Published on : 01 June 20203 min reading time
Experts point out that buying a house is the best choice in the long term and renting is the best choice in the short and medium term. We analyze the pros and cons of both so that you can make the best decision.
Buying or renting a house? Advantages and disadvantages
The purchase of a home is one of the most important decisions we make, as it is generally a high investment, so we should think about it very carefully. In Spain there has always been a culture of “ownership” but the economic and employment circumstances have moved, to a large extent, the balance towards renting.
In order to affirm if the option of renting or buying a house is better or vice versa, it is necessary to evaluate our own circumstances, those of the market at that moment and, knowing clearly, the advantages and disadvantages of both operations.
Renting: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
You hardly need any savings to get it up and running.
The paperwork and steps to be taken are minimal.
In the event of a mistake, it is easier to make amends.
You can have access to areas where you could not buy.
It provides tax benefits to both the tenant and the owner, according to conditions.
With the rent you have less expenses, since the taxes associated with it, are assumed by the owner, unless other conditions are agreed in the contract.
Disadvantages
A minimum time of stay is usually stipulated in the contract.
You cannot make any work or changes to it without permission.
You will always have to pay a monthly rent.
You do not benefit from the upward/downward cycles in the price of the property.
Buying: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
The property is available for any purpose you wish.
It allows you to decorate and reform it as you wish.
In the long term it is usually revalued.
It serves as a measure of future savings.
Once paid for, there is no longer a fixed monthly cost.
Depending on the bank interest rate, it may be cheaper to live in the property than to rent it.
Disadvantages
It requires a significant amount of money to be available at the outset.
More complex process, paperwork, taxes, etc.
The banks grant mortgages under very specific circumstances and reach a maximum of 80% of the total value, in the current market.
In the event of non-payment of the mortgage, there are serious problems with the bank, and the property may be lost.
Regardless of the option you choose, it is important that you protect your home with the home insurance that best suits your needs.