Buy a home in the Golden State with the most complete guide available. 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 12th edition is completely updated to reflect the changing housing market, including an updated discussion about what to look for when buying a foreclosed or bank-owned home. Plus, you'll get the most up-to-date criteria lenders now require when you're shopping for a mortgage.