first time out kilted / almost get evicted for it

[Alan H]

You can't choose your family...

but you CAN choose your boss....and your landlord. I would suggest considering making some significant changes along those lines ASAP.

Maintain lots of contact with your mom...absolutely. I mean, she's your MOM, right? But it sounds to me like there's a LOT more going on here than just "kilts" and maybe it's time to strike a blow for independence by 1. getting another job, and 2. finding another place to live.

And whatever you do, don't accept money from her for a down-payment. Earn it yourself, you and your wife.