
I think we are all aware of the "Dummies" series of books that now are a huge presence in Bookstores. I myself have a few.... mostly related to Digital pictures.
I had no idea there was one relating to Real Estate! I don't mean the financial in and outs of purchase. I mean- a guide for Buyers on everything from what to expect in the process to what to expect from an Agent!
I am presently working with a young couple who contacted me from a referral. I erroneously assumed that they would automaticly hire me as their agent.
The wife interviewed me over the phone and then made an appointment to meet. They asked me many (informed) questions and I felt that the interview was going very well!
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Joan Mirantz - Joni is a Realtor® with Keeler Family Realtors, a locally owned, Customer Service oriented Firm.
Joan Publishes a monthly Newsletter "Food For Thought" under the pen name Realtor Sherpa.
(Joan also answers to Miz Maven and Miss Joni.)
Joan works in Buyer and Seller Representation with concentrations in the Merrimack Valley Area and towns surrounding Concord NH - the Capital City.
"I love what I do, and it shows in how I do it"

Well, I am all for the educated buyer. I think your plan to pick up the book is a good one. I am torn about how I feel about this since there is so much mis-information published and called 'advice.' I am sure you are a good agent and your advice was sound. Hopefully, this will end happily--with them in a new home.
Well, I guess the people that wrote the dummy series are professionals in all areas of anything as they sure have MANY. BTW...where are they licensed ??? LOL!
Joan, I haven't heard of this book, but may want to peruse it at the bookstore to know what it is telling people.
I have had a client bring in the dummies book too! I have to say it has been awhile since I saw it so I will withhold comment. I am always aprehensive of these type of books because they are so general in nature and often don't reflect current market conditions.
Hi Holly....I want to read it just so I know what it says! I haven't a clue!
That's what I was thinking Gary...sort of like cliff notes?
Good point Sally....they really do have one for every occasion...and more!
And that's the very reason we should make a point of knowing what it says Joan.....no surprises!!
Hi Joan... with the market changing as rapidly as it has been lately I kind of wonder how "current" this book can be. I am going to have to get to B&N and pick up a copy to find out!
It amazes me how many people are willing to take "expert" advice from generalists like the "Dummies" folks!
Does this book cover the way that the real estate agent gets paid....Hmmmm. Hopefully that is a nice long chapter.
Hi Joan, I have not seen this book offered anywhere but a check on the internet shows the best post on the subject is as follows: http://activerain.com/blogsview/678987/Real-Estate-For-Dummies. Yep, it is your post. :-)
Further checking seems to indicate that who ever published the book is not currently offering it. I will continue to look and see what I can find.
When I searched Amazon for Real Estate for Dummie this is what I got. Do you happen to know what the exact title is? I'd love to be prepared for the questions they recommend!
Steve I think it just gave them a sense of control...the process is really very intimidating for newbies!
Hmm Elie ....I'll have to sak?That would be worth knowing for sure. It apparently talks about using a Lawyer...it took a bit for me to convince them that here inNH we use Title Companys most of the time!
Let me know if you find anything William...meanwhile I'll make sure it's the real title!
Hi Carol....I checked out the link and I think it may be that Home Buying For Dummies one! I'm seeing them Friday and I'll ask her to bring it!
Did you know there is a video of some baby here? I don't know why - maybe it's an accident?
LOVE THIS POST!! I did not know there was a DUMMIES Book for RE...but I'm gonna go get my copy right away. Information is king! GBU!
Hi Joan! This is great information to follow up on. Barnes and Noble here I come! Thank you for sharing your experience with us and it comes of no surprise that you passed the test.
WOW day got dem dummy books fer evyting......Talk about a money maker, these people have dummy books for all kinds of subjects. (I have a few myself)
Buyers! Gotta love 'em!! Great story.
Marianne...the Video was tongue in cheek! I was talking about being interviewd and it's an interview with a baby! Maybe it was a bit obtuse? LOL
Hi Elizabeth...I think it's great! (as long as the information is accurate!)
Julie....great to hear your long lost voice! (and thanks for the compliment)
Scott....(so do I- LOL)
Thank you Karen....stop by again!!
This might be an okay general information type book for buyers (and sellers?) I think these books represent this generation's "cliff notes." While these are okay to be a basic guideline, those who use it would do well to remember the "C" they may have earned in school from these primers. Kind of like watching Hamlet rather than reading it.
Hey, Joan! I purchased the book last year for a new agent (not a dummy)- basic, and informative.
If you need a baby in your pictures...I know where to find one!
It is a fairly straight-forward book, doesn't have a lot of misleading fluff, and isn't anti-realtor. Well worth having in your arsenal of tools to help you better serve the client. It can be purchased for as little as $6.98 (used) from Amazon.com ... see the link below. http://www.amazon.com/Home-Buying-Dummies-Eric-Tyson/dp/0471768472/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1221317868&sr=8-1
btw... you can also buy House Selling for Dummies, and the combination Buying and Selling a Home for Dummies.
How true Rich...does anyone read Hamlet anymore?
Hi Laurie...what a great idea for new agents! We should keep one in our office.
I will definately contact you for any baby pics....after all....she is the cutest!
Thank you so much for the info Alan..that is exactly why I'd like to read it! Always be prepared!!!
Thanks again....
They better! I am a huge fan of Shakespeare, my favorite...King Lear.