Buyin 1st primary res.- buying starter home VS house to grow into

[Robert T.]

So as the title states,  what're some opinions when it comes to buying a starter home, below budget, VS buying 4 bedroom home that may stretch budget 40% of post tax income.

Reason being and things I see, buying a starter house..living in it for 5 years, only paying off interest, and then moving again.  So why not buy a primary that I know I can and will grow into with the serious girlfriend.  May stretch now, but with dual income it becomes extremely affordable.  No moving, relocating, and buying a house that don't need anything major for ~10 years is great vs coming in below budget and I have to do a roof year after next.

[Mike McCarthy]

Looking at it from a money management perspective (and less of an investment perspective), I would buy the least house that suits you now. Save some money, hopefully pick up some appreciation, and look in 5-10 years to upgrade. The biggest reason is I bet what you think you’ll want in 10 years isn’t what you’ll really want. Jobs change, you may want to live closer to the city, or more in the country, or in a different state. Or you might decide you want to raise emus. Who knows. But we all change - especially if you get married... all bets are off. :) Get something that suits you now, then find what will suit you when it’s time to move.