Right on Concho,
If you compare returns on the value of the house the return might be lower but when you factor in your actual return based upon your investment (i.e. down payment) not to mention it provides a place to live, I suspect you would find differently. I put 20% down on my current home, while it has appreciated over 100% in value my investment has returned over 500% and my monthly nut is less than I could rent it for.