Before you start saving, hunting for a house, etc. Learn how to repair a wall, clogged sink, garbage disposal replacement, tub and or toilet running, etc. I own 3 houses but, I do my own maintenance. I used to own 5 all of them were damage bad. Otherwise, thousands of $$ will be needed on any house you purchase, specially if they are 20 years or more older. All we do is paint and install new carpet over the bad spots, let the new owner fix it