"Which means I'm happy to flush $1700 down the toilet every month for a maintenance-free roof over my head, and do other things with what's left in my wallet."....   Carrick should pay attention to  this comment 

Renters do NOT save the difference between renting and owning - and invest the proceeds - the vast majority SPEND the difference..  This is why homeownership, over the very long haul,  is the winner.... the principle portions of the mortgage payments are FORCED savings that compound over time as the the principle amount is whittled down.  Combine forced savings with tax free capital gain on your home and access if you choose - of prime less 1% line of credit secured by the property (the renters can't access) and by middle age you leave renters in the dust....