Rent or buy calculator
Buying builds equity but costs more upfront and to maintain. Renting keeps cash free to invest. This compares what each path builds over time, with every assumption in view.
How this calculator works
Month by month, it tracks the buyer's home value, loan balance and costs, and the renter's rent. The renter invests what the buyer put down and paid to close. Each month, whoever spends less invests the difference at the return you choose. At any point, the buyer's net worth is the home's value minus selling costs and the loan balance, plus their savings.
When you are ready to see the buy side with real numbers, your Mortgage Plan lays out every loan option. If you are new to buying, start with your first home.
Learn more
Common questions
Why does buying usually start behind?
Closing costs at purchase and selling costs at sale are large. It takes a few years of equity and appreciation to cover them, which is why the time you plan to stay matters most.
Is this fair to renters?
Yes. The renter invests the down payment and closing costs instead, and whoever spends less each month invests the difference. Change the return to match what you would realistically earn.
What is not included?
This calculator does not include tax effects, renter's insurance, moving costs or large unexpected repairs. The upkeep figure covers normal maintenance.
See it with your own numbers
Daniel builds your Mortgage Plan from what you tell him: every loan option that fits, side by side.