We love this four bedroom, three bath Cape Cod-style home in East Silver Spring, MD. But we're not going to get too excited because there are probably gobs of people bidding on this (starting tomorrow).

The house is only a block away from Upper Long Branch Park, which has a burbling stream and nice playgrounds. A few blocks away are an elementary school, library and Giant Food. Downtown Silver Spring is 7 minutes away by car.

Pictures are: 1) front of house, 2) living room with fireplace and exit to cozy enclosed side porch, 3) kitchen lit by setting sun, 4) basement bar with running water, 5) basement bedroom, another bathroom not pictured 6) basement living room, 7 & 8) second floor, which is really a converted attic, office, 9) second floor bedroom, 10) second floor bedroom window, 11 & 12) backyard with big swingset, 13) nicely landscaped side of house, 14 & 15) views up and down the street.

If nothing else, looking at lots of houses helps build one's mental model of a desirable home. Thanks to co-worker Eve for the tip on this one!

- mike lee - langley park, md