well, you use google, but i had been to two countries and worked there (business). most of people in my offices were renting. around london, properties were just so expensive that not that big percentage of mid-class brits can afford...
germans are a bit different, especially for singles. i don't think the prices of housing is that a big issue but they don't seem to be interested in buying real estate properties...
asians seem to be obsessed with real estate properties, in general...