Im 20 years old, should I buy a house or rent?

[Brett O]

Hello, I've been lurking these forums for awhile now. I thiink this my first post... this is a great forum with a lot of information, I could read all day if I had time!!

I'm 20 years old and living at home, I want to move out soon though. I am debating on weather I should rent a place or weather I should have the mindset of "I will never pay rent" and buy a small house. I'm not rich so the house would be a small starter house. I do have some money saved up though puting 10 or 20% down wouldnt be too much of a problem.

I guess life would be simpler if I rented, and it would be easier. But it would probably be better in the long run to buy a house, don't you think?

I have wanted to invest in real estate since I was in high school. I'm wanting to move out pretty quick though... so what should I do? Rent or buy a house?

I live in Ohio by the way, In the dayton area. Anyone on these forums live close to where I do? MikeOH?

Thanks guys!!