DEAR BOB: We just moved into our home, which was built in 1999. It had one previous owner. It is a corner lot. I am trying to determine where the property lines are located. When we obtained our mortgage, the bank said because we made a $120,000 down payment, we could save some money by not having our lot surveyed. I would like to know where my boundaries are located so I can put up a fence. Any suggestions for a free or cheap way to get me this info? – Tess L.  more...

Dear Barry,

When I purchased my home, the inspector reported no roof defects. But shortly after the close, the first rains leaked into the house. I called a roofing contractor, and he discovered that the roof was patched with tar in the area of the leakage. The home inspection report states that the roof was inspected from across the street with binoculars. If this is all one can expect from a home inspector, why bother hiring any of these guys? – Thomas

Dear Thomas,  more...

Even if you can't get a major credit card, you can own a home. That is the theme of the new edition of "No Credit Required; How to Buy a House When You Don't Qualify for a Mortgage," by Ray Mungo and Robert H. Yamaguchi.

Since 1968, co-author and self-employed writer Mungo has purchased seven houses without credit. "Our aim is to show that anyone, regardless of credit history, can own a home in the United States," the book promises. The book then proceeds to deliver, offering many alternatives to fit the needs of many diverse situations.  more...