Tend to agree with you j68. I have both been a renter and home owner. Timing is important, and sometimes a little bit out of your control. However, generally speaking, it is my belief that you can't go wrong in buying. It just depends on your risk management profile and living standards requirements. If you want to go lifestyle, then renting is probably the way to go. Especially if it means keeping the other half happy. Remember it is the wife and kids that have to stay in Hong Kong while we head off and get respite from the pollution, noise, kids and the hot weather.