How does the author use symbolism in the book, Transit: A Novel?

The author uses Faye's house as a symbol of the upheaval and change that physically corresponds with the period that the astrologer says that Faye is deemed to go through.

The house also symbolizes Faye, herself. She like the house, seems to be okay if you're looking at it (her) from the right angle. The insides of Faye's life and the house are a mess, however, and fixing both will require major reconstruction.