An examination of rental housing in Latin America and of the tenant-landlord relationship and how the state intervenes in that relationships. `Gilbert and Varley provide a marvellously detailed analysis of housing choices, household budgets and the success with which the Mexican political economy has aligned the first two factors.' - John Walton, University of California

`Gilbert and Varley have unquestionably provided an interesting and illuminating study which will be a significant source of reference for future research and action on rental shelter in less-developed countries.' - Sylvia Chan, London School of Economics