<prompt> Human: My boyfriend and I are moving and have found a property that would suit all of our needs wonderfully, but neither of us have bought a house before. I know I have good credit, as does he, and he makes 4,000 per month, I am currently unemployed but this move will put me a lot closer to everything to get a job. Weve been told that there are a lot of programs out there to help first- time home owners buyers out with things like downpayment assistance and closing costs, we are in Illinois and I cant find anything with a google search. Maybe Im just bad a googling? Bascially, what do we need to be aware of before purchasing our first home? Any information you guys have would be greatly appreciated.  <response>: You probably want to check out HUD and FHA loans, and check your LENDERS first time homebuyers programs. Some cities have their own loan programs to encourage home ownership. Your realtor should be a good source for this. As jdoe74 has said, 20 down, none of which is borrowed. Other than that, look at several houses and make a list mental or otherwise about which qualities you really want and need and which you can pass by. Most people own 3 or 4 houses in their lifetimes, so no rush on the dream-house. 