To begin, I suggest printing out (and reading) the "chapter summary", "key terms" and "lecture notes" (Chapter Resources link on the left).   Then printout and review the "Chapter assignment" questions (link below).   Next, skim the chapter before reading it.   This will help to orient you to the material and understand the overall assignment.

Like I said last week, I am changing things a bit.   This assignment will focus on buying AND insuring a house (combining parts of chapters 7 and 8) into this one, "new and improved chapter 8.   This weeks assignment (chapter 8) will cover textbook pages 170-185 (chapter 7) AND pages 191-202 (chapter 8).   I've edited the chapter resource pages and powerpoint presentations accordingly.

Before you buy anything, ESPECIALLY something as expensive as a house, you MUST educate yourself.   You need to think about things like ... is the home just your residence or is it also an investment?   How much can you afford?   How are you going to finance it ?   Should you use a realtor, if so who (and who pays them)?   How much should you put as a down payment (and if you don't have enough?).   Is location the most important thing?   Why are schools important (I don't even have kids - at least I don't think I do).

Then, after you've actually found the house other questions will rear their ugly heads.   Like - is the house a good buy?   Is it sound or does it need repairs - if so how much will it cost?   What about resale value (when you are buying should you be thinking ahead to the day when you want to sell the home - YES).   Do you need insurance ... what kind ... how much ... and on - and on - and on!   Read all of the links below to start educating yourself (even if you've already bought and sold houses).   You may be suprised how much this knowledge can save you.