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The article examines the impact of rural housing projects in Xibaipo, Hebei Province, China. A brief history is provided on the political history of the town. The housing project in Liangjiagou village is nearing its second stage and is anticipated by local households on the waiting list. China Resources Hope Town, which is considered as a more ambitious housing project, will be completed in July 2011.

The author discusses her experience of becoming a homeowner in China. A brief history of the housing system in the country is provided. She chose a split-level house in Tiantongyuan with mortgage payments extracted from her and her husband's Public Housing Fund accounts. Her initial problem was the remote location but the transportation system eventually improved and commercial service facilities were established.

The author comments on the differences in the importance placed by people on housing and he emphasizes the significance of housing. He questions the choice of some people who would rather spend more money on exotic holidays than invest in a good home. He argues that housing can lift people's spirits or drive them to depression. He links contentment at home and personal happiness and the well-being of a society.