Learn a few local/state down payment assistance programs.

I currently live in Washington DC with my boyfriend and we both work full time for the government as an engineer and chemist. 

Maybe it would be best to first do one under my name so I could benefit from some home buyer programs that wouldn't require as much money down? 

Once you have that, you then have a commitment from the lender that barring a program or eligibility change, this will be their fees and rates.

I consider a lead qualified if he signs up with my dream cash, or residential lease program.

It's a great program for veterans. 

There are lots of loan programs out there with low down payments for owner occupants- 3% or so.

I handle several section 8 apartment unit properties so it would be a pretty simple matter to evaluate the rent rate through government support, guaranteed rent definitely helps me sleep at night (provided our president doesn't shut the government down long enough for HUD to delay rent payments).Let me know if you want to seriously run the numbers on this place presuming you have the equity to get financing on this deal (175,000 for 10% down, $87,500 for 5% down, etc).

I believe there is a program with 1 year of income.

I have a storage facility under contract with the EDG but because SBA is locked down from government shutdown will be at a standstill.