This is why it irks me every time a so-called 'financial expert' tells people to not rent and to buy only because of [reasons]. It's expensive to own a home. Aside from housing bubbles, houses aren't really something should be forever appreciating in value, ESPECIALLY when the owner cannot afford to keep the property maintained, or, refuses to maintain the property. Buying a home should be a point of pride, no doubt, but it should NEVER EVER EVER be viewed as an investment, unless you are wanting to become a landlord.