假设你是小明，你家打算改善住房条件。现在有两套房子供选择：一套是郊区的传统式平房，一套是位于商业区的现代公寓楼。家里人对购买哪套更好持不同的观点。请你根据所给的内容，用英语给你的朋友paul写一封信，征求他的意见。
注意：1. 表达须包括所提供的所有信息，并可适当发挥；2. 词数：100左右；3. 开头已为你写好, 不计入总词数。
参考词汇: 郊区suburbs
dear paul,
recently my family are planning to improve our housing conditions ...
dear paul,
recently my family are planning to improe our housing conditions. we have different ideas about whether we should buy a house in the suburbs or a flat in the downtown. some suggest we buy a modern flat because it’s big and bright, and it’s conveniently located close to shops and schools.
however, the others are in favor of the old-style house. they consider the air is fresh and it’s peaceful to live in the suburbs. what’s more, the price is much lower. the most important thing is that neighbors have more chances to co