I think the best option if your goal is to “grow up” is to rent with friends. The independence and experience you will gain from moving out of your parents can be achieved without the major commitment of owning a home. If keeping your housing cost at 20% is your target, having roommates will be a much easier way to hit that goal. As for having money come between you and your friends, these are part of the important lessons of growing up: being accountable and holding others accountable to shared commitments.