Is It Better to Rent or Buy in a New City?

When you’re moving anywhere, but especially to a new city, you’re faced with the classic question of whether it’s a better idea to rent or buy a home. Though this answer is heavily dependent on who you are and where you’re at in your life, there’s never a completely right answer as to whether it’s better to rent or buy. 

 

Whether you’re headed to a new city or staying where you are, you also have to take into account a lot of other external factors when it comes to renting vs. buying, including the housing market where you are, your individual goals, your finances, and just whether you or your family are ready. 

 

Renting vs. Buying: What to Consider

 

Renting vs. Buying: Commitment Level

The biggest difference between renting and buying a home is the commitment level involved. In particular, if you’re moving to a new city, but maybe don’t know if you’ll like it or if you’ll be staying long term, you might want to hold off on buying a home until you’re more sure of your circumstances, or if you’ll like your new city.   

 

If you’re not sold on committing to staying in your new city (or existing city!) for at least 5 years, you might not want to make the commitment of buying a home. Even if you’re relocating for work, it’s not a guarantee that you’ll like your position or new location enough to stick around for an elongated period of time.

Also, keep in mind that you don’t have to buy a home right away when you move. Even if you like your new city, maybe give yourself some breathing room and make the house hunting process a little easier by renting when you first get there. Renting is low-commitment, and also gives you time to scope out and become more familiar with the neighborhoods in your new area – this way, if you like your area, you can look for homes for sale. If you don’t, you’re not already committed to living there long-term!

 

Personal Goals

Before making the decision to rent or buy a home in a new area, assess your current situation or space in life, and consider what your goals are. Where do you want to be? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Does buying a home in this area align with that vision? Do you have kids? Where do you see them in 5 years? What’s the school or neighborhood situation in your current or new surroundings? Before committing to buying a home, especially in a new area, do a nice self analysis and figure out if home ownership aligns with your current state and future goals. 

 

House Hunting Pressure

If you’re in the midst of coordinating a move of any sort, you’re probably already under a good amount of stress. Add in the pressure and stress involved in purchasing a home (especially one that you might not be able to view in-person due to distance or schedule), and you’re taking on a lot. If you’re already taking on the stress of these new situations, purchasing a home might be something to leave for a little later in your transition. 

 

No matter where you’re headed, or how long you intend to be there for, making sure you have the right movers on  your side to get you where you need to go quickly and efficiently. Consult Hollander Storage & Moving Co. for all of your relocation needs. 

 

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