If ever there was a time to buy, it is now. There are plenty of foreclosed properties at wholesale prices, because banks are not in the market to own real estate. They are in desparate need of geting rid of these properties so that they can clear their books. If you have bruised credit, there are alternatives. Listingswiz.com is a network that allows renters to become buyers by signing up. There is a small cost of $39 per month, but this is only until you find your house, and they will have their investors purchase the house of your choice under the guidelines of renting to own.