Ducks in a Row

One thing we've noticed with the whole housing thing (buying one) is that you really have to have all your 'ducks in a row'.  So much depends on being able to pay all the extra fees/charges that go along with obtaining a house and you have to have a good chunk for earnest money.  It's great if you can make the process go as quickly as possible.  It's vital to have high credit scores and money for a down payment - at least 20% is ideal.  Banks have really tightened up what they will and will not do.  No loan, no house, no exceptions.

There are too many people that just can't do what it takes.  I think that's why there are so many people that find renting is the option they need to go with for the time being.  We have heard so many times that it's a buyers market - well, not really - at least for the average American who is being hit hard by the current economy and is just starting out (and/or has lots of debt).  It's not a sellers market either.  Obviously...no buyers, no sellers.  There are too many homes that just aren't selling and sellers have to lower their prices, etc...