Luxury Dallas Estate: Councilman Lee Kleinman’s Hillcrest Estates Home Heads to No-Reserve Auction

A rare opportunity is set to unfold this Saturday, September 28, at 11:00 a.m., as the magnificent 7,154-square-foot Hillcrest Estates residence, owned by Dallas City Councilman Lee Kleinman and his accomplished wife, Dr. Lisa Umholtz, goes under the hammer. This highly anticipated event will be conducted by Elite Auctions at the prestigious address of 11322 East Ricks Circle, Dallas. What makes this particular auction exceptionally compelling for discerning buyers is the remarkable condition of a no minimum reserve price, opening the doors for a truly market-driven acquisition of a prime luxury property.

Prospective bidders are invited to attend the final property preview scheduled for Friday afternoon, from 1-4 p.m., offering a last chance to experience the grandeur of this estate firsthand. For those ready to participate in the bidding, registration commences bright and early Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m., ensuring ample time to prepare before the auction begins.

Elite Auctions: A Trusted Name in Luxury Real Estate

Elite Auctions has firmly established itself as a premier luxury home auction company, with an increasing presence across the DFW metroplex. Their reputation for successfully facilitating the sale of high-value properties precedes them. The company has a distinguished track record, having notably auctioned off the exquisite Vaquero properties belonging to Vanessa Swarovski, followed by the sprawling estate of former MLB star Mark Teixeira, and the elegant Highland Park residence of MLB Hall of Famer Michael Young. These successes underscore Elite Auctions’ expertise in attracting qualified buyers and achieving optimal results for sellers of exclusive real estate.

The Esteemed Hillcrest Estates Neighborhood: Dallas’s Hidden Gem

This Saturday, the spotlight shifts to North Dallas, specifically the serene and highly sought-after enclave that, while often colloquially referred to as Preston Hollow, is officially known as Hillcrest Estates. This prestigious neighborhood is ideally situated in what is more accurately described as the Preston Royal area, offering residents the perfect blend of secluded luxury and convenient access to Dallas’s vibrant amenities. Hillcrest Estates is distinguished by its approximately 90 sprawling properties, each boasting a minimum of one acre. However, a select few homes, particularly those nestled along East and West Ricks Circle, Wander Lane, and Belmead, proudly feature even larger, more expansive lots, providing unparalleled privacy and space.

The Kleinman home stands as a prime example of these exceptional properties. Its unique contemporary design, a testament to thoughtful architecture, has even inspired the Kleinmans’ daughter to pursue a career in architecture – a true measure of its lasting impact and aesthetic brilliance.

An Architectural Masterpiece by Gregory S. Ibanez

Built in 1993 by the esteemed AIA Fellow Gregory S. Ibanez, this impressive residence is more than just a house; it’s a work of art. Featuring five spacious bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and two half bathrooms, the home was celebrated for its innovative design early on, being a notable fixture on both the Raymond Nasher Tour of Homes in 1996 and the Northaven Tour of Homes. The property initially entered the market with Kyle Rovinsky of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate at an asking price of $4,567,890, which was later adjusted to $3.95 million.

The pricing journey continued, with the asking price eventually settling at $3.795 million under the representation of Rovinsky, and subsequently with Allie Beth Allman and Christine McKenny. Currently, the home is expertly listed by Cliff Freeman of eXp Realty. Despite the “no minimum reserve” auction policy, the current asking price of $3.5 million serves as a valuable indicator. As Elite Marketing Director Alicia Chmielewski wisely notes, “The asking price is a good guide for what it would take to buy this house, prior to auction,” offering a clear benchmark for potential buyers.

Unveiling the Estate: A Sanctuary of Nature and Design

The clock is ticking for this truly one-of-a-kind property! Spanning a generous two acres, this estate offers an idyllic retreat along a quiet creek, its grounds bountiful with an array of fruit trees – a charming nod to a time when much of Ricks Circle was a thriving orchard. Complementing these are exquisite Japanese Maples and vibrant Azaleas, creating a serene and picturesque landscape that evolves beautifully with the seasons. Greg Ibanez, the visionary architect, immediately recognized the property’s inherent beauty and designed the home to fully embrace and showcase its natural surroundings. This led to his decision to incorporate dramatic soaring floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, ensuring that every single room offers breathtaking views of the lush estate.

“The master is upstairs because the view is a tree-house effect,” explains Ibanez, highlighting how the elevated position of the master suite creates an intimate connection with the tree canopy, offering a unique and tranquil living experience. He further emphasizes that 11322 East Ricks Circle is an ideal sanctuary for families with children who cherish the spaciousness and community feel of North Dallas, and who will undoubtedly make the most of the extensive outdoor areas for entertaining friends and creating lasting memories.

Ibanez recounted a particularly moving anecdote: “I was so moved when the young lady who grew up in this house told me that living in the lines, experiencing them every day, inspired her to a career in architecture.” This personal testament underscores the profound impact of the home’s design. He added, “This was the second home I had ever designed, and the family wanted a focus on rooms for the family to enjoy,” showcasing his dedication to crafting spaces that foster connection and comfort.

Interior Elegance and Thoughtful Design

Stepping inside, one is immediately greeted by tall ceilings that create an expansive sense of volume, complemented by an elegantly open circular staircase that serves as a sculptural focal point. The formal living areas are generously proportioned, featuring a harmonious blend of rich hardwood and sophisticated tile floors. These spaces are bathed in natural light, courtesy of the huge vista windows that seamlessly bring the outdoors in, blurring the lines between interior comfort and natural beauty.

The heart of this home, the gourmet kitchen, is a chef’s dream, meticulously designed for both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It boasts a suite of top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, ensuring every culinary endeavor is executed with precision. A sprawling center island serves as a versatile workstation, equipped with both a gas and an electric stove, alongside a built-in grill – perfect for preparing elaborate meals or casual family dinners. Custom-crafted cabinetry, extending from floor to ceiling, provides abundant and intelligently organized storage, keeping the space clutter-free and elegant. This kitchen isn’t just a place to cook; it’s a social hub, inviting interaction and fostering memorable moments.

Exquisite Outdoor Living and Green Features

The allure of this estate extends far beyond its interiors into a breathtaking backyard oasis. A full, sheltered pavilion overlooks the sparkling swimming pool, a rejuvenating spa, and a relaxing jacuzzi, creating an ideal setting for lavish entertaining or serene relaxation. This outdoor haven is further enhanced by a charming fireplace, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, and even a pizza oven, promising endless opportunities for al fresco dining and unforgettable gatherings. The covered porch kitchen offers picturesque views of the serene creek line, while gentle steps invite you down to the oversized swimming pool, seamlessly integrating the natural landscape with sophisticated leisure amenities.

The luxurious master bedroom suite, complete with a private office and a lavish spa bath, is strategically located upstairs, maximizing privacy and offering that coveted “tree-house effect” view. For guests or multi-generational living, a well-appointed guest room with an en suite bath is conveniently situated downstairs, off the formal areas. This thoughtful design, as Ibanez notes, was specifically intended to comfortably house elderly parents on the main floor, showcasing the home’s adaptability. This versatile space could also easily be converted into a second master bedroom, catering to various family needs.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this home is also forward-thinking and eco-conscious. It boasts an impressive green credential with solar panels intelligently integrated onto its standing seam metal roof, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury or style.

A Rare Blend of Seclusion and Accessibility