What can we do to improve housing and lifestyle?

To live an enjoyable lifestyle in a comfortable living arrangement, especially in today's economic times, many are turning to communal living by sharing/buying a large home with friends and family while splitting the burden of cost. This option also affords us to choose from a wider variety of housing options which would otherwise be out of our reach. Another way to improve lifestyle and housing is to live in the center of the community which allows us to know our neighbors and walk to many of the necessary/convenient stores, restaurants, etc. Utilizing community resources to enhance your life not only builds the local economy but can offer new opportunities for friendships that may otherwise be missed.