Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare home equity with the savings you could invest while renting.
Preparing your calculator…
MansionMath provides estimates for educational purposes. Actual loan terms, taxes, insurance, fees, investment returns, and eligibility may vary.
How this calculator works
The renter invests the buyer’s initial down payment and closing fees. Each month, the cheaper option invests its cost savings at the selected annual effective return. Buying costs include mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, HOA, maintenance, and estimated conventional PMI until modeled LTV reaches 80%. Buyer net position = home value − remaining loan − selling costs + invested monthly savings. Renter net position is the investment balance. No tax benefits, rent deposit, or transaction tax adjustments are modeled.
Use current quotes, local rates, and measured dimensions to make this estimate useful for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I use the rent vs buy calculator?+
Enter your measurements or financial assumptions above. Results update instantly. If buying costs $2,800 monthly and renting costs $2,000, the renter invests the $800 difference, in addition to the cash that would have been used for a down payment. Home appreciation and selling costs determine whether equity catches up.
How accurate is this estimate?+
Estimates use the inputs you supply. Actual lender terms, fees, insurance, taxes, and eligibility vary. Compare quotes and verify local costs before committing.