• 30-year fixed-rate mortgage assumed for all calculations.
• Renter invests the down payment and any monthly savings at the specified return rate.
• Property tax and maintenance costs increase with home appreciation.
• Does not include closing costs, realtor fees (typically 5-6% on sale), or moving costs.
• Does not account for mortgage interest tax deduction or capital gains exclusion.
• Investment returns are pre-tax and assume consistent annual returns (actual returns vary).
• Rent increases are applied uniformly each year.
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. Real estate and investment decisions involve many factors not captured here, including local market conditions, tax implications, lifestyle preferences, and opportunity costs.
This is not financial advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor, real estate professional, and tax advisor before making major housing decisions.