Online House Hunting

Which is the better long-term financial decision: buy a house, or rent and invest the money in stocks?

I'm 40, we're not having additional kids, so no family plans, and we're well rooted here, so we don't plan to leave the city. Really feel like we could live here for 30 years. Generally speaking, what is the better long-term financial decision: buy a 3-bedroom house, or rent a 3-bedroom apartment? Please be specific about the factors you considered in deciding on your answer.

Public Comments

1. Your home should never be considered an investment but the place you wish to live for a long time. Since you want to stay in the area then buy. No landlord problems, no tenants upstairs making noise. Decorate as you please. At age 40 with only 25 yrs to retirement you should also be investing in stocks. To buy or rent is your decision.
2. I am no Real Estate Professional by no means but you have higher probability of making more of an investment in Real Estate as long as you find the right deal. Just like stocks you buy low and sell high but with stocks where do you start? real estate is more common knowledge than stock, you buy an investment property now when the market is at its lowest your value will only go up with value and equity. Stocks need alot of money to invest to only see marginal profits when selling high, property depending on the deal you find could profit you limitless amounts in a matter of 1-10 years.
3. Are you saving money renting? What would the difference between renting and buying be a month? Are you protected by laws that mean you can stay there for thirty years if you want to. Rents will go up but a mortgage stays the same. If you think inflation will be low then buying may not be relevant, but if inflation turned up to max then after the interest rate hikes are over you wages will maybe go up and the payments will be less than rent. Owing is a good feeling but expensive for a few years.
4. 1. Renting a three bedroom house or apartment no appreciation, no tax advantages, possible eviction notice for no reason, raising the rent for no apparent reason #2. Buying a three bedroom house Appreciation in the house over several years, interest tax deduction, same mortgage payment for at least 30 years unless you refinance, no eviction notice for any reason. You should always plan for your retirement either renting or buying. In addition to your 401K plan at work you should always invest at least $100.00 to $200.00 per month to a retirement fund of some sort, primarily in a tax deferred or tax savings retirement account. In addition to your home that would be paid down by 20 years you would also have an additional savings for retirement along with your 401k, and social security. I hope this has been of some benefit to you, good luck. "FIGHT ON"
5. I would by the house since you plan to be there for a long time. I would put the min amount down (FHA) and do a 30 or even 15 year fixed rate.