<prompt> Human: 30 years old, single. I have roughly 10k in savings, no credit card debt, no car payments. I have steady income. I also have about 15k in student debt, spread across a few loans, some of which I would consider as being high interest at 6.8. I sat down and got pre approved for a mortgage in the 150k-185k range and have been looking at homes. Im trying to stay towards the low end of that range because the bank will typically approve you for more than you should actually look at.So should I buy a house now or wait a year? The advantage of getting a house now is that I could spend the next year or so paying a mortgage, not rent. However, after closing costs and a down payment, Im not left with much cash for emergencies or repairs. The advantage of waiting a year an admittedly arbitrary time period would be the ability to make a higher down payment, have some emergency funds on hand, and have some student loans paid down by then. Ive also been meaning to contribute more to my retirement savings, which isnt as far along as it should be. Is this a no-brainer? Ive been getting myself and others excited at the prospect of a house, when I think in reality the better decision may be to wait. Im looking for a nudge in the right direction.  <response>: No it is not a no-brainer. I dont see property tax, on-going maintenance, hoa, and utilities in your calculation. Owning a house does not always mean cheaper than rent. It is a lifestyle decision. 