How much have you paid in rent over the years??

When I saw these numbers, it really astonished me. I have paid rent over the years and have never really done these calculations. Where did all of that money go? I have nothing to show for it. With a house, you own a piece of property and at some point in time you will earn that money back and more. Many times, the mortgage is less than what you are paying in rent! Also, your rent usually has an annual increase which really hurts too. It's not a left or right brainer, it's a no-brainer!