The recent downturn in the housing market resulted in a drop in rental rates, but rents are back on the rise while the cost of home ownership has dropped.  As average apartment rental rates have slightly decreased, the decline has been moderate in comparision to home values, which have declined nationwide by 30 to 40 percent since the peak of the housing boom.  For more reasons why now is prime time to buy a home, contact me and I'll send you a free ebook.