go take a class...there seems to be a lot for you to learn...or at least talk to a friend who is knowledgable. my advice for now...look into first time buyer loans, I got a $30k loan, payments and interest deferred for 5 years...3% after. that is a hell of a deal . also what you are talking about is called an impound loan...they lump your taxes and insurance in with your monthly mortgage. there are pros and cons to that depending on your habits. you should get a lower rate with an impound loan...youre forced to pay it monthly so there isn't a big surprise twice a year. down side is that it ties up your money.

also finding a good realtor or agent is key! they can make the experience a pleasure or a pain iin the ass.