<prompt> Human: If I withdraw now I can get about 13k after taxes and penalties. Im looking for a house in the 200k range and Im 31 years old and single.Do you folks think it would be a good idea? Apartmentscondos around here are super expensive, like 1400 a month for something decent so Ive been thinking about buying instead...  <response>: The need to withdraw such a small amount of money indicates youre not ready for home ownership.If In fact this 13k will help you have a 6 month emergency fund, all anticipated closing costs, a decent budget to fix things, and a comfortable monthly cash flow overage, then consider it. But most people in those positions dont need to liquidate a 401k. 