This gets to the heart of who owns property in this country. Certainly not the homeowner since he must pay property tax. Property tax is a thinly disguised ownership. If the homeowner doesn't pay it, the home is foreclosed at a tax sale. People lose their homes for under $500. in back taxes sometimes. And of course, next in line is the bank, that can foreclose if the loan is delinquent. And don't forget the utilities, that can foreclose for non-paid gas or electric. So is there a difference between renting and owning? At least if you own your home you have more control. There is no landlord to evict you for some whim.