RJS - good question and quite hard to answer.

We own our own home.
On pure economic grounds renting may prove 'cheaper', but then by the same token why own cars when going by taxi may prove cheaper.

Ownership gives us a sense of security, achievement and being able to practise the concept of 'continuous improvement' in life. There is not many asset that you can get the use out of it for years and get (usually) more for it when you are finished with it.

OK it is getting boring...........

So I may be wrong but happy. Did I say it is cheap or easy?[}]

cheers and a prosperous NY