With residential housing markets that are different throughout Europe, it can be hard for people looking for somewhere to live to decide what to do: to rent or to buy.

The decision to rent is becoming more popular among younger generations — for a variety of reasons.

“The attitude toward ‘renting versus owning’ has shifted in many countries in the direction of renting, and political intervention in the form of tax deductions, tax incentives or subsidies for homeownership is on the decline,” explains Dr Marcus Cieleback, head of research at PATRIZIA Immobilien AG. “Politicians recognise that a developed rental market can support the economy, as it secures labour mobility and makes the overall economy more resistant to shocks.”

And as consumers weigh the decision between renting and buying, investors and investment managers are also considering the merits of the residential