The problem with renting is that you don’t have control. I knew someone who thought he was smart selling his house to rent. Then home values went through the roof, landlords raised rents every year, and he ended up regretting it. I made enough selling my previous home to pay off the mortgage and buy my new home with cash. The idea of renting is terrifying. I would never buy a home subject to an HOA, either. I don’t want anyone making decisions about my property but me.