Rent vs. buy

Many young people say they have no interest in ever owning a home. So these days, more and more people are renting. But commentator Chris Farrell says buying is still a better option for all concerned.

Things are looking up in the housing market. People are starting to buy houses again. Mortgage rates are at an all-time low and there's lots of inventory. Or is there?

Apartment buildings are fuller than they’ve been in a decade. Rents are at record highs. Houses are relatively cheap, but loans are elusive.

Back during the housing bubble, houses cost 20 percent more than renting. Now the difference is the other way.

The vacancy rate for apartment fell to its lowest since 2001 in the fourth quarter as more people rented. But mortgage rates are also falling, so will people choose buying over renting soon?

This post is the first in a new series of guest contributions on Makin' Money examining all things personal finance. This week we turn to Jim Wa...