Hello, I'm currently 20, 2/3 of the way through a physics degree away from home, and my partner is in her first year of her degree course (also 20). We've been together three and a half years now, and are very much happy together. We're both practising Christians, (abstain from any forms of sex, don't live together, etc.) and we both eagerly await marriage together. (The only reason we're not currently engaged is that I haven't found the right ring yet!) My plan for our future so far is to propose very soon, complete my degree course and spend a year working. At the end of that year, my partner will have finished her degree too, and so the wedding would be planned for shortly afterwards. My problem is I'm unsure about what to do regarding accommodation. We've discussed this and have agreed renting a flat is out of the question, as there is no financial benefit to this. This leaves buying somewhere. Now would it be wise to buy a small flat (we're perfectly content with this idea) or is there something I'm missing? Ideally, we'd like be happy living in either mine or her parents house, but neither has any space for us. Any advice on where we could live and how to fund such endeavours?

I would suggest a small flat as a starting point that's easy to maintain and afford as you get your young lives together and have careers. It doesn't have to benefit you now, just be warm and affordable, and PRIVATE. As you advance yourselves you can make other choices, and with out pressure or strain.

I agree with tal. You guys should definitely live somewhere you can have privacy. As for financing, I would start talking with your bank or credit union ahead of time if you'll be needing a loan. It's good to know ahead of time what sort of qualifications they have and that you have the credit to get a loan. Or if you have no credit it may be in your best interest to have a co-signer, if there's anyone close to you willing to take that responsibility with you. And start saving up so you can have a nice down payment when the time comes to buy.

I thought as much. However, how would I afford it? Would I have to get another loan on top of my student debt? Admittedly, I'm not all that clued up on financing.

It's best to use the actual answer box to respond. Please don't use the comment feature.

It would be best for you to speak with whoever you do your banking with about the financial details. If you're planning to buy a place, you will most likely need a loan.

Sorry, I'm new to this. Thanks a lot, both really useful answers. (:

Hmmm, since neither of you has a job, and you both already have a student loan, then you better sit tight until you can get a job. When you do get one, you will know what you can afford, (its called a budget, and everyone needs one), and cannot afford.

Then you won't add the financial pressure to being married, and can live within your means. Especially if this is the very first time you have lived on your own. Plenty of time to establish credit, and all the other independent adult stuff, but for now as you are learning, and growing, get the job first, and feed and shelter yourself before borrowing cash for it.

Nothing wrong with starting at the bottom, poor as a church mouse. But starting in debt, and a loan, and the rent due is an unnecessary worry, and pain in the a$$, and not romantic, or fun for poor church mice.

Just saying give it some thought, maybe consult with your parents for their thoughts, and ideas.

My thought, Bankers don't give a rats patoot whether you can eat next month, they want what you promised, their money back, or at least the agreed upon payment, with interest, of course!!

P.S./ Interest is a killer of might men!! Is a flat a cheap apartment? That's what I meant.