Core Insights - A married couple is debating whether to purchase a $1.8 million home now or wait until the husband's income increases after residency [1] - The couple's financial situation appears strong, with an annual income of approximately $380,000 and significant savings [2] - The husband currently earns about $88,000 annually during residency, but expects his income to rise to between $400,000 and $500,000 within two years [3] Financial Overview - The couple has saved $580,000 for a home purchase and has around $600,000 in retirement accounts, along with an emergency fund of about $30,000 [2] - The desired home would require a down payment of approximately $700,000 and a mortgage of around $1.1 million, leading to estimated monthly payments of about $8,000, which would constitute roughly 38% of their current post-tax income [3] Housing Market Context - The couple currently rents an apartment of 850 to 900 square feet for about $3,500 per month and is looking for homes between 2,800 and 3,000 square feet in a neighborhood with top-rated schools [4] - The wife prefers the $1.8 million home, emphasizing a desire for a long-term residence rather than a smaller home that would require upgrading later [5] - The neighborhood in question has limited housing availability, making the opportunity to purchase a home there rare [4]