Try lending tree. I used them for our home loan. You simply put in your info (and be honest), and they will match you with lenders who special in slow and less then favorable credit. But only do it if you are serious, because I did it at 2 in the morning, and by 9 AM the next day, they were calling me. It is intimidating to give all your personal information out like that, but the more honest you are, the more accurate the numbers will be. But remember, talk to all those who make offers to you, because you can do the old “this company offered me this” game with them. Don’t be shy, they are there to make $ off of you, so be sure to carefully look over everything. (BEWARE OF ARM’S!! Go for fixed. The market is tankin right now!)

it’s going to be expensive (interest rates are high depending on your score)

Lender will give you money for sure. Probably charge you a higher interests rate and extra insurance on the loan for not having the down payment or good credit.

Would you consider delaying your plan? As housing market continues to slump, it might save you 10% simply by waiting for a few months. Another way to look at it, you can increase profit by 10% when you are ready to sell it.

As housing market continues to slump, if you don’t plan to delay your plan, please interview several and pick a good realtor or agent.

Bad ones will talk you into buying the largest property at your credit limit. Good ones will find you a good deal (Sellers are offering discount and incentives now).

Try to stay away from Adjustable Mortgage, because 30 year fix mortgage rate is very low right now. There is no reason to use Adjustable loans except fatter commission for loan agents.

Interests only loans are not good iether. Mortgage payment consists of two parts: interests and principal. Interests are like rent, which doesn’t add to the equity to your house. It simply disappear as your pay it. If you want to use interests only loans, might as well rent, especially during market downturn, because housing price won’t appreciate.

Finally, for tax benefits, talk to your CPA or tax accountant. Do not consult finance with realtors or agents. They get commissions when you sign the check!

Good luck!

Good article when you want to put in bid, negotiation.

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Different perspective:

It is a myth that renting is always worst off than buying.

Rent vs. Buy as Housing Market Continues to Slump

As housing market slump, it is easier to calculate “Rent vs. Buy” scenario. Because “appreciation” is no longer a factor.

Mortgage payment consists of two parts: interests and principal. Interests are like rent, which doesn’t add to the equity to your house. It simply disappear as your pay it.

If interests portion of the mortgage payment is roughly equal to rent of equivalent property, then it is a decent buy.

For example, let’s buy a $500,000 condo with 0% down and apply interests only loan (just like renting a place). Mortgage payment would be $3250/month. It is a bad buy, because you can enjoy same property for $2000/month.

Please note that I assume the tax benefits from home cancel out fees from home association and property tax. For more accurate calculation, consult with your CPA or accountant. But NOT your realtor, whom will say anything to get the deal to go through.

And again, if you like a particular property, then paying more may be reasonable. You are the only person who can decide how much more premium you are willing to pay.