Yep - that was a huge deal for me (wanting workshop/garage space). Apart from that, renters rights can really vary around the world, in Australia it's pretty bad. Depending on the landlord, you can get fairly frequent inspections with as little as 24 hours notice, generally can't have pets, are often on a 6 or 12 month lease and can't always renew (if the landlord sells and the new owners don't want to keep you on...

I much prefer owning, and my interest is $100 less per week than what the previous owners rented my place out for before I bought it. If the value of the house keeps up with inflation by the time I sell I'll be very happy. (We don't have capital gains tax on primary residences either, or land tax so that's nice).