check out the book - The money Book for the young fabulous and broke by Suze Orman it has some practical advice for those of us just starting out. My bf and I are in the same position - we are starting to look for house and even after saving a decent down payment everything in NJ is outrageous - I small and I mean small 3 bedroom 1 bath starter is going for $240,000 in my area!
Best of luck to you!!