A time to buy “Coming shortly” is a relative question – we are still probably a few years away from a bottom.
Does your 401k allow loans (they have to be repaid when you leave the job)?
If not, I believe that you can withdraw $10,000 from a tax-deferred account without penalty to buy a home.
Remember that people with wealth typically made it through ownership in businesses, whether their own small business, or in substantial stock holdings.
You might want to consider buying a business (which uses agents, escrow, etc.).
The most important difference is probably in quality of life (yes, you work more in a small business, but it’s for you, and it’s completely different. Really.).
There are many places to look at this, such as (get professional agent representation and advice):
