And whether you make payments to the bank or another home owner it doesn't really matter, houses that are affordable and in good condition are in the minority.
Listen to the following expert guests talk about it on this edition of Life Matters from the ABC.
Lynette Stevens, living in community housing after leaving her long-term tenancy
Fiona York, Executive Officer, Housing for the Aged Action Group
Dr Piret Veeroja, lead author of new research from Swinburne University