We are haooy to announce today that bidding has officially opened at US$8.5 million for an incredible oceanfront private residence, located at the continental U.S.’s most southern point. Listed for $18.5 million, the historic Key West property was formerly the winter home of renowned American artist John Seward Johnson II, the estate will be offered in cooperation with Ellen Gvili of Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty. Bidding for the property will culminate live on 31 March via our online marketplace, conciergeauctions.com.

Located at 400 South Street, the 4,008-square-foot concrete residence sits on a 17,243-square-foot lot with nearly an acre of bay bottom, offering 245 feet of open waterfront and sweeping Atlantic Ocean views. Outdoor features include expansive balconies, a 50-by-20-foot pool, and ample lounging areas amid lush tropical landscaping. With U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approval to rebuild a private dock, the home is ideal for boating enthusiasts.

Inside, the formal living room exudes classic Key West charm, leading to a bright Florida room with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to the outdoors. The primary suite and two guest bedrooms—accessible by elevator—each open to a spacious balcony with uninterrupted ocean views. Sealed coral stone floors, elegant architectural details, and an open-concept layout complete the timeless design.

The property also carries a rich artistic legacy as the former home of John Seward Johnson II—grandson of Johnson & Johnson co-founder Robert Wood Johnson I and founder of New Jersey’s Grounds For Sculpture. Johnson was renowned for his life-size trompe-l'œil bronze sculptures capturing everyday moments, many of which are displayed in public spaces around the world.

"This property is one of Key West’s most iconic estates," said Gvili. "Its elegance is unmatched, from the sophisticated architectural details to the expansive oceanfront views. Situated at the southernmost point of the U.S. and once home to artist John Seward Johnson II, the house seamlessly blends timeless charm with history and luxury. It’s a rare opportunity—whether as a private sanctuary or a development opportunity, the estate offers great potential in one of the most coveted locations in the Keys."

In addition to its luxury features, the estate offers a valuable transient license for potential short-term rentals and multifamily zoning allowing up to eight residential units—enhancing its appeal to investors.

Ideally located near Key West’s top attractions, the property is just steps from the Southernmost Point buoy and Southernmost Beach, with its popular beachside restaurant. Key West blends historic charm and island luxury, with Conch-style homes, Victorian mansions, tropical gardens, and the vibrant streets of Old Town lined with galleries, shops, and dining.

Residents enjoy a relaxed yet refined lifestyle, with sailing, fishing, snorkeling, and diving minutes away. Iconic landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway House, Key West Lighthouse, and lively Duval Street are nearby, while the island’s sunsets and thriving arts scene complete the experience.