For the younger folks on here that want to purchase a home, I would really suggest that you stop looking at the heights and midtown as your options. 5th Ward has new townhomes priced in the 250k range.... what does that mean vs a 1200 a month apartment...

Getting an FHA loan with 3% down = 7.5k cash. With pmi, you are probably looking at $1900 a month mortgage. Now, a 250k townhome does afford you the ability to have a roommate, with $800 all Bill's paid contract, you can find a responsible roommate and be under the 1200 a month you are currently paying.

I guess, what I am saying is that people tend to see buying as unaffordable but in reality you need to look in the right location and live your first few years under the right conditions.