: Less granular detail than the NY Times model, though easier for quick estimates.
: The most overlooked factor. Calculators like Zillow's show that if you rent and invest your down payment, you could potentially out-earn a home's equity growth, especially in the first 3–5 years. rent or buy home calculator
: Buying involves "lost" money like property taxes, HOA fees, and maintenance (often 1% of home value annually). Renting's primary unrecoverable cost is simply the monthly rent. : Less granular detail than the NY Times
: Critics argue its default assumptions can be overly pessimistic toward buying, specifically regarding how high home price growth must be to "win". : Buying involves "lost" money like property taxes,
: Accounts for opportunity cost (what you'd earn by investing your down payment), the 2017 mortgage interest deduction cap, and localized appreciation.
: Highly reviewed for its user-friendly interface and frequently updated economic forecasts.