<prompt> Human: A little background. I am 22 and just graduated with my bachelors. I have 23k in student loans and no other debts. I plan on paying those down aggressively as soon as I start my job. I am starting a job in January that pays 60k a year. My current lease is up in August and I am looking for advice on what to do for housing once that lease is up. I will be living and working in a college town where rental houses are in high demand. I dont see myself living in this town for more than a few years. I currently have two thoughts on alternatives to signing another lease. 1 buy a house in an area that is highly sought after for renters. Live in the house for the few years I am there then rent it out once I have moved on. I would most likely be able to rent out the extra bedrooms while I am living there to friends that are still in school. The problem with this is most of these houses are 150-200k. Saving up for 20 down payment would take longer than 8 months.2 taking advantage of the USDA loan. The town is surrounded by areas that would qualify for this loan and would allow me to buy a house without putting 20 down. I am looking for advice from someone with more experience. Is it feasible to buy with less than 20 down in scenario 1? What are the cons of the USDA loan? Any input on these scenarios or possible alternatives would be appreciated.  <response>: Rent. Please, for many reasons. You are the perfect example of someone who should be renting. Buying a home would be a big mistake for you at this point in your life.All I has to read was 22 and just graduated with my bachelors. I have 23k in student loansto know that you should not buy right now.Renting IS NOT throwing away money any more than paying mortgage interest, property tax, and insurance. 