Let's be real--finding a move-in-ready home in Raleigh under $400K is getting harder and harder. Finding one that's updated, has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a garage, a private backyard AND puts you this close to Downtown Raleigh? Now we're talking. This two-story home sits on a quiet, tree-lined street and has already had the glow-up, so you can skip the projects and get straight to enjoying your new home. Fresh interior paint, new carpet upstairs, new waterproof LVP flooring throughout the main level, upgraded light fixtures, new ceiling fans and new hardware give the entire home a fresh, updated feel. The kitchen got some love too, with new quartz countertops, an undermount single-bowl sink, upgraded faucet, new dishwasher, stove and hood, plus a refrigerator that conveys. The breakfast bar opens to the dining area, making it easy to cook, entertain, or have friends over without being stuck in the kitchen by yourself. The family room adds a cozy gas-log fireplace, while a new chandelier dresses up the dining space. Upstairs, the primary suite gives you something you don't always expect at this price point--space! Vaulted ceilings, TWO walk-in closets and a generous ensuite with dual sinks, soaking tub and separate walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms and a separate second-floor laundry room round things out, and yes--the washer and dryer convey as-is. Outside, the tree-lined backyard gives you privacy without signing you up for a second job maintaining it. There's a grilling patio, freshly painted shutters and front door, a 2023 HVAC, tankless water heater and a 2026 garage door opener. But let's talk location, because this one is GOOD. You're approximately 10 minutes from Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh, just 2 miles from the State Farmers Market, 8 minutes from NC State and minutes from Downtown South, Dorothea Dix Park, restaurants, shopping, parks and entertainment. Raleigh Golf Association is only about 3 minutes away and undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. Plus, quick access to I-40 and US-70 makes getting around the Triangle easy, with RTP and RDU International Airport within convenient reach. For a first home, this one checks a LOT of boxes: updated, move-in ready, low-maintenance, close to everything--and still under $400K. Because buying your first house is exciting enough. You shouldn't have to spend your first six months renovating it.