Question

Should Maria rent or buy? Maria, age 21, plans to work full time while completing her college degree in a nearby city.

I would think she should rent but I don't know...

Answer 1

I would say rent too because its not certain she will stay there or have the same job after completing college since you have better qualifications when you get a college degree

Answer 2

It depends, if she wants a PHD or a long term class there, a good idea is to temporary buy a house.  But, if she is only finishing a short class for a few months or a few years, a better idea would be to rent.