[chippewastud79]

Use a broker for your loan, they cost you about an extra $500 in the end but they are worth it. My lender shops rates to a number of different mortgage companies and got our last mortgage at a rate comparable to what we paid on our first home 5 years ago.

Definitely put down as much as you can afford. Chances are you won't be in the home forever and you want to have the equity when you sell. A friend put 0% down and is upside down on their mortgage (not that they are in danger of not being able to afford it).

Definitely get yourself a great realtor who is agressive and willing to go to bat for you. There are sellers out there who are motivated, but you need an agent who is going to back up your offers. Always run 'comps' to find out what other houses have sold for and what they are worth in the area.

Don't fall in love with a house just for the sake of getting 'the one'. There are plenty of houses for sale out there, especially in Ohio. Look at 100 houses if you have to and find the one that is best for you at the best price (the second part is more important than the first).

Try condos, save time and money on maintenance. Plus the HOA may include a nice selection of options like pool, tennis, workout facility, clubhouse etc.

Offer as low as you want, within reason. On a $200K house I would literally consider going $50K below. There is a starting point for every negotiation and the closer to their asking price the closer they are to 'their' number, you want the house for your number. Sellers need to sell, they are in competition with 100's of other houses. In this market, buyers hold the power.