rules. You can paint walls however you want, add fixtures, update or finish your basement, or build a patio or deck. Changing your environment to suit your whims is an empowering aspect of homeownership. You won't be in a situation where your landlord likes your remodeling efforts so much that they decide to move in... and leave you looking for a new place to live! A sense of belonging to the community. Homeowners tend to stay in homes longer than renters and are more likely to grow roots. They might join a neighborhood association, volunteer at a nearby community center, join a school group, or align with a business improvement district. Renters might not do any of those things, particularly if they know their lease is up in a year, and they might move. An intangible pleasant feeling is attached to owning your own house — a sense of freedom and independence. Your home belongs to you, and you can do what you want. You aren’t facing fears about increases in rent or losing the lease. You’re free to make improvements and changes. Also, owning your home gives your children the guarantee of attending the schools in the area on a more permanent basis; you never need to worry about a notice from the landlord to vacate your rented house or apartment for a variety of reasons over which you have no control.
ADVANTAGES OF RENTING
It seems a shorter list, but one person's pro is another one's con, and renting certainly has advantages that factor into your buy-or- rent decision. No responsibility for maintenance. Admittedly, this is a significant advantage. You’re not typically responsible for home maintenance or repair costs when you rent. If a toilet backs up, a pipe bursts, or an appliance stops working you don’t have to call an expensive repair person. You simply call your landlord or superintendent. Most condo, townhouse, or apartment renters
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