Investing in a home is likely the single biggest expenditure most individuals will make. It’s a decision that involves the head, the heart, the pocketbook, and possibly the retirement nest egg. That’s why it’s crucial to make the right choice when buying a home and to exercise financially savvy when selling one.This comprehensive update to Kiplinger’s Buying and Selling a Home provides all the information readers need to protect the investment in their homes. The editors of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance have completely revised this popular guide to reflect the realities of today’s real estate marketplace. Tax shelters, mortgage types, and home insurance policies are discussed and evaluated in detail. Buyers will learn how to choose the best housing for their budget, work effectively with brokers, find financing deals, and negotiate the best price. Sellers will discover how to polish their home for sale, select an agent, analyze alternatives to selling, and move the property fast, no matter what the market is like.Whether a reader is seeking a starter home, a step-up, a vacation retreat, or a retirement haven, this practical guide explains how to make all the right moves.