A useful book is often one that tells you information that really should be top of the agenda but can get forgotten in this mad, mad world. The Home Buyer's Guide is very much like that. Author Alex Ely has adopted the 'suck eggs' approach to the rocky road of buying a home and has come up trumps. Essentially the guide runs through an extensive list of what to look and ask for when buying a new home - just what it says on the cover - 'What to look and ask for when buying a new home'. In the preface, the author warns: "When it comes to choosing your home, you have got to be careful. Once you've moved in, you can't turn around and ask for your money back if you discover there is something that you don't like." Take heed all optimists, who believe everything in life is plain sailing. When you bought your home did you ask and discover not just what's on the doorstep but a five minute walk away - a pedshed to the uninitiated To be honest not many people get into the nitty-gritty world of pedsheds and that may well be their downfall. Ideally, it seems, at least a shop and some other facilities should be within 800 metres or a ten minute walk of the home. At this point, buyers who let their hearts rule their head will be rushing for the sales particulars but this guide encourages individuals to be more practical. Look at the architecture and layout of any properties. What will meet needs and what will turn into a headache. The 1001 questions include questions like 'Has the property passed an acoustic test?' Very worthwhile if the walls prove to be thin. There is a useful chapter on how to make the best use of the space available - check out storage space and look at the practicalities of extending attics and other cubby holes. Add to this more off-the-wall questions like, 'Is there adequate leg room in front of the WC or bidet?' This is not the usual question but could create more than a little disharmony if the tallest person in the home is pushed for space in those private moments. Practical points which will now always be on the buyer's must ask list will include how much space is there, once the car is in the garage, to access shopping and children without scratching the prized paint. Those living in flats should check out if private balconies have dedicated drainage so when the plants are watered the neighbours don't get a soaking on the floor below. And even if doorways, corridors and openings are wide enough to get furniture to the right room. It might seem an obvious question, but there are home owners who have learned the hard way why their new bed is just not meant to be. For anyone who doesn't want to get caught out - consult this book. It even has a handy summary of the essential points at the back of the book with a space for answers. Very clever. Buying a home is often the biggest personal investment ever undertaken - who can afford not to splash out £7.99 for a copy. The Home Buyer's Guide is available from all good bookshops priced £7.99. * To order your copy visit www.thehomebuyersguide.org or call 01482 224626. Orders are usually despatched the same day the order is received, however please allow up to 28 days for delivery. P&P £2.40. Your information will not be used for marketing, and will not be passed onto any other organisation. | 
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