I am interested in purchasing a house but I am new to the process of buying a house. Can anyone help me with some basic guidelines or a checklist of things to do when looking to buy? Is it better to go through a real estate agent, and what is the benefit? What types of government programs are still available for first time home buyers? Any help/advice would be much appreciated.

Welcome!

Until someone pops in to answer all your questions, here's a web site that might give you a few things to consider --

Buyer - First-time Home Buyers - Tips for First-Time Home Buyers (http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/bb/shopping1sttime.htm)