Three Things: Trophy Homes to Match a Celebrity's Lifestyle

The news that Rosie O'Donnell bought a $5 million home on Casey Key has the whole town talking. The four-bedroom, 4,700-square-foot beachfront residence seems perfect as a second home for the comedian and her family (wife Michelle and five kids), but we can’t help but wonder — what other properties did Rosie look at? So, just in case buyer's remorse sets in, or you happen to know any other house-hunting celebrities, here are some other trophy homes that are just special enough to tempt the lucky few who can afford the ultimate.

THINKING BIG | 7922 S. Holiday Drive

For the celebrity who collects cars or other large objects, here’s a mainland waterfront estate with a 20-car, air-conditioned “motor salon.” It’s walled and gated and located on the bay, with a sunset view toward Siesta Key. Extra touches abound — two elevators, three fireplaces, a wood-paneled library, an outdoor kitchen, a 125-foot dock and enough lawn for several simultaneous soccer games. It also has a state-of-the-art security system with surveillance cameras to keep overeager fans at bay. An elegant yet kid-friendly home with five bedrooms, which is just a few minutes from Siesta Beach.

Priced at $7.9 million. For more information, call Joel Schemmel of Premier Sotheby’s at 941-587-4894.

OLD FASHIONED CHARM | 7321 Midnight Pass Road

This home, built in 2001, has the look and feel of an old-fashioned country house, with wide porches and verandas overlooking Sarasota Bay. It’s located on Siesta Key, on 2.8 acres of land, well screened from the road. There’s the obligatory elevator, four fireplaces, a wine room and a whopping seven bedrooms, all with intricate wood detailing. The master suite has his-and-hers offices — or, in Rosie’s case, hers and hers — and the grounds boast giant oaks and a lagoon-style pool with a waterfall. The only thing missing is a tennis court, but there’s plenty of room to put one in.

Priced at $6.95 million. For more information, call Michael Hayes of Michael Saunders at 941-376-1826.

BEACHFRONT BEAUTY | 4125 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Unit S301

A sensational penthouse on Longboat would be a great choice for a celebrity. The security is excellent, there’s no maintenance to worry about, and you’re right on the beach. This 4,800-square-foot unit in a smaller mid-Key complex fits the bill perfectly. There’s a wraparound terrace with incredible views of the Gulf, complete with a summer kitchen. The real kitchen has Wolf appliances and cherry-wood cabinets, and the master suite has a wet-bar, a private sitting room and its own terrace overlooking the water. On the ground floor of the building is a private three-car garage. With only three bedrooms, Rosie’s kids would have to double up, but for a celebrity couple looking for a hassle-free beach retreat, this place would be ideal.

Priced at $4,995,000. For more information, call Roger Pettingell of Coldwell Banker at 941-387-1840.

See more photos here.