A glass house that’s turning heads

By : J. David Chapman/April 24, 2025

They say, “Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” But what if living in a glass house is exactly what everyone wants?

This week, a sleek, contemporary waterfront home on Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees became the most-viewed listing on Realtor.com. That’s right—an Oklahoma property topping the charts nationwide. In over 25 years of selling real estate across the state, I can’t recall a time when an Oklahoma listing garnered such widespread attention.

This 2,650 SF home is a showstopper. With expansive glass walls offering panoramic views of the iconic Sailboat Bridge and shimmering waters beyond, it’s designed to bring the outdoors in. The property features a massive kitchen with an island that seats eight, a second kitchen equipped with Bertazzoni appliances. Plus, it’s VRBO-eligible, making it an attractive option for both personal enjoyment and investment.

All this for $899,900. Yes, that is a lot of money, but it is commonplace for homes on Grand Lake to list well above $1 million. In fact, according to a recent survey, Grand Lake boasts the largest home and land market among Oklahoma’s lakes, with 34 of the state’s 77 homes listed over $1 million located there.

For me, Grand Lake is more than a market—it’s a personal haven. I’ve assisted clients in buying and selling properties there and have made my own investments. Watching this listing gain national attention reaffirms what many of us have long known: Oklahoma offers unparalleled opportunities for both living and investment.

Grand Lake has long been a cherished destination for Oklahomans seeking recreation and relaxation. But this listing’s popularity suggests that its appeal is reaching a broader audience. Perhaps it’s the combination of modern design, stunning views, and the flexibility of short-term rentals that’s capturing attention. Or maybe it’s further proof that Oklahoma’s real estate market is stepping into the national spotlight.

As someone who has spent countless hours at Grand Lake—both professionally and personally—I can attest to its unique charm. It’s more than just a market; it’s a lifestyle. And this glass house, with its seamless blend of luxury and nature, embodies that lifestyle perfectly.

So, while the old adage warns against living in glass houses, this Grand Lake gem proves that sometimes, transparency is exactly what the market desires. Just remember to keep the Windex handy.

J. David Chapman, Ph.D., is professor of finance & real estate at The University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu).