The General Services Administration gives away lighthouses to non-profits and government agencies if they promise to maintain them—but the agency also sells some of these historic beacons at auction. These waterfront homes with storied pasts and stunning views are a popular destination for those who want to live out their 19th century maritime fantasies, but be warned: You’ll need to be prepared to deal with flooding, salt water damage, and erosion—and they’re usually situated right near the ocean.
Penfield Reef Lighthouse is a picturesque example of one of these beauties that’s on the market. Built in 1869, it’s still an active Federal Aid to Navigation station, but the 142-year-old structure has been battered by more than its share of hurricanes. After the 2013 Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, GSA was able to apply for and receive funds to help restore the lighthouse, structurally & architecturally, back to its original state.
A spokesman for the National Park Service notes that while it’s “common” for lighthouses to be sold, there are a lot of factors that play into how much money you can expect to make. Regardless of the amount, the new owner would be required to meet certain preservation requirements, including a requirement that the building be open to the public at least once a year.
While it’s not clear if Chicago will get its wish to see the lighthouse repurposed as a luxury hotel, its twin sister in Maine has already found a new home. In 2022, Edward Short’s Chesil Cliff House and a three-bedroom cliff top annexe, dubbed The Eye, went on the market for PS10 million.
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