You wouldn't be checking out this website if you weren't interested in seeing what's on the market and what you can get for your money. So, here are some reasons that buying a home might be a good thing for you at this time.
Planning to stay in the area. If your job appears to be secure and you are not subject to a transfer in the near future you can take advantage of current home prices and low interest rates. If you get a fixed rate loan your monthly payment will be the same for the life of the loan (15 years, 20 years, 30 years). If you rent your rent may increase as much as 5% a year. When owning a home you will still need to save for a new roof (they are typically warranted for 25 years) and other things that may need repair or replacing. A home warranty can help give you peace of mind.
Pride of ownership. I know you've heard this before, but it is so true. You will be so proud to have your own home, have friends and family over and they will be proud of you and possibly a little envious as you do things to personalize it to your own taste, which you can't do to a rental.
Neighborhood. You can live in a neighborhood that suits you. Do you like walking trails, a club house, a larger lot, or a tennis court? I can help you find a community that works for you.
Building equity. Paying rent is like shreding your money. Your mortgage payments and property taxes are deductible when you file your taxes.
It's a great time to buy a home. Interest rates are lower than they have been in 45 years. Of course, you know that home prices have come down. So, you can actually buy more house for the same amount of money than you could have three or four years ago.