
Discover Hillcrest Estates: An Exclusive Dallas Luxury Home Heads to Auction
An unparalleled opportunity awaits in the prestigious Hillcrest Estates of Dallas. The magnificent 7,154-square-foot residence, currently home to Dallas City Councilman Lee Kleinman and his wife, Dr. Lisa Umholtz, is set to captivate discerning buyers. This extraordinary estate will be offered at a no-minimum-bid auction on September 28th, presented by Elite Auctions. Don’t miss your chance to acquire a piece of Dallas’s most coveted real estate, and Daltxrealestate.com is providing an exclusive preview opportunity this weekend.
Be among the first to experience this architectural marvel and its breathtaking surroundings. Join Candy’sDirt for an exclusive Open House event from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 14th, at 11322 E. Ricks Circle, Dallas. This is a rare chance to explore one of the most environmentally conscious and visually stunning homes in Dallas. Scroll down to RSVP for this special event and secure your spot.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Auction Event: Name Your Price for Luxury
“Hopeful buyers now have the chance to name their own price at our upcoming, no-reserve auction at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 28th,” states Alicia Chmielewski, Elite Marketing Director. This declaration heralds a truly unique event, offering potential homeowners the ultimate flexibility in acquiring a property of significant grandeur and value. A no-reserve auction means the property will sell to the highest bidder, regardless of price, creating an electrifying atmosphere and an incredible opportunity for a shrewd investment.
This auction represents more than just a home sale; it’s an opportunity to own nearly two acres of Dallas’s most private and serene park-like setting. Such expansive, secluded acreage within the city limits is exceedingly rare, making this property a genuine jewel in the Dallas real estate landscape. The tranquil environment, coupled with its prime location, positions the Kleinman estate as an exceptional find for those seeking both luxury and peace.


Elite Auctions: A Proven Track Record in High-End Real Estate
Elite Auctions is renowned for its expertise in the luxury home market, boasting a strong history of successfully auctioning some of the most prestigious properties in Texas and beyond. Their impressive portfolio includes the successful sales of the Vaquero estates, notably those of Vanessa Swarovski and Mark Texeira, as well as the Highland Park residence of baseball legend Michael Young. This track record underscores Elite Auctions’ ability to connect sellers of distinguished properties with highly qualified buyers, ensuring a streamlined and effective sales process for unique estates like the Kleinman home.
The Green Oasis: “The Most Beautiful Acreage in Dallas”
The Kleinman estate sprawls across almost two acres, a truly remarkable expanse within Dallas’s city limits. Those fortunate enough to have witnessed its splendor, including former Dallas City Councilman Philip Kingston, have universally hailed it as “the most beautiful acreage in Dallas.” This sentiment captures the essence of a property that transcends typical urban living, offering a verdant retreat that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.


Beyond its generous size, the property boasts a captivating natural landscape. The land gracefully slopes down, cradling a serene, babbling creek that meanders through the rear of the estate. This natural waterway draws the eye deep into the surrounding mature woods, creating an enchanting backdrop and an immediate sense of tranquility. Imagine the joy of children, or even adults, playfully rolling down the gentle hill like a kid, immersed in nature’s embrace. The property’s natural beauty is so profound that it effortlessly crosses any and all political or social barriers, appealing to anyone who appreciates the serenity of an undisturbed environment.
Architectural Splendor Meets Sustainable Living
Step inside this 7,154-square-foot marvel and discover a world of sophisticated design and thoughtful amenities. The home welcomes you with soaring ceilings, an elegant open circular staircase, and expansive, light-filled rooms featuring a harmonious blend of hardwood and tile floors. Enormous windows throughout the residence frame picturesque vistas of the sprawling property, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.
The heart of this home is undoubtedly the chef’s gourmet kitchen, a culinary enthusiast’s dream. It’s outfitted with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances and a spacious island featuring both gas and electric stove options, alongside a professional-grade grill. Perfect for entertaining, the kitchen effortlessly flows into the living spaces, creating an ideal environment for gatherings large and small.


The master bedroom suite offers a private sanctuary, complete with a dedicated office space for productivity and a luxurious spa bath for ultimate relaxation. This home also champions sustainable living; it’s genuinely “green” in more ways than one. Notably, it features discreetly integrated solar panels on its standing seam metal roof, offering energy efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint without compromising on aesthetic appeal. This commitment to sustainability ensures comfort and savings for years to come, aligning with modern luxury standards.
An Outdoor Oasis: Year-Round Entertainment and Relaxation
The outdoor amenities of the Kleinman estate are designed for lavish entertaining and serene relaxation. A full backyard sheltered pavilion stands as a testament to outdoor living, boasting its own fireplace, a complete outdoor kitchen, and even a pizza oven. This magnificent space overlooks a sparkling pool, a rejuvenating spa, and a bubbling jacuzzi, creating a resort-like atmosphere right in your backyard. Whether hosting grand parties or enjoying quiet evenings under the stars, this pavilion provides the perfect setting.
The property’s gentle, hill-like slope descends gracefully to the babbling creek, creating a picturesque natural boundary that draws the eye into the deep, surrounding woods. It’s a landscape that invites exploration and provides an ever-changing canvas of nature’s beauty throughout the seasons. This seamless integration of luxurious amenities with untouched natural beauty is a hallmark of this exceptional estate.

Preston Hollow Prestige: Secluded Serenity with Urban Access
The true brilliance of this property lies in its seemingly remote and pastoral feel, while simultaneously being proximate to every essential amenity Dallas has to offer. Located strategically near the bustling Preston Forest crossroads, 11322 East Ricks Circle provides an instant escape. The moment you turn onto the tree-lined East Ricks Circle, the lushness of the land envelops you, transporting you to a tranquil haven, far removed from urban stresses.
This contemporary structure, a five-bedroom, six-full, two-half-bathroom home, was originally built in 1993 by the acclaimed AIA Fellow, Gregory Ibanez. Ibanez, a distinguished protégé of the iconic I.M. Pei (designer of Dallas City Hall), brought his profound architectural vision to this residence. His notable resume includes the design of the upper Greenhill School and the acclaimed remodel of Casa Mañana, showcasing his expertise in creating both functional and aesthetically pleasing structures. The home’s architectural significance was recognized early on, featuring prominently in the Raymond Nasher Tour of Homes in 1996, as well as the Northaven Tour of Homes, solidifying its status as a landmark residence.
The property has a journey through the market, initially listed with Kyle Rovinsky of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate for $4,567,890, then lowered to $3.95 million. Ultimately, the price came down to $3.795 million, first with Rovinsky, then with Allie Beth Allman and Christine McKenny. It is now listed by Cliff Freeman of eXp Realty, with an asking price of $3.5 million prior to the auction. “The asking price is a good guide for what it would take to buy this house, prior to auction,” notes Alicia Chmielewski, offering insight into the valuation.
Chmielewski further expresses her personal admiration for the property: “I absolutely adore the artistic design of this home, which really highlights the natural beauty of the property. The first time I toured, I remember standing amongst the fruit trees, Japanese Maples, and Azaleas as a magnificent owl flew overhead. I knew this place was special. It’s still hard to believe that such a peaceful setting exists in the heart of Dallas!” Her words capture the profound sense of wonder and tranquility that this unique estate inspires.

A Modern Masterpiece: Design Harmonizing with Nature
What sets this home apart is not only its rare and coveted creek-side location but also its classically modern design, a testament to Ibanez’s genius. “The house was designed to open up geometrically, as you approach it from the back,” Kyle Rovinsky once noted, describing its innovative architectural concept. “It’s a visual treat for the owners daily, and perfect for entertaining.” This geometric design allows the home to reveal itself dynamically, creating intriguing sightlines and an ever-evolving experience of space and light, all while framing the stunning natural surroundings. The design ensures that every angle offers a unique perspective of the lush grounds, making it a living piece of art.


This remarkable one-of-a-kind masterpiece is completed by a tranquil creek and a picturesque rocky pond, harmoniously nestled among vibrant, lush trees and abundant wildlife. Located in a prestigious Preston Hollow area, the estate benefits from exceptional proximity to a wealth of amenities. These include the newly expanded Northaven Trail for outdoor enthusiasts, and prime shopping and dining destinations like Preston Royal, Preston Forest, Northpark, and the Galleria. The rapidly developing Valley View area, soon to be known as Midtown, further enhances the appeal of this location. It’s not uncommon to spot a variety of critters on the lawn—perhaps deer nibbling branches, squirrels basking in the sunlight, or elegant waterfowl gracefully moving along the creek—adding to the enchantment of this private paradise.

An Investment in Lifestyle: Unmatched Convenience and Serenity
The residence at 11322 East Ricks Circle is perfectly suited for a family with children who appreciate the vibrant North Dallas footprint and wish to utilize the area’s numerous esteemed private and public schools. Alternatively, it offers an ideal sanctuary for the individual executive seeking unparalleled peace and tranquility at home, without the burden of a long commute. The property’s strategic location ensures that prestigious schools, top-tier healthcare facilities, and dynamic business centers are all within easy reach.
As Kyle Rovinsky aptly summarizes, “It’s a true estate property, great for indoor-outdoor entertaining. A two-acre creek lot in Dallas is incredibly difficult, in fact almost impossible, to find.” This rarity underscores the immense value and singular appeal of the Kleinman estate. Properties of this caliber, offering expansive acreage, a natural creek, and a prime Dallas address, are a vanishing breed, making this auction an event not to be missed.
Opportunities like this, to acquire a $3.5 million home—once listed for considerably more—and potentially secure it for a steal at auction, are almost as impossible to find. This is more than a home; it’s an investment in a lifestyle, a legacy, and a piece of Dallas’s most beautiful landscape. Seize this extraordinary chance to own an architectural masterpiece within a private, park-like oasis. Mark your calendars for the exclusive preview and the no-reserve auction, and prepare to bid on your future dream home.