rent at $40 is really no higher than the $25
suburban house, for heat and water rent are included. With the former,
perhaps as much as a third of one's income could be spared for the
fixed charge of rent; but in the country the proportion cannot with
safety be greater than a fifth. Few satisfactory suburban houses can
be rented under $35, and to this must be added the cost not only of
coal and water, but of maintenance. On the whole, we are pretty sure
to decide that it is better and cheaper to buy than to rent.

THE LOCATION SENSE

There is some advantage in being able to secure a lot in a square
already built up. If present conditions are satisfactory we may feel
reasonably sure that they will remain so. We know who our neighbors
are to be, the sort of houses and other improvements that will affect
the sightliness and value of our own property, and the surroundings
that should in some degree govern the style of our abode. There is
little of the speculative in such a choice, but we shall have to pay
something extra for our assurances.

In a well built-up town, however, we are likely to find a more eligible
natural site at less cost if we are not too insistent upon being close
to the railway station. The best sites in the older sections are
already occupied or are held at a premium. If we have an eye for
location and the courage of our convictions, we may chance upon an
excellent lot that can be had for a comparatively small price because
of its detachment. It may be so situated that the approach is through
the choicest part of the village, affording us much of the charm of
suburban life without additional cost. Provided sewer, water, light,
sidewalks, and paving are in, a little greater distance from the center
may be well repaid by the beauty of the site, and after the family
becomes accustomed to it the distance is scarcely noticed. Where there
are telephones and local delivery of mail and groceries, occasions for
going uptown are not frequent.

SIZE OF LOT

The lot should have at least 50 foot frontage; and be from 150 to 200
feet in depth. Many subdivisions are now platted without alleys, which
are not desirable unless scrupulously maintained. The site should, if
practicable, be on a plateau or elevation that gives an outlook, or at
least make natural drainage certain. A lot below street level means
expensive filling to be done.

POSITION

There can be little question as to the sp