<prompt> Human: Hey guys. So my fiance and Is lease is done in August, and were seriously thinking about buying a house come that time. Are there any steps we should definitely be taking in the next 6-7 months in the build-up to this? Im mostly concerned about credit and qualifying for a mortgage. Our credit is decent, but neither of us have a long credit history. Anything we can do to improve it? Other considerations: - When it gets closer to that time, should we try to get pre-approved for a mortgage before even looking for a house, or should we wait until were ready to make an offer?- How much should we look to spend on a place? Ive heard the general rule of thumb about not spending more than a third of your income on housing, but that doesnt help much with looking at general housing prices. Combined, we earn a little over 100K. I have a ton of student loan debt six figures, but otherwise we have no other debts. Depending on how many assets read: stock we want to liquidate, our down payment could be anywhere between 15-50K. - Would it matter whether were married by then? We have no set timetable on that, but Im curious to know how much of a factor that would play. Other general tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!  <response>: Dont buy if you arent both happy with your jobs. Dont buy if you plan on moving within five-ten years. Dont buy unless youve lived together for awhile in a leased place sounds like you checked that box. Make sure you hire your own home inspector, who you looked up the phone number yourself on the internet. Dont take one recommended by the realtor; they are not acting in your interest. I concur with the Red Rabbit guy who thinks you should buy based only on one of your incomes. Personally, I suggest you not buy a house until you pay off your student loans, but I know thats a little extreme compared to what some people say. 