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What is more appropriate in this case: a house, condo or co-op ? any recommendations on how to get a low interest/low income loan? any affordable but livable places you can recommend in nyc or lower westchester county?

You need at least to visit a local realtor and 5% down. however rates are much higher at 5% down. the best rates are at 20% down. there is a mortgage calculator at http://www.bankrate.com/brm/mortgage-calculator.asp you can have around 34% of your gross income as mortgage debt.