I believe Machiel is from Germany... It is quite rare to actually buy property in Germany, the vast majority of people rent houses. Its just a different system, they don't really have a housing market in the same way as n the UK and US - or the concept of mortgages and resale of houses.
To Bass..i would also agree with your parents long-term, but as Dmb said, it does depend on how well you get on with them
