Skip to main content
Model Mortgage - Houston Mortgage BrokerMODEL MORTGAGE
← Back to Calculators

Rent vs Buy Calculator

Compare the total costs of renting versus buying a home over time. See which option makes more financial sense for your situation.

Rent vs Buy Calculator

Cost Comparison

Rent
$0
vs
Buy
$0
Principal & Interest$0.00/mo
Property Tax$0.00/mo
Insurance$0.00/mo
Maintenance$0.00/mo
Total Rent Cost
$0
Total Buy Cost
$0
Net Difference
$0
Recommendation
Buy
Years to Stay7 years
Home Appreciation Rate3%
Summary:

Over 7 years, buying is more cost-effective by $0. Your home would be worth $0 with $0 in equity built.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to stay in a home for buying to make sense?

It depends on your specific numbers — your down payment, interest rate, expected appreciation, and current rent. Enter your "Years to Stay" and the calculator will show you how the total cost of buying compares to renting over that specific timeline, rather than relying on a generic rule of thumb.

Does this calculator account for home appreciation?

Yes. The appreciation rate input projects how your home's value — and the equity you'd build through ownership — changes over your selected time horizon, which is a key factor renting doesn't offer.

What costs does the "buy" side include?

The buying comparison is based on your mortgage payment (principal and interest) at your specified home price, down payment, and interest rate, weighed against your monthly rent and the equity and appreciation you'd build as an owner over your selected years to stay.

Ready to Get Pre-Approved?

Get a personalized quote based on your unique financial situation.

Start Your Pre-Approval