How much are you currently paying in rent. Do you make 4500 or take home 4500, big difference, at least for me(making 5200, taking home 3000). Check out Zillow’s rent estimate vs. zestimate. If you can find a place that you qualify for, where PITI is near what you are paying for rent or even a few hundred more then I would definitely give it a try. Your FICO seems low to me, I think that is the lowest FICO that you can get a mortgage with. You do not mention how much you have in savings. I think Suzy Orman would deny you, but I personally think it is a good time to buy. I know renters and landlords don’t like to invest in their places, but as a “homeowner” it will probably be your strongest urge after “buying”.