298 Forest StreetArlington, MA 02474Price: $799,000

There's more to this ranch than you might expect from the street. The main level keeps daily life straightforward, with great natural light in the fireplaced living room and adjoining dining or bonus area. Sliders lead to a deck with treetop views overlooking the yard, giving the main living areas a welcome connection to the outdoors. The eat-in kitchen is ready for its next update, but its size gives you something worth working with rather than working around. Three bedrooms and a full bath keep everything you need on one floor. Downstairs is where the house starts to separate itself. High ceilings and a walkout family room create a substantial second living area, complemented by a kitchenette and laundry. Use it for movie nights, guests, hobbies, or simply the extra room that becomes increasingly valuable over time. Direct access to the extended garage provides room for cars, a workshop, equipment, or storage. The backyard deserves some attention of its own. A second deck brings you down to the yard, where a fenced area works well for pets and the remaining space leaves plenty of room to garden, play, or spend an afternoon outside. When you're heading out, the 67 bus offers direct service to Alewife and nearby parks give you more places to explore. This isn't a finished renovation with someone else's choices built into the price. It's a useful, surprisingly roomy home that you can live in now and improve at your own pace.