This assumes a perfectly efficient market with no opportunity for arbitrage.
Sometimes what you can get in rent is less than what it costs to maintain a property, but it’s still better than letting it remain empty. Assuming the owner is even that financially disciplined. And again, sometimes people just don’t understand the finances.
Sometimes the rent people can charge is far higher than the cost to maintain property. But that doesn’t mean the owner is selling or that the renter is in a position to buy.
One is not categorically better than the other in all situations.
Okay, sure, but I don't see the OP of this subthread saying, "Stay on the lookout for arbitrage opportunities!" I see them not understanding that just because you don't go to the tire shop personally doesn't mean that you don't pay for the tire.
Sometimes what you can get in rent is less than what it costs to maintain a property, but it’s still better than letting it remain empty. Assuming the owner is even that financially disciplined. And again, sometimes people just don’t understand the finances.
Sometimes the rent people can charge is far higher than the cost to maintain property. But that doesn’t mean the owner is selling or that the renter is in a position to buy.
One is not categorically better than the other in all situations.