Any tips & tricks when growing grass?

Well we decided to grow grass here at our house.
The front yard is all we want to plant grass which is about 875 sq ft.
Currently the whole area is just straight dirt. No grass and no weeds. lol.
I am glad I have a blank canvas to work with though.
Since I am in Eastern New Mexico I have heard the best bet to grow is Bermuda or Buffalo grass. I am leaning toward of just doing all Bermuda.
Lately I have been watering the ground at night to soften it up.
Also I called a rental place here in town and talked to them about renting a tiller. They said it would be $45 to rent for 2 hours. Which I am sure is more then enough time to do this area I am working with.

Should I lay manure down on the ground and then hit all the ground with the tiller to work the manure or fertilizer into the ground?

I have a few more questions but I cant remember them at the moment.

If you guys have any tips or tricks when growing grass I would really appreciate any help.

Also I ask here because I trust my MOPAR buddies more then the people at the local Lowes Hardware store.

Thanks again guys!