As far as a program goes, check out
http://www.homenow.com/, DST's home ownership intitiative.
Some things I would advise:
- Don't make an offer on the first thing you see. When it comes to buying a home, your first instinct is not always your best.
- Only buy a fixer upper if you TRULY like doing that kind of work yourself and you have the time. Buying a fixer upper with the intention of bringing in a contractor to fix it up is a waste of money.
- Ask your home inspector as many questions as you need to; after all YOU are the one that has to live with it. BTW, don't let anyone tell you not to get a home inspection; it is your protection.
- When touring a home, always take someone with you (spouse, friend, family member) besides your real estate agent. Even confer on the side if you need to do so in order to make sure that you didn't miss something significant.
- Also, it may seem rude to look in closets and stuff but do it when you are touring a property; it can save you some unpleasantness down the road.
Good luck!