LTV for first time buyer?

Jumbo or non? Co-op, condo, multi-fam? Credit scores?

One that results in an affordable monthly payment.

700 fico, jumbo and non, co-op and condo... just weighing out the options

*700+ fico

Do yourself a huge favor and put at least 25% down with fixed-rate financing.

Traditionally it's 20% down. In this buyer's market you should endeavor to do better if you can.

Buy less home than you can "afford," which probably means less than a bank is willing to give you a mortgage for.

It's good to own your home. It's better to own your life.

{Manhattan real estate agent, and property owner without mortgages.}