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Rent vs. buy

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Compare the full cost of renting and buying over time, including home value growth and what your down payment could earn if invested.

How this calculator works

Buying builds equity and benefits from rising home values, but it comes with closing costs, property tax, insurance, maintenance, and selling costs. Renting is often cheaper month to month, and a renter can invest the down payment and any monthly savings instead. The calculator tracks both paths each year: the buyer's home equity after selling costs plus anything they invest, against the renter's investments. Buying usually wins the longer you stay, which is why the break-even year matters most.

Related calculators

Mortgage paymentYour full monthly house payment, total interest, and how much extra principal payments save.Mortgage affordabilityThe most house your income supports using the lender 28/36 guideline.Refinance break-evenFind out how many months it takes for a lower mortgage rate to pay back the closing costs, and what you save if you stay.

Disclaimer: These are ballpark estimates only. Real costs depend on your location, site conditions, materials, and the market. Get written quotes from licensed contractors and your lender before you set a budget.

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