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"How to Buy a Home When You Can't Afford It"
author Robert Irwin insists that anyone with a reasonable
income--regardless of their credit history--can afford to buy a home. In
the book, Irwin focuses on creative financing options, determining how
much a buyer can really afford, generating funds for the down payment
and closing costs, and housing alternatives.
He urges prospective buyers to choose a home in the "next best"
neighborhood if their first choice is too costly, making sure to
consider good schools, neighborhood pride, low crime rates, and easy
access to public transportation.
Moreover, they should look at all types of housings, including
condominiums, co-operatives, manufactured homes, fixer-uppers, and
custom-built dwellings. In addition to the nation's leading affordable
mortgage programs, Irwin says local agents are usually knowledgeable
about state and local financing plans, as well.
The book also provides buyers with everything they need to know about
the homebuying process--such as preapprovals, mortgage brokers, "for
sale by owner" homes, and negotiations, among other topics--and features
end-of-chapter quizzes especially geared toward first-time buyers.
"Buying a Home When You're Short of Cash," Chicago Tribune
(08/09/02); Bruss, Robert.
Abstracts Copyright © 2002; Information Inc., Bethesda, Md. |