In the modern world I know of very few home owners who are in the market once. Most people have housing needs that change over time: marriage, kids, job changes (wanting a shorter commute), changes in financial situation. It's generally easier to adapt to those quickly as a renter.

Nowadays I tend to go for furnished rentals. I don't have any more desire to own most of the contents of housing than I do to own the property. That means moving is relatively low cost and effort if my housing needs change.