Renting and buying are not a monthly-payment comparison — rent is money gone, and part of a mortgage payment builds equity. This calculator compares the true cost of each side over the years you expect to stay, including interest, taxes, insurance, maintenance, appreciation, and selling costs.

Still on the fence? The deciding question is usually how long you’ll stay — buying wins when you stay long enough for the equity to cover the selling costs. Start your pre-approval and I’ll run your numbers both ways.