I can't speak to the loan or purchase because I've never owned a home. Are you really settling in at such a young age? I've lived in several cities around the U.S. and I'm nowhere near done yet. I'm moving to the east coast next year, and I want to teach abroad after I finish there.
However, I do all the maintenance and repairs on my mom's house. I'm very good with carpentry and electrical work and it takes me at least two weeks every year, saving her thousands of dollars. Those expenses never end. Some time this summer, I have to clean her ducts, which absolutely sucks. If you're not having a plumbing problem, then it's time to buy a new stove or furnace. Have a big rainy day fund for unexpected expenses.
On a personal note, I'm sorry to hear about your dad. Congratulations on graduating, your job, and getting grad school paid for, though. That's a great deal.
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