***DO NOT attempt to drive by this property. This property is only accessible via an appointment as access requires crossing multiple property owner's properties and they need to be notified and approve of the access. There is no public access and multiple gates will need to be opened for scheduled showings. All showings require 48 hour notice.***
This one is special. Built in 1939, by renowned Cedar Rapids philanthropists, Howard and Margaret Hall, originally as a weekend retreat cabin, called the Pal House. This tudor style home was thoughtfully designed by Howard to reflect his love of water and as a place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Palisades Park. Built from locally sourced, square cut dolomite limestone, this home is situated on a 90 foot cliff overlooking the Cedar River and Palisades Park. A copper roof was added in 2010 by the current owner. Upon entering the cabin, you'll notice the waterfall feature and iron gate. The open concept dining and living room features a statement limestone fireplace and has a nautical theme throughout. There are panoramic views of Palisades Park and the Cedar River. The primary bedroom and bathroom were completely remodeled in 2010. Meticulous care was taken to ensure the integrity and continuity of the home was maintained with this remodel. The primary bathroom features a walk-in shower, copper sink, built in cabinets, and a concealed stackable washer and dryer. The primary bedroom has a cedar lined closet. There is a galley style kitchen with stainless steel appliances. There is a hidden entrance to the basement in the kitchen. The basement houses the mechanicals of the home, including the geothermal unit. The loft features a sitting area that overlooks the living and dining space. The loft bedroom has a half bath and built-in storage. There are multiple levels of outdoor flagstone patio space, including an outdoor fireplace with cast iron kettle and built in seating. There is an additional 308 sq foot open concept 1 story cabin on the property. The 14.47 acres of this property are heavily wooded but also offer 2 open pastures. There is no public access to this property, so privacy, nature, exploration, spectacular views, and relaxation abound in this one of a kind property.
Sold
$1,250,000
1538 Cliffs Ln, Ely, IA 52227
2beds
1,762sqft
Single Family Residence
Built in 1939
14.47 Acres lot
$939,400 Zestimate®
$709/sqft
$-- HOA
What's special
Zillow last checked: 7 hours ago
Listing updated: September 01, 2023 at 10:48am
Listed by:
Mindy Martin 319-521-3974,
SKOGMAN REALTY
Bought with:
Rachael Ray
SKOGMAN REALTY
Source: CRAAR, CDRMLS,MLS#: 2303469
Originating MLS: Cedar Rapids Area Association Of Realtors

Facts & features
Interior
Bedrooms & bathrooms
- Bedrooms: 2
- Bathrooms: 2
- Full bathrooms: 1
- 1/2 bathrooms: 1
Other
- Level: First
Heating
- Geothermal
Cooling
- Geothermal, Wall/Window Unit(s)
Appliances
- Included: Dryer, Dishwasher, Electric Water Heater, Microwave, Range, Refrigerator, Washer
- Laundry: Main Level
Features
- Dining Area, Separate/Formal Dining Room, Bath in Master Bedroom, Main Level Master, Vaulted Ceiling(s)
- Basement: Crawl Space,Partial
- Has fireplace: Yes
- Fireplace features: Electric, Wood Burning
Interior area
- Total interior livable area: 1,762 sqft
- Finished area above ground: 1,762
- Finished area below ground: 0
Property
Parking
- Parking features: Guest, None
Features
- Levels: One and One Half
- Patio & porch: Patio
- Exterior features: Fence
Lot
- Size: 14.47 Acres
- Dimensions: 630,313.2
- Features: See Remarks, Wooded
Details
- Parcel number: 181435100300000
Construction
Type & style
- Home type: SingleFamily
- Architectural style: One and One Half Story
- Property subtype: Single Family Residence
Materials
- Masonry, Stone
Condition
- New construction: No
- Year built: 1939
Utilities & green energy
- Sewer: Septic Tank
- Water: Community/Coop, Shared Well
Community & neighborhood
Location
- Region: Ely
Other
Other facts
- Listing terms: Cash,Conventional
Services availability

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$939,400
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$958,188