Home Ownership – Should I Rent or Buy Property?

Most people consider that rent money is dead money – after all, there’s even a saying that goes just like that. Naturally, when we say most people, we refer to those that are either working or heavily involved in the real estate industry.

On top of that, housing affordability is an issue all over the world. In some countries, the fresh adults, so to speak, are thought to be faced with a generation of rent, with little to no chances of being able to buy a house.

Moreover, to decide between keeping on renting or buying a house is not something as easy as it sounds. You cannot jump onto the property ladder without facing a couple of issues beforehand.

Renting vs. Buying

As you may know, whether you rent or buy depends on what is better for you and your financial situation, as well as the pros and cons that each option comes with. Obviously, keep in mind that a pro can and could be a con if you would have different circumstances to take into account.

With these being said, it is important to assess your situation properly before you make the final decision. We’re here to help you with that!

The Advantages of Renting

Frees Up Savings

Naturally, when you rent a home, you will not have to worry about the deposit associated with buying one. Those funds can be used to invest in something else or simply keep as savings for rainy days.

If you pass on using your savings as a deposit for a home loan, you may engage in an alternative investment that would bring you a greater return on investment. In short, you wouldn’t have to put your savings and a great deal of your monthly income towards a mortgage and a deposit.

More Flexibility

You are clearly way more flexible when renting a house. When your lease expires, relocation won’t be a problem – you just have to find a new place to crash in, so to speak.

On the other hand, there are a lot of costs that come with selling and buying a new property – because of this, you are left with little to no flexibility in terms of buying a home.

Investments’ Diversification

Buying a home means that most, if not all of your savings and income will go towards this one particular asset. The question that you need to ask yourself is: do you feel comfortable with investing in one single thing?

Investing in only your home comes with great risk – a risk that much people often avoid taking. When you rent, you can use your income and savings to expand your portfolio, decrease risk, and increase your chances of getting a nice return.

The Disadvantages of Renting

History Lesson

According to history, the costs associated with renting will increase over the years – in a steady manner, mainly due to inflation and the increase in property prices.

For example, you may initially have to pay more in mortgage repayments than in rent, but after you pay off the principal, the situation may turn itself around – thus making buying a house the more viable option.

No Forced Savings

Naturally, a mortgage can be seen as forced savings. Since you must pay your mortgage every single month, you also put money towards an asset that could increase in time.

When it comes to renting, you are not forced to save money. Instead of investing – or saving – you may be tempted to spare cash and not think about your future financial situation.

The Advantages of Buying

Freedom and Stability

First of all, you cannot be displaced by a landlord once you buy your own home. You are not trapped in by a lease term – there’s always some sort of certainty when you buy and own a house.

On top of that, you can freely decorate and renovate your home when you are the owner.

Long Term Investment Strategy

As you may know, home ownership is considered a long-term investment strategy. Even though they do have periods of weaker growth or even fall in value, homes are known to consistently rise over the long-term.

Thus, home ownership is considered and eventually chosen by many people because of the great thought of having an asset with a value that will most certainly increase over time.

Equity

Equity is probably the best thing about owning a home. It is basically the percentage of the home that you personally own.

For example, if your home’s value increases, your equity will increase as well, as you pay off your loan. Eventually, you will most likely make use of that equity to fund whatever investment you have your mind on.

The Disadvantages of Buying

Interest

The life of a loan comes with fees and interest that can be quite significant.

For example, if your fixed-rate period expires or you have a variable interest rate, be ready to experience fluctuating interest rates!

Opportunity Costs

When buying a home, your money will be essentially tied up in property. You’ll have to save money for a deposit and probably pass on many things that you wish to do – traveling, studying, entertainment, and so on.

Buying also means that you have to postpone any investment opportunities that could yield you quicker or greater returns than a home.

Ownership Costs

Naturally, buying a home doesn’t mean only saving up for a deposit and loan repayments. According to data provided by the Reserve Bank of Australia, it costs about 6% of the purchase cost to buy a home and about 4% of the sale price to sell.

On top of this, you will also have to take into consideration repairs, depreciation, council rates, body corporate fees, as well as water and insurance costs.

The Bottom Line

Buying a home is not for everyone – similarly, renting is not the same or meant for everyone. Each of these two options comes with its advantages and disadvantages that have to be carefully analysed if you want to make a good investment, for example.

For instance, you may have to decide between investing in a business or owning a home. In such cases, you have to remember that your financial situation and its surroundings will provide you with the right answer!

If you need any help or have questions about either buying or renting, feel free to contact our office for home loan help. Our team will use its experience to help you find the best loan – they’ll guide you through the entire process!

Reach out and contact us today – we’re more than happy to help you! Contact us on on 02 9121 6247 or submit your scenario online.