Can I get some good advice for a potential first time home buyer?

Very first of all set/plan your budget. How big in area/location you are looking for. whether from builder/resale, what is present cost going on in the particular area. Preferably select nationalised or any financial inst. like HDFC. There is not much difference about int. rates and process of loan providing bank/institution. Your cost includes Cost+stamp duty+ registration charges. Totalling to that around 15 to 20% amount you have to pay being your own contribution. Also insist for white payment i.e. payment you are making against purchases should be through bank cheques. I think this is more than sufficient