A historic Lake of the Ozarks estate, originally built by Anheuser-Busch scion August “Gussie” Busch Jr., is under contract for $21 million, setting the stage for a significant redevelopment project. Developers are planning a new residential community on the sprawling 37-acre property, which is considered the most expensive residential listing in the state of Missouri.
Key Takeaways
- A 37-acre Lake of the Ozarks estate, formerly owned by the Anheuser-Busch family, is under a contingent sales contract for $21 million.
- The property was built in 1982 by August “Gussie” Busch Jr. and features four homes, a private dock, a helipad, and a Japanese garden.
- The prospective buyer, Lock and Kelly Development, has submitted plans to build a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums alongside the existing residences.
- The proposal is currently under review by the Village of Four Seasons' Planning and Zoning Committee.
A Storied Property on the Market
A landmark property with deep ties to one of Missouri's most famous families is moving closer to a new chapter. The expansive estate, located in the Village of Four Seasons at the Lake of the Ozarks, carries a list price of $21 million, making it a record-setter for the region.
Built in 1982 by August Anheuser “Gussie” Busch Jr., the compound served as a private retreat for the beer magnate. The property spans an impressive 37 acres and includes nearly three-quarters of a mile of coveted shoreline.
Real estate agent Peggy Albers confirmed that a sale is now “contingent,” indicating at least one prospective buyer is in the final stages of a deal. The property last changed hands in 2023 and is now positioned for a major transformation.
Estate at a Glance
- Price: $21 million
- Acreage: 37 acres
- Shoreline: Nearly 0.75 miles
- Structures: Four homes
- Total Space: 12 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms
- Amenities: 9,600-sq-ft private dock, helipad, pool, fitness center, clay tennis court, Japanese garden
Development Plans Emerge for Historic Land
The potential new owner has ambitious plans for the estate. John Lock of Lock and Kelly Development, who has been confirmed as working to complete the purchase, has already begun the process of securing approvals for a new residential development.
Lock stated that the early proposal aims to preserve the four existing homes on the property while introducing new housing options. The plan includes a mix of single-family residences, townhomes, and condominiums, which would significantly increase the housing density on the private peninsula.
Permits have been filed with the Village of Four Seasons, and the proposal is now making its way through the local government's approval process. The village’s Planning and Zoning Committee is the first to review the plans before they can proceed to the Board of Aldermen for a final decision.
The Approval Process
For a development of this scale, developers must navigate a multi-step municipal approval process. This typically involves presenting detailed site plans, traffic impact studies, and environmental assessments to a planning committee. The committee then makes a recommendation to the elected board, which holds public hearings before voting on whether to approve, deny, or request modifications to the project.
From Private Retreat to Public Community
The transformation of the former Busch estate from an exclusive family hideaway into a modern residential community marks a significant shift for the area. The original design was centered around privacy and luxury, catering to a single owner.
The property's existing amenities are extensive. It includes a massive 9,600-square-foot private dock, a clay tennis court, a professionally designed Japanese garden, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and a helipad for private arrivals and departures. These features underscore the estate's history as a self-contained luxury resort.
The proposed development would open up this secluded piece of shoreline, integrating it more broadly into the Lake of the Ozarks community. According to Lock, if the necessary approvals are granted in a timely manner, the property sale could be finalized and redevelopment could begin as soon as next year.
A Record-Setting Valuation
The $21 million asking price has drawn considerable attention. According to the online property database Stacker, the estate is believed to be the most expensive residential property currently listed for sale in the entire state of Missouri.
This valuation reflects not only the extensive existing infrastructure and famous lineage but also the immense development potential of its 37 acres of prime lakefront land.
The pending sale and proposed development signal continued high demand for luxury and recreational properties at the Lake of the Ozarks, a popular destination for tourism and second-home ownership in the Midwest. The project's progression through local government channels will be watched closely by residents and real estate professionals alike.
