Hi bill!
I don't know where in the game you are, but, if you just started, probably the Daoist temple is not yet available. Ornate appartment? That's it..for now.At that stage it is easy to fulfill the mission goals. With the Daoist temple your dwelling would improve more, merely adding more living space. Later in the game some of the mission goals will require cities with thousands of inhabitants. When space is at premium, every bit counts. Not now, though, spread out and enjoy. I too just restarted the game again.
Used to play it quite avidly, but got fed up and quitted for six months or so. Yesterday started, and today finished the tutorial campaign and now am playing the First real campaign. Have fun!
-Chris-
In Theory, there is no difference between Theory and Practice, but, in Practice, there is difference between Theory and Practice.