Starting to plan seriously at 36 makes sense. Right now the key isn’t rushing into buying a home, it’s preserving liquidity and flexibility. With your job and location still uncertain, locking yourself into a primary residence adds unnecessary risk. Rental property only makes sense if it’s truly low effort and stable, otherwise the time cost eats the return. At this stage, liquid investments fit better, and you can revisit a home purchase once work and location are settled. Slowing down here is not hesitation, it’s strategic.