Real Estate & Investing

From Publishers Weekly
As I write in February 2009, I am four months past due on my mortgage and bracing for foreclosure proceedings to begin. Thus begins this cautionary and critical examination of the housing crisis, a story that turned personal when New York Times economics reporter Andrews got caught up in the housing bubble after falling in love with a woman and a house. Bringing in $120,000 a year in salary—most of which went to child support and alimony to his ex-wife, Andrews says he was able to get a don’t ask, don’t tell mortgage with the assumption that his new wife, Patty, would be able to get a job to keep them afloat, an expectation that didn’t work out as planned. Because of his economics journalism background, Andrews says he should have avoided the mortgage catastrophe, and he castigates himself as well as fellow borrowers, the financial industry that took advantage of them and a government that didn’t put the brakes on the crisis that many economists warned about but that Alan Greenspan, the Bush administration and others ignored. This deeply personal exposé is timely and sobering in its candor. (June)
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A fascinating meditation on the experience of the crisis from the point of view of those facing foreclosure. (David Warsh – Economic Principals )

Andrews uses his travails as a prism for viewing the forces behind the bubble. . . . Step by step, he investigates the institutions that gave him the rope with which to hang himself.
(James Pressley – Bloomberg )

Andrews’s autopsy on his mortgage and the conditions that helped produce it is sharp and at times mordantly funny. (Tom Vanderbilt – The New York Times Book Review )

Provides important information on the recent mortgage debacle and the hazards of consumer debt. A must-read… (Mary Whaley – Booklist )

With the housing bubble of the past few years bursting and interest rates on the rise, there has been an upsurge in the number of foreclosures across the country, creating many opportunities for profit. But investing in real estate foreclosure[s?] can be a tough job, especially when a negative stigma is attached. How do you make money while preserving your morals and trust?

Foreclosure Investing For Dummies shows you how to invest in foreclosures ethically without being accused of stealing homes from “little old ladies.” This step-by-step guide helps you thoroughly research property, find the best opportunities, purchase foreclosures, and avoid misleading distressed homeowners. This book doesn’t promise quick profits through minimal work, but it will provide you with invaluable information to become a successful investor, including:

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• Obtaining information, tools, support, and resources
• Locating properties prior to foreclosure
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• Acquiring properties below market value prior to the auction
• Buying property at an auction, from lending institutions, and government agencies
• Repairing, renovating, and selling or leasing property

This book provides tips and strategies for refinancing your property and maximizing your profits. It also gives you advice on how to assist homeowners, have them work with you, and common mistakes you should avoid. It’s time to go out and make the most of foreclosure investing, and with Foreclosure Investing For Dummies by your side, your hard work and devotion will bring tons of success!

Every year, thousands of Americans make the leap to an exciting, rewarding new career in real estate. If real estate is your dream career, passing the real estate license exam is the first step to success. With real estate basics and unbeatable study tips, Real Estate License Exams For Dummies will help you pass the test with flying colors — and get your new career off to a great start.

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