While $3 million may not buy you a penthouse in Manhattan, NY, there are unique, impressive properties available for discerning buyers looking in less populous or popular regions.

Whether you are looking for the privacy afforded by an expansive acreage a waterfront property with easy access to the ocean or a picturesque setting ideal for entertaining on a grand scale or enjoying a life of luxurious seclusion, opportunities abound.

So taking a broad brush, we take a quick sweep across the LPS galaxy to present an array of properties available for between $2 million and $3 million.

Like us, be amazed at the sheer diversity in architecture, functionality and ambience of these properties. What a wonderful world!

Outdoor/indoor entertainer - Eastcliff, South Africa

The stunning landscape surrounding Eastcliff Hermanus is in no-way-compromised by the region’s recent population growth.

Although housing and facilities are now well established in this picturesque, upmarket part of Johannesburg, the mountain views, the seascape and the green rolling hills still dominate with quiet appeal.

For residents, golf, nature walks and watching the odd whale swim past off-shore await, or why not enjoy the heights with a bike ride up a mountain trail?

This exquisite designer villa, in prestigious Eastcliff Hermanus, together with the unparalleled beauty of Walkerbay combine to make this property a rare jewel.

Perfect for entertaining on a grand scale or enjoying a life of luxurious seclusion, this one-of-a-kind property.

Enjoying panoramic views of Walkerbay's famous beaches and majestic mountains, this property borders on the finest Hermanus seafront and cliff paths.

This well-equipped, superiorly finished residence offers six bedrooms and six ensuite bathrooms (all Travertine with outdoor showers).

Zen-like water features at the double volume entrance hall flows into a floating formal lounge area with marble floors and seamless windows that offers uninterrupted 180 degree views of Walkerbay.

Modern kitchens, open plan dining areas, airy flowing reception areas all with American shutters, swimming pool with braai facility, Jacuzzi with bar (undercover-counter bar fridges), pizza oven, retractable shade covers, morning and afternoon terraces – this premises is perfect for day/evening entertaining. The property is approximately 1100m2 under roof.

Special features include advanced security, elevated roof top deck with the most incredible ocean views, two automated double garages, plenty of off street parking, fire places, and undercover Balau patios with sea views.

$USD2,013,980

Horse lovers’ ranch - San Jacinto, California

Located at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains and adjacent to the San Jacinto River, the city of Jacinto is the oldest city in Riverside County, with an eclectic combination of old and new architecture.

Uncongested traffic flows as freely as the clean, crisp air. Saddle up, and enjoy a slice of Southern California.

This 29.79 acre (12 hectare) custom-built equestrian ranch with private lakes is a spectacular San Jacinto property and the ultimate outdoorsman's retreat.

The property is set behind rustic entry gates and is fenced for ultimate privacy. The main residence was designed to be cosy and intimate, and melds understated luxury with a western theme.

Built by a professional home builder as his private retreat, the quality and craftsmanship are impeccable.

The home is perfectly positioned to maximize spectacular views of the mountains, and while you enjoy the scenery, you can fish the property's five-acre lake, stocked with bass. There are three smaller lakes with a private duck hunting blind right under the flyway.

The outbuilding offers a huge game room, workshop and garage. Among the property's many luxuries is a world-class equestrian facility with a deluxe stable, including a trainer’s office and 1/2 bath, mare motels, a main show arena, a covered round pen, multiple turnouts and about four acres (1.6 hectares) of pastures.

Outdoor luxuries include an outdoor kitchen, spacious patio area, and a beautifully landscaped recreational park set on the banks of the private lake. There are RV hook-ups for three full sized RV's and a free standing bath house for guests.

$USD$2,400,000

Direct ocean access - Sovereign Islands, Queensland

Sovereign Islands is a gated community at the northern end of Queensland’s Gold Coast. The prestigious island is resplendent with luxury homes, most with deep water moorings and direct ocean access.

The island itself is protected from the ocean elements by the 21 kilometre-long South Stradbroke Island, and only 15 minutes’ drive to world-renowned Sanctuary Cove.

This beautiful chic style home oozes luxury and sophistication, from the stunning detailed wallpaper through to the light open spaces and waterfront views, an elegant ambience is throughout.

Boasting six bedrooms all with ensuites, an open kitchen with Miele appliances, an expansive outdoor entertaining area, and an expansive outdoor entertainment area with BBQ and sparkling pool on the water’s edge, this home makes for the perfect entertainers pad or glamorous waterfront family home.

There are multiple open living areas including a billiard room with a bar and a fully equipped media room.

Basement parking for six cars and a lifting servicing each of the level round out this stunning property which enjoys direct access to boating paradise and only 30 minutes from Gold Coast beaches.