Have you been wondering whether you should keep renting or finally make the leap into homeownership? It’s a big decision. Renting can feel like the easier option, especially if buying a home feels out of reach.
But, here’s the thing: a recent report from Bank of America highlights that 70% of prospective buyers fear the long-term consequences of renting.
Maybe you are feeling that too – concerned about where renting might leave you down the road, but still unsure if you would even be able to buy right now. The truth is, if you are able to make the numbers work, buying a home has powerful long-term financial benefits.
Let’s break down why homeownership is worth considering in 2025 and beyond, and how it can help set you up for the future.
Buying Builds Wealth Over Time
Buying a home allows you to turn your monthly housing costs into a long-term investment. That’s because, as shown in data from the Census and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, home prices tend to increase over time.
Rising home prices directly benefit homeowners. That’s because when you own a home, you build equity – meaning your ownership stake in your home grows as you pay down your mortgage and your home’s value appreciates. And that makes your net worth grow too.
Maybe that’s why, according to the National Association of Realtors, 79% of buyers believe owning a home is a good financial investment.
Renting Comes with Rising Costs
Renting may feel more affordable in the short term. But the reality is, over time, rent almost always goes up too. Take a look at the data and you can see that play out. According to Census data rents have significantly increased over the decades.
This means if you decide to rent, you will likely face growing expenses each time you renew or sign a new lease. That will happen without building any wealth in return. Plus, those rising costs may make it harder to save up to buy a home down the road.
Renting vs. Buying: The Long-Term Impact
When you own a home, your payments are an investment in your future. Renting, on the other hand, means your money is gone for good – it helps your landlord build equity, not you.
Renting works for those not ready (or able) to buy today. But if you are able to make the numbers work, buying a home builds equity and sets you up for long-term financial success. So, even though renting may seem easier now, it can’t match the benefits of homeownership.