I've just signed a mortgage this year, for a property where I was living for 2 years (renting). Yes, there are more expenses than renting, like property tax, rubbish collection. If something breaks you have to pay for it etc. I think it really depends on the country you live in and the circumstances.

In my case, it was because I wanted a place to live long term (I can always rent it if I go elsewhere) and rental prices are skyrocketing compared to salaries, so I'll be better off in the long term, even if I have extra expenses. Also, I wanted a place I could customise to my like.

There's another option and it's to buy property elsewhere as an investment, maybe a studio or something like that, so when you retire, you have somewhere to live.