How to Buy a House in California (How to Buy a House in California)

A thorough, practical guide to every aspect of buying a house, How to Buy a House in California will help you make informed decisions that can save you thousands of dollars. With this bestseller in hand, you'll learn how to:
*choose a house and neighborhood
*find the right agent
*get the most up-to-date information on mortgage options and rates
*take advantage of creative financing strategies – from seller financing to government loans
*figure out how much down payment you can afford

*make an offer and negotiate with confidence for the best price
*buy a new house in a development
*inspect a house for physical problems and environmental hazards
*juggle buying and selling houses simultaneously
*successfully go through escrow

The 9th edition provides all new information on limited equity cooperatives, co-housing and other shared-living arrangements, plus a new section on "non-money" ways to make your purchase offer attractive. It also provides an evaluation of the latest mortgage options, such as no-interest loans, and advice on dealing with California's homeowner's insurance crisis.

Home buyers beyond California: Even though this book provides state-specific forms and information for Californians, most of the material in it can help home buyers in the other 49 states as well. Don't buy a house without it!