If you are looking for a new home, you might be wondering what setup is best for you. Renting and owning your home each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, but the best decision for you will be based on your own unique circumstances.
Before deciding whether to rent or buy, sit down to determine your budget and determine which choice would work better for you. Write out your financial and savings goals to see how your decision might affect them; for example, you will still want to save for retirement, children’s college funds, etc. Compare the following points to determine which choice is the better fit for your budget, goals, and lifestyle:
If there is a possibility that you might relocate in the relatively near future, renting might be the better choice for you. Renting comes with less responsibility than homeownership; though you’re not building equity, you have the ability to change your plans if your circumstances change. It’s generally easier to end or wait out a lease than to sell a home, so if you need room for flexibility, renting your home is the choice for you.
Advocates for homeownership frequently mention the freedom to make changes to your home; however, with this freedom comes responsibility. When you rent, there might be limits to which updates or personalizations you can make; however, if you need repairs, they will generally cost you less. Your landlord will likely be responsible for repairing and replacing components in your home; this includes doing necessary repair and maintenance work for plumbing, electrical, roofing, and other systems.
Buying a home requires some major costs upfront; between the down payment and closing costs, you need some serious cash. When you rent, you pay less upfront. While many landlords require you to pay the first and last month’s rent, as well as a security deposit, this is still less than what you would likely have to pay for a down payment. While mortgage payments tend to be lower than rent, it’s much easier to come up with the costs you’ll need for a rental.
Home Realtors can help you find the right home for rent in the Big Spring, Lamesa, Colorado City, and Midland, TX areas. Reach out to our team today to begin your search or browse our listings!