Beginner questions

[Gary Smith]

I recently moved back to Sacramento CA after 3 years in WA. I'm looking to buy my first home this winter - to live in, and as an investment.

With so much advice from RE gurus, I'm wondering what my personal 1st priorities should be, and what I can skip.

For instance: I have 4 credit cards. My credit score is around 770(Should I still use Carlton Sheets "Credit persuit strategy"?)

I haven't been employed in 6 mo. (but I make a little money on my own) (edit: Not much chance of getting a job here...even temporary agencys aren't eccepting people to sign up)

I have $15,000 in CDs.
I have 2 banks. I'm thinking of eliminating one. Or is there an advantage staying with them?
At the bank I've been with for 15 years, I'm approved for a 40k loan.
And, in todays conditions in CA, I don't know if I could get a loan, or the best way.

Based on this info, what should I do now?