@ OneDayAtATime: Completely agree. As a fellow homeowner I concur! You cannot count on your neighbors being considerate or respectful whatsoever. I've had to call the police a few times due to parties even though we live in a very quiet neighborhood.
@ Guitarguy, here is my advice as a relatively new homeowner in the very expensive Bay Area/Silicon Valley region. Do your best to save as much as you can and for as long as you can. This key practice helped me pay over 20% down and build a sizeable cushion to withstand a job loss, move, and even significant drop in property value due to new neighbor's buying a home under the table (totally illegal but that's a story for another day). So while it may not seem ideal, renting is a viable option and there are lots of conveniences to renting. The main one is you don't have to be responsible to maintain the property! :)
As a owner EVERYTHING is your responsibility! Short list includes: mortgage, property taxes, insurances, utilities, security, property improvements/disputes, safety, property line/division issues, any and all repairs, the list and costs NEVER end! Try to enjoy the comparatively stress-free housing situation you are in. One day you will be a homeowner and while it can be rewarding it is not all that it is cracked up to be. For some they end up preferring to renting and turn their primary residence into an investment property. The grass may appear greener until you try it and then realize the hidden costs may not be a price worth paying. Your mileage may vary.
Good luck! Keep us posted. Cheers!