Maybe I should move back to the burgh...

The Wall Street Journal had a feature in yesterday's Personal Finance" section called Rust Belt Homes. Because the WSJ guards their content more closely than our government guards its nuclear secrets, I can't link to it. But I can plagiarize it. Below are some homes that you can buy in certain rust belt cities for $300,000 to $400,000:

Saint Louis:

Description: 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths built in 1906

"The kitchen in this rehabbed home has granite countertops and the master suite has recessed lighting. There is a second-floor laundry room and custom closets. It is walking distance to a shopping district."


Cleveland:

Description: 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths

"This all-brick colonial with lake view has multiple fireplaces, a screened porch off the dining room and 3,100 square feet. The third floor has a guest suite with walk-in closet. There is a 3-car garage."

[Ed. Note: Of course, the significant downside is you have to live in Cleveland...]

Pittsburgh:

Description: 6 bedrooms, 3 baths built in 1907

"This 2.5-story brick Victorian on the central north side has multiple fireplaces, including ones in the family, living and dining rooms. There is a private garden, full basement and detached garage." [Ed. Note: Also, it's close to Heinz Field, where you can watch the Pittsburgh Steelers - the 2005/2006 Super Bowl Champions, btw - play eight times a year.]

And of course, for comparison purposes ...

Washington, DC:

(Sincerest apologies to the City Paper. I know this is normally their territory...)