This Book by Marni Jameson, a journalist and syndicated home design columnist whose weekly column appears in 30 newspapers reaching 7 million readers, takes readers on a comical and inspiring journey through the trials and tribulations of turning a house into a dream home. 

Jameson says the first step is finding the right home- with the help of a Realtor.  

When she moved from California to Castle Rock, Colo., prompted by her husband's "mid-life crisis" and quest to leave corporate America, Jameson enlisted the help of a real estate broker.

Working with a Realtor is essential," she says. "This is especially important if you're moving to a new town. You need an agent who understands your needs and can steer you toward houses that best meet your dream-house criteria.

"Of the five homes I've purchased in my life, I worked with the same agent to buy three of them. Having a real estate agent you trust and who understands you is absolutely critical."

"With all the options out there, Sellers and buyers can get stuck on how to make a house their own - or make it attractive to sell," she says. "Maybe you don't have a vision or direction. Realtors see the possibilities really well and can help guide you where you want to go."

"The House Always Wins" touches on everything about home improvement from finding inspiration - including the truth behind reality TV shows and magazines - and choosing drapes, to finishing a backyard deck and decking out your home for holiday parties.

"The house is always two steps ahead of you," she says. "People get bent on perfection and forget that the home is a backdrop, a stage of your life, but it's not your life. The point is to live well and make memories."