I am nineteen and looking into getting a house rather than renting- help?

I am currently eighteen years old but will be turning nineteen on January 24th.
I have been living on my own in an apartment for about four months, and I am sick of seeing my money go out the window each month when I pay rent. I’d rather be investing my money into a house that is my own, rather than just a place to stay.
Is this a good idea or a bad one?
Would a roommate be a good asset, or should I do it alone?
I am thinking of waiting, but I want to see the pros and cons first.
What kind of bills will I have to pay, how hard is it to keep up with everything I’ll need to be doing, what do I need to know!?
Help from the experienced, please?!