I rented for years and it was easier than owning a home. In my case, though, my job moved two years ago and, now, renting would be "throwing money away." An apartment half the size of my house would be twice my mortgage payment.

Luckily, growing up, my father made sure I could do just about every possible home repair. I may not do them all now; but, I can and I know enough to avoid being ripped off.