How I did it: I saved up for 10 years, and invested a nest egg that my mom had given me until I had enough for a down payment. It took 5 months to find the house of my dreams, but here I am. I am so incredibly grateful.

Lessons & tips: Don't go for a short sale unless you are ready to be VERY patient. (I waited two months just to hear that it would take another 12 weeks for them to even *look* at my offer...that's about when I gave up and found another house that is ten times better.

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Aug 30, 2009, 10:04AM PDT | 0 comments | 5 cheers