American dream

Buying home is one of the American dreams I would say no matter the economy is slow or in bad shape.

Some brokers are saying, if you have below 20% down payment, you will be able to obtain a loan with FHA-approved lenders.   The FHA, or Federal Housing Administration, provides mortgage insurance on loans made by FHA-approved lenders. FHA insures these loans on single family and multi-family homes in the United States and its territories. Learn more about FHA loan requirements and guidelines.” FHA website.
All other details on mortgage insurance, loan limits and other information you can find on FHA website.

People always wonder about buy vs.rent. As of Chinese Philosophy  Yin-Yang concept 阴中有阳, 阳里带阴. There is no clear cut, it is simply 'you win some you loose some' depends on one's take,see attached well written chart.