My father never owned a house. He was provided one or had subsidised rent throughout his career. He died just before retiring and we were able to buy the company owned house they had been using for something like 15 years. This had been negotiated as he was in his final year of employment. Mum couldnt think of living in a rented property when there was no income despite the economics suggesting that was the best option. Later, as she moved into smaller places and ultimately into care each time she downsized she was able to top up her holiday fund and buy some new goods to decorate her new places. When she left the living there was virtually nothing left so in the end it worked out well and she had the benefit of all her and my father's toil.