"This book provides everything the first-time home buyer needs to: research the local market and listings; choose a house, condo, co-op or townhouse; create a realistic budget; qualify for an affordable loan; borrow a down payment from friends or family; get protection with inspections and insurance; and negotiate and close the deal successfully. This book includes insights from numerous real estate professionals-agents, attorneys, mortgage specialists, a home inspector, and more. Also included are the real-life stories from more than 20 first-time homebuyers"--