For the 1st time homebuyer now is the time. The deadline is the end of November and you really want to close before Thanksgiving because there is no extension. First talk with a qualified lender and I have some on my site who would be glad to help. They will tell you what you can afford and if you qualify for the credit.  After feeling good about what you can afford then we can meet and go over your needs, wants and dreams. There is a lot of inventory and you need to have guidance along the way, so give me a call.  When we do find the dream home, then I give you a step by step in writing of what is next and we stay with you the whole way.  There are so many new laws from lending to appraisals to closings that having experience with you is needed.