Recently bought a home out here and now I'mm wondering where I buy them. The book you get says the Steward of the hold can help you out. I don't know where that/he is. If it's the gentlemen you purchased the home from- Then I don't have the option for some reason.

I'd really appreciate some direction

Look here: http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1260523-my-house-is-empty/

Why do people not pay attention?

Are you actually listening to anything the NPC's are saying??