26047 Island Road, Cleveland, MN 56017

Coffee on the screened porch, dinner under the pavilion, the last hour of daylight around the fire at the water's edge. That's an ordinary day here tucked into mature trees on Lake Jefferson. The great room rises to vaulted wood ceilings behind a wall of lake-facing windows, warmed by a freestanding stove that makes October feel like a good idea.

Gather inside, then spill out to the deck and sprawling paver patios anchored by a timber-frame pavilion with outdoor kitchen and hot tub, both staying with the home. A vaulted loft family room overlooks it all. The walkout lower level adds a rec room and bedrooms for all the guests you're about to have - you'll be on the main floor with walk-in closets.

Shady lawn rolls down to the shoreline, where the dock stays and the boat could be waiting. Oversized garage for everything else. Close to Mankato, an easy run from the Twin Cities.