thankgodwedidntbuy, I would put together a renter resume, with assets, and credit score. Make offers on the rent. I have never paid the advertised rent. Landlords almost always will reduce the rent for a quality tenant. My current rent is $1,000 below the asking price.

If home prices keep getting pounded, gas goes to $5 a gallon, and renters get laid off, supply will grow and rent prices will come down IMO.

A friend of mine in the mortgage business got out of his 3k a month condo and is renting a room from a friend. 20-30-40 somethings will move back in with mom and dad, etc etc.