In my own case, I found the idea of locking in my monthly rent for 30 years to be an attractive proposition. Why is why I "settled" for a house whose monthly p

In my own case, I found the idea of locking in my monthly rent for 30 years to be an attractive proposition. Why is why I "settled" for a house whose monthly payment (after my downpayment, which I realize I am handwaving away) was very close to my apartment's rent (which itself wasn't the most expensive apt. people in my situation were renting). We specifically avoided HOA houses since the HOA payment is an unbounded future liability. I think it makes sense to buy a house if the monthly payment is close to rent. I'm curious about your alternatives. Good luck!