The sooner and longer you can save the better. Nothing more powerful then compounding of investment returns. A simple program developed by Richard Thaler called "Save for Tomorrow" helps filter out some of behavioral habits that individuals have to avoid maximizing their savings opportunities. The program suggests that your contribution to an employer’s plan or other savings plan begin with the first paycheck after a raise. Then the contribution rate continues to increase on each scheduled pay raise until it reaches a present maximum. It is proven that inertia keeps people in the program. This will also allow you to take some time to get settled on your new budget of owning your first home. The expenses making it yours can get a little crazy in the beginning.