The simple life

There are a number of very nice homes in southeast Missouri in the six-figure range. But the simple truth is ... not everyone can afford those homes.

But home ownership is not really all about money. It's about taking any home and making it yours. It doesn't have to be a luxurious home to reflect the homeowner's taste and personality.

The home at 718 Amanda in Jackson is that kind of home. It isn't large, but it has everything needed by a growing family or by someone who wants to downsize back into a simpler way of life. It has three bedrooms and a main level bathroom. Each has adequate windows for natural light, and adequate closet space.

This is a light blue frame house with white shutters and trim. It's a simple ranch-style home with a level, easily-maintained yard. Right away, though, one gets the sense that the home is owned by someone who marches to a different drummer, which automatically adds to its interest.

The entrance door is lavender in color. The foyer's floorcovering is a hardwood floor laminate. The wall colors are the interesting factor, with lavenders and blues giving the home a slightly avant garde, art deco look. That look continues into the kitchen, which has classic black and white tile floors and an offbeat lime wall color. Lavendar wall color is found behind the oak cabinets.

The main level bathroom also has lavender walls and black and white tile on the floor.

Of the three bedrooms, one is currently being used as an office, which points to the home's versatility. It features a studious earthy brown wall color.

This home has a a roughed-in basement. Though it is not a walk-out basement, it could be finished to increase the home's living space.

One of this home's advantages is its neighborhood, where plenty of children are found playing outside, riding their bicycles through the quiet neighborhood.

This home of the simple life is listed at $98,500 and is available for viewing through Divine Homes, 339-0488.