This comprehensive reference book has been updated to reflect the country's gradually recovering real estate market. It covers virtually every aspect of buying and selling, understanding mortgages, analyzing real estate investment opportunities, getting and understanding appraisal reports, and more. The book's most important features include An up-to-date summary of federal real estate legislation and regulations An overview and general description of careers in real estate A 400-plus-page real estate glossary with A-to-Z short-entry definitions of real estate terms, financing terms, house styles and parts, and real estate organizations An extensive set of tables that show monthly mortgage payment figures calculated across a wide range of annual interest rates Facsimile real estate forms and worksheets to familiarize potential buyers with the paperwork involved in getting a mortgage and purchasing real estate Here in one volume is a compendium of facts, figures, and general information that covers virtually every aspect of today's real estate industry. Features hundreds of charts, tables, and line illustrations