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The Fundamentals of Renting vs. Buying

24 SEPT,2024     2 min read

The Fundamentals of Renting vs. Buying: What You Need to Know

Introduction:

The decision to rent or buy a home is a pivotal moment in many people's lives. It's not just about where you'll live; it's about how you'll allocate your resources and shape your financial future. In this guide, we'll break down the essential factors you need to consider when deciding between renting and buying in India.

Key Factors Influencing Your Housing Choice

  1. Financial Readiness
    • Current savings and income stability
    • Credit score and loan eligibility
  2. Long-Term Plans
    • Career prospects and potential relocations
    • Family planning considerations
  3. Market Conditions
    • Property prices in your desired area
    • Rental market trends
  4. Lifestyle Preferences
    • Desire for stability vs. flexibility
    • Willingness to handle maintenance and repairs

The Financial Equation: Crunching the Numbers

  1. Upfront Costs
    • Renting: Security deposit (typically 2-3 months' rent)
    • Buying: Down payment (usually 20% of property value)
  2. Ongoing Expenses
    • Renting: Monthly rent, possibly some utilities
    • Buying: Mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance costs

Monthly expenses incurred by Renters Vs Homeowners

Expense Category Renters Homeowners
Monthly Rent ₹20,833-₹43,750 N/A
Home Loan EMI N/A ₹77,530-₹1,16,295
Property Tax N/A ₹1,000-₹3,000
Maintenance Fee ₹1,000-₹2,500 ₹2,000-₹5,000[1]
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas) ₹2,000-₹5,000 ₹2,000-₹5,000
Internet ₹500-₹1,500 ₹500-₹1,500
Repairs and Upkeep Usually covered by landlord ₹1,000-₹3,000[2]
Insurance Optional, usually not taken ₹500-₹1,500
Total Monthly Expenses ₹2,43,33-₹52,750 ₹84,530-₹1,30,295

Assumptions: Average home value in a urban micromarket in the range of 1-1.5 Cr

[1] Varies according to society and amenities
[2] Varies according to property condition and unforeseen issues

Long-Term Financial Implications

Building Equity

When you buy a home, each mortgage payment builds equity. Over time, this can significantly contribute to your net worth.

Potential for Appreciation

While not guaranteed, property values in India have historically appreciated over the long term.

Opportunity Cost

Funds used for a down payment could potentially earn returns if invested elsewhere.

Home Price Indices across India

The data represents cumulative appreciation, starting from a base of 100 in 2014.

Lifestyle Considerations

  1. Renting Pros:
    • Flexibility to move
    • Fewer responsibilities for maintenance
    • Lower upfront costs
  2. Buying Pros:
    • Stability and sense of ownership
    • Freedom to customize your space
    • Potential for financial gain

Making Your Decision

Consider your personal circumstances, financial goals, and lifestyle preferences. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but understanding these fundamentals will help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion:

Whether you choose to rent or buy, your decision should align with your financial situation and long-term goals. In our next blog, we'll dive deeper into the financial aspects of renting vs. buying to help you further navigate this important decision.