What $279,000 buys

... IN COLUMBIA HEIGHTS

Built in 1965, the four-bedroom, three-bathroom rambler has 2,824 finished square feet and features hardwood floors, an eat-in kitchen, a formal dining room and three fireplaces. There's a finished walkout basement. Listed by Mary and Mickey Rooney, Counselor Realty, 763-229-1133.

... IN ST. PAUL

The 1938 three-bedroom, two-bathroom house located in the Macalester-Groveland neighborhood has 1,318 finished square feet and features a lower-level family room, a wood-burning stove and a one-car detached garage. Listed by Colleen Langford, Re/Max Results, 651-696-0879.

... IN ROSEMOUNT

The 1997 multilevel home has four bedrooms, three bathrooms and 2,308 finished square feet. It features vaulted ceilings, natural woodwork, patio, sprinkler system and fenced yard. Listed by Sally Leary, Tradition Realty, 952-322-4100.