Should I rent or should I own?

Owning a home is the American dream.But for some individuals, renting a property can be a wise choice, both financially and personally. Which is right for you? Consider the following:

Which offers lower monthly costs?
In many locations, rent is still affordable. In others, it can be higher than a comparable mortgage, especially when you consider that mortgage interest and property taxes are tax deductible. If your potential monthly mortgage payments are lower than your monthly rent, it might be time to buy.

Which offers more value?
A home is an investment. A rental property is an expense.  Home ownership allows you to build up equity over time, which can make buying a home a better value even though it might seem more expensive in the short-term.

Which offers more stability?
As a renter, you're subject not only to rising rents, but also to the sale of your building. As an owner, your home belongs to you until you're ready to move on.

Which allows you to benefit from mortgage interest?
You can deduct mortgage interest from your income tax if you buy a home. If you rent, your landlord gets the deductions and uses your rent to make the mortgage payment.

Which allows you to deduct real estate tax?
You can deduct real estate taxes on your tax return when you own. If you rent, your landlord takes the tax deduction.

Which gives you good credit?
Home ownership is a major indicator of financial responsibility and stability, which gives you the chance to build a strong credit history.

Which helps you establish roots?
Unlike homeowners, renters are more mobile and often don't establish roots in a community.

Which helps you build a retirement nest egg?
Homeowners can enjoy tax-free profits up to $500,000 from the sale of a primary residence that they have occupied for two of the last five years, if they are married and filing jointly. If an owner is single or married filing separately, he or she can enjoy tax-free profits up to $250,000.

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