[prepend]

> That's only true if you can keep up with payments. You'll soon learn what you do or don't own when you miss them

Yes, of course. If you can’t make payments, then you’re in trouble. Just like if you can’t pay rent.

I think the basic assumption is that everyone has to pay for shelter, in some form or another.

You do actually own your home as soon as purchase is made. But you have a lien against the home for some amount.

If you can’t make payments, you don’t lose everything. You get what equity is remaining after expenses.

But then, even when you pay off the mortgage you still have obligations like taxes, insurance, etc.