I like the investing in education comment. However, I am not a CPA and I could easily pencil a dollar out 30 years and out profit your discussion points. You are not adding all the true costs of owning a home and the profits of a second job. Last but not least, liquid money and a monthly  rent payment are wayyy better than no payment and 400k tied up in drywall and 2 x 4's YOU can't spend.  Never fear however. Help is on the way! After your kids put you in that special rest home, they will quickly turn your wonderful home investment into snowmachines, cabins and fast cars.   Just saying .  .  .  It happens every day. Drinking Lots of milk is good for you . . .  right? Heck ya because the dairy industry says so.