When does buying actually beat renting?
We'll compare the true cost of owning (payment, taxes, maintenance, equity) against renting and investing the difference. The breakeven year is the moment buying wins.
Buying
Renting
If you invested the savings + down payment
Monthly ownership cost
$4,574
Monthly rent (today)
$2,800
Breakeven point
Never (in 30 yrs)
Renting wins in this scenario
Net cost over time
Lower is better. Buy line factors in equity; rent line factors in investing the difference.
Buying makes sense if…
- You'll stay put past the breakeven point
- You want forced savings via equity
- You're ready for the upkeep
Renting makes sense if…
- You might move in the next few years
- You'd actually invest the difference
- You want zero maintenance surprises
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is intended to illustrate potential scenarios based on user-selected assumptions. The results are estimates and do not constitute a loan offer, credit advertisement, commitment to lend, or guarantee of financing. Actual loan terms, interest rates, fees, APR, and monthly payments may vary based on credit qualifications, property characteristics, loan program, and other underwriting factors. Please contact us for information regarding available loan products, current rates, and applicable disclosures.
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