The Complete Guide to Second Homes for Vacations, Retirement, and Investment

The Complete Guide to Second Homes for Vacations, Retirement, and Investment Choosing the perfect location Finding the right home Forecasting investment potential How to save thousands on financing Here's the knowledge you need to find, buy, and get the most fun and profit from your second home If you've been thinking about buying a second home for getaways, vacations, investment, or retirement, now is the time to do it. You'll gain from low interest rates, easier financing, large tax savings, and strong potential for appreciation. Smart buyers are getting into the market now, before aging boomers push prices even higher. But what's the best way to afford a second home? How much should you pay? What are the tax benefits? How can you be sure you're getting good value for your money? What kinds of financing are possible? How can you negotiate the best deals and bargain prices? Nationally renowned real estate expert Dr. Gary Eldred provides complete answers to these and all your other questions concerning the purchase of a second home. In a simple and clear style, he fills you in on everything you need to know to: * Develop a strategy to increase affordability * Research the market to find your best location * Choose a home that will quickly appreciate * Make the most of current tax-saving techniques * Select the right homeowner's insurance * Rent to minimize risk and maximize profit * Create value through home improvements * Vacation free worldwide through home exchanges

GARY W. ELDRED, PhD, has been involved in hundreds of real estate transactions as a homeowner, investor, and market consultant. He has also held faculty positions in real estate at Stanford University, the University of Illinois, and the University of Virginia. Dr. Eldred is nationally known for his &quot;Stop Renting Now&quot;TM seminars, as well as his other popular books,The 106 Common Mistakes Homebuyers Make (and How to Avoid Them), Yes! You Can Own the Home You Want, and Investing in Real Estate, all from Wiley.</P>