In today’s tough economy, owning a house can be more American drama than American dream. When you’re sitting around the Thanksgiving table hearing people complain about foreclosures and decreasing property values, be glad you’re renting and save your wishbone for something else.

Here are 10 good reasons to enjoy being a renter:

1. No lawn to mow.
Skip spending your weekends with the mower or paying someone else to do it for you.

Tip: Buy potted herbs for your windowsill and fruit and veggie plants for your balcony. You’ll have organic food at your fingertips, and they’re far easier to maintain than a yard.

2. If something breaks or needs replacing, you can call someone.
Guess who the maintenance person is after you buy a home? You. In the middle of the night? Still you. When it costs a fortune? Yep, also you.

Tip: Stay on good terms with your landlord and/or building maintenance staff, so they’ll come running when you need them.

3. Moving on up (or down) is easier when you’re renting.
Want a bigger place or need to reduce your rent? Renting reduces the hassle.

Tip: Talk to your landlord about moving within your building. Ask if you can get on a waiting list for apartments you like.

4. You get to live large.
As a renter, you can often live in a nicer neighborhood than you could afford if you bought a home.

Tip: Look at rental listings online to find great new areas in your price range.

5. Smaller rental spaces mean big savings.
Apartments are typically smaller than houses, so you’re saving money on heating and cooling costs and on not having to furnish that additional space.

Tip: Splurge on pricey furniture only if you think you’ll be in your apartment for a few years, and look for pieces that could transition easily to a new place.

6. It’s easier to make a big move.
Renting affords you more freedom to pick up and go wherever a job, a loved one or a dream takes you.

Tip: Ever wanted to live in another city or abroad? Ask your boss or HR department if there are opportunities to transfer to other offices.

7. Monthly rent is usually less expensive than a mortgage.
Spending less on housing each month lets you save more or focus your finances in other areas.

Tip: Set aside some money each month toward your future, whether that’s buying a home, starting a business, traveling the world or retiring at 50.

8. Say amen to amenities.
Buying a home usually means cutting down on housing perks.

Tip: Jump in your pool, use the on-site workout facilities, and host a party on that roof deck.

9. You can try it before you buy it.
Renting lets you test out neighborhoods and living situations to find one that suits you.

Tip: Choose a rental with amenities you might want in a home (office, eat-in kitchen, etc.) to see what’s a must-have and what you can do without.

10. No worrying about property taxes, maintenance costs, homeowners’ fees or mortgage rates.

Tip: Create a budget that lets you enjoy your current lifestyle and save money for the future. The smarter you are about money now, the less scary those words will be if you do buy a home.