this is my experience...
start work, lives with my sister's family
1st year working, bought a rm90k++ gated n guarded apt (rm480++ installment /mo) even if i am renting the amt paid will be the same, around RM300 - 500 / mo

5th year, bought a 2 storey g&g linked house, fr developer, rm300k++.
stayed in the apt, until the linked house ready for me.

move into the linked house, pay rm 1.2k++ installment /mo
refinanced the apt, got rm20k excess, installment is lesser, as the interest is lower now.. at rm450 / mo. rent out the apt rm700 / mo. got the bank installment n the maintenance for both houses covered by my apt tenant..

i m very happy..