re.Marx, we would probably all be far better off should we regard renting versus buying as a financial mechanism rather than some exploitation.

One common misconception is that rental prices of housing are set by landlords. They are not. They are set by the market.

But all is not completely fair. Home owners are subsides by government guaranteed low mortgage rates and tax deductions on mortgage interest. Renters don't share these benefits. Ideally they should be removed.

You raise lots of good questions but your title is not accurate.

Many thanks.