What a fantastic breakdown of the true cost of homeownership! As someone who has rented for years, I've always been skeptical of the "buying is always better than renting" mantra that seems to be so pervasive in our society. Your calculations really highlight the hidden expenses that come with homeownership, from property taxes to maintenance costs to the potential for unforeseen disasters. And let's not forget the fact that when you rent, you have the flexibility to move whenever you want, without being tied down to a particular location or property.

While there may be some situations where buying a home makes sense, such as when you're ready to settle down and put down roots, it's important to approach the decision with a critical eye and do the math to see if it truly makes financial sense in the long run. Kudos to you for taking a nuanced and thoughtful approach to this often-overlooked issue! Thank u