Finding a good real estate broker will be very helpful and will make the process easier for you.

FIRST FIND A “REALTOR”®, (NOT ALL SALESPEOPLE ARE REALTORS WHO IS A buyer representative .,.,. but not just any ole’ buyer repr., one who is an ACCREDITED BUYER REPRESENTATIVE. That means they are educated on the best way to help you. (For many years we all worked for the seller and really did not and were not working or you … the buyer.) if you do not know of anyone, you can contact me and i will give you 2 or 3 referals of those who are accredited ,.. no matter what state your live in, D BELL, REALTY RESULTS, PEWAUKEE, WI. 2626955744 OR EMAIL ME AT DBELL4@GMAIL.COM

I don’t know about any company but i would suggest that before attempting any thing you should learn all about the companies workings. You can visit the following website for further details

http://www.deangraziosi.com/

I’ve been thinking about your situation and I think you need to find an organization in your area that might specialize in assisting people buy a home. I’m not sure where you live exactly but I searched in Maryland and found this document. It’s a little old but might be a place to start.

http://72.14.253.104/search?q=cache:61fZ62EgpBgJ:newdirections.umaryland.edu/papers_reports/Guide_to_Housing%2520and%2520Rental_Services_in_Baltimore4-26-06.doc+buying+a+house+low+income+maryland&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=10&gl=us

It pertains mostly to Baltimore but lists many organizations that offer education and assistance in buying a home. Even if you are not in Baltimore, they can probably help you find a similar organization in your town that can help you. I hope this helps you.

I think you also have to be very patient. I know that the housing market is cooling but finding a good deal will still take some work. A good Realtor is a must as you will no doubt want to know that the work you put in will more than pay for itself when you are ready to move on. In addition, you will need to have some serious financial discussions with a banker (your Realtor can recommend one). While a cheaper house means a lower mortgage, fixing it up will no doubt cost a fair amount even if you are doing a lot of the work yourself.

The most important thing is to find a trustworthy and smart real estate agent!