A1, you are ring true to providing an idealogical view about home ownership. how can you say that interest only is just renting from the bank. given property goes up over time as your charts have shown, buying is win situation if you get the right house.
As trying to make out repayments of loan should be included in the rent buy comparision is clearly showing you clutching at straws to justify arguements. Yes payments are higher, it is form of forced saving so that in 30 years as you reach retirement you have a fully paid home.
A1 here is an arguement you should consider and push - in real terms house prices havent increased or any gains you get from housing are due to inflation so thaey aint real gains.
But again idealogical views and clutching at straws is seemingly overtaking reality with some.