So do home owners who are millionaires on paper; they see how much their home is worth on paper and start spending the HELOC like it is crystalized.

The whole rent vs buy thing is a matter of personal preference for some.   

Not all of us have "given up" on the hope of owning a home.  
You can't give up something you never wanted in the first place.

I think everyone should stop and assess what is really important to THEM and prioritize their goals as such, rather than heed to societal pressure to conform to what is expected of them.

Maybe then they won't wake up at 38 and realize they have the house, two cars, two kids a dog and wife/husband they don't even know or love and aren't happy or content in their life on the hamster wheel.  

Think for yourself!