Like good cat says. It's horses for courses. We got sick of EK accommodation department so purchased to get away from them. We are approaching the point where the mortgage is paid and the allowance has paid back the deposit.
I haven't met anyone who bought to live in a house that has been burnt. Doesn't mean it hasn't happened though.
We have friends that would be unable to sleep at night here if they bought. So best deal for them is to stay in company accommodation. Apart from the odd move, the price is certainly right.
Pros and cons to both options.