Compare the total cost of buying (with a mortgage) and renting over your chosen period, accounting for deposit, interest, upkeep and property appreciation.
"Net cost of buying" = deposit + payments + upkeep − equity built (appreciation and principal repaid). Simplified estimate; excludes transaction costs and taxes. Not advice or an offer.
The real cost of ownership after subtracting the equity you build: property appreciation and the part of the mortgage you repay. This makes the comparison with renting fair.