Steve, I can only say after having gone through the process of building a house with my husband and then having him decide to separate that the house brings a lot of sadness and pain. I never even got to live there. I guess you have to ask who would live there if you and your wife don't end up together, and how it would help or hurt your reconciliation if you do? Will it create more pressure or the feeling of being 'locked in' to your new place? Perhaps if you need to buy now as an investment because the real estate market in your area is heating up or interest rates are soon expected to go up then that's a different story. I hope you'll find the clarity you need to make the right decision for you and your wife!