Renting vs. Buying

First-time home buyers should carefully analyze their financial situation before deciding to rent or buy. While traditional metrics suggest keeping housing costs below 28-33% of gross income, rising living costs complicate this equation. Renting can often be more financially viable, as demonstrated by the significant cost difference in ownership versus renting similar properties in high-cost cities. Ultimately, running the numbers is crucial, as homeownership may not guarantee the financial stability it once did.