I couldn't purchase a home here until my mid 30s. I had some money, but I owned my own business. No W2's. The bank didn't see me as a reliable source of income. It took a near miracle to get into ownership about nine years ago.

When the time comes, check out Navigant, they've been super to me. Also RI housing was a fair amount of help, and offers very low rates and down payments for new home owners.

PS as many have said, don't buy now. You'll probably just end up under water when prices drop.