Based on some 25 years' experience in building, buying, selling and designing houses, here are some of the cold-blooded considerations you should face, as well as the financial calculations you should make before- rather than after. The information is concise, basic, and the costs are cut down to the moderate, middle class income. The coverage includes mortgages and home financing; the choice of a community (children first); the land; house plans; builders; cellars; termites; joists; side walls; roofs; insulation; heat; windows; floors; wall coverings; electricity; plumbing; water; paint; gadgets; garages; grading. There is a judging chart which will enable you to figure out what you can afford for what, so that there need be no landings with Blandings.