See what renting is really costing you
Plug in your numbers and compare renting against owning across the Carolinas. The math is usually closer than people expect.
Run your own numbers
Your numbers
Fill in your current situation
Your results
Based on $1,900/mo rent vs. a $375,000 home over 5 years.
If you keep renting
- Total rent paid
- $123,492
- Equity built
- $0
- Assets owned
- Nothing
If you own
- Estimated monthly payment
- $2,662/mo
- Total paid (incl. down payment)
- $178,465
- Estimated home value
- $445,382
- Equity built
- $112,086
Your advantage
$57,113
better off owning
*Estimates are for illustration only. Assumes 5% down, a 30-year fixed loan at 6.45%, 1.35% annually for taxes and insurance, and 3.5% annual appreciation. Actual terms, payments and equity depend on your credit, loan program and property. Talk with Sir Ashley and a lender for personalized numbers.
What renting really costs you
Beyond the monthly payment, renting carries costs most people never add up.
Lost Equity
Every rent payment builds your landlord's wealth, not yours. Ten years at $1,900 a month is roughly $228,000 gone.
Rent Increases
Carolina-area rents have climbed 3–5% most years. A fixed-rate mortgage payment does not move with the market.
No Control
Lease renewals, landlord decisions and surprise sales are out of your hands. Owners set their own terms.
No Tax Benefits
Owners may deduct mortgage interest and property taxes. Renters receive nothing at tax time.
Renting vs. owning
| Renting | Owning | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Payment | Rises at renewal | Fixed principal & interest |
| Equity Built | $0 | Every single month |
| Payment Stability | Increases at renewal | Locked for the loan term |
| Tax Benefits | None | Interest & tax deductions |
| Freedom to Modify | Needs permission | It's yours |
| Upfront Cost | Deposit (returned at best) | Down payment (becomes equity) |
| After 5 Years | Nothing to show | Equity plus appreciation |
| Wealth Building | For your landlord | For your family |
Who ownership fits
Growing Families
You want stability, schools you chose on purpose, and a home you are not asked to leave at renewal.
Working Professionals
Steady income, limited savings, and a rent payment already higher than a mortgage would be.
First-Time Buyers
The traditional path feels out of reach. We map down payment assistance, loan programs and realistic price points.
Investors
You want every dollar working. We model cash flow, appreciation and long-term hold strategy.
The best time to start building equity is now
Every month you rent is equity you will never get back. Let's look at your numbers, your timeline and what you can actually buy today.
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