> Why would I ever want to own when I get free maintenance and don't have to worry about a down payment? Because my mortgage (aka rent) hasn't gone up in 3 yea

> Why would I ever want to own when I get free maintenance and don't have to worry about a down payment? Because my mortgage (aka rent) hasn't gone up in 3 years...in fact it's actually gone down because I refinanced and is now cheaper for me to own than what I would have paid to rent in this area. Add to that the considerable appreciation on my home, and what you've got is a recipe for long-term wealth.