Home on the range

Before there were houses and cars and people, there was land. Human beings definitely have an attachment to the land. Owning a piece of it is always a privilege.

So the land on which a house is built is always of the utmost importance. The home at 1786 County Road 401 in Benton, Mo., is an example of that. An open house is being held there today. It is a simple brick-ranch home, but it is set on 20 acres of prime farmland adjacent to I-55. There also is a barn, detached shop with concrete floor, and a canopy for the shelter of vehicles or equipment. The property is fenced and cross-fenced.

This home has a covered front porch and a convenient half-circle driveway with a two-car carport. Black wrought-iron railing lines the front porch. The entry foyer has tile-look linoleum and moves into the living room.

The living room has light walls, and a cut-away wall with dark oak spindles to separate, yet open up, the living room and family room areas. The family room features a classic brick fireplace with fireplace insert and a handy firewood storage area that opens from the outside for insertion of wood without the mess of having to bring the wood through the house.

The formal dining room has tile-look linoleum with light paneled walls and a window for natural light.

The recently updated kitchen includes a white smooth top range and a built-in microwave oven. A double stainless steel sink has a window above it for a cheery view of the back yard. The eat-in kitchen area is adjacent to a laundry room that has exits to both the car port and side yard.

The home's main bathroom has a white pedestal sink, and oak medicine cabinet, and a step-in shower with built-in seat.

This home has three bedrooms. The master bedroom has two windows for plenty of natural light, a walk-in closet, and a large master bathroom with walnut cabinets. It is decorated in cheery and light pastel colors and has a tile-look floor.

This home and land is listed at $320,000 and is available for viewing through Capaha Realty, 334-9628.

traddle@semissourian.com