Money-market

This is the only good advice I gained from this book.
Also, to much focus on existing homes rather than new construction.

This book may be slightly better than two stars, but with all of the overly enthusiastic reviews below, some balance is needed.

For starters, this book is very brief - barely over 100 pages not including appendices - and can easily be read in two sittings. Largely an overview with little detail. Thus, you're better off checking it out of a library than buying it for a long term reference.

It also unbalanced/biased - it is obviously written by a realtor. For example, it does not address the issues concerning buying vs. renting and dogamatically assumes that buying is always a great move. While buying a home is usually a great investment, more of the risks of buying need to be brought up.

More annoyingly, the book makes real estate agents (buyer reps) out to be white knights. Untrue! From my experience, there are far more bad ones than good ones and finding a sharp, diligent agent can be a real chore. And the authors claim that it is in your agent's best interest to be patient and find you the best house possible. Also untrue! It is in your agent's best interest to get you to buy ASAP with as little of their time invested as possible. Understanding the players and their motivations is key in the home buying process, and this book just isn't honest enough in that regard.

It may be worth a trip to the library, but not a purchase. Of the four home buying books I read, "The Unoffical Guide to Buying a Home" was the best. More comprehensive and honest.

I saw the author on a local TV talk show and after hearing her straightforward advice and encouragement for the single woman thinking of buying a house, I purchased the book. I'm just starting out on my house search, but thanks to the advice in this book I know I'm going about it in the right (and smart) way. I'll be a home-owner soon!