Yeah, buying a home is very much a double-edged sword. It can go well but it can also become an anchor.

One thing people don't seem to properly account for (or at least I don't see it talked about much) on the rent vs buy is costs of commuting and opportunity costs related to one's career. Often the best way to get a raise is to change jobs.

Of course there's also more to decision than just financial. It's as much a lifestyle choice as anything else.

Buying may also be less appealing if you are by yourself or just a couple and don't want or need a whole-ass house. The math on buying a condo often isn't all that appealing compared to renting an apartment.