Inside Iowa's $13.8M Most Expensive Home with a Private Irish Pub

The most expensive home for sale in Iowa in 2026 is a $13.8 million property on West Okoboji Lake, distinctively featuring a full-scale, privately owned Irish pub. This nearly 25,000-square-foot mansion was designed without limitations for large-scale entertainment, appealing to a buyer seeking a one-of-a-kind statement property. Based on our experience assessment, the unique amenity and its location in a prized Midwest vacation area define its record-setting value.

What Makes This Iowa Property the State's Most Expensive?

The primary factor driving the $13.8 million price tag is the home's unparalleled custom features, chief among them being "Kevin O'Sullivan's," a authentic Irish pub built within the residence. This is not a simple wet bar; it is a commercial-grade entertainment space with a stage, pool table, and capacity for over 150 people. The pub was the result of the homeowner, Tom Bedell, and his construction team taking a research trip to Ireland to study genuine pub architecture and ambiance. This level of custom, unconventional luxury separates the property from any other on the market in Iowa and justifies its position at the top of the state's real estate market.

How Was the Home Designed for Entertainment?

The home's layout was conceived with hosting large gatherings as a core function. Beyond the pub, the residence includes a sky-lit "gathering room" that can accommodate up to 500 people, complete with another performance stage. A caterer's kitchen supports large events, and the property also boasts a home theater with its own lobby. The philosophy during construction, as related by listing agent Eric Hoien, was "What can't we do?" This approach resulted in a floor plan that prioritizes flow and space for parties, galas, and fundraisers, which the home has successfully hosted in the past.

What Other Amenities Does the Mansion Offer?

In addition to the entertainment spaces, the 9-bedroom, 16-bathroom main house includes significant luxury amenities. The property features a private boat dock, an art studio, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking West Okoboji Lake. The estate also includes a guesthouse that, according to the listing agent, is "nicer than most people's main home." Throughout the home, custom art installations and sculptures were commissioned with the directive for artists to push their own creative boundaries, further enhancing the property's unique character.

Who is the Potential Buyer for This Unique Estate?

Based on our experience assessment, the likely buyer is already familiar with the Okoboji Lakes region and is looking to upgrade to a premier property. The target profile is an individual or family who enjoys large-scale entertaining and desires a home that makes a significant statement. As the listing agent noted, "It's going to be someone who likes to entertain... Someone who wants to say, 'I have the biggest, most expensive home on the lake.'" The buyer is expected to value the unique lifestyle offered by the private pub and extensive event spaces over recouping the original construction costs.

What is the Appeal of the West Okoboji Lake Location?

Contrary to common perceptions of Iowa, the West Okoboji Lake area is known for its pristine waterways, rolling hills, and wooded landscapes. Often described as a "Shangri-La in the Midwest," it is a popular vacation destination. This location adds substantial value to the property, combining natural beauty with recreational opportunities like boating, making it a year-round retreat rather than a typical residential setting.

Prospective buyers should understand that such a unique property represents a lifestyle purchase. The value is in the custom craftsmanship and entertainment capacity, not in the expectation of financial return on the initial investment. The current owners have made peace with not recouping construction costs, viewing the project as a celebrated life chapter.