Should You Keep Renting or Buy a Home?

If you're holding off on buying a home because you're worried about home values dropping, you're not alone. Many renters hesitate, fearing that real estate prices might decline after they buy, leaving them with a property worth less than what they paid. But what if waiting to buy is actually costing you more in the long run? While it’s natural to be cautious, let’s break down why homeownership offers stability, long-term financial benefits, and even generational wealth, especially when compared to the ongoing uncertainties of renting

Renting vs. Owning

1. Renting Offers Zero Long-Term Financial Return

When you rent, you’re essentially paying someone else’s mortgage. Every month, your rent check disappears into your landlord’s pocket, never building any equity for you.

  • Let’s say you rent for $2,000/month.
  • Over five years, you will have spent $120,000 on rent—and you own nothing at the end of it.

Meanwhile, if you had bought a home, a portion of your payment would have gone toward your mortgage principal, building equity—which is essentially forced savings that you can tap into later.

2. Home Values May Fluctuate, But Rent Prices Only Go Up

You may be worried about home prices dropping, but history shows that over time, real estate tends to appreciate. Even during market corrections, prices eventually recover and rise over the long term.

Meanwhile, rent increases are almost guaranteed.

  • According to historical data, rent prices increase by 3-5% per year in many areas.
  • In 10 years, your rent could be $500–$1,000 higher per month than it is today.
  • When you own a home with a fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payment remains stable, giving you long-term financial security.

Stability matters. Imagine knowing that in 10 years, your mortgage payment will be the same while your renting friends are struggling with sky-high rents.

3. Owning a Home Builds Generational Wealth

One of the biggest advantages of homeownership is that it’s a wealth-building tool that can benefit not only you but also your children and future generations.

  • The average homeowner has 40x more net worth than the average renter.
  • Owning a home means building equity—wealth that you can use later for college funds, investments, retirement, or passing down to your children.
  • Real estate is one of the most stable long-term investments, even during economic downturns.

Many families who own homes for decades build enough wealth to give their children a financial head start in life. Renting never provides that opportunity.

4. Timing the Market is Nearly Impossible

Waiting for the “perfect” time to buy—when prices are low and interest rates are ideal—is nearly impossible.

  • If home values drop, interest rates may be higher, making monthly payments just as expensive.
  • If interest rates drop, demand increases, pushing home prices higher.
  • Meanwhile, rent prices continue climbing, and you lose out on years of equity.

Instead of trying to “time the market,” focus on your long-term goals. If you can afford to buy now, the best time to start building wealth is today.

The Bottom Line: Renting is Temporary, Homeownership is Stability

While home values may rise and fall in the short term, long-term homeownership remains one of the best ways to secure your financial future.

  • Renting keeps you in an endless cycle of paying someone else’s mortgage.
  • Owning gives you stability, control, and long-term financial benefits.

If you’re on the fence about buying, ask yourself:

🔹 Do I want to continue paying increasing rent every year with no return?

 🔹 Or do I want to invest in something that provides security, equity, and generational wealth?

Ready to Explore Your Homeownership Options?

You don’t have to navigate this decision alone. Whether you’re just considering buying your first home or ready to take the next step, we’re here to help.

Let’s discuss your options, financial readiness, and how homeownership can work for you—even in today’s market.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation! Call or Text 970-829-2437

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Don’t wait for the perfect market—create your perfect future.

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Mark Crunk | NMLS #2267612 | Barrett Financial Group, L.L.C. | NMLS #181106 | 275 E Rivulon Blvd, Suite 200, Gilbert, AZ

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