I live in the US in PA and I am thinking about buying a house that costs $225,000. I can put 50% down and make a salary of 50k before taxes. I have no debt but will probably need a new car in a few years. My kids are going to college, so I'm a bit afraid of taking the plunge thinking that I might need to have money to help them with tuition costs. I have little to no retirement savings because my ex took it in the divorce. I have only what is through my job where I've been working for the past ten years. Is it better to stay living with my friend in an apartment and helping with rent or should I buy the house? I'm 45 years old and a bit anxious about making a mistake. All the websites seem unrealistic. Utilities, groceries, car insurance, and bills need to be taken into account and those run probably 1400 a month. Any good advice out there?

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Thanks for your answers. I also have about 40k additional in cash, but I'm not sure whether to keep it, invest it, or what...