To quote an Irish friend, 'When it comes to housing, put a roof over your head and get on with life.'
In other words, do not consider your home an investment where you stretch to get in with the hope of great gains, but something to have paid off upon retirement.
Use this page when looking for a new home, it provides a good education in terms of practical home affordability.
Strong recommendation - put at least 20% down to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI)