,000, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers a unique opportunity for remodeling enthusiasts to create their own piece of paradise surrounded by nature.
A Masterpiece Built for a Unique Lifestyle
Constructed in 1990 by Quinn Evans Architects, a well-regarded architectural firm recognized for its role in the restoration of the Michigan Central train station in Detroit, this home boasts a design that fits seamlessly into its pastoral surroundings. Originally intended for a family of Morgan horse breeders, it has the feel of a “shingled cottage” while offering modern comforts. The beautiful cedar shingle siding and high roofline add a touch of elegance that looks as if it has been part of the scenery for ages.
Privacy Meets Accessibility
Tucked away on a 10-acre wooded lot accessed via a private gravel road, this property delivers a level of privacy that many dream of. Guests will appreciate the circle drive that connects both the main home and the detached garage, creating an inviting entry point. The feeling of being “up north” is palpable, yet the home remains conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan campus.
Bright and Airy Spaces
One of the standout features of this home is the abundant natural light that floods the interior. The main house flaunts floor-to-ceiling windows and a central skylight, ensuring every room feels spacious and open. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the chef’s kitchen, which is bathed in sunlight and features custom cabinetry, a soapstone island, and a stunning backsplash crafted from Motawi Tile. With a gas cooktop and double ovens, culinary enthusiasts will find this kitchen a true delight.
Adjacent to the kitchen, the open-concept dining area and living room are perfect for entertaining, with a cozy double-sided fireplace that adds a warm touch. A three-season room with panoramic views invites you to sip your morning coffee while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
Spacious Living and Personal Retreats
The first floor incorporates two guest bedrooms connected by a shared Jack-and-Jill bathroom, making it practical for family and friends. The upper-level primary suite features a luxurious bedroom with yet another double-sided fireplace, a cozy sitting room, and an en-suite bathroom boasting heated floors, a freestanding tub, and a spacious walk-through closet — the ideal personal retreat after a long day.
Connecting the main house to the garage and patio is a covered breezeway, which makes for easy transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. The detached garage also provides additional living space, with a guest apartment that includes a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and full bath — perfect for visitors or even as a private home office.
Outdoor Lifestyle Awaits
The sprawling property includes scenic hiking trails, two serene ponds, and even a treehouse — making it a perfect setting for family gatherings or outdoor education, as the current homeowners, Matt and Jen Dear, have enjoyed during their time raising three children here.
With so many remodeling opportunities and a beautiful natural backdrop, this custom woodland retreat offers a rare blend of luxurious living, privacy, and accessibility. If you’re searching for a home that complements your lifestyle while allowing for personal expression and creativity, look no further than this incredible property near Ann Arbor.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: $14M Home Near Ann Arbor
- Wikipedia: Ann Arbor
- The Sun Times News: New Restaurant in Dexter
- Detroit News: Biden’s Visit to Ann Arbor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michigan

Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.