3 Merrie CircleRichardson, TX 75081Price: $490,000

This is not your typical 1972 home. A thoughtful modern renovation opened up the entire main level into a bright, flowing space anchored by a striking open-riser staircase and a kitchen made for gathering, with a waterfall island, crisp white cabinetry, and clean contemporary finishes. Vaulted ceilings and walls of natural light give the living and dining areas an airy, elevated feel you have to experience in person. The layout is the kind people look for and rarely find. All of the bedrooms sit upstairs, giving you a quiet, private level set apart from the action, while the entire downstairs opens up for entertaining and everyday living. Flow from the kitchen and living areas straight out to your private backyard with a sparkling in-ground pool and plenty of room to host, then retreat upstairs when the day is done. The bedrooms are generous and full of light, with updated bathrooms that carry the same modern design through the home. Outside, the pool anchors a true blank-canvas yard ready for whatever you imagine, and the 2 car garage adds real storage and function. All of this sits in one of Richardson's most established pockets, directly served by Yale Elementary and zoned to Richardson ISD, just minutes from 75 and President George Bush, with parks, trails, and dining close by. A renovated home with a pool and a layout this livable does not come along often here.