What would you do in this financial bind?

My husband and I have been in a horrible financial struggle for 2 years now, but soon we will have about $6,000+ and I desperately want to buy a house. Even though our credit is very poor and my husband only made -$9,000 in 2010 for a family of 5 (yes im serious) we managed to pay our rent of $600 on time every month! I have found many nice homes for under $40,000, Noone will help me with a loan, believe me I’ve tried! I’m at the point of giving up, do I keep paying and just pay up my bills for a few months or try to hold out? Ive applied and talked with 3 different lenders and have noone to sign with me so Im stuck! I could pay $150. mth instead of 600 and finally stop struggling so hard! This is so discouraging and I cant believe Im sharing such personal info but I am desperate! Any advice?