Everyone tells you to buy a house as soon as you can but few talk about what happens after.
When your salary barely covers mortgage repayments, you’re not buying freedom; you’re buying stress. That’s the reality facing many Malaysians today.
And now, a real estate agent has come forward with some blunt advice that’s striking a chord among young working adults struggling to make ends meet.
Hold off if you’re not ready
In a TikTok post that quickly gained attention, a real estate agent named Marie shared her unfiltered opinion:
If your salary hasn’t reached RM5,000 yet, I urge you not to buy a house,” she said.
Her statement may sound harsh, but Marie insists it’s rooted in financial practicality rather than pessimism.
Why buying too early could hurt your wallet
Marie went on to explain the math behind her advice and it’s a wake-up call for many.
She pointed out that the most affordable properties available today are priced around RM300,000, requiring monthly repayments of about RM1,500.
“If your salary is exactly RM5,000, after paying RM1,500 for your mortgage, you’re left with about RM3,500 for other living expenses like insurance, savings, and daily necessities,” she said.
The situation gets even tighter for those earning less.
“And if your salary is only RM3,500, after deducting RM1,500 for the house, you’re left with just RM2,000,” Marie added.
At first glance, RM2,000 might seem manageable. But when you factor in car loans, childcare costs, and day-to-day living expenses, the financial margin shrinks fast often leaving individuals financially strained by the end of the month.
Completely impossible for lower earners?
According to Marie, this isn’t necessarily the case, unless very specific conditions occur.
She clarified that buying a house while earning below RM5,000 could still work if you have a partner who can fully support the family’s living expenses.
“If your spouse’s income is enough to cover your family’s needs, then maybe it’s possible. In that case, your RM3,500 salary can be dedicated solely to your mortgage repayment.”
However, Marie stressed that this arrangement requires clear financial planning and mutual agreement between both partners, warning that rushing into a property purchase without a safety net could lead to long-term financial hardship.
Final takeaway: Play it safe
Wrapping up her advice, Marie left a final piece of caution:
“From my point of view, if your salary hasn’t hit RM5,000 yet, it’s best to hold off on buying a home for now,” she said.
After all, buying a house should be a step toward greater stability, not the start of monthly financial anxiety.
Watch the clip here:
