"In hindsight, buying my house was the right thing to do, but not because the market happened to catch fire after I did. It was the right thing to do because, after years of renting, I wanted a place of my own that I could pay off before I retire. And besides, I could afford it. "

First, it is hindsight.  Second, the author would surely have a different view if the market crashed after he bought.   Third, the idea of "wanting to have a place of his own" was the reason of all housing bubbles past and present.
Fourth, affordability varies among individuals.  Was it because he could pay cash (no?)  was it because he had good cash flow (could be)?  Was it because of the low interest rate (yes!).  

In short, terribble advice.