How can I retrieve my files when my iMac won't boot?

My iMac won't boot up, which may be related to a recent update to Mavericks. I've tried repairing the disk from the DVD startup - it finds invalid volume file counts and says it's repaired them, but the same thing happens when I try to boot, the screen goes dark, the cursor is still visible and movable, but that's it. Foolishly, I didn't make a back-up so I'm now trying to retrieve some files at least. Using disk utility I've been able to copy everything to an external drive but I still can't get access to the files because it won't boot from there either, same old volume errors turn up when I try to repair it. Will I have to buy another mac just to access the files?

Assuming you are running OS X Mavericks (10.9.4), try booting into your Recovery HD by pressing/holding Command+R at startup. When you see the OS X Utilities Menu, plug in a USB external drive with an empty partition. Select Reinstall OS X from the menu and install Mavericks to you external drive. After the install is completed, your system should boot to your external drive to completed Setup. You might be able to use your internal iMac drive and Setup Assistant to bring over you User accounts and Apps to the external.

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