Good Enough Homes and Destinations: What You Get For $300,000

It’s real estate time! This week, the Gray Lady lets us know what we get for $1,100,000 and teaches us some new vocabulary words along the way:

This log cabin is on Homan Lake, a private lake tucked into the Ottawa National Forest, and ringed by about 30 houses on lots ranging in size from 3 to 20 acres. The surrounding woods are popular with snowmobilers and cross-country skiers. … A vaulted ceiling with clerestory windows draws additional light. The entry-level master suite opens to the deck. The second bedroom is on the walkout lower level, which opens to two patios and a path to the lake.

Clerestory! I think I met a girl named that at ballet class. No, just kidding. According to Wikipedia, “in architecture, clerestory are any high windows above eye level. The purpose is to bring outside light, fresh air, or both into the inner space.” Look for it on the SATs.

Let’s see what we ordinary folks could get for $300,000. And just for kicks, let’s make this the Volunteer State Edition.

Adorable two-bedroom, two-bath, 1200-square-feet bungalow-type house, in Nashville, TN, for $285,000, via Trulia. Bamboo floors, ceiling fans, character. Amazing backyard garden complete with gazebo (!) and koi pond (!!). I don’t understand koi but maybe I will someday, if I live long enough.

Three bedroom, two bath, 2000-square-foot English cottage-style, in Memphis, TN, for $295,000, via Trulia. Additional bedroom/playroom upstairs. Renovated/updated/refinished everything with fireplaces, stone floors, cedar beamed vaulted ceiling, spacious backyard.

Four bedroom, three bath, creepy/fascinating house in Signal Mountain, TN, for $299,800, via Trulia. (Possibly the current tenants’ penchant for ivy, four-poster beds, and bad chandeliers contributes to the vibe.) Still, lots of character! Potential! And Movoto says Signal Mountain is one of the best places to live in the state.

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