House Smart

Rating:
Summary: Probably better on tape than in print
Review: I agree with the other reviewers that this book is entirely too superficial in its discussion of complicated topics. It seems a contradiction in that the folks that would take the time to seek out and read the book would by their very nature be interested in specifics. Bruce appears to be writing for a radio audience instead of a reader. Things that are part of his charm on the radio--lack of political correctness, somewhat old-fashioned diction (e.g. "Bruce Williams and His Lawyer"), etc.--come off as amateurish in print. I like Bruce's show and will continue to listen, but I doubt I'll buy another of his books.

Rating:
Summary: Give Bruce a break...
Review: The prior reviewers for House Smart seem to be looking for something this book is not and does not claim to be. I have not heard Bruce Williams promote this book as a comprehensive guide to home buying/selling, but rather a 101 course on what an uneducated homebuyer/seller needs to be aware of. Mr. Williams has long been a believer in people educating themselves to effectively deal with whatever comes up in life. For those who have no idea what's happening, this book can be valuable; especially for those who may be less trusting of others in media, as many of Bruce's listeners are. The residential real estate process is difficult enough to think everyone has the time or resources that something like free info from the internet demands to educate themselves.

Rating:
Summary: House Smart Isn't
Review: This book fails to deliver. Unlike Bruce's radio show which is mildly entertaining due to the real time interaction with the public this book is staid and boring. It does however have one thing in common with the radio show and this is its biggest downfall: - it skirts around the issues and doesn't actually provide any real information which could be useful.