Sure, you can buy if you have the requisite down payment, income, credit, etc. Since this will not be your primary residence from Day 1, you probably need at least 30-35% cash down payment, plus all closing costs, plus reserves. If you are looking at, say, $100,000 house, plan to have $40,000-50,000 cash on hand, credit scores of 680/700 or better, income to support two properties (rent on one you live in; plus mortgage, taxes, insurance, etc on the purchase).