A sprawling 535-acre ranch in the Clovis area of California, with a history stretching back over a century and ties to Hollywood's golden age, has been listed for sale with an asking price of $25 million. The property, known as the Balfe Ranch, includes a historic 4,800-square-foot main house and offers significant development potential.
Key Takeaways
- A 107-year-old ranch in Clovis, California, is on the market for $25 million.
- The 535-acre property includes a historic main house, a pool, and a tennis court.
- The ranch once hosted Hollywood stars like Gary Cooper and Fred MacMurray.
- Real estate agents estimate a potential development value of up to $1.5 billion for the land.
A Storied Past in the Central Valley
The Balfe Ranch House was originally constructed in 1919 by New York businessman Harry Balfe. He established the estate after acquiring 760 acres from the prominent Roeding family, transforming the land into a remarkable private retreat.
During its heyday, the ranch was far more than just a home. It featured a private airstrip, a racetrack, and extensive vineyards and orchards. Its reputation grew, attracting high-profile guests from the entertainment industry.
Hollywood's Retreat
The ranch became a popular getaway for Hollywood celebrities seeking privacy and leisure. Notable visitors included actors Gary Cooper, known for his roles in classic Westerns, and Fred MacMurray, a versatile star with a career spanning over 100 films.
Historical accounts describe the property as a jewel of Fresno County. The National Geographic Society once lauded the ranch, with its lush fruit trees and vines, as “a garden spot in the desert.”
Exploring the Estate's Features
The centerpiece of the property is the 4,800-square-foot main residence, designed with Spanish-style architecture. The home contains four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and an unusual twelve closets. It also features two separate living rooms, two laundry rooms, and a dining room with a fireplace.
Beyond the main house, the grounds offer a wealth of amenities that speak to its history of grand entertaining.
- An oversized swimming pool
- Elaborate fish ponds and a rock garden
- A private tennis court
- A separate museum building and wine cellar
"It’s a very open, picturesque backyard with the trees," said Catrina Girard, a broker with Sotheby’s International Realty representing the property. "As you walk from one area to another, you see the different eras of the home."
Property at a Glance
- Asking Price: $25 million
- Land Size: 535 acres
- Main House: 4,800 sq. ft.
- Bedrooms: 4
- Bathrooms: 3
- Year Built: 1919
A Century of Ownership
Over its 107-year history, the Balfe Ranch has been owned by only four families, each leaving their mark on the property. In 1939, Oscar-winning actor Victor McLaglen purchased the ranch from its founder, Harry Balfe, continuing its connection to Hollywood.
The property later transitioned to farmer William Bizieff in 1950 before being acquired by John Indart in 1953. The Indart family has been the custodian of the ranch for the past seven decades.
John's son, Tim Indart, and his wife Andrea began a phased restoration of the historic house in 1966. Their efforts included repairing the intricate fish ponds and updating interior spaces, preserving the home's character while making it their own.
Future Potential and Market Position
While the ranch is a piece of living history, its future holds immense financial potential. Realtors handling the sale estimate that the vast 535-acre parcel, located near the growing city of Clovis, could support a development project valued at $1.5 billion.
"To have this much land that’s grouped together and positioned where it’s at this close to the city of Clovis, it really is a rare opportunity. The potential of what this land could become is endless."
The $25 million listing price positions the Balfe Ranch as one of the most significant real estate offerings in the central San Joaquin Valley. It is currently the second most expensive property available in the immediate Fresno area.
After decades of stewardship, the Indart family has decided it is time for a new owner to take over. "The Indarts believe it’s time to pass on the torch to someone else," Girard confirmed.
