<prompt> Human: I am 21 and making 48k a year in the Baltimore MD area. My family growing.up always rented, and Im now currently renting on my own, and I honestly dont now the first thing about owning a home, nor where to start in buying one. Any help? Im not sure if I can afford one but I am tired of renting  <response>: This is the common consensus I have found: Have 20 downpayment saved, 3-5 saved for closing costs, and 4-6 month emergency fund in place. Than dont purchase a house valued at more than 3x your gross income, 2.5x if you are in high property tax area.Also make sure all CC debt and high interest debt is paid off. 