By the time we hit our 60s, over 80% of us are homeowners, presumably because we’ve outgrown renting and enjoy the thrill of yelling, “Get off my lawn!” at neighborhood kids. But as retirement looms, some homeowners start dreaming of downsizing—or even renting again—because let’s face it, snow- shoveling and leaky faucets lose their charm after a while. Which is Better: Renting or Buying? Ah, the age-old debate. It’s like asking if pineapple belongs on pizza—there’s no universal answer, only what’s right for you. But before you dive into Zillow or start scoping out rental listings, consider a few key questions: • How long are you sticking around? Buying a house only makes sense if you’re planning to stay for at least four to seven years. If you’re thinking of buying and selling faster than a TikTok trend dies, you might end up losing money. • Is your house your retirement plan? For many, a house is their golden goose—a solid investment they hope will grow fatter with time. But remember, the real estate market can be as temperamental as a cat. It doesn’t always go up, and sometimes it hisses at you unexpectedly. • Can you afford it? This is a biggie. If your budget is tighter than your jeans after Thanksgiving dinner, buying might not be for you—yet. Don’t just compare rent to a mortgage. Factor in the hidden gremlins: taxes, insurance, maintenance, HOA fees, and the occasional surprise expense, like when your water heater decides to explode. And let’s not forget the emotional side: buying a house is like entering a long-term relationship. It’s thrilling, but also stressful, messy, and occasionally involves paperwork you don’t understand. Are you ready for that kind of commitment? Or are
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