The Real Question
It’s not just rent vs. mortgage. It’s a comparison of total wealth outcomes:
- Buy: Mortgage + taxes + insurance + maintenance + PMI minus equity, appreciation, and tax benefits.
- Rent: Rent + insurance, while investing the down payment and closing costs.
Use the calculator to see month-by-month outcomes and the break-even point.
Key Inputs That Move the Needle
- Down payment % — lower down may introduce PMI; higher down reduces interest costs.
- Interest rate — smaller changes can shift the break-even by years.
- Property taxes & maintenance — location and home type matter.
- Rent growth vs. home appreciation — long-term expectations are crucial.
- Investment return — what your capital could earn if you rent.
A Simple Decision Framework
- Enter realistic numbers in the calculator.
- Look at the break-even month and final comparison.
- Run a few what-if scenarios (rates, down payment, rent growth).
- Layer in personal factors: job stability, time horizon, school districts, etc.
Related Resources
⚠️ For educational purposes only. Not financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult professionals before making decisions.