Saving in 401k vs Saving for Home Downpayment

[Data10]

@Colorado_mom

How should one factor in the interest paid on a mortgage? Sure, you can say that a house has increased in value by 1.5x, 2x, whatever. But much of the monthly payment goes to interest, especially in the early years. Maybe consider the interest to be a rent-swap?

Yes, one needs to consider more than just the difference between buying and selling price. In the original post methodology, I am doing a year-by-year total. Each year compares the rent saved vs extra expenses on mortgage interest + home expenses/tax. Principle payments are also relevant, as they reduce the amount of cash available for 401k or other investments, effectively reducing leverage.