Looking for a home can arguably be one of the most difficult tasks that an individual will have to accomplish. Some people are set on living in their homes for a long period, while others are just looking for a place to live until they find something more permanent.
Deciding whether to buy or rent a home can be an even more difficult decision. While it used to be that buying was the only choice available, renting has become increasingly popular over the years. Some individuals enjoy the benefits of renting instead of buying. Here are some reasons why renting can be better than buying.
Flexibility
Renting gives individuals the flexibility to live in whatever location they want, moving whenever their life changes need them to move. Renting also allows young people who are just starting in life or college graduates who don’t have very high salaries an opportunity to get a feel for what it’s like to live on their own and not rely on others.
For example, one day you can explore apartments near Mesquite TX if you want to access Dallas without spending too much and a few months later you can relocate to Dallas when you can afford it. With renting, the possibilities are endless.
Less responsibility
Although it can be extremely rewarding to own one’s own home, it requires a substantial amount of responsibility. Renters may not have to worry about maintenance or repairs because their landlord typically takes care of those issues.
Furthermore, renters only pay rent for as long as they live in the property, whereas those who buy homes make monthly mortgage payments. Additionally, while renters may have to pay a broker’s fee, some buyers also incur additional costs when purchasing a home.
Less expensive
Renting can be substantially less expensive than buying a home. While the initial rental fees may only be slightly lower than the down payment on a mortgage, renters don’t have to worry about paying for repairs or renovations.
Also, the price of utilities tends to be less for renters than it is for homeowners who have to pay for heating and cooling, water and sewage, and electricity. This can be a huge cost-savings for renters over time. Additionally, renters are not responsible for paying property taxes on the home they rent.
No worries about home appreciation
Many people think that buying a home is a great way to invest money because it has historically been one of the best ways to increase net worth. Although this is true, it’s important not to forget about all other factors involved when buying a home.
However, sometimes home appreciation can outpace the inflation rate and turn to buy a home from an investment into a financial burden. Renters don’t have to worry about any of these issues because they pay monthly rent, which doesn’t fluctuate with the housing market. This can be a relief for those worried about how they will pay their monthly bills if the housing market crashes.
Less time and effort
Although buying a home requires a significant amount of time and money, renting only requires an individual to sign a lease. This can be a much less difficult process for many people who don’t have the time or money to move into a new place. Additionally, renters aren’t responsible for paying a buy-in fee to the homeowners association, whereas those who buy homes are.
Also, renters aren’t responsible for finding their own homes – they merely have to search online or in-person to find available rental properties. On the other hand, those who buy homes have to spend hours and hours looking for the perfect one before they can even move in.
Opportunity to explore different options
Renting gives individuals a chance to move into different properties throughout their lives, leading them to a lifestyle that they enjoy. For example, those who buy homes may feel pressured to have kids because they have more room for them.
Renters aren’t as financially tied down and can take some time before making these kinds of life decisions. It allows them to explore different locations and even different careers without the obligation of a mortgage.
Final thoughts
Renting can be a great alternative to buying a home. It comes with less responsibility and costs but still allows individuals to live in nice places throughout their life.
Those who buy homes may feel as though they have to settle for the one that they found because it was such a long and difficult process finding one in the first place. Overall, it’s a great choice for many who don’t want to be tied down with a mortgage and want to keep their options open.
