Should you rent or buy?

A full picture comparison — financial, lifestyle and emotional — tailored to the UK and Europe.

⚠️ This is an informational tool only. Property decisions are complex and personal. Always consult a financial adviser or mortgage broker before making any decision.

About you

Property details

£

Estimated market value of the property

£

20% deposit

Current UK average ~4.5% for 2-year fix

£

What you'd pay to rent a similar property

UK long-term average ~3–4% per year

Lifestyle & emotional factors

Renting gives you freedom to move quickly for work, relationships or lifestyle

Owning creates community ties, stability and a sense of belonging

Owners can renovate freely; renters are restricted by landlords

Buying ties up capital; renting keeps cash flexible for investment

Buy score

—

out of 100

vs

Rent score

—

out of 100

Monthly mortgage

—

principal + interest

Monthly rent

—

equivalent property

Monthly difference

—

buying vs renting

Equity after 5 yrs

—

estimated

Break-even point

—

years to buy wins financially

Total cost of buying

—

over 5 years

Opportunity cost

—

deposit invested @ 5%/yr

Est. insurance/yr

—

buildings + contents

Cumulative cost — buying vs renting over time

Net cost of buying (after equity) Total cost of renting

Full factor breakdown

Financial factors

Lifestyle factors

Emotional factors

Sources & assumptions: Mortgage calculation uses standard annuity formula. UK property growth: Land Registry HPI long-term average. Stamp duty included for UK purchases. Maintenance estimated at 1–2% of property value per year. Opportunity cost of deposit calculated at 5% annual return (S&P 500 long-term average after inflation). This tool is for illustration only — not financial advice. Always consult a qualified mortgage adviser.