Compare the true 5-year cost of renting vs buying to make the right decision for your situation. Free and instant.
Buying a home builds equity over time, but renting has real advantages too — flexibility, no maintenance costs, and no exposure to housing market downturns. The right answer depends on how long you plan to stay, your local market, and your financial goals.
Most financial experts say buying makes sense if you plan to stay for at least 5–7 years. In the first few years, transaction costs (closing costs, agent fees) make renting cheaper. Over time, equity buildup and appreciation shift the advantage to buying.