2955 NE 60th (Max Rose City)

I lived here for almost four years, so I'm in a position to say that on a beautiful autumn day like this, this is the best room in the house. The sliding glass door in the kitchen opens out to this large deck, overlooking the back yard and patio. There's plenty of room for your barbeque and a table and chairs for dining al fresco. We just rebuilt the deck and railings, and hadn't quite finished painting the railing when I shot this, so apologies for the temporary calico paint effect.

Another recent improvement is a complete overhaul of the landscaping. It was professionally designed and installed... and is professionally maintained. Nothing for you to do but sit out back with your cup o' joe (glass of wine? frosty beer?) and enjoy as it matures. Hostas, ferns and bamboo surround the recycled crushed brick and patio areas. Overhead are elms and a persimmon tree (really neat both in bloom and especially with fruit on it) and around the concrete patio area are espaliered fruit trees (Asian pear and kiwi). And our next door neighbor's apple tree spreads over the fence far enough that you'll have plenty of fruit to keep you happy all fall.

This deck is so perfect for entertaining that you'll be trying to make new friends just so you can have them over to hang out. Speaking of new friends, the door to the upstairs apartment is accessed via the left side of the back deck, so you'll have opportunity to meet your cool new neighbor as she comes and goes.