Jacque, You could try checking with your County, some provide assistance through grant programs. As Missy suggested, speaking with a lender would be your first step. Along with FHA, you can also ask about MSHDA through the State of Michigan and USDA Urban Development. Both provide assistance and each will have their own qualifying criteria.

http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/il/housing.htm
http://michigan.gov/mshda

If you are not able to find a local lender to help, HUD has this list of Housing Counselors. They may be more knowledgeable for your area. http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm?webListAction…

Jacque, the best thing you can do is get with lender that will help bring your credit score up so you can get a FHA loan with closing costs and pre-paids. The percent on land contracts is always higher and the sellers who still hold the title to the property would pull credit as well. Take the money you would use to put on a land contract and pay down loans. With good guidance from a lender it should not take that long to bring your score up.