Agree CAR and SK, that with the ever-changing dynamics, people, especially those who have purchased in recent years, should be extremely wary of considering real estate a “sure thing,” when it comes to their long-term financial solvency.
As a lifetime real estate investor, it’s clear to me that, some elements point to a continuing escalation, many do not, and only time will tell.
In the meantime, I think it’s very important to have diverse financial resources accumulated for retirement (and lots of them–if you want to survive) other than property. At least, that’s been my plan.