[quote=CA renter]Although many of us would like to think we’re buying our “last” house, life has a tendency to be unpredictable, and any number of events — like changes in family formation (marriage, divorce kids, in-laws, etc.), job loss or transfer, etc.– might force someone to have to sell. Better to have bought near the low, so that you are always able to sell at any point in the future.[/quote]
Agree that it’s difficult (impossible?) for anyone to see 30 years out. I tend to think a good approach is to make sure things work for you 7-10 years out with somewhat challenging assumptions (e.g. value drops another 15-20%, can’t re-fi, must sell, etc.). If that can work, then it typically only gets better from there.