Is it better to rent a home, or to buy one? The answer may not be as clear-cut as you think. In this balanced, 3-minute joint interview from NBC's The Today Show, you'll hear the case for both sides.
From the pro-renting part of the talk, there's valid points about the economic impact of low credit scores and/or no cash for downpayment, and the ongoing, annual cost of home maintenance -- estimated at 2% of a home's value. Plus, renters have the ability to "follow a job" to a new town or region whereas a homeowner may be restricted, somewhat.
From the pro-purchase part, however, there's excellent points that were made, too:
- Mortgage rates are low and each 1% drop to rates equates to a 9% drop to home price
- Buyers can zero in on a particular area with particular schools or walkability, for example, better than renters
- A home can a piggybank over the long-term; a place for "forced savings" for families that want it
The segment then closes with 5 of the best cities in which to rent, and 5 of the best cities in which to buy.
Whether buying or renting, don't try to go at it alone. There's lot of resources online, and an email to a local real estate or mortgage pro can set you in the right direction.
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