I think your argument is correct with the assumption that houses should be considered investment. I don't think they should, but realise that this statement is only articulated in principle rather than in practical and pragmatic terms. On the other hand, the practical and pragmatic treatment of houses as investment property has driven us to the precipice of one of the greatest potential societal crises at a broadly global scale. We have people literally slaving out to pay for a roof over their head. If the landlord's investment makes that ethically acceptable for them, I am afraid it's not for those who live this reality on the wrong side of the table. It always ends the same way, unavoidably. It will also impact the really productive parts of economy, when consumer base is shrinking because people just try to pay their rent, electricity and gas.