The real, after interest, after tax, after expenses return on property is close to 0%.
I think you should calculate the difference of owning a house for 50 years (30 year mortgage) compared to renting the same house for 50 years. You'll pay 30-70% more per month to rent and have no equity whatsoever. Unless you find "living in a van down by the river" an option for raising a family (assuming that fits in your 50 year plan), I'm sure you'll find the "real return" a substantial investment.