Rent Advantages
- May be cheaper than a mortgage payment
- Fewer (if any) maintenance costs
- No down payment required (less deposit)
- No real estate taxes (renters insurance optional)
- Less stress (who cares, it’s not yours!)
- Freedom to move or downsize when necessary
- No risk of home price depreciation
- Some utility bills may be included
- “Free” amenities such as pool, gym, security
- Money can be used for other, more profitable investments
- Can’t be foreclosed on
Rent Disadvantages
- Rental payment may exceed monthly cost of mortgage
- No ownership or wealth creation
- Payments never stop when renting
- Rent will rise over time
- Must deal with a landlord or management company
- No tax benefits
- Rules, regulations, and limitations
- More temporary, less stability
- Always at the mercy of the property owner
- Pets may not be allowed
Ownership Advantages
- You can build home equity and wealth
- Status- Status-Status
- Sizable tax deductions possible
- Your space, your rules (pets welcome)
- Ability to remodel, expand, tear down
- Pride of ownership (social status, accomplishment)
- Potentially better for children, family structure
- Mortgage can improve your credit history/score
- Ability to borrow against your home (HELOC or cash-out)
- No more monthly payments once mortgage paid off
- Fixed payments (if you choose a fixed mortgage)
- Mortgages are the cheapest loans available
- No landlord
- Can exclude capital gains when you sell (partially)
- Inflation hedge
- Can rent out to others
- Can sell and use proceeds for bigger/better home
- Retirement nest egg
- It’s the American Dream!
Ownership Disadvantages
- Home prices may lose value
- Could overpay for your property
- Obtaining a mortgage (and finding a home) is a hassle
- Not everyone qualifies for a mortgage
- You must pay taxes and homeowners insurance
- Total housing payment can be more expensive
- Mortgage payment can rise (if an ARM)
- Sizable down payment necessary
- Maintenance costs can be excessive
- Pricey HOA dues (if applicable)
- You’re “stuck” in a home (long-term commitment)
- Increased liability and responsibility
- Transactional costs of buying and selling
- Ownership is stressful!
- Taxes and insurance generally rise
- Your home can be damaged or destroyed (and not fully
- insured)
- Can be foreclosed on and lose your home
This article is originally found at: http://www.thetruthaboutmortgage.com/renting-vs-buying-55-pros-and-cons/ by Colin Robertson
Posted by Ben Nicolas on
1 Response to Renting vs. Buying: 55 Pros and Cons
I really enjoyed reading your blog. It's helpful to weigh the pros and cons of home ownership. Don't forget to read about our home inspection checklist on our website CDIHomeInspections.com
Posted by Marlene on Tuesday, February 5th, 2013 at 6:22amLeave A Comment