Better Business Bureau's Buying a Home »

Purchasing a home is the single biggest investment most people make in their lives. The Better Business Bureau's Buying a Home: Insider's Guide to Success assists consumers in successfully navigating the world of agents, home selection, contracts, inspections, and mortgages. It includes worksheets, checklists, insights from experienced Better Business Bureau members, and home buyers. Packed with strategies for success, and expert advice, this book covers all the most important aspects of buying a home, from what to look for and ask when seeing properties to finding the best financing and tips on managing the inspection process.

Joan Pedzich - Library Journal

This debut entry in the Better Business Bureau's first-ever how-to series will greatly benefit first-time home buyers. The text covers the entire process in step-by-step fashion, from finding a home to closing on it, addressing such important points as working with a real-estate agent, evaluating potential properties, and making an offer. Freelance business and technology writer LaPlante reviews the various types of mortgages and the process of qualifying for one. Especially great is the coverage on choosing a home inspector, interpreting the inspection report, and what to do if a problem is identified. There is also advice for those building a new home and for investment buyers. The text is enhanced with a graphical format that highlights insights and tips on such issues as property taxes, getting out of a deal, special considerations for condominiums, and attending an open house. Recommended for public libraries; those wishing to beef up their home-buying offerings should also consider Ilona Bray and others' Nolo's Essential Guide to Buying Your First Home, which is similar in scope and content and includes a CD-ROM with forms.