Based on my depressingly long experience, I would say that if you can easily switch jobs w/o moving, and you like the area, you should consider a house. Better

Based on my depressingly long experience, I would say that if you can easily switch jobs w/o moving, and you like the area, you should consider a house. Better customization options, the chance to create equity, better credit picture, etc. If, however, you CAN'T switch jobs w/o moving, you might be daft to purchase - the damn things are somewhat to rather illiquid (particularly right now) and there's all sorts of years maintenance you have to do as an owner. Like everything, it's a business/risk decision that you have to make based on your career and aspirations. Me, I overspecialized too much doing stuff I like to do. When the jobs are on the other side of the country, the choices aren't all that nice with a house...