Both the Web sites for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac offer more useful information for prospective home buyers:

• The "For Home Buyers & Homeowners" section of Fannie Mae's Web site offers an array of great resources. You’ll find a list of approved lenders and information on various types of loans. You’ll also be able to determine the right mortgage for your needs and budget using Fannie Mae’s online brochures and tools, like the True Cost Calculator®, which lets you compare the actual costs of different mortgage products, and the “How Much House Can You Afford?” calculator. Be sure to read the “Becoming a Homeowner” subsection, which will walk you through the steps of buying a house and offer you tips on working with a real estate agent. Once you’re ready to move forward, take a look at Fannie Mae’s “Properties for Sale.” For more information, call Fannie Mae’s Consumer Resource Center at 1-800-7FANNIE (800-732-6643).
  
  
• Freddie Mac offers a comparable online resource called HomeSteps, which focuses on Freddie Mac’s supply of foreclosed properties. Prospective home buyers can search Freddie Mac’s database of foreclosed homes, find a local agent, and even download a coupon for $400 off closing costs for buyers purchasing a Freddie Mac property. You’ll also find information on “HomeSteps Special Financing,” which offers a range of benefits, including competitive interest rates, no mortgage insurance, lower closing costs and reduced monthly payments. For more information, contact Freddie Mac’s Call Center at (800) 972-7555, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM Central Time.