whose fault it is and such.

How about some support and resources so others can be more informed.

(These are things that helped me recently, of course YMMV. Professionals please feel free to hi-jack.)

Take a look here, FREE CLASSES, just find your region ==> http://www.crediteducation.org/
The 8-hour First-time home buyer class here in Houston earned each attendant an MCC certificate. What is an MCC Certificate?

[u]If you're in Texas:[/u]
http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/homeownership/fthb/index.htm
MONEY TO BE HAD!!! ==> http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/homeownership/fthb/available_funds.htm

[u]If you're in one of those other states: [/u]
http://www.hud.gov/local/index.cfm
http://www.ginniemae.gov/index.asp

While you're saving for your down payment/closing costs, send your money AWAY! Keep it out of your sight, safe from impulse buys and earn a bit of interest at the same time. ==> www.ingdirect.com I failed at this.

[u]Learn what THEY know:[/u]
http://www.hud.gov/buying/
http://www.hsh.com/
http://www.irs.gov/publications/p530/ar02.html {The mortgage interest deduction is NOT dollar for dollar. It shouldn't be the [u]sole[/u] motivation for buying.}
http://www.smartmoney.com/home/buying/index.cfm?story=rentown
http://www.kiplinger.com/columns/starting/archive/2005/st0714.htm

Don't be greedy! Just because someone in a suit says they can get you into a $300,000 loan doesn't mean you should do it. Yeah, you can maybe get a nicer house with more stuff in it, but that $1,200 fridge the builder is "throwing in" is only $800 at Conn's.

GET YOUR OWN INSPECTOR! ==> http://www.trec.state.tx.us/ | http://www.nahi.org/

[u]Stay on top of your taxes.[/u] Homestead as soon as you're eligible. Be sure to sock away the correct amount. Be extra careful if you're buying new construction since your impound amount is probably based on the un-improved value of the property. One of my office-mates is dealing with this now. He and his wife have to find $10K by the end of the year.