Buying a home can be scary enough, but when you are surrounded by job losses, foreclosures and media tales of a credit crunch, many potential buyers give up the American Dream without even trying. But today's potential homebuyers have advantages that buyers a few years ago lacked: * There are plenty of homes on the market, * Home prices have become more affordable in many markets, * Mortgage lenders have money to lend and interest rates are at historically low rates.This step-by-step guide will show homebuyers how to take advantage of the current market conditions to buy a home that is both a refuge from the tough times and a worthwhile financial investment. Includes information on: * Buying vs. renting.* First-time financing.* Finding the right realtor.* Choosing a neighborhood.* Understanding legal, tax, and insurance issues, contracts, contingencies, inspections, warranties, and settlement* Also includes a list of state Real Estate Commissions; a list of state first-time homebuyer programs with descriptions; glossary of real estate terms; resource guide to websites with first-time homebuyer information.