Thank you all for your excellent responses. Very helpful.

Hi Laurie, There are several programs you may qualify for FHA being just one of them. Today most lenders have a minimum credit score of 580; they will look for a 2 year job history and how you pay your bills. My advice would be to speak with a lender who specializes in working with 1st time home buyers. If you would like more information on what loan programs you qualify for, you can contact my husband Bob; he will answer your questions no strings attached. His email is homeloan.consultant@verizon.net.

About your offer working with an agent who’s familiar with the area you plan on buying in is key, should the offer you submit be below asking price that’s Ok provided you have the information to back up your offer which your agent will help you with. Good Luck

When qualifying for FHA, your credit score is not important. Being current on your credit cards is (according to the mortgage reps I work with.) Neither is your age, however, since you state you are a first time home buyer, there are grants available to you that will help with down payment, etc. Speak with several mortgage reps to see who is offering the best deal for you. If you need a few names, email me and I'll give you the names and numbers of the people I work with.
Good luck!

First off age has no relevance in the mortgage granting decision but credit score does so if your credit is good you are much more likely to be successful.
However your best bet is to talk to a good mortgage broker to see if you qualify for one of the FHA programs.
As far as making an offer goes this is a buyers market so you are pretty much in the drivers seat. However you want to avoid upsetting the seller. No more than 10% below the listing price but then again it depends on how long the house has been on the market and whether there have been any price reductions.
Midland Park is an area I know well and there are a number of well priced listings on the market at the present time.
Peter Rogers
Email Fydell@yahoo.com

If you have never owned (taken tax credits etc as owner) you qualify. Percentage below is entirely dependant upon the house you are making an offer on and the sellers involved. Your agent should advise on this and supply you with comparable sales. My main advice is dont fall in love with a home until you leave the closing table with keys.