If you want to prove how horrible the housing market is doing simply, take a look at the recent prosperity of the rental market. CNN Money reports that both Apartment Investment & Management and Public Storage stocks have been at almost a year high. With people unable to trust the housing market, many consumers are alternatively reaching out to rental properties instead of buying homes. Studies show that the younger consumer crowd is continuously waiting for the housing market to hit rock bottom before they decide to buy. Additionally, apartment companies and storage facilities are also now offering short-term leases, which prevent consumers from feeling trapped in this unpredictable economy. While people are struggling to pay for food and gas, the appeal of apparently cheaper renting outweighs owning a home.