"This book provides everything the reader needs to: research the local market and listings; decide between a house, condo, co-op or townhouse; create a realistic budget; qualify for a loan you can truly afford; borrow a down payment from friends or family; protect yourself with inspections and insurance; and negotiate and close the deal successfully. The reader will find insights from 15 real estate professionals -- brokers, attorneys, mortgage specialists, a home inspector, a neighborhood researcher, and more. Plus, this book contains real-life stories of over 20 first-time homebuyers"-- Provided by publisher.

"With downloadable forms"--Cover. Includes index.

Your homebuying companion --What's so great about buying a house? -- What do you want? : figuring out your homebuying needs -- Does this mean I have to balance my checkbook? : figuring out what you can afford -- Stepping out : what's on the market and at what price -- Select your players : the real estate team -- Bring home the bacon : getting a mortgage -- Mom and dad? The seller? Uncle Sam? : loan alternatives -- I love it! It's perfect! Looking for the right house -- Plan B : fixer-uppers, FSBOs, foreclosures, and more -- Show them the money : from offer to purchase agreement -- Toward the finish line : tasks before closing -- Send in the big guns : professional property inspectors -- Who's got your back? : homeowners' insurance and home warranties -- Seal the deal : finalizing your homebuying dreams -- Settling into your new home.