Series: The Law In Our Lives

I am not a homeowner.

For various reasons, primarily mobility, I have always been a renter.  But the housing and rental markets are such that it makes a lot more financial sense to buy.

Should I do it?

It might make more sense from a monthly, dollars-paid-for-housing perspective, but there are other financial and non-financial considerations.  Am I expecting the unexpected?  What if I need a new water heater?  Air conditioner?  What if I decide I don't like the neighborhood?  What if I decide I love the neighborhood, but not that particular condo?  What if bad neighbors move in?

I'm stuck - geographically and mentally.