Renting vs. Buying a Home

Stability of Owning

You can never be asked to leave. No landlord can sell the property or decide not to renew your lease, giving you complete long-term housing security.

Building Equity

Every mortgage payment builds equity — money that stays yours. Renters pay the same amount but build nothing over time.

Renting: No Surprise Repairs

When the roof leaks or the boiler breaks, it's the landlord's problem. Homeowners face repair bills that can run into the tens of thousands.

Renting Risk: Eviction / Non-Renewal

Landlords can sell, move in relatives, or simply decide not to renew your lease. Forced moves are stressful, costly, and increasingly common.

Renting: Flexibility

Need to relocate for a job or lifestyle change? Renters can move much more easily than homeowners who have to sell.

Hidden Costs of Owning

Property taxes, HOA fees, insurance, and maintenance average 1–2% of home value per year — costs renters never face directly.

Leverage on Appreciation

If your $400K home appreciates 3%, you gain $12K — but you only put down $80K (20%). That's a 15% return on your down payment.

Rent Always Goes Up

Historically rent increases 3–5% per year. A fixed-rate mortgage payment never changes — giving owners a major edge over 20–30 years.