We have recently started looking for housing around the DC metro area. With all the talk of a depressed market, the incoming baby, and some not-so-subtle comments by our current (although usually awesome) landlord, we thought now would be a good time to jump in. As feared by both of us, lenders and realtors think they know our financial situation and what we are looking for better than we do. If I hear, "You can really afford more than that" you more time... Also, there is some concern about moving out of our currently very walkable area (Whole Foods and Trader Joe's a half mile away, restaurants and coffees shops all around) to where we can afford (I think there is a 7-11 relatively close by).