The Smart Consumer's Guide to Home Buying (Barron's Smart Consumer Guides)
(back cover)Buying a home is--in the author's words--"both a romantic journey and a business venture, and is likely to be the largest single investment you will ever make. This book takes you by the hand through the maze of mortgage shopping, dealing with real estate agents, and hunting down that perfect dream house. Some of the many details the authors help you deal with includeâ€"Consideration of your familyâ€™s needs: How many rooms, what kind of neighborhood, access to schools and shopping.Mortgage shopping:  How to select the best type and size of mortgage to match your income and budget, and to allow for unforeseen future expenses.Professional Assistance: How to select and work with real estate professionals.Closing: Detailed advice on negotiating with sellers.You'll also get advice on many details that you'll encounter after you've moved into your home--for instance, making improvements, and understanding how to measure market value if the time comes to sell your home.  Here is reliable information from a team of seasoned professionals, advice that you'll value as you and your family go shopping for that home of your dreams.