The reason people say that owning a home is forced saving is because most people don't save at all.  Paying down the principle on a loan while maintaining the value of the asset like real estate does, builds equity, which for a lot of people is their only form of wealth.  History has shown that you would do better to invest in the stock market, but most people are afraid of the stock market, while owning a home is typically a source of pride.  I'm not against owning a home, but you should own a home if you want to live there a long time or think you're getting a great deal.  Saving more money in a 401K or just investing regularly will over time build more wealth.